The world’s biggest theme park operator has begun exploring a sale of some of its aquarium assets as it seeks to prioritise investment in its biggest international sites.
Sky News has learnt that Merlin Entertainments, which is jointly owned by the private equity giant Blackstone and the investment vehicle of the family behind the Lego dynasty, is working with bankers on a possible disposal of sites in a number of cities in Britain and overseas.
Merlin owns more than 40 aquariums globally, many of which trade under the Sea Life brand.
Money latest: Parents increasingly leaving kids different amounts in wills
In the UK, there are 11 such attractions, including in London, Birmingham and Manchester.
Sources close to the process, which is being handled by Rothschild, said those three sites were definitively not for sale.
Its other locations in Britain include Blackpool, Brighton, Great Yarmouth, Loch Lomond, Scarborough and Weymouth.
Economy shows surprise growth at end of 2024 – but living standards hit
Why Downing Street’s relief over economy may be temporary
Money blog: Parts of UK economy in ‘desperate trouble’; Lidl trumps Aldi with pay announcement
Some or all of these could be sold depending upon interest from bidders, the sources added.
The possible disposals only relate to Merlin’s aquariums division and do not encompass any other area of its operations, which include Legoland, Madame Tussauds and Alton Towers.
Follow our channel and never miss an update.
Responding to an enquiry from Sky News, a Merlin spokesperson said: “Like any well-run business, Merlin regularly reviews its estate, to ensure it reflects the company’s long-term growth strategy.
“We continue to invest in our attractions globally – opening 24 new rides, attractions and experiences in 2024.
“Next month, the first standalone Peppa Pig Theme Park will open in Dallas Fort Worth followed by the first LEGOLAND Resort in China, opening in Shanghai this summer.
“This follows our recent announcement of a new global strategic partnership to bring Minecraft to life in Merlin locations – initially on both sides of the Atlantic.”
Read more from Sky News:
Economy shows surprise growth at end of 2024
Unilever delivers blow to chancellor with ice cream snub
‘Big opportunity’ for Chinese electric carmakers in UK
Merlin is currently without a permanent chief after Scott O’Neil resigned late last year to run LIV, the breakaway golf series.
The role is being occupied by chief operating officer Fiona Eastwood on an interim basis.
