Trump’s proposed tariffs could drive up costs for theme parks, and Merlin Entertainment is cutting live entertainment across multiple locations—but what does it all mean for the industry?
This week, we break down how new tariffs on imports from China, Mexico, and Canada could lead to higher construction costs, delayed projects, and rising ticket prices. Meanwhile, Merlin’s staffing cuts in Florida, California, and the UK are raising concerns—are they shifting to third-party contractors, or is this part of a larger trend away from live entertainment? Join us as we analyze these industry shake-ups and what parks should be doing to prepare.
00:00 - Intro: The Industry Faces New Challenges
01:20 - Trump’s Tariffs: What’s Changing?
05:00 - How Tariffs Will Impact Theme Parks
09:30 - Ticket Prices, Expansion Delays, and Cost Concerns
12:50 - Merlin Entertainment Layoffs: What’s Happening?
17:45 - The Future of Live Entertainment at Merlin Parks
22:30 - What Parks Should Be Doing to Prepare
26:40 - Wrap-Up: Predictions for the Industry
SOURCES:
- Legoland Florida plans major layoffs in entertainment
- https://www.themeparkinsider.com/flume/202501/10691/
- Legoland in California to reduce staff
- https://fox5sandiego.com/entertainment/legoland-california-resort-to-make-cuts-to-entertainment-team/
- RWS? – News about holiday
- Merlin Entertainments outlines strategy to unify UK attractions
- https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/alton-towers-jobs-under-threat-30869595
- Trump Tariffs Threaten to Upend Global Economic Order
- https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/02/us/politics/trump-tariffs-global-economic-order.html
