Press Release from ADG:
Citywave USA and Aquatic Development Group (ADG) are joining forces in a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating deep-water standing wave surfing across North America and the Caribbean. By bringing together two industry leaders, this collaboration delivers the most recognized deep-water surf wave system to a rapidly growing market—enhanced by best-in-class sales, service, and support. With hundreds of successful wave and sheet wave installations, ADG has built its reputation on precision, performance, and long-term client relationships, reflected in an 80% repeat customer rate. This success is driven by a deep understanding of project needs, efficient in-house manufacturing, and an unmatched commitment to customer service.
ADG is excited to align with Citywave USA, whose proprietary technology has pioneered and set the global standard for deep-water standing waves. Their ability to deliver a powerful, controlled, and endlessly rideable wave has made Citywave the go-to choice for surfers of all levels, and inland surf developers. With a track record of success in over 20 venues, Citywave brings unmatched credibility, innovation, and rider appeal to this partnership — making it a natural fit as we work together to expand access to premium surf experiences across North America.
Aquatic Development Group: A Legacy of Innovation in Surf Technology
With over 50 years of expertise in wave systems and aquatic venue development, ADG is the only vertically integrated wave system supplier in the world — combining in-house engineering, manufacturing, design and systems installation. Their expertise in the development of surf wave technology dates back to the 1980s, when they pioneered some of the first pneumatically generated surf pools in Southern California. This groundbreaking work helped shape the future of artificial wave technology, inspiring further innovation in the burgeoning inland surf market. In the early 2000s, FlowRider inventor Tom Lochtefeld partnered with ADG to develop a commercially viable version of his product. ADG went on to design, manufacture, and install over 130 FlowRider systems across municipalities, resorts, and water parks. Recognizing the need for a more authentic surf experience, ADG shifted their focus from sheet waves to developing a deep-water standing wave, launching EpicSurf in 2021. Since launching its deep-water standing wave technology, ADG has continued to evolve and enhance the product. While a new installation is set to open soon in Florida, the future of the product will be focused internationally, with several EpicSurf projects currently in various stages of development around the globe.
“In our pursuit of delivering the world’s best standing wave technology, the opportunity to partner with Citywave USA, recognized as a global leader in the space, was compelling on multiple fronts,” said Bruce Quay, Chief Operating Officer of Aquatic Development Group (ADG). “Citywave’s proven track record, and ADG’s decades of experience of reliable, quality, manufacturing and service/support infrastructure, creates a powerful partnership. Together, we are positioned to deliver the most high-performance and reliable deep-water standing wave systems across North America. We’re excited to collaborate with the Citywave team to grow awareness and drive the development of Citywave USA locations across North America and the Caribbean. Merging Citywave’s technology with ADG’s ability to pioneer wave technology and efficiently execute projects is a true force multiplier.”
Citywave USA: Proven Technology, Positioned for Scalable Growth
Citywave USA, owned by Urban Entertainment Concepts (UEC) was formed to sell, license, franchise and operate Citywave surf systems throughout North America. UEC developed its first vertically integrated concept, Goodsurf Beach Club, in Dallas Texas and has since entered into discussions with numerous FECs, resorts, and marina developers to bring Citywave to their destinations. Citywave systems have been commercially operating since 2012, with over 20 venues currently in operation worldwide. As the longest standing, proven deep-water standing surf wave technology on the market, Citywave boasts more surfers on its systems than any other surf technology on the market.
While Citywave’s technology is globally proven, Citywave USA recognized the need for a domestic partner with the capabilities to scale efficiently and support long-term success. ADG brings exactly that—offering unmatched expertise in in-house manufacturing and fabrication, backed by integrated engineering, installation, and project execution. With a reputation for delivering complex systems with precision and reliability, ADG ensures each installation meets the highest standards of performance and efficiency. This partnership marks a pivotal moment in Citywave USA’s expansion, enabling the brand to meet rising demand with unmatched speed, quality, and local support.
“We’ve seen incredible demand for Citywave across North America and the Caribbean, and we knew ADG was the ideal partner to help us scale,” said Andrew Limbocker, CEO of Urban Entertainment Concepts. “I’ve worked with ADG for over a decade, and their team is hands down, the most professional, capable, and grounded group in the industry. Their expertise in sales, marketing, manufacturing, and construction is exactly what we need to bring surfing to the masses. With a shared focus on ambitious growth and scaling the business through refined system costs, design efficiencies, and streamlined delivery, this partnership has the potential to truly transform the future of the sport.
“I’ve worked with Andrew and the UEC leadership team for decades and have always admired their vision and ability to transform market opportunities into high-performing entertainment destinations,” said Ken Ellis, CEO at Aquatic Development Group. “Our partnership with Citywave USA is a powerful opportunity to bring this proven surf experience to a wider audience—creating meaningful value for developers, operators, and investors looking to meet the growing demand for authentic, surf-driven attractions.”
A New Era for Standing Wave Surfing in the U.S.
After years of independently pursuing the U.S. market, Citywave USA and ADG have come together under a North American agreement. Under this agreement, ADG will serve as the exclusive turnkey provider for Citywave USA surf units, handling sales, marketing, design, engineering, manufacturing, installation, and after-sales service and support. Meanwhile, internationally, ADG will continue to expand and pursue its EpicSurf standing wave, furthering its mission to bring inland surf to the masses.
This collaboration strengthens Citywave USA’s position as the premier deep-water standing wave system in North America while leveraging ADG’s unmatched expertise in wave technology and project delivery. Citywave USA prospects and clients will benefit from a streamlined process, an expanded industry network, and the combined market knowledge of two surf industry giants.
In addition to superior product quality and project execution, Citywave USA operators will benefit from UEC’s deep knowledge of development and operations including financing, insurance, software, gamification, third party management and soon to come franchising. This comprehensive development-to-surf offering provides an unprecedented turnkey solution, allowing developers to invest with confidence in both the technology and the team behind it.
Together, Citywave USA and Aquatic Development Group are setting a new standard for inland surf—delivering best-in-class standing wave surf systems with cutting-edge innovation and proven performance.
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