North America

Fort Worth Zoo, Fort Worth, Texas

International Theme Park Services, Inc. (“ITPS”), was contracted to provide Operations and Maintenance Ride and Attraction Assistance to the Fort Worth Zoo. Consisting of over 5,000 native and exotic animals, the Fort Worth Zoo added select rides and attractions in an effort to increase an already extraordinary guest experience.

ITPS was contracted to provide assistance to the zoo’s management staff to help ensure a smooth transition from ride purchase through operation. ITPS provided the zoo with operational and maintenance manuals as well as providing on-going assistance throughout the installation and construction period. Additionally, ITPS provided operations employee orientation and training programs. Focusing on both employee and guest safety, ITPS worked closely with the zoo’s staff to ensure that the highest levels of guest satisfaction are being achieved.

Bank of America / Ripley’s Aquariums

In 2003, ITPS was retained by Bank of America to conduct a business valuation of the existing Ripley’s Aquarium in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina as well as Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg, Tennessee and to provide an independent assessment of its value. In preparing the valuation originally submitted in October of 2003, ITPS conducted an on-site review of the Ripley’s Aquarium property and operation in Myrtle Beach. On-site and subsequent review of documentation and materials led to the completed Business Valuation.

In August of 2006, Bank of America again retained ITPS to re-examine its original valuation of the Ripley’s Aquarium in Myrtle Beach and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and property and, based on its findings, to either reconfirm or update the valuation results. To that end, ITPS researched all updated information that would have a bearing on the valuation update and obtained the most current data available upon which the reconfirmation or update would be based.

The Wildelife Conservations Society / The Bronx Zoo
New York

International Theme Park Services, Inc. (“ITPS”) was retained by the Wildlife Conservation Society (“WCS”) of the City of New York to conduct an Admissions Pricing Analysis for the Bronx Zoo. The goals of this analysis were to:

Examine the current pricing situation at the Bronx Zoo;
Consider any operational issues, marketing impact, or other key issues that would be affected if the Bronx Zoo operation was within the realm of a “One Price Fits All” pricing policy;
Compare the pricing structure at the Bronx Zoo with other similar zoos, as well as key commercial attractions, around the country as a basis for pricing recommendations; and, Provide recommended changes, as necessary, to the overall admissions pricing structure at the Bronx Zoo that would be based on the Zoo’s ultimate mission and long-term goals.

ITPS also performed a financial impact analysis to determine what would happen if the recommendations were implemented.

SuperSplash! Adventure - Edinburg, Texas

For the INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION of the City of Edinburg, ITPS performed a Management and Operational Audit of this SuperSplash! Adventure located in Edinburg, Texas. As such, ITPS was asked to (a) provide a review of overall operations leading to any necessary recommended program changes that could potentially produce improved efficiency, productivity, service or profitability; and, (b) provide documentation regarding the park’s operation in the event of an anticipated change of ownership, equity participation, sale of property assets, or current or future operational changes. Subsequent to the completion of the audit, ITPS was retained as the waterpark’s on-site management company.

The 35-acre waterpark opened in July 1998. Although a small profit was made that first shortened season, projections for 1999 fell below expectations. In an effort to reverse the downward trend, city officials hired ITPS to set forth new goals and strategies to accomplish this task.

ITPS reported to the Edinburg Industrial Development Council, and recruited and hired a General Manager for the facility. Further, ITPS utilized its experience and corporate staff to develop and direct both short- and long-term objectives. As such, ITPS developed business plans, marketing plans, revised capital programs, revised budgets, new operational programs, in-depth training programs, modified retail programs, enhanced ambiance-related details, and other modifications necessary to correctly position the park in the marketplace.

The park was closed after the 2000 season and was put up for sale. ITPS was responsible for the marketing of the facility and the park was sold to private investors in 2002.

Sungold Entertainment - Toledo Beach, Michigan

ITPS was retained by Sungold Entertainment Corp. to conduct a feasibility analysis at Toledo Beach, Michigan. This study was Sungold's first step in developing a major entertainment center to service the Detroit / Windsor Casino tourist market and the 9.6 million person market that is within a 100 mile drive of the Toledo Beach site. This study include:

Analysis of the local market.
Estimation of local tourism support.
Potential market penetration and attendance estimates.
Revenue projections, warranted investment and internal rate of return analysis to equity investors.
Specific concept definition, overall theme and land use plan for a mixed use entertainment complex.

