Asian expansion boosts Merlin profits
Merlin Entertainments has seen a strong rise in full-year profits, following the launch of several new attractions in the Asia Pacific region.
The company, which operates attractions including Madame Tussauds and Legoland, achieved a 16.5% year-on-year jump in operating profits in 2012, to GBP258 million (US$391m). This was driven by a 16.1% increase in visitor numbers, to 54m, after a series of new project openings in 2012. These included the launch of Asia’s first Legoland in Malaysia, a Legoland Discovery Centre in Tokyo and Madame Tussauds in Sydney.
“While the economic outlook remains uncertain, the investments we made through 2012 and our unrelenting focus on customer satisfaction mean that Merlin is stronger than ever,” said Nick Varney, Merlin’s chief executive. “The business continues to broaden its international footprint, diversifying its revenues and providing further exposure to faster growing economies in Asia Pacific.”
Merlin’s Asian development will continue in 2013 with the launch of Madame Tussauds Tokyo.