Universal Rocks, an expert in planning, building, and developing themed areas that reproduce the beauty of nature, has reflected on its successes in 2024, during which the company accomplished key milestones through an array of notable partnerships and projects.
By bringing together technical expertise, innovation, and collaboration, Universal Rocks demonstrates its leadership in the themed entertainment sector and provides clients and their audiences with outstanding experiences.
Helder Lopes, CEO of Universal Rocks, says: “2024 was an exceptional year for Universal Rocks. These projects reflect the passion and dedication of our teams. We are excited to continue this momentum in 2025, embracing new technologies and creating even more memorable experiences.”
Prestigious partnerships
In 2024, Universal Rocks strengthened its position as a trusted partner, collaborating with major clients such as Futuroscope and Europa-Park to create exceptional themed settings.
Aquascope at Futuroscope features scenery by the company in La Faille de Kraki, Les Abysses de Lumière, and the shower room. Pauline Ravry, project manager at Futuroscope Xperiences for Aquascope, says: “Universal Rocks successfully transformed our ambitions into reality with remarkable quality and precision.”
This immersive experience won the World Waterpark Association’s Leading Edge Award and the THEA Award for Outstanding Achievement (Water Park).
Meanwhile, the Croatian and Austrian Quarters at Europa-Park feature immersive themed spaces. The 6,000 square metre Austrian Quarter was completed in just five months. Europa-Park has garnered several honours for its attractions, including three Golden Ticket Awards and the Park World Excellence Award for Best Large Park.
Other notable projects in 2024 include Tír na nÓg at Emerald Park. Universal Rocks crafted the rockwork for the Celtic mythology-themed zone, Tír na nÓg. Emerald Park was named Best Regional Park of the Year by PWEA 2024.
The company also created the rockwork and facades of the queue line, station, and pathways at L’Envol des Papillons at Nigloland, which immerses visitors in the fascinating world of butterflies.
The company also celebrated the success of its client Meryal Waterpark, which was completed in 2023 and awarded Best Waterpark Experience and Best Product Innovation of the Year at PWEA 2024.
Furthermore, in 2024 the company completed projects for the new Défis Pirate game at Perpignan, Legoland Deutschland, the Aryas Drachenschlucht area at Taunus Wunderland, Freizeitpark Plohn’s Wild Swing opening 2025, the splash zone grotto in the City of Courchevel, Les Tapis Volants at Disneyland Paris, and several refreshes, new creations and more for Phantasialand.
In 2025, the company plans to launch innovative new technologies, such as the development of steel-free secondary structures for underwater applications. Universal Rocks is dedicated to pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional quality on all projects.
Last year, Universal Rocks spoke to blooloop about its commitment to excellence. Co-founders Fabio Maiuri, CEO, and Hélder Lopes, manager, shared details of the company’s origins, dedication to quality, and the exciting projects shaping its future.