Cincinnati Zoological Park and Botanical Garden
Cincinnati, Ohio

ITPS was retained by the Cincinnati Zoo to develop a Request For Proposal for the food and beverage program at the Zoo. Once proposals were received by the Zoo, ITPS reviewed each proposal and made recommendations to the Board of Directors on which proposals would provide the maximum benefit to the zoo. During this process, ITPS also conducted an in-depth retail business analysis of the zoo's food service and merchandise programs.

ITPS has also provided the Cincinnati Zoo with design services involving masterplan review. This review provided the Zoo with options which will allow easier circulation of guests around the property. In addition, ITPS assisted in a general contract review for a major new attraction being considered by the Zoo.

ITPS has also provided retail review and planning, point of sale selection, and other areas involving their overall food service and merchandise programs. In 2004, ITPS assisted the Zoo in providing a Group Sales Analysis and implemented the new Group Sales pricing program, increased the number of sales representatives and improved the efficiency of the operation.

In 2005, ITPS provided Operations and Maintenance Manuals for the Zoo's Train Ride. In addition, ITPS staff provided on-site ride operations training.

Click here for the Cincinnati Zoo's Web Site for admission prices, operating hours and other Cincinnati Zoo information. For Cincinnati Zoo information by phone, call (513) 281-4700

Dino Kingdom - Pittsburgh, PA

Kossman Development Company retained International Theme Park Services, Inc. ("ITPS") to complete services in the areas of design review, operations, safety, manual development and on-site training for Dino Kingdom, dinosaur themed Family Entertainment Center within Pittsburgh's Parkway Center Mall.

Parkway Center Mall, Pittsburgh's only in-city mall, encompasses 500,000 square feet on three (3) levels and is located two (2) miles from downtown Pittsburgh. The FEC occupies nearly 12,000 square feet on the first level of the mall and incorporates traditional elements such as redemption games, soft play, and party rooms within a dinosaur themed environment.

ITPS staff were on-site for during the pre-opening and opening phase, providing training, facility set-up, product placement and other general assistance services. ITPS also provided follow-up visits to review the project during actual operation and provide guidance.

Jazzland Theme Park, New Orleans, LA

ITPS was hired by Ogden Entertainment to assist on their newest theme park, Jazzland, opened May 2000, was an exciting family-oriented attraction that reflects all facets of the city's allure and adds thrilling rides and games for children as well. Built on 100+ acres just minutes away from downtown New Orleans. Water flume rides, roller coasters, swing rides, a 150-foot-high Sky Coaster adventure and world-class concerts are all part of the excitement.

ITPS was retained by Ogden Entertainment for Executive Search, Ride and Attraction Selection, as well as Pre Opening Operational Services. Jazzland eventually became a part of the Six Flags family as Six Flags New Orleans.

Oceanic Adventures at Newport Aquarium
Newport, Kentucky

The developers of the Newport Aquarium selected ITPS to perform all pre-opening operations planning, manual development, and training for the new aquarium, which opened May 15, 1999. ITPS also provided operations management during the opening of the aquarium.

One essential aspect to the ITPS scope of work was the training program that was implemented before the Grand Opening. The training program covered all aspects of operation on every level, from senior management to all line employees.

Additionally, ITPS, after extensive planning and development, rolled out an innovative, progressive, and sophisticated partnership marketing program for the Newport Aquarium.

ITPS, an experienced provider of operations planning for theme parks and entertainment attractions around the world, was appointed by the aquarium to develop and implement the innovative program that linked local and national businesses with the new $40 million aquarium, which opened along the Ohio River in Newport, Kentucky in May, 1999. ITPS was responsible for generating over $4 million in sponsors.

Wells Dairy, LeMars, Iowa

Wells Dairy, makers of Blue Bunny Ice Cream, contracted ITPS to design a new visitor's center highlighting Wells' Dairy and LeMars, Iowa's status of being the "Ice Cream Capital of the World."

To showcase a city known as the "Ice Cream Capital of the World" and satisfy many requests from visitors wishing to tour the ice cream plant, ITPS was commissioned to design a fun, interactive and educational attraction for all visitors to enjoy. Inspired by "down home" quality and friendliness, a dairy farm and old-fashioned ice cream parlor was the chosen theme.

Visiting the 13,000 square footfacility, guests learn about the City of Le Mars and the history of Wells Dairy, witness the making of Blue Bunny Ice Cream in the "Production Theater," take a "hands-on" role in the Taste Testing Center, interact with a variety of computer trivia games and soft-play elements, and enjoy a variety of Wells? Dairy products in the relaxed atmosphere of the quaint Ice Cream Parlor.

