Merlin Entertainments announce that Nick Varney, Chief Executive Officer, informed the Board of his decision to retire.

Nick has a 12-month notice period during which the Board are to identify his successor and provide a smooth transition. 

Merlin Entertainments was established in 1999 following the £47m Management Buyout of Vardon Entertainments led by Nick, who subsequently became CEO of the rebranded group. 

He has played an important role at Merlin Entertainments, growing the business from 19 attractions to a global leader in family entertainment, operating 140 attractions, 23 hotels and six holiday villages in 24 countries and across four continents.

Roland Hernandez, Chair of Merlin Entertainments, commented: “I would like to thank Nick for his outstanding leadership of Merlin Entertainments over the last 23 years. He has created one of the best global leisure businesses through his passion, dedication, and talent. The growth has been incredible, particularly through a period of such macro change. 

“He will leave Merlin in strong shape to continue creating and delivering memorable experiences to our millions of guests around the world.”

Nick Varney, CEO of Merlin Entertainments, added: “Merlin has been my life for most of my career. I love the people, the attractions, the visitors and the industry and I am proud to have played my part as we built Merlin into an incredible business. I know that with our amazing attractions, as well as our committed and capable people, Merlin will go from strength to strength over the coming years.”