Parkdean Resorts Eyes £250 Million Boost to Fuel Expansion

UK Holiday Park Giant in Talks with US Investor Centerbridge to Strengthen Finances and Drive Growth

Funding Deal in the Works

Parkdean Resorts, the UK’s largest holiday park operator, is reportedly in advanced talks with US investment firm Centerbridge Partners for a funding deal worth approximately £250 million. The financing, expected to be structured as debt, could provide crucial support as Parkdean looks to expand operations and strengthen its financial position.

With 65 parks across the UK and a workforce that peaks at 8,000 employees during the summer season, Parkdean is a key player in Britain’s domestic tourism sector. The funding injection would offer the group significant flexibility to invest in upgrades and pursue strategic acquisitions within the fragmented UK holiday park market.

Background and Ownership

Parkdean has been under the ownership of Canada’s Onex Corporation since 2016, having been acquired for £1.35 billion. However, persistent speculation has surrounded Onex’s ability to recoup its investment, especially amid mounting pressure on consumer spending and evolving post-pandemic holiday trends.

In recent years, Onex has had to inject additional funds into the business, particularly in the wake of COVID-19, to maintain operations and support recovery efforts.

Consolidation and Upgrades on the Agenda

According to sources close to the deal, if finalised, Centerbridge would join existing lender Ares Management Corporation in supporting Parkdean’s capital structure. The fresh capital is expected to be channelled towards:

• Upgrading existing parks to improve facilities and guest experience
• Pursuing acquisitions as part of a wider market consolidation strategy
• Reinforcing the balance sheet for long-term sustainability

A company spokesperson confirmed the ongoing process, stating:

“Parkdean Resorts is running a process to strengthen the balance sheet, and to provide firepower for continued growth and sector consolidation.”

The capital raise is being overseen by financial advisers at Rothschild.

Strong Trading Fuels Optimism

Parkdean’s positive trading performance in 2025 is another driver behind the potential deal. With 98% occupancy during the peak summer season and growth in both revenue and earnings, the company is well-positioned to build on recent momentum.

Steve Richards, Parkdean’s CEO and a respected name in the UK leisure industry, continues to lead the group’s strategic push for growth and improved operational efficiency.

What This Could Mean for the Future

If the deal is finalised, the funding could mark a turning point for Parkdean and the broader UK staycation market. With consumer preferences still favouring local holidays amid global uncertainty, Parkdean could seize the opportunity to:

• Modernise its parks and stay ahead of competitors
• Lead sector consolidation through acquisitions
• Strengthen its brand as a top-tier UK holiday provider

It also reflects increasing interest from overseas investors in UK leisure and tourism assets, which may further fuel M&A activity in the sector.

Conclusion

Parkdean Resorts is positioning itself for a strong future with a potential £250 million capital injection from Centerbridge. In an industry where scale, experience, and flexibility matter, this deal could place Parkdean firmly in the driver’s seat for market leadership. Should the transaction proceed, it will not only fortify its financial base but also open up exciting new growth opportunities—making it one to watch for investors and holidaymakers alike.

Source: (Sky.com)