Are the “Blackfish” problems over?
After SeaWorld’s earnings report on Monday, the aquatic entertainment park/zoo saw its shares rise over 15 percent.
Visitors to the park have increased by five percent in its second fiscal quarter, which is the second straight quarter of increases for SeaWorld.
This is positive for the company, which has seen a drastic fall in visitors ever since the documentary “Blackfish” was released. The documentary highlights an orca which killed people due to its terrible living conditions at SeaWorld.
SeaWorld’s CEO, John Reilly, attributes the rise in visitors to the park’s new rides, discounted ticket prices, and revamped marketing tactics which focus on animal safety and rescue efforts.
However, the company is still facing scrutiny from activist groups such as PETA. The animal protection organization heavily criticized SeaWorld and has even convinced them to stop their orca shows. The organization owns a stake in SeaWorld for more leverage with investors.
Regardless, SeaWorld’s stock has gone up 80 percent in the past 12 months, so the company is certainly on the up-and-up. In fact, it is currently at its highest point in the past four years.
The aquatic entertainment park might be able to finally turn things around after “Blackfish” tarnished its name. SeaWorld will always face an uphill battle against PETA, but for now, executives can take a deep breath.
Featured Image via Pixabay/MortenGraae
