Looping Group has announced the acquisition of Drayton Manor Park in the UK.
Drayton Manor Park, which attracts over 1 million visitors each year with its 100+ rides and attractions, also includes Europe’s only Thomas Land, a 15-acre conservation zoo and four-star hotel with 148 rooms and conference facilities.
The Bryan family, who have owned and run Drayton Manor Park since it first opened to the public in 1950, will remain a key part of the management structure under the new ownership, with William Bryan retaining his role as managing director.
Laurent Bruloy, CEO and co-founder of Looping Group commented: “We are thrilled to welcome Drayton Manor and its teams in our Group. I would like to commend the Bryan family who has, over three generations, been developing the park and made it one of the most beautiful references of our industry in the UK. We are deeply respectful about all that has been achieved by the teams.”
“We aim to continue the story and support Drayton Manor’s development with the same entrepreneurial DNA and values that we share whilst keeping the strong local anchorage of the resort.
Stéphane Da Cunha, Managing Director and co-founder of Looping Group added: “We are delighted to join a very skilled management team which, associated to the Looping’s management team and an ambitious investment project, will enable this theme park to become an increasingly attractive family destination and makes it a flagship site within Looping”.
The acquisition was done in the context of a pre-pack administration process under which Looping Group acquired the business and assets of Drayton Manor, while retaining 100% of its team.