Four ice arena companies come together to form the International Rink Manufacturers Association

WATERLOO — Athletica Sport Systems Inc., CIMCO Refrigeration (a division of Toromont Industries Limited), Jet Ice Limited and Zamboni Company Ltd. are announcing the formation of the International Rink Manufacturers Association.

Owners and operators of ice arenas face mounting challenges with rising costs, aging infrastructure, and the need for strategic asset planning. The four companies formed the organization to safeguard and advance the future of venues that are home to ice sports around the world.

The companies’ collective experience in the industry as a whole and their complementary assortment of products and services ensure that the group will try to represent the best interests of rink operators.

In an industry where recruiting, training, and retaining skilled personnel is difficult, a focus of this organization will be to provide continuous learning opportunities, and in fostering professional growth. The members of IRMA say they are already providing help through individual courses brought to the arenas and their employees to ensure consistency with product operation and reinforce best practices.

IRMA says they will work to pursue meaningful and measurable solutions for an industry faced with finding eco-friendly solutions to minimize its impact. Collaborating with government leaders and municipalities alike to develop and leverage incentives for sustainable practices will bring financial value to the rink level, allowing further adoption of products and services which will save time, money, and resources.