雅虎香港財經 United Parks & Resorts Inc. Reports Modest Revenue Growth Amidst Operational Challenges in ...
Attendance: Reached 3.5 million guests, marking a 2.1% increase year-over-year.
Total Revenue: Achieved a record $297.4 million, up 1.4% from the previous year.
Net Loss: Improved to $11.2 million, a 32% decrease in losses compared to the first quarter of 2023.
Adjusted EBITDA: Set a new record at $79.2 million, an increase of 9.3% year-over-year.
Share Repurchase Program: Initiated a new $500 million program, repurchasing approximately $100.8 million worth of shares to date.
Strategic Financial Movements: Raised a $380.0 million add-on to existing Term B-2 Loans and redeemed $227.5 million in senior secured notes.
Animal Rescue Efforts: Aided 173 animals in need during the quarter, with over 41,000 animals helped historically.
On May 8, 2024, United Parks & Resorts Inc. (NYSE:PRKS), a prominent player in the U.S. leisure industry, disclosed its financial outcomes for the first quarter of 2024 through its 8-K filing. The company, known for operating major theme parks like SeaWorld and Busch Gardens, reported a slight revenue increase and a significant improvement in net losses compared to the same period last year.
Financial Performance Overview
In Q1 2024, United Parks & Resorts Inc. achieved a record $297.4 million in total revenue, marking a 1.4% increase year-over-year. This growth was primarily driven by a 2.1% rise in attendance, welcoming approximately 3.5 million guests. Despite these gains, the company recorded a net loss of $11.2 million, which, while still a loss, represents a $5.3 million improvement from Q1 2023. Notably, Adjusted EBITDA reached a new high of $79.2 million, up 9.3% from the previous year, reflecting effective cost management and operational efficiencies.
Strategic Initiatives and Market Challenges
CEO Marc Swanson highlighted the mixed effects of seasonal events and weather conditions on attendance. The shift of the Easter holiday provided a temporary boost, which was largely offset by adverse weather, particularly in the Florida parks. Despite these challenges, the company saw a 4.0% increase in in-park per capita spending, excluding certain one-time revenues, marking the 16th consecutive quarter of growth in this metric.
Swanson also outlined the company's proactive strategies, including the introduction of new attractions across various parks and a robust $500 million share repurchase program, underscoring a strong commitment to shareholder returns. The company's forward-looking statements were optimistic, anticipating continued revenue growth and operational improvements in 2024.
Operational Highlights and Future Outlook
United Parks & Resorts Inc. is not just about entertainment; its conservation efforts are notable, with over 41,000 animals rescued historically. Looking ahead, the company is excited about its lineup for 2024, including several new rides and attractions like the Catapult Falls at SeaWorld San Antonio and the Penguin Trek at SeaWorld Orlando.
Financially, the company is strategically managing its capital structure, evidenced by a significant add-on to its existing Term B-2 Loans and the redemption of senior secured notes. These moves are aimed at optimizing the company's debt profile and enhancing financial flexibility.
Investor and Analyst Insights
From an investment perspective, the company's ability to maintain a trajectory of modest revenue growth while significantly improving its Adjusted EBITDA and reducing net losses is commendable. The strategic share repurchases reflect management's confidence in the business and its commitment to delivering shareholder value. Investors and analysts will likely watch closely how the new attractions and operational strategies translate into financial performance in the upcoming high season.
For more detailed information and to follow United Parks & Resorts Inc.'s progress throughout 2024, visit their investor relations website at www.UnitedParksInvestors.com.
Explore the complete 8-K earnings release (here) from United Parks & Resorts Inc for further details.
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.
