Six Flags Entertainment (SIX 0.28%), the world's biggest operator of regional amusement parks, reported a sharper-than-expected loss and a significant revenue shortfall compared to analysts' estimates.
The company on May 9 reported a net loss of $82.7 million, or earnings per share (EPS) of $0.98, a deeper loss than the $69.9 million, or $0.84, in the year-earlier quarter. Analysts had forecast an EPS loss of $0.27 in the most recent quarter.
Revenue also fell short, with $133 million reported against expectations of $292.6 million. In the year-earlier quarter revenue was $142 million.
| Metric | Q1 2024 Actual | Q1 2024 Estimates | Q1 2023 Actual | % Change vs. 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total revenue | $133 million | $292.6 million | $142 million | (6%) |
| Net loss per share, diluted | ($0.98) | ($0.27) |
($0.84) |
N/A |
| Adjusted EBITDA | ($26 million) | N/A | ($17 million) | N/A |
| Admissions | $70.8 million | N/A | $76.3 million | (7.2%) |
Data sources: Company results from company. Analyst estimates from FactSet.
Understanding Six Flags
Six Flags operates 27 theme parks in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. Recently, Six Flags has focused on expanding through acquisitions and mergers, including one with Cedar Fair, which will create a company with an estimated value of $3.5 billion. These moves aim to increase not only market share but operational efficiency, which is critical for Six Flags's turnaround hopes.
Another area of focus is capital investment for park development. Upgrades and the introduction of new attractions are essential for keeping the parks appealing. Moreover, Six Flags experiences seasonality, with most revenue generated during the second and third quarters, making planning for off-peak periods vital.
Quarterly highlights
The 7.2% decline in admissions and a drop in per-guest spending suggests that consumer behavior might be shifting. The decrease in spending per capita could affect long-term profitability. Moreover, the company incurred $5 million in costs related to the Cedar Fair merger, which is expected to strengthen its market position and operational scale.
On a positive note, Six Flags has made strides in addressing its debt and financial structure. The issuance of $850 million in senior secured notes and the use of these proceeds to repay existing debt reflect a proactive approach to enhancing financial health.
However, the quarter also exposed vulnerabilities, with total revenue and net loss figures deteriorating compared to the previous year. The deepening losses underscore the pressure on operational efficiency.
Looking ahead
Six Flags has not published specific earnings outlooks for the remaining quarters of 2024. Still, investors should monitor the completion of the Cedar Fair merger and its integration into operations. This consolidation could be transformational, offering potential for market expansion and efficiencies.
Additionally, the attention to enhancing guest experiences through new rides and attractions, coupled with strategies to increase spending per visitor, will be crucial for reversing the recent declines in revenue and profitability. The impact of these strategies on future quarterly performance will be a key area of focus.
