The non-public fairness backer of companies together with Bonhams, the auctioneer, and Amber Taverns is plotting a bid for a portfolio of aquariums earmarked for disposal by the world’s greatest theme park operator.
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The aquariums have been put up on the market by Merlin Entertainments, which desires to prioritise funding in its greatest worldwide websites – together with in London.
The London attraction is just not a part of the public sale.
Merlin is collectively owned by the non-public fairness large Blackstone and the funding automobile of the household behind the Lego dynasty, and counts Alton Towers, Legoland and Madame Tussauds amongst its British venues.
The group owns greater than 40 aquariums globally, a lot of which commerce below the Sea Life model.
Within the UK, there are 11 such points of interest, together with in London, Birmingham and Manchester – which aren’t on the market – and Blackpool, Brighton, Nice Yarmouth, Loch Lomond, Scarborough and Weymouth.
The potential disposals solely relate to Merlin’s aquariums division and don’t embody every other space of its operations.
Epiris declined to touch upon its curiosity.
A Merlin spokesperson mentioned earlier this 12 months: “Like any well-run business, Merlin regularly reviews its estate, to ensure it reflects the company’s long-term growth strategy.
“We proceed to put money into our points of interest globally – opening 24 new rides, points of interest and experiences in 2024.
