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United Parks & Resorts Inc. (NYSE: PRKS) is a leading theme park and entertainment company in the United States leisure industry. The company operates under prominent brands such as SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, Aquatica, Discovery Cove, and Sesame Place. Offering exhilarating rides, thrilling roller coasters, and engaging wildlife presentations, United Parks & Resorts' parks promise fun and educational experiences for all ages.
In 2023, the company achieved record attendance and in-park spending despite weather challenges. For the full year, it saw near-record results and continued its trend of revenue growth, particularly in admissions per capita. This success is credited to effective revenue strategies and strong consumer spending within their parks. The company also expanded internationally by opening a SeaWorld park in Abu Dhabi, which has surpassed expectations.
United Parks & Resorts is deeply committed to animal welfare and has aided over 41,000 animals in need through its dedicated rescue teams. These efforts align with its mission to protect animals and their ecosystems by partnering with various governmental agencies.
Financially, the company reported significant growth in the fourth quarter of 2023, including record revenues and Adjusted EBITDA. Despite a slight decrease in admission per capita, in-park per capita spending improved due to price initiatives. The firm also announced a $500 million share buyback program, reflecting strong confidence in future performance.
In 2024, United Parks & Resorts has ambitious plans for new rides, attractions, and events across all parks, including celebrating SeaWorld's 60th anniversary with special events and new experiences. The company expects these investments to drive meaningful growth in attendance and revenue.
Recent news highlights include a successful national hiring event to fill over 5,000 positions, the announcement of the Mayhem sale for discounted Howl-O-Scream tickets, and the launch of SeaWorld's 60th anniversary celebrations. Additionally, the company continues its commitment to animal rescue and conservation, with plans for new and improved park venues and offerings.
SeaWorld has expanded its Military Annual Pass program to include veterans alongside active duty military personnel for a time. The pass offers unlimited admission with no blockout dates and free parking through 2025. Available for purchase at WavesOfHonor.com or select military bases, the program includes complementary single-day admission for active duty military and discounted admission for family members.
As part of Veterans Day celebrations, all SeaWorld parks will host special patriotic events featuring music and celebrations. This initiative is part of the broader Waves of Honor Program recognizing U.S. military service members and their families.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is set to unveil North America's longest family inverted coaster, The Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf's Revenge, in 2025. This immersive attraction, located in the Octoberfest area, will be the park's eleventh coaster. Riders will experience 2,500 feet of track at speeds up to 40 mph, with a minimum height requirement of 42 inches (with companion) or 48 inches (without).
The coaster, manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard, combines storytelling with family-friendly thrills in a Bavarian village setting. Park President Kevin Lembke emphasized the unique and immersive nature of the experience. The ride's name was chosen through a fan voting contest, honoring the legacy of a past attraction.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg will also celebrate its 50th year of operation in 2025 with various events throughout the year, including Mardi Gras, St. Patrick's Day Celebration, Food & Wine Festival, and Howl-O-Scream. Memberships for 2025 are now available, offering unlimited admission and exclusive benefits.
United Parks & Resorts is offering FREE admission to its parks for first responders and lineworkers following Hurricane Milton. First responders can redeem up to two free tickets online until October 31 at SeaWorld Orlando or Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, valid for one-time use at these parks, Aquatica Orlando, and Adventure Island Tampa Bay. Lineworkers' tickets are being distributed through utilities companies and can be redeemed at various parks nationwide.
CEO Marc Swanson expressed gratitude for their efforts in ensuring a quick and safe return to normalcy. The offer allows recipients to enjoy new and exciting attractions, animal experiences, and shows while being inspired to protect wildlife. Free tickets for both groups are valid through December 31, 2024.
Five rehabilitated manatees were flown from Ohio to Florida, marking a significant conservation achievement. The manatees, rescued as orphaned calves in 2023, were cared for by the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, and SeaWorld Orlando. Two males, Nighthawk and Mr. Dobak, were transferred from Columbus Zoo to SeaWorld Orlando, while three females, Nolia, Amethyst, and Waffles, were moved from Cincinnati Zoo to ZooTampa.
The manatees were transported in custom-built containers via a DHL Express cargo plane. They will complete their final rehabilitation stages before being released into their home waters. Simultaneously, six young manatees were flown to Ohio for continued rehabilitation. This operation highlights the ongoing efforts of the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP) to protect and conserve this threatened species.
