Fons Jurgens appointed as Chairman and CEO of Efteling
Efteling invests in new attraction and extra accommodation
In accordance with a decision taken some time ago, Fons Jurgens (44) has been appointed as Efteling’s new CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors. His appointment was confirmed during the General Shareholders Meeting on Thursday 17 April. Under his leadership Efteling aims to become an international destination with 5 million visitors in 2020, through a phased programme of growth. During the first phase Efteling will invest in a new attraction and the expansion of Efteling Village Bosrijk holiday park over the coming years.
Growth
Efteling is one of Europe’s largest theme parks and wants to independently maintain its position among Europe’s leading theme parks in the future.
“A steady increase in visitor numbers is therefore essential,” according to Jurgens. “This calls for continued phased investment in our park. An important spearhead of this approach is raising the quality of existing attractions, shows, shops and catering outlets. In addition, during the summer of 2015 we will open a dive coaster; a spectacular rollercoaster that will thrill visitors with a 37.5-metre freefall. This provides an extra challenge for teenage visitors, in particular, while increasing our range of attractions.” In order to attract more guests from abroad to spend several days at the theme park, Efteling will also expand its accommodation over the coming years. Efteling Village Bosrijk, which opened in December 2009, will gain an extra 400 beds and the new cottages and apartments will be ready to receive their first guests in the summer of 2015. The Supervisory Board has approved an investment of € 36 million in this first phase of growth.
Other appointments
Alongside the appointment of Fons Jurgens as Chairman and CEO, various other changes to the Board of Directors and Supervisory Board were ratified on Thursday.
Coen Bertens (formerly Adjunct Director of Operations) was appointed as a member of the Board of Directors and Operational Director. This appointment completes the Board of Directors.