#Canada #Montreal #Vortex Aquatic #Splashpad #Aquatic Play

Vortex Aquatic Structures International: A Three-Decade Journey of Innovation

Vortex Aquatic Structures International, a Montréal-based pioneer in aquatic play solutions, proudly celebrates 30 years of innovative contributions to how children and families engage with play in urban settings and water parks worldwide. This milestone highlights the company's commitment to creating inclusive aquatic spaces that foster community interaction and development.

In the past three decades, Vortex has redefined public recreational spaces by introducing its first Splashpad®, an innovative play structure that integrates water play with physical activity. With over 12,000 installations in more than 50 countries across five continents, Vortex has transformed underutilized parks into vibrant community hubs. Their projects extend beyond mere play areas; they serve as vital social connectors that encourage cognitive and physical growth among children.

Stephen Hamelin, the visionary founder and CEO of Vortex, expressed pride during the recent anniversary celebration at the company’s headquarters in Montréal. He stated, “Celebrating 30 years is a proud milestone for Vortex, reflecting the power of innovation, purpose, and community. Our journey, which began with the simple aim of enhancing joy in public parks, has evolved into a global movement. As we proceed, our focus remains on making aquatic experiences that inspire wonder and connection.”

The event was honored with notable guests including Tim Thomas, mayor of Pointe-Claire, and Dr. Michael Suk, a leading figure in health and play advocacy through the Health and Play Consortium. This collaboration emphasizes the importance of play in public health, reinforcing Vortex's role in building healthier communities.

From Local Start-Up to Industry Leader

What began as a modest initiative has blossomed into a formidable enterprise, employing almost 250 skilled professionals and establishing regional offices in the United States, Spain, and the Netherlands. The company's growth trajectory continued with the strategic acquisition of Dutch-based Watergames in 2024, significantly expanding their European footprint and doubling regional revenue in just one year. Additionally, the inauguration of a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Plattsburgh, New York, set to begin operations in 2026, marks another stride towards enhancing their operational capabilities.

Hamelin noted, “For the first 25 years, our primary focus was on exporting products from Canada. Today, we’ve transitioned into a multinational corporation, establishing a strong local presence in key regions like Europe and the U.S. Going forward, we plan to further solidify our position in Europe while exploring new market opportunities in the Middle East.”

Environmental Commitment at the Core

Sustainability is an intrinsic element of Vortex's operational ethos. The company is dedicated to high environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. Vortex's commitment to sustainable practices is evidenced through its advanced water management solutions that comply with local regulations while maximizing resource efficiency. Many of its designs prioritize water recycling and innovative reuse methods, aligning with urban sustainability goals.

As cities aim to combat urban heat islands and promote public well-being, Vortex remains at the forefront, ensuring its designs contribute positively to future generations. The introduction of water controller technology facilitates responsible water use, reinforcing the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Vortex: A Legacy of Transformation

Since 30 years ago, when the first Splashpad® was unveiled, Vortex has been driven by a mission to enhance public recreation. The company's impact is visible in bustling urban centers like New York City, Miami, Paris, and Dubai, bringing joy and vibrancy to once-neglected spaces. With plans for continued innovation and expansion, Vortex is set to carry this legacy forward, creating inspiring environments for play and community connection.

As Vortex embarks on the next chapter of its journey, it remains committed to delivering innovative, sustainable, and accessible aquatic play solutions, ensuring that everyone can experience the magic of water play, wherever they are in the world.