United Parks: 3 Key Takeaways for Long-Term Investors

On its third-quarter 2026 earnings call, held on Nov. 5, 2026, United Parks (NYSE:PRKS) reported a 1.1% revenue decline to $506.5 million as attendance fell by 320,000 guests. Unfavorable weather eliminated 325,000 visits during the quarter, but pricing gains and per-visitor spending kept revenue resilient. Understanding how management manages costs and capital allocation despite operational disruptions reveals the strength of the long-term investment thesis. Three takeaways from the call stand out for long-term investors.

1. Aggressive Share Buybacks Reflect Board Confidence

Management bought $218 million of common stock in 2026, shrinking the total share count by approximately 12%. Executives paused repurchases in the third quarter to rebuild cash balances, but plan to resume buying shares once liquidity improves because they view the market price as well below intrinsic asset value.

Today, this year, we have purchased $218 million of stock or approximately 12% of our total outstanding shares.
-- Marc G. Swanson, Chief Executive Officer

2. Advance Pass Sales Point to 2027 Recovery

The total paid pass base turned positive by late October. The base of 2027-specific pass products grew over 15%, providing predictable revenue and locking in visitor commitments before the main operating season begins.

Underscoring the progress we are making, our total pass sales during the third quarter were up almost 8% ... what is even more encouraging are 2027 specific pass products base is up over 15% as of October 31.
-- Marc G. Swanson, Chief Executive Officer

3. Efficiency Programs Target Up to $100 Million in Cumulative Savings

United Parks remains on track to deliver $50 million in gross cost savings across 2026 and 2027. Management launched a secondary cost-reduction phase targeting an additional $40 million to $50 million in savings for 2027 through artificial intelligence tools, operational automation, and labor scheduling improvements.

We continue to be on pace to achieve our $50 million gross cost savings target ... And we are actively working on our 2027 objectives with an initial targeted savings of an additional $40 million to $50 million of gross cost savings.
-- Marc G. Swanson, Chief Executive Officer

Looking Ahead

Forward group bookings and international visitors are turning into growth tailwinds, lifting adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization). Balance sheet flexibility allows steady reinvestment in park attractions while management works to protect operating margins.

Looking ahead to 2027 and beyond, we see a clear path to deliver significantly higher attendance revenue, adjusted EBITDA and free cash flow.
-- Marc G. Swanson, Chief Executive Officer

Strategic priorities center on maintaining pricing discipline and automating operations to lower expenses. Long-term shareholder returns will depend on converting these structural cost cuts into sustainable cash flow growth.

We remain focused, well positioned, and highly confident in our ability to significantly grow the business and deliver meaningful increases in value for shareholders.
-- Marc G. Swanson, Chief Executive Officer

The Motley Fool recommends United Parks & Resorts. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.