KIRKBI, Blackstone and CPPIB completed the acquisition of Merlin Entertainment for $6bn.

A consortium led by KIRKBI, Blackstone, and CPPIB completed the acquisition of Merlin Entertainment, which operates 127 attractions, 19 hotels and 7 holiday villages in 27 countries, for $6.05bn. After the completion of the deal, Merlin was de-listed from London Stock Exchange. The offer price represents a premium of 36.8% to the closing price per Merlin share on 22 May 2019. “We are pleased to partner with KIRKBI and CPPIB to acquire a business we know very well. We are prepared to commit the substantial resources required to support the long-term objectives of Merlin, which will require significant investment to ensure its long-term success. We believe we are uniquely placed through our Core private equity strategy to make this investment alongside our partners at KIRKBI and CPPIB. We look forward to backing Nick Varney and his strong management team in driving Merlin into the future," Joe Baratta, Blackstone, Global Head of Private Equity.