Håkon Lund, president and owner of Lund Gruppen, which runs theme parks in Norway and Sweden – including Kongeparken and Skånes Djurpark – has been named chair of IAAPA EMEA.

Lund will take a seat on the global IAAPA board, with the role of EMEA regional advisory committee chair director.

Lund said: "As a fourth-generation member of a family deeply rooted in the attractions industry, I've literally grown up on popcorn and the smell of cotton candy.

"My earliest memories include attending IAAPA shows, where I was inspired by the magical moments, innovation and camaraderie that defines our industry.

"I'm honored to have been elected as the chair of IAAPA EMEA and thrilled to collaborate with Peter van der Schans – executive director and vice president IAAPA EMEA – and the entire IAAPA EMEA team.

"Their dedication to excellence is something we all saw firsthand at the recent IAAPA Expo Europe in Vienna and I'm eager to contribute to our collective efforts to strengthen our industry.

"I'd also like to mention our many members who volunteer their time and energy in our numerous committees.

"Your contributions are invaluable in making our industry better for guests, operators, and suppliers alike.

You embody the essence of 'members serving members' and your work is a cornerstone of our community's success.

"As we embark on this journey together, my focus will be on creating millions of safe, magical moments for our guests and strengthening the support we offer to our members.

"Safety and magic go hand in hand and I'm committed to ensuring both as we move forward.

"I'm also eager to roll up my sleeves and get to work and I look forward to creating a lasting impact alongside all of you."

Lund is an advocate of environmental sustainability and earlier this year revealed how Kongeparken, Norway's largest theme park, plans to source a third of its energy needs from solar power by the end of this year (2023).

To read an interview with Lund on the topic, click here for Issue 2/2023 of Attractions Management magazine.