ETF celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2026, highlighting more than 100 ETF Ride Systems installations and a heritage that runs from textile machinery to advanced ride vehicles.
ETF Ride Systems 75th anniversary gives the Dutch manufacturer a clear platform to underline its role in the global attractions supply chain. The milestone, marked throughout 2026 with a dedicated celebration logo online and on site, reflects a journey that began in 1951 with machinery for the textile and floor covering industry. From those industrial roots, ETF has evolved into an international company with two divisions, including ETF Ride Systems, now operating more than 100 ride systems and 800 vehicles worldwide. For park and museum leaders, the anniversary offers a timely reminder of how long‑term engineering partnerships support reliability and capacity planning.
ETF Ride Systems 75th anniversary story is built on a shift into the leisure sector in the 1990s. The company applied its transport and vehicle expertise to attractions, formally creating the ETF Ride Systems division in 1998. That move positioned the business to serve theme parks, amusement parks, museums and FECs with both track‑based and trackless solutions. Today, its technology underpins experiences on every continent, from dark rides to gentle scenic tours.
Headline projects showcase how ETF Ride Systems 75th anniversary sits alongside a growing creative footprint. The company has delivered vehicles and systems for Symbolica at Efteling, Maus au Chocolat at Phantasialand, and The Enchanted Greenhouse at Six Flags Qiddiya City, developed with Jora Vision as creative lead and Alterface on interactivity. These projects span family IP attractions, interactive media rides and new‑build destination developments, demonstrating ETF’s ability to integrate with varied design partners. For operators, that track record reduces risk when commissioning complex custom hardware.
From its headquarters in Nederweert, the Netherlands, ETF Ride Systems designs and builds ride vehicles, control systems and transport technologies for clients around the world. Engineering teams work closely with park operators, designers and creative studios to turn ambitious ride concepts into dependable, serviceable systems. Peter Kerstjens, CEO of ETF, said: ‘75 years of ETF is first and foremost thanks to our people. Their craftsmanship, creativity and dedication enable us to deliver complex engineering solutions and unforgettable ride experiences for visitors around the world. We are proud of the trust our customers place in us and look forward to continuing to innovate together.’ As 2026 unfolds, ETF aims to use the anniversary to reinforce relationships and signal its commitment to future projects.
Image: ETF
