Wild Planet Trust has agreed to sell Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo to Dutch leisure company Libéma.
The acquisition secures the future of both Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo, enabling their conservation, educational and breeding programmes to continue.
Wild Planet Trust is the charity organization that currently operates the South West zoos
Both zoos remain fully operational and open to visitors.
The Dutch leisure company will take ownership of both zoos on 1 January for an undisclosed sum.
Libéma have over 40 years’ experience in the zoo and wildlife sector and currently operates four zoos in the Netherlands.
Under Libéma’s control, Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo will lose their charity status.
Stephen Kings, interim CEO of Wild Planet Trust, said: “This marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Paignton and Newquay Zoos.”
“Under Libéma’s ownership, both zoos are not only guaranteed to survive but to thrive into the future. Libéma share our commitment to animal welfare, conservation and hospitality.”
Paignton Zoo is currently home to more than 2,000 animals and Newquay Zoo has around 1,000 animals.
“When the opportunity to invest in these two zoos arose, we seized it. We have exciting plans to invest and enhance the visitor experience,” said Dirk Lips, CEO of Libéma.
The zoos welcome approximately 400,000 guests per year.
