Wild Planet Trust has announced a new owner for Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo in South West England.
Libéma, a Dutch leisure company overseeing more than 20 businesses, including four zoos, will take over the operation of both zoos from 1 January 2026.
Wild Planet Trust confirmed in October that both zoos were on the market, citing "rising costs and global challenges".
Stephen Kings, interim CEO of Wild Planet Trust, said the transfer of operations to Libéma "marks the start of an exciting new chapter".
“Under Libéma’s ownership, both zoos are not only guaranteed to survive but to thrive into the future," Kings added.
"Libéma shares our commitment to animal welfare, conservation and hospitality, and we believe visitors will see significant new developments as a result."
Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo will no longer operate as charities, but Libéma remains fully committed to conservation, a press release says.
Through its trust, Stichting Wildlife, it currently supports 30 active conservation initiatives across the world.
Sarah Barr, chair of Wild Planet Trust, said: “When we began seeking investment, our top priority was finding a new owner who would continue to operate the zoos and protect their legacy.
"We were determined to find someone who shared our deep passion for conservation and animal welfare.
"We are confident that, under Libéma’s stewardship, the zoos will go from strength to strength whilst the trust concentrates on its vital conservation work.”
New owner to continue zoo conservation work
In the coming weeks, Libéma and Wild Planet Trust will work together to ensure a smooth handover.
When the transition is complete, Wild Planet Trust will step back from operations but will collaborate with Libéma on future conservation projects.
Dirk Lips, CEO of Libéma, said the company has been "looking to expand our activities for animal welfare, education, research and conservation".
"When the opportunity to invest in these two incredible zoos arose, we seized it with both hands," Lips added.
Libéma has plans for both zoos, including the creation of savannahs with giraffes. At Paignton Zoo, there will also be a new enclosure for camels and a new baboon rock.
Images courtesy of Wild Planet Trust
