The new owners kept the company and its 90 employees in Wichita. Chance attributes many of the changes to his son, Michael, the third-generation Chance to be involved in the business. He has come in with new ideas and sought new opportunities. Basically, Michael has developed the U.S. theme park market for us. The new strategy seems to be working.
Orders are brisk, according to the company.
As the growing amusement park industry heads into its busiest season, Chance's 270 workers are busy building and shipping products. Company officials declined to discuss Chance's financial performance but said 1998 sales jumped by more than 25 over the prior year. The revenue increase was a result of the company's refocus and expansion, Mike Chance said. Chance Rides may be best known for its C.P. Huntington miniature trains, replicas of a 1863 Central Pacific Railroad train, and for its classic carousels with Old World styling and hand-painted menagerie figures such as horses, sea dragons, rabbits, deer and gorillas. Chance also customizes rides for customers who want a specific theme.