Several minor injuries after the collapse of a stage in the middle of a show. On Monday, Europa-Park created a big scare for its visitors, at the height of the summer season. Located in Rust in Germany, near the French border, the amusement park had already suffered a spectacular fire in mid-June, which broke out in a technical room. Several hundred firefighters had been dispatched, and 25,000 visitors evacuated.
A heavyweight in its category, Europa-Park welcomed more than 6 million visitors last year, a record. Two months apart, these two incidents raise questions about the security of the site, yet an obsession in the sector. Relayed by social networks, they quickly toured Europe and moved the French, who represent around a quarter of the park’s attendance.
With one voice, however, the professionals reassure: attendance remains well oriented. “We represent all the amusement parks in France. None has reported the slightest concern on the part of its visitors, assures Arnaud Bennet, president of the National Union of Leisure, Attractions and Cultural Spaces (SNELAC), also at the head of the amusement and animal park. The Pal. The accident was caused by an ephemeral structure, which is not used in France. As for the attractions, they apply the European standard. These are extremely secure activities, with strict maintenance protocols. Last year, the sector welcomed 70 million visitors. We are at 50 million this year. Customers would not come as many if they were worried.
At the beginning of August, the tragedy that occurred on a carousel at Luna Park in Cap d’Agde causing one death and one serious injury also caused amazement. Without however weighing on the frequentation of the parks. “People make the difference between fairgrounds and amusement parks, continues Arnaud Bennet. The summer was good at the end of July, with disparities depending on the weather. August is off to a good start. Subject to September, 2023 should be another record year.”
The offer is wide in France: there are more than 200 parks (amusements, zoos…). With giants like Disneyland – by far the first – but also Parc Asterix, Futuroscope and Puy du Fou.
The sector is driven by its investment dynamic, which makes it possible to constantly renew the experience in the parks and launch new attractions. It also responds to visitors’ need to disconnect, in an anxiety-provoking world. For the most part, these are families, who come for the day or a few days, depending on their budget. Even in times of inflation, the amusement park is a pleasure expense that they do not sacrifice.
