We kick off 2026 with a deep dive into the "state of the industry." Given a slow news week, Philip and Scott Swenson provide a comprehensive "business analysis" and "strategic planning" overview. This episode is structured as an environmental SWOT analysis of the attractions industry, intended to support 2026 strategic…
Universal Destinations & Experiences has begun early planning for a **universal studios** park in Saudi Arabia. This project would be structured as a licensing deal with government-backed funding, a model that could generate immediate revenue and provide access to the region's growing tourism market, similar to successful UAE projects like…
Six Flags Magic Mountain has delayed its highly anticipated “first-of-its-kind” coaster to 2027, citing the attraction’s complexity and a commitment to quality. The project—reported to be a Vekoma Thrill Glider—was part of the company’s broader $1 billion investment plan and would have been the park’s first major coaster addition since…
Netflix announced plans to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery in a $72 billion deal—only to face an immediate hostile counterbid from Paramount. Either path would take months, if not years, to resolve and must clear regulatory and shareholder hurdles. But even at this early stage, the implications for themed entertainment are…
A new report reveals how Gen Z and Millennials plan to travel in 2026: 78% say they’ve recreated a childhood vacation or plan to, and 69% avoid overcrowded destinations; 67% cited escape from burnout as a motivator, and interest in wellness and sober travel experiences is rising. That context frames…
Six Flags has appointed John Reilly as its new CEO—a leader who spent 21 years at SeaWorld and later held top roles at Palace Entertainment, the parent company of regional parks like Kennywood and Lake Compounce. Philip and Scott discuss why that résumé matters: Reilly comes from chains where executives…
IAAPA Expo 2025 set a new record with 38,520 verified attendees, more than 28,000 qualified buyers, and an expanded floor featuring over 1,100 exhibitorsgt-nov-23. Philip and Scott break down the trends that truly mattered this year: the push toward indoor attractions (from SeaWorld Orlando’s new Vekoma indoor inverted coaster to…
Six Flags will attempt to leverage Travis Kelce’s 9% investment into a full branding partnership, leaning into ‘the new world.’ Meanwhile, Disney’s stock dipped 7% after its latest earnings show cable is collapsing faster than expected. Streaming and the parks remain its lifeboat, with both those sectors performing well, underscoring…
Three companies, one economic reality—and three very different responses. Six Flags is doubling down on its “smaller and more nimble” plan, prioritizing core parks and openly confirming that more closures or sales are coming. United Parks & Resorts (SeaWorld/Busch Gardens) is battling brand confusion after a 25% profit drop, citing…
From Hollywood to Florida and New York to Oregon, this year’s Halloween season proved that the industry is evolving—just not abandoning its roots. Sliders continue to grow as choreographed street theater, chainsaws remain the undeniable American haunt anthem, and creative teams nationwide are finding new ways to give guests something…
Kansas City Chiefs star—and Taylor Swift’s fiancé—Travis Kelce now owns a 9% stake in Six Flags alongside hedge fund Jana Partners, instantly making the struggling park chain a national headline. Former Cedar Fair CEO Matt Ouimet, however, wasn’t impressed—publicly calling out the board for “cycling through CEOs, destroying value, and…
Six Flags is losing more of its board—Executive Chairman Selim Bassoul and Lead Independent Director Daniel Hanrahan will leave the board at year’s end, following CEO Richard Zimmerman’s exit announcement. Bassoul, who also lined up a new role outside the industry, will remain as a consultant through the launch of…
The conversation delves into the significant impact of tariffs on the industry, highlighting the uncertainty they create for manufacturers and the challenges in launching new products. The discussion also touches on the future of theme parks and attractions, particularly in the context of economic pressures and changing consumer behavior. Additionally,…
This week, Philip and Scott discuss the latest theme park news, focusing on rising costs at Disney Parks and what it means for guests visiting Walt Disney World and Disneyland. At Disneyland, parking now costs $40 a day and the top-tier Inspire Key annual pass jumps to $1,899, still with…
Universal has reopened Stardust Racers at Epic Universe, following a fatal incident earlier this year, and has introduced new signage and stricter accessibility requirements. The latest safety guide now warns guests with weakened bones, limited mobility, or difficulty maintaining an upright position not to ride—and the “must walk independently” clause…
This week, we respond to your comments from last week's show, plus Scott recaps his visit to IAAPA Expo Europe, and we discuss Lego's aqusition, and Atlas 9. News Stories: - Lego invests £200M in acquisition of Lego Discovery Centers from Merlin - New immersive art venue Atlas9 opens in…
