Herschend Family Entertainment Acquires Palace Entertainment’s 24 US Attractions
Herschend Family Entertainment has recently made headlines by completing its acquisition of Palace Entertainment’s 24 attractions across the United States. This significant move marks a pivotal moment not just for the company itself but also for the communities and guests that frequent these attractions.
A Landmark Achievement
Andrew Wexler, the CEO of Herschend, expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “This is a landmark moment—not just for Herschend, but for every host, guest, and community we serve.” This sentiment reflects the broader mission of the company, which extends beyond mere business growth; it’s about enhancing experiences for everyone involved.
Focus on People and Community
Wexler’s emphasis on creating a thriving workplace highlights Herschend’s commitment to its employees, or "hosts" as they refer to them. The company believes that when employees are happy and engaged, they can create memorable experiences for guests. Herschend aims to cultivate an environment where hosts love their work, ultimately delivering unforgettable moments for families who visit their attractions.
Expanding a Family Legacy
With the acquisition, Herschend now operates a total of 49 properties that cater to nearly 20 million guests annually. This achievement coincides with the company’s 75th anniversary, a milestone that underscores its long-standing commitment to family-friendly entertainment. The expansion not only increases its footprint in the industry but also strengthens its legacy as a family-held business dedicated to quality services.
Navigating Challenges and Opportunities
As Chris Herschend, board chair and a third-generation owner of the company noted, “Our purpose has carried us through both bright seasons and challenging ones—and it will continue to guide us as we move into this next chapter.” This reflects a broader understanding of the theme of resilience, essential in the entertainment industry, especially in the wake of challenges posed by economic fluctuations and changing guest expectations.
Commitment to Continuous Improvement
Herschend is keenly aware that the integration of the new attractions will take time and expects to face challenges along the way. The company has committed to a path of listening and communication with both staff and guests as they navigate this transition. As Chris Herschend pointed out, this process will be guided by a dedication to doing what’s right for the business, which in turn supports their hosts and the communities around them.
Looking Ahead
The acquisition of Palace Entertainment’s attractions serves not just as an expansion of Herschend’s portfolio, but as an opportunity to reaffirm its values and mission. As they embark on this new chapter, the focus remains on creating extraordinary experiences that resonate with guests while prioritizing the well-being of their team and the local communities in which they operate.
Herschend Family Entertainment’s latest milestone illustrates the power of strategic growth rooted in community engagement and employee satisfaction, promising exciting developments in the realms of family entertainment.