Highlighting the past, present and future of the Dairy's ice cream, the visitor's center also incorporates an existing restaurant and gas station into the design. In addition to providing interior layout and masterplan, exhibit designs, and exterior facades for the museum and visitor's center, ITPS performed a study of the market in order to provide a detailed analysis of the number of visitors to the center. By providing this data in advance, ITPS saved Wells' Dairy time and money by ensuring that the facility design could accommodate the number of guests expected without overbuilding the center.

SouthTrust Bank, Birmingham, Alabama

ITPS was retained by SouthTrust Bank of Birmingham, Alabama to conduct a valuation of the existing Jazzland Theme Park (New Orleans, Louisiana) operation. The purpose of this assignment was to provide an independent valuation of Jazzland based on the following approaches: fair market value based on capitalized financial performance; and, fair market value and liquidation value based on equipment and property assets, both real and personal property. In preparing this valuation, ITPS conducted an on-site inspection and review of the Jazzland Theme Park property and operation in 2002.

SunTrust Bank, Tampa, Florida

ITPS was retained by SunTrust Bank (as Trustee for the West Jefferson Amusement and Public Park Authority), to conduct a Business/Operations Review of the VisionLand operation in Bessemer, Alabama. The purpose of this review was to provide an examination of the overall business and operations at VisionLand, leading to any necessary recommended program changes that could potentially improve efficiency, productivity, service, and profitability.

ITPS also conducted a property valuation of VisionLand. The purpose of this valuation is to provide an independent assessment of the value of VisionLand based on the following approaches: fair market value based on capitalized financial performance, and, fair market value, replacement value, and liquidation value based on equipment and property assets, both real and personal property. ITPS was also retained as sales agent to offer VisionLand for sale.

Millennium Monument - Newport, Kentucky, USA

The Millennium Monument was scheduled to be an observation tower standing 1,149 feet over the Ohio River Valley in Newport, Kentucky. Included in the plans for the monument was attractions providing guests with more to do than simply look around. Attractions included a 360 degree theater, a 3D simulator, the world's largest bell, and exhibits emphasizing the role of the many craftsman in the creation of today's modern world.

ITPS conducted the initial feasibility study for the project, studying the market, economic, and design characteristics.

National Children's Island/Crystal Island
Washington, D.C., USA

National Children's Island/Crystal Island developers contracted with ITPS to evaluate the feasibility of a proposed edutainment facility located on an island in the Potomac River in Washington, D.C. Featuring a variety of activities and exhibits, the island is envisioned to encompass a wide demographic array of guests.

Boca Raton Leisure Complex - Boca Raton, Florida, USA

Osborne Properties of Boca Raton, Florida retained ITPS to conduct a feasibility analysis regarding the development of a family entertainment and mixed use complex on a site along I-95 in Boca Raton. As planned, the site for the Boca Raton Leisure Complex would include miniature golf, go-karts, a carousel, retail opportunities, and other rides, attractions and amenities. The complex would encompass approximately 25 acres of land. ITPS undertook the feasibility assignment in order to provide an in-depth assessment of financial viability of developing such a complex in the Boca Raton marketplace.

Eastgate Miniature Golf Complex - Cincinnati, Ohio, USA

ITPS was contracted to perform an evaluation of the existing Eastgate Miniature Golf Complex in Cincinnati, Ohio in order to make recommendations leading to an expansion program of additional leisure elements. This evaluation led to the recommendation by ITPS for the complex to add attractions to the 5 acre complex, such as a go-kart track, batting cages, and arcade room, as well as to redesign the admissions area with an additional food and beverage outlet.

The report developed by ITPS to support these recommendations included projections for financial performance and a physical layout of the go-kart track. To date, all elements have been incorporated into the complex, except for the batting cages.

Lake Compounce/Kennywood - Bristol, Connecticut, USA

ITPS was retained by Kennywood, Inc. to develop a master plan for Lake Compounce that will transform the park into a regional theme park with a historic theme. Early American theming, a large water ride and 27 other new rides and attractions are all planned for the three phases of redevelopment. http://www.lakecompounce.com

New Heritage USA - Fort Mill, South Carolina, USA

At the time of ITPS involvement, New Heritage USA was a multi-use Christian destination resort spanning over 2,000 acres located just south of Charlotte, North Carolina in Fort Mill, South Carolina. The facility, which operated during the years l984-89, was purchased by the New Heritage Carolina Corporation and reopened under a prudently planned renovation and expansion program.

ITPS was contracted to oversee and coordinate the total renovation of Heritage Island Waterpark, a 5 acre facility located within New Heritage USA. Under this contract, ITPS provided both consultation services, as well as an on-site ITPS project team to directly oversee and conduct the renovation program.

