Merlin Entertainments is reportedly reviewing a potential sale of some of its Sea Life aquariums in the UK and across the world.
Sky News has learnt that Merlin has appointed investment bank Rothschild to explore a sale of some of its aquatic attractions as the operator attempts to prioritise investment in its larger destinations.
Merlin owns more than 40 aquariums globally, with sites in the UK, Europe, the US, Asia, and Australia and New Zealand.
According to Sky News, Merlin‘s Sea Life venues in London, Birmingham and Manchester (all UK) are not for sale. Other UK locations could be sold depending on interest from bidders.
A Merlin spokesperson told the publication: “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.”
The potential sales would only affect Merlin’s aquariums segment, not other sites like Legoland parks and resort theme parks such as Alton Towers and Gardaland.
“Merlin regularly reviews its estate”
Last month, Merlin announced a collaboration between its Sea Life aquariums in the UK and Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons.
The touring attraction debuted at Sea Life Manchester on 8 February, before travelling to Sea Life sites in Birmingham, Brighton, London, and Chessington World of Adventures.
Amid a global expansion of gaming brands in LBE spaces, Merlin has also teamed up with Minecraft creator Mojang Studios to create location-based entertainment (LBE) experiences inspired by the video game.
Merlin’s most recent CEO Scott O’Neil left the company at the end of 2024, with Fiona Eastwood stepping in as interim CEO.
Eastwood is currently overseeing the business operations and global growth of Merlin across its 140+ attractions in more than 20 countries.
Images courtesy of Merlin
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