The Spanish group Parques Reunidos has been on a shopping trip and recently added new parks to its portfolio from Europe and North America.
Based in the Dutch town of the same name, Slagharen attraction park (pictured above) was founded by the Bemboom family in 1963 and now entertains over one million guests a year, making it one of the largest parks in the Netherlands. The award-winning facility, which is anchored by an American theme, features over 40 rides and attractions, live Western shows and on-site accommodation, in addition to its signature pony rides.
Meanwhile in the United States, Parques Reunidos subsidiary Palace Entertainment has completed the acquisition of Noah’s Ark waterpark (pictured below) from Tim and Dan Gantz. Billed as America’s largest waterpark with over 50 attractions spread across 70 acres, the venue was pivotal in the development of Wisconsin Dells as the “Waterpark Capital of the World.” The property also features two hotels, offering over 300 rooms.
With these latest acquisitions, Parques Reunidos Group now operates 72 theme, water and animal parks, as well as family entertainment centres, around the world, making it Europe’s second largest leisure park operator. The group operates attractions in 11 countries, mainly in Europe and USA, including such famous properties as Bobbejaanland, Mirabilandia, Tusenfryd and Kennywood.
“The acquisition of Slagharen signifies the extension of our family leisure facilities in a new market, the Netherlands,” notes Parques Reunidos executive chairman Richard Golding. “This acquisition represents another important step in the Parques Reunidos growth strategy.”