The ITPS renovation program for Heritage Island Waterpark was conducted in two simultaneous phases. Phase I (Redevelopment/Renovation) placed ITPS in a general contractor's role and included all physical aspects of renovation such as plumbing, electrical, filtration, chlorination and other technical and mechanical programs. Phase II (Pre-Opening Operations Planning) included all operational programming necessary to prepare the waterpark for a successful opening such as human resources planning, budgets, schedules, departmental programs and manuals, training procedures, revenue programs, marketing and other aspects of operational planning.

Queen Mary and Spruce Goose (Wrather Corp.)
Long Beach, California, USA

The Queen Mary, a luxurious ocean liner, hosts key exhibits depicting the "Queen's" active and extensive role during World War II, as well as special light and sound effect exhibits. The Spruce Goose is an all-wood, 200 ton flying boat, formerly owned by Howard Hughes. Both the Queen Mary and the Spruce Goose were formerly owned by the Disney Company and the Wrather Corporation. Currently, both attractions form an entertainment complex, which not only entertains and is functional, but is educational and rich with history.

ITPS worked with the Wrather Corporation in the areas of marketing, operations and attractions planning, as well as consulting and assisting in the management planning, capital planning and ongoing development of marketing programs.

Rockford Park District - Rockford, Illinois, USA

The Rockford Park District is an active and progressive governmental agency located in Rockford, Illinois (Illinois' second largest city). ITPS has worked with the Rockford Park District since 1986 on a myriad of projects:

Lockwood Park - Family Fun Center

The Lockwood Park site is farmland with gently rolling hills and Kent Creek running through the property located 17 miles south of the Illinois-Wisconsin state line. Located in Rockford, Illinois, the "fun center" concept is to develop a themed attraction containing creative play elements, kiddie rides, trout fishing facilities, horseback riding and picnic areas. The park is geared toward the "family" unit.

ITPS was contracted to analyze the market and financial feasibility of the proposed attraction providing site plans, design layouts, renderings and vignettes.

Magic Waters Waterpark

Magic Waters, a 34.5 acre waterpark, is located on the southeast corner of Winnebago County. Magic Waters, originally developed by the private sector, was purchased by the Rockford Park District after the waterpark had failed to perform successfully during its first several years of operation.

ITPS was contracted to provide an analysis of operations leading to an in-depth renovation and expansion program for Magic Waters.

Railroad Park Museum

The Kent Creek Industrial District is an older part of Rockford where many of the existing manufacturing firms began. The district is located in the heart of the city. The area is aging, but remains viable and requires revitalization for preservation.

The City of Rockford contracted ITPS to prepare a feasibility study of a "railroad" themed park and museum to be located at an old railroad depot station of approximately 10 acres. Overall responsibilities have also included site identifications, concept evaluations, physical planning parameters and architectural renderings.

Six Flags Corporation (Six Flags Over Texas)
Dallas, Texas, USA

As America's first major seasonal theme park which opened in 1961, Six Flags Over Texas entertains 2.6-3.0 million visitors per year and enjoys a full compliment of rides, shows and attractions. ITPS assisted Six Flags in the development and implementation of their first winter operation program, "Holiday In The Park." This included conceptualizing, designing and operational and financial planning, as well as directing the marketing and public relations programs to ensure a successful first and subsequent years operation.

Time Warner, Inc. - New York, New York, USA

Warner Communications, Inc., the entertainment arm of Time Warner, Inc., completed a major stock purchase into the Six Flags Corporation, a premier amusement/theme park operator in the leisure industry. Prior to their final decision as to the viability of such a purchase, Warner Communications, Inc. requested that an analytical assessment of the Six Flags system be conducted by a highly respected, professional leisure firm.

To that end, Warner Communications, Inc. contracted ITPS to perform a "Due Diligence Assessment" of the Six Flags Corporation. This assignment included in-depth and on-site reviews of the assets and operations of each Six Flags park to include Six Flags Magic Mountain (Valencia, California), AstroWorld (Houston, Texas), Six Flags Over Texas (Arlington, Texas), Six Flags Over Mid-America (Eureka, Missouri), Six Flags Great America (Gurnee, Illinois), Six Flags Great Adventure (Jackson, New Jersey) and Six Flags Over Georgia (Atlanta, Georgia).

Concentrating on areas such as capital expenditure programs, long-range plans, operating history, asset maintenance, ride operations, safety, ride maintenance, retail operations, admissions policies, attendance trends, financial projections and capacity characteristics, ITPS developed an executive summary for Warner Communications, Inc., which led to the decision to finalize the initial $30 million stock purchase of the Six Flags Corporation.