United Parks & Resorts Inc. (NYSE: PRKS) has announced the release date for its third quarter financial results. The company will disclose the results before the market opens on Thursday, November 7, 2024. A conference call is scheduled for the same day at 9 a.m. Eastern Time, which will be broadcast live over the internet.
Investors can access both the financial release and the conference call through the company's website at www.UnitedParksInvestors.com. For those unable to participate in the live webcast, a replay will be available from approximately 12 p.m. Eastern Time on November 7, 2024, under the "Events & Presentations" tab of the website. Additionally, a telephonic replay will be accessible from November 7 to November 14, 2024, by dialing specific numbers for U.S., Canadian, and international callers.
United Parks & Resorts Inc. (NYSE: PRKS) has appointed James "Jim" Mikolaichik as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Treasurer, effective Nov. 11, 2024. Mikolaichik brings over 30 years of global financial and strategic planning experience to the company. He previously served as CFO of MyEyeDr and Executive Vice President and CFO at Diamond Resorts.
CEO Marc Swanson expressed confidence in Mikolaichik's ability to drive profitability and shareholder value. Mikolaichik, who holds an MBA from Columbia University, expressed excitement about joining the company and leveraging his experience to enhance strategic initiatives. He replaces Interim CFO James W. Forrester, Jr., who will remain with the company through the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition.
SeaWorld San Antonio has unveiled plans for the ALL-NEW Rescue Jr. hub, set to open in Spring 2025. This immersive adventure zone will feature interactive rides, climbing structures, and water features, designed to educate young guests about SeaWorld's animal rescue efforts. Key attractions include:
- Beach Rescue Racer: a 1,000-foot roller coaster
- Ocean Quest Express: a themed train ride
- Tide Pool Tumble: a seaside joy ride
- Seabird Swing: a virtual parasailing experience
SeaWorld also announced its 2025 Annual Pass, offering unlimited visits, free parking, guest tickets, in-park discounts, and exclusive experiences. For a time, pass holders will receive Aquatica for free. Prices start at $99.99.
SeaWorld Orlando has welcomed Ukiaq, an orphaned Pacific walrus calf rescued from Alaska, to its new home. The calf, found abandoned on the beaches of Utqiagvik, Alaska, received initial care at the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) before being transferred to SeaWorld Orlando on September 18. Weighing approximately 220 pounds, Ukiaq will receive specialized care from SeaWorld's animal care specialists and veterinarians.
SeaWorld Orlando was chosen for its experience with walrus care and the presence of a female walrus capable of acting as a surrogate. The park's team is providing 24/7 care to ensure a smooth transition for Ukiaq. While not immediately introduced to guest-facing habitats, Ukiaq will eventually serve as an ambassador for her species, educating the public on challenges faced by Pacific walruses in the wild.
SeaWorld Orlando has unveiled plans for the world's first fully immersive Arctic flying theater, set to open in Spring 2025. This groundbreaking attraction will offer guests a 4:30-minute journey through the Arctic, featuring breathtaking views of icy landscapes, underwater scenes, and the Northern Lights. The ride, accommodating guests with a minimum height of 39 inches, will be housed in two multi-level theaters, each seating 30 people.
The attraction emphasizes SeaWorld's commitment to blending education with entertainment, showcasing the Arctic's diverse ecosystem. 2025 Annual Pass Members will have exclusive early access to the ride. SeaWorld is offering a -time promotion for 2025 passes, including a free tier upgrade and the opportunity to be among the first to experience this new attraction.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has unveiled plans for its ALL-NEW Wild Oasis realm, set to open in Spring 2025. This innovative attraction, located in the Jungala area, promises to be North America's most immersive kid-friendly adventure realm. The Wild Oasis will feature:
- A reimagined drop tower with state-of-the-art digital and sound effects
- An interactive water-play wonderland
- A multi-level climbing canopy
- A new multi-species animal habitat for up-close encounters
To celebrate this upcoming attraction, Busch Gardens is offering 2025 Annual Passes with exclusive benefits, including early access to Wild Oasis. For a time, pass purchasers will receive a free upgrade to the next pass tier level. The park continues to expand its world-class attractions, solidifying its position as a premier destination for thrill-seekers and families.
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