Ridemakerz returns to DTD in California

On June 16, car enthusiasts had their dream come true when Ridemakerz, the toy-car customizing shop, opened its doors - again.

There are more than 649 million possible build combinations to trick-out these radio control cars.

The first-ever customizing shop for one-of-a-kind radio control cars welcomed fans back to Downtown Disney at a grand opening featuring Ridemakerz "Z"EO (CEO) Larry Andreini. Janet Knox, general manager, Disney California Adventure & Resorts/Downtown Disney Merchandise, joined the zealous entrepreneur for the exciting "chain"-cutting ceremony.

"When you think of Downtown Disney, you think of fun, creative, interactive and unique," Knox said. "Ridemakerz is all of those things … where else can kids of all ages be 'kids at heart' and have the opportunity to create a 'mean machine'?"

Ridemakerz "Z"EO Larry Andreini and Janet Knox, general manager, Disney California Adventure & Resorts/Downtown Disney Merchandise, celebrate with a "chain"-cutting ceremony for the grand opening in Downtown Disney.

Also on hand were representatives from Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Orange County, the recipients of a $1,000 donation from Ridemarkez. The organization helps children reach their potential through one-to-one relations with mentors — many children and their mentors were present to experience first-hand how to build their own custom toy car.

"One of the ways we like to be involved with the community is through a partnership with the local chapter of Big Brothers and Big Sisters," said Andreini. "Ridemakerz is all about fun, but our foundation is also based on core values for our visitors to provide choice, unleash creativity, foster confidence, encourage collaboration and instill a sense of community."

Whether for kids, adults, girls or boys, choices to customize 1:18 scale versions of popular real-world cars include Ford Mustangs, Dodge Vipers, Chevrolet Corvettes and more. Between body styles and colors, tires, wheels, lights, sounds, accessories and decals, there are 649 million possible build combinations to trick-out the radio control cars.

Memories for the young and young-at-heart

Celebrities Chip Foose, Hollywood movie car designer, and Fireball Tim, automotive designer and former star of the reality TV series "Overhaulin'" on TLC, helped youngsters build their "rides" and then autographed their prize cars. 

Foose says the experience at Ridemakerz is more than building toy cars. "Not only are you building cars, but you are building memories," said the hot rod shop owner. "The greatest thing about this is that it's a positive influence on kids."

Fireball Tim, whose film credits include Jurassic Park, Batman and Independence Day, concurs. "When adults walks into this store, the 'kid' jumps out of them, and they just want to have a good time."

Larry Andreini and his son celebrate the opening of Ridemakerz in Downtown Disney.

Ridemakerz debuted in Downtown Disney in October of 2009 with a limited engagement shop that won recognition by Chain Store Age magazine as Worldwide Retail Store of the Year in the "Pop-up" Category. The shop has since been expanded and upgraded to serve as the company's permanent home in Downtown Disney.

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