Toledo Zoo - Toledo, Ohio, USA

ITPS was contracted by the Toledo Zoological Society to perform an in-depth study of vehicular traffic, grounds and departmental functions at the Toledo Zoo, a 30 acre facility in Toledo, Ohio. The purpose of the study was to offer recommendations to reduce, and in some cases, eliminate vehicular traffic during park operating hours.

After an intense on-site operational review by ITPS staff, a report was developed with recommendations geared towards reducing the unnecessary vehicular traffic, as well as policy and procedure changes to accomplish this goal. These changes encompassed such departments and categories as maintenance, greenhouse and trash pick-up, visitor services, outside contractors and veterinary and management staff.

TropWorld/Tivoli Pier - Tropicana Hotel And Casino Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA

TropWorld Casino and Entertainment Resort totals over 3,000,000 square feet of floor space under one roof. Covering approximately 10 acres of land and spanning 200 yards of boardwalk frontage, Tivoli Pier (a mini-theme park) opened in the fall of l988.

ITPS was contracted to assist in the development of an adult oriented, 2 acre indoor theme park showcasing "Old Atlantic City" as well as the heritage and history of the Boardwalk by developing the safety standards to be utilized. Areas of concentration included:

Review of Patron Access Area
First Aid Procedures
Security Procedures
Critique of Rides and Manufacturers Manuals
Development of Ride Standards
Ride Qualification Signage
Emergency Planning Procedures
Operations Review

Water Street Pavilion - Flint, Michigan, USA

Water Street Pavilion opened in 1985 as a Festival Marketplace offering some 60 retail merchandise and food selections under a glass-enclosed 43,000 square foot area. As a result of changes that took place at Water Street Pavilion, downtown Flint, and the local economy, the Pavilion was plagued with poor performance and heavy financial losses.

ITPS was contracted by Water Street Pavilion (owned by the Mott Foundation and operated by Flint Renaissance) to provide short-term analysis and recommendation relating to the poor performance of the Pavilion. ITPS provided a crisis marketing plan which included a critique and evaluation of problem areas, as well as marketing direction and strategy. The success of the ITPS crisis marketing program at Water Street Pavilion led to a long-term contract to oversee and direct the entire marketing effort including promotions, advertising, merchant seminars and entertainment for the entire Pavilion to enhance future opportunities for success.

W. H. Smith Co., Inc. - Atlanta, Georgia, USA

ITPS was retained by the W. H. Smith Company of Atlanta in order to conduct a review of materials relating to the proposed merchandise program for the planned MGM Grand Theme Park in Las Vegas, Nevada and to provide an analysis of this program based on our experience within the theme park and attractions industry. All materials were reviewed and assessed leading to an in-depth report and evaluation of the planned merchandise program. Included in the analysis were:

Attendance and Admissions

Financial considerations to include per capita spending, gross revenues, capital expenditures and operating expenses.

Master plan review and assessment of shop layouts to include analysis of the overall product mix, locations of shops within the park and recommended layout of shops.

Operational considerations to include payroll structure, wage rates and security/POS systems.

La Feria Chapultepec Magico - Mexico City, Mexico

Chapultepec Magico is the largest theme/amusement park in Mexico City, located in the city's center. In a renovation plan recently completed, over 25 major rides and attractions were added to the park.

ITPS was contracted to advise and consult on issues relating to marketing, operations, maintenance, safety, security, retail, financial and long-range planning including design related expansion. ITPS also provides safety and operational audits for the park.

Reino Aventura Park - Mexico City, Mexico

Reino Aventura Park is a 113 acre park located in Mexico City. It has been in existence since 1982 and has an average annual attendance of 1.5 million. In an effort to enhance its operation and provide long-term profitability for the park, the owners of Reino Aventura Park asked ITPS to provide services relating to the overall rehabilitation program necessary for success.

For the first phase of service, ITPS was contracted to conduct an on-site business audit which included a detailed inspection of the park, as well as an evaluation of operating performance relating to attendance and revenue generation, expense history, management philosophy, park image and product mix. ITPS was also asked to conduct a review of the master plan, evaluate the site conditions for main entrance ingress and egress, and provide consultation and assistance in the general layout of a major new ride planned for installation. Finally, ITPS was asked to review the required investment for the rehabilitation program of Reino Aventura Park to include attendance and revenue projections, a capital investment program and a cash flow pro forma.

Subsequent phases of service included refinement and/or development of the maintenance program, operations program and safety program. Other services included assistance in the development of a marketing plan and a review of the park's overall product and programmatic strategies.