One of the largest displays at the 2026 IISF Trade Show in Gibtown by a U.S.-based ride company was once again Len Soled's Rides 4-U, showcasing a portable Pirate Ship, Spinning Coaster, and a kiddie ride called the Mini Tagada.

At the close of the day on Thursday, Soled was pleased with the overall outcome of the show so far. “I'm very happy with the number of people we've seen come through,” said Soled. However, he noted that hesitation among buyers centers on the current labor situation, specifically the arrival and future availability of temporary foreign workers through the H-2B program.

“I think once we find out what will happen, orders will start flowing in once the issue is resolved,” said Soled. “I can fully understand their concern, and I hope it's short-lived.”

Just before the show, Soled announced a new partnership with UK-based PWS Rides. Rides 4-U will serve as the distributor for the company in North America. PWS is owned by the owner of Stevens Funfair, a traveling carnival in England that has been in business since the 1940s, bringing decades of hands-on experience to ride design. PWS is best known for its Turbo Twist, which can be described as a turbo-charged Sizzler or Scrambler-style ride. Ray Cammack Shows has operated the original version of this ride for many years; however, a new model is coming to the United States.

“We are completing a deal with Powers & Thomas Midway Entertainment for a new Turbo Twist,” said Soled. “We're excited for Eddie and RD on their future endeavors with this new attraction, and we look forward to representing PWS.”

At this time, Rides 4-U is focusing on the Turbo Twist and a Super Paratrooper but will explore additional products as the relationship develops.

Rides 4-U will also represent RMC, who is well known for its world renowned Roller Coasters, but also owns the rights to the Sellner and Larson International product catalog, including the Fire Ball, Tilt-A-Whirl, Jumping Jumbos, and Spin Rides. “We're trying to guide the ship in the right direction to reintroduce their product line into the portable market with some fresh ideas,” said Soled.

By the close of the day on Thursday, Rides 4-U was close to finalizing a deal on a portable Pirate Ship for Bill Skerbeck's Skerbeck Family Carnival. “We've sold more than two dozen of these ships to the park market and three to the portable market,” said Soled.



Soled noted that, in addition to foot traffic from the carnival industry, several family entertainment center operators visited his booth in Gibtown. “We sold a Mini-Breakdance to Triple Play during the show,” said Soled.

He added that the company's new Zero Gravity has been a hit at family entertainment centers and small amusement parks, with one customer operating the ride at all five of its park locations. The company is in the final stages of rolling out a portable version of the attraction.

Looking ahead, Soled said he looks forward to exhibiting at Gibtown in 2027 and IAAPA in the fall of 2026. Although he has committed to more space at both shows, he expressed disappointment in IAAPA's decision to split exhibitors into two exhibit halls. Fortunately, the company's expanded exhibit will remain in the North/South Hall.

“We were concerned with the footprint changes at the show. I got together with 90 percent of the ride manufacturers, and together we were able to hold firm on our locations. I think we will all be successful. Their approach is disappointing, but together we will be OK,” said Soled.

With one day left, Soled was confident he would close a few more deals before the end of the show. “We've been blessed with good weather, and we've seen some quality customers,” said Soled.