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Six Flags reports slight increase in revenue and attendance for 2019

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Six Flags Entertainment Corporation has reported its Q4 and full year earnings for 2019. For the full year, revenue and attendance increased 2 percent. In Q4, attendance and revenue were down 3 percent.

In 2019, Six Flags generated revenue of $1.5 billion, an increase of $24 million (2 percent) compared with 2018.

This was driven by a 2 percent increase in attendance, and offset by a small decline in guest spending per capita and a 3 percent decline in sponsorship, international agreements and accommodations revenue.

Attendance rose by 788,000 to 32.8 million guests. This was driven by the addition of five US theme parks, as well as a new water park in Rockford.

Six Flags generated revenue of $1.5 billion in 2019

Last year, guest spending per capita was $42.37, a decrease of $0.21 compared to 2018. Overall, net income decreased $97 million (35 percent) in 2019, to $179 million.

Six Flags noted that its partner in China defaulted on its payment obligations, which resulted in a termination of the development agreements.

“It is unlikely that the company will recognize any revenue or income in 2020 related to the development of parks in China,” said Six Flags.

“My first ninety days have only reinforced my belief that Six Flags is a beloved brand with loyal guests and dedicated employees,” said Mike Spanos, CEO of Six Flags.

Attendance rose 788,000 to 32.8 million guests

“I also believe that the company has the ability to improve its performance,” he added. “We are working diligently to formulate a new strategic plan with the goal of restoring sustainable growth in attendance, revenue and profitability, and also to add directors with critical skills and experiences to our board.

“We will continue our consumer-centric approach, while focusing our organization on action, creativity, and relentless execution for the benefit of our guests, our employees, and our shareholders. I believe that Six Flags’ future is bright, and I am excited to take on this new chapter with our great team.”

Revenue in Q4 2019 declined $9 million (3 percent) to $261 million compared to Q4 2018. This was put down to a 3 percent decrease in attendance, and a 1 percent decrease in sponsorship, international agreements, and accommodations revenue.

Guest spending per capita for Q4 decreased slightly compared to the same period in 2018.

Six Flags chief financial officer to retire in 2020

Six Flags also announced that its executive vice president and chief financial officer, Marshall Barber, will retire as of August 31, 2020. He will serve as chief financial officer until February 24, 2020.

Meanwhile, Cedar Fair has reported record results for 2019. Attendance and revenue continue to grow, and last year was the most successful in Cedar Fair’s history.

Cedar Fair rejected Six Flags’ $4 billion cash-and-stock offer to merge the companies. The move would have united two of the largest theme park operators in the US.

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Bea Mitchell

Bea is a journalist specialising in entertainment, attractions and tech with 10 years' experience. She has written and edited for publications including CNET, BuzzFeed, Digital Spy, Evening Standard and BBC. Bea graduated from King's College London and has an MA in journalism.

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