Six Flags and Cedar Fair Form the Biggest US Theme Park Operator
Six Flags and Cedar Fair have completed their $8 billion merger, creating the biggest amusement park operator in the U.S. As of July 1, The new Six Flags Entertainment Corporation oversees 27 amusement parks, 15 water parks, and 9 resort properties across 17 states, Canada, and Mexico.
Selim Bassoul, executive chairman, stated, "We believe that by combining the best ideas and most successful entertainment practices of both Six Flags and Cedar Fair, the new Six Flags can deliver a superior level of joy and excitement that has yet to be experienced by regional park guests."
Names, season passes, and loyalty programs are staying the same (for now). However, according to company president Richard Zimmerman, new rides and technologies might be on the horizon.
The merger's got mixed reaction. Bill Kneass, a long-time Six Flags passholder, is hoping for a win-win situation: "If the new Six Flags can find a way to honor the history of their parks and bring in new attractions for all types of enthusiasts, they're poised for success.”
YouTuber Chris Miller expressed both hope and concern: "I am hopeful that joining forces will help bring a variety of different new rides to parks that don't normally see updates." However, he is worried about potential price increases for season passes.
Zimmerman highlighted the financial benefits: "The combination also enhances the financial profile of the company with strong cash flow generation to accelerate investments in our parks to delight our guests, driving increased levels of demand and in-park value and spending."
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation spokesperson Gary Rhodes wants to reassure everyone that no big changes are planned for individual parks just yet. He says, "We expect this combination will enable us to deliver even more engaging and entertaining experiences to guests."
The newly formed company enters Wall Street under the ticker symbol "FUN." We think it’s gonna be an interesting ride spectating how this team-up will shape the future of amusement parks across the continent.