Our Mission: Building Safe, Lasting Playgrounds That Inspire Joy
Safe & Fun Playgrounds for Every Child
At Active Playground Equipment, our mission is to design and deliver high-quality, engaging playground products and outdoor play spaces that are built to last. We focus on crafting safe, inclusive environments where children of all abilities can explore, grow, and thrive.
From initial planning and playground design to full-service installation, and expert repair and service, our experienced team is here to support your next project with professionalism and care. We’re dedicated to helping you create unforgettable moments—and put lasting smiles on the faces of the children in your life.
Giggles & Laughs
Friendships Formed
Smiles Created
The Inspiring Story Behind Our Playgrounds
Our Playground Story
Owners Ben and Andrew Prins have a long history of being creative. There was a solid rule of no TV in the Prins household during the boy’s childhood years. This meant the children were outside playing ALL THE TIME, and as a result, they had to be creative!
From building a zip line across the driveway; rolling down a hill in a wooden barrel (with both boys inside), to dismantling a VW bug to push each around the yard…creative play solutions are hard wired into their DNA.
In 1982, Ben Prins was the co-owner of a local fence & deck installation company serving Sarnia Lambton. Ben noticed a recurring request of many clients was for the design and installation of high quality playground equipment for their children and grandchildren.
The playground division of the business slowly grew during the 80’s before experiencing exponential growth during the early 90’s with the arrival of the first CSA playground guidelines. The introduction of these guidelines brought with them enquiries from a number of commercial clients. It became obvious, that the playground business needed to stand as an independent entity resulting in Active Playground Equipment being incorporated in 1993. In 2006, due to the strong business growth, Ben relocated the manufacturing operations to the current, larger facility in Point Edward ON with Andrew Prins acting as the General Manager.
Both Ben and Andrew are proud not only to be in the business of making playground equipment, but the business of kid-empowering, confidence-building, health-promoting, and community-strengthening!
The brothers are excited about the great team at APE and the current trends in the playground industry. Ben and Andrew look forward to continuing to providing leading edge solutions for outdoor health and play products.