Kaatsheuvel, Friday, 29 August 2025.
Efteling’s Danse Macabre, opened earlier this year, introduces a first‑of‑its‑kind ride system that choreographs vehicles on a massive multi‑turntable platform—an 18‑metre main turntable with six smaller rotating stages seating 108 guests—that synchronises precise positioning, on‑board multi‑axial motion and high‑fidelity show control. For retail and operations leaders, the headline is commercial as much as creative: the system is designed to boost dwell time and per‑capita spend by delivering highly repeatable, immersive scenes at industry‑leading throughput (reported capacity ≈1,253 guests/hour). The project signals shifting procurement dynamics—greater bespoke engineering, new maintenance and lifecycle cost profiles, and tighter show‑ops integration—meaning changes to supplier relationships, staffing and safety validation. This piece previews the strategic implications for merchandising, F&B placement and queue monetisation opportunities as parks weigh the trade‑offs between unique IP experiences and the operational complexity they introduce.