Major U.S. amusement park operators Cedar Fair and Six Flags announce merger

Cedar Fair and Six Flags, two major amusement park operators, are merging to create a combined company worth over $3.5 billion. The merger will result in a portfolio of 27 amusement parks, 15 water parks, and nine resort properties across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The companies anticipate cost savings of $120 million within two years of closing the deal. The merger aims to enhance park offerings and performance, as amusement parks have struggled with attendance since the pandemic. The combined company will be headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, and will operate under the name Six Flags. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of next year, pending approval from Six Flags shareholders.