Benzinga·2025-09-12 16:47Core Insights - Six Flags Entertainment Corporation reported an increase in summer traffic and strong demand for upcoming Halloween and winter holiday periods, with shares climbing 7.79% to $23.46 [5] - The company welcomed 17.8 million guests over the nine weeks ending August 31, marking a 2% increase compared to the same period in 2024 [1][4] - August attendance rose by 3%, equating to approximately 172,000 additional visits, and the company reaffirmed its full-year adjusted EBITDA guidance of $860 million to $910 million [2] Attendance and Revenue - Preliminary revenue for the nine-week period was approximately $1.1 billion, reflecting a 2% year-over-year decline, primarily due to a 7% drop in admissions per capita [4] - The decline in admissions was attributed to promotional initiatives aimed at increasing volume, which was partially offset by a modest increase in in-park spending on food, merchandise, and games [4] Future Outlook and Strategic Initiatives - The company anticipates a rebound in traffic and per-capita spending due to high-margin fall events, with early sales of 2026 season passes exceeding last year's pace and average pricing up about 3% [3] - Management emphasized targeted investments in new rides, upgrades to food and beverage offerings, and improved guest experience as key drivers for future growth [3] - Reducing leverage remains a top priority, with no near-term debt maturities or covenant pressures, allowing the company to fund strategic investments while pursuing cost-saving targets [5]