Efteling and ride manufacturer Vekoma join forces in social sustainability.Together with experts and representatives of the Dutch association de Zonnebloem, theme park resort Efteling and ride manufacturer Vekoma have developed an innovative concept to increase inclusivity in theme parks, specifically aimed at guests who use wheelchairs. The concept introduces certified seat-on-wheels that can be safely secured across different ride types. This would allow guests in wheelchairs to share the same experience together with their group as much as possible. Last year, Vekoma and Efteling established a joint vision and design principles for a sustainable attraction of the future. Now both companies are calling on suppliers, fellow parks, and industry partners to join them in further developing this concept together.
Left to right: Kees Rijnen (strategist Efteling), Anne-Mart Agerbeek (CEO Vekoma Rides),
Har Kupers (Chairman - Vekoma Rides), Joni Latour (Project Manager Vekoma Rides) and
Femke van Es (Manager Society, Communication & Environment Efteling)
Efteling and Vekoma presented the concept for the first time on September 22, during Sustainability Day at the IAAPA Expo in Barcelona. Anne-Mart Agerbeek, CEO of Vekoma Rides: “At Vekoma, we believe that technological innovation must go hand in hand with social responsibility. With the seat-on-wheels concept, we want to set a new standard for accessibility within the attractions industry. This is more than just a technical solution. It is an invitation to the entire sector to actively shape inclusivity. We want to inspire and encourage suppliers, parks, and industry peers to contribute ideas and join in development. Because only together can we build a future where experiences are naturally accessible to everyone.”
“This concept fits seamlessly with our social sustainability ambition for 2030: ‘Everyone feels welcome, can participate, and feels part of Efteling,’” says Femke van Es, Manager Society, Communication & Environment of Efteling. “We see that in 28% of the groups visiting our park, at least one person has a disability. By working together, Efteling and Vekoma hope to make a real difference - and to invite others to join in, so that everyone can take their social responsibility.”
“The National Association de Zonnebloem believes that people with physical disabilities should be able to participate in society freely and as a matter of course. That is why we are very pleased with this collaboration, in which our participants were involved at an early stage in the development of this new concept,” says spokesperson Alexander van Zijp on behalf of de Zonnebloem.
Scale model seat-on-wheels-concept
About Efteling
Since the opening in 1952, more than 130 million visitors have experienced an unforgettable day at Efteling, in the south of Holland. Over the years, Efteling has grown to become one of Europe’s biggest theme parks, with a unique fairytale atmosphere, natural surroundings and a wide range of thrilling attractions. It is now ranked in the top 25 theme parks in the world, according to the Tea Theme Index 2023. Efteling is open all year round and is an ideal family short-break destination with the brand new Efteling Grand Hotel located within the park and the Efteling Wonder Hotel, holiday villages Efteling Bosrijk and Efteling Loonsche Land just a stone’s throw away from the main entrance. Through a programme of phased growth, Efteling became an international destination with five million visitors per year.
About Vekoma Rides
Vekoma Rides is one of the largest manufacturers in the world of roller coasters & attractions and a market leader in the industry with a presence in over 40 countries. Known for its quality and innovation as reflected in the many installed family & thrill coasters and special attractions that meet the most stringent standards for safety, quality and comfort. Our passion for the pure joy of the ride is reflected in the game changing attractions designed and built by the 450 experts that work in this group. We have everything under one roof with the world’s largest in-house expertise centrum - from Sales, R&D, Engineering, Production, Project Management to Parts & Services. It’s where cutting-edge engineering meets creative design and imaginative storytelling to create an experience like no other!
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