SeaWorld has confirmed that all of its US parks (including Busch Gardens) will be closed for an indefinite length of time. But it’s what they have done to their staff that hits hardest.
SeaWorld Parks Closes Indefinitely
The SeaWorld parks (including Busch Gardens) in San Diego, San Antonio, and Orlando have been closed since March 16, with tentative plans to reopen in April. After the initial announcement on March 13, there was little information about SeaWorld’s closures. Until today, when they left things open-ended:
As part of our continued commitment to the safety of our guests and employee Ambassadors, and in accordance with guidance from state and local officials, our theme parks will remain temporarily closed. For the latest information on park operations visit https://t.co/orGJBLzEee.
— SeaWorld (@SeaWorld) March 27, 2020
SeaWorld 90% Workforce Furlough!
Although the closure extension was no surprise, what was shocking was the mass furlough of SeaWorld’s employees. According to a K-8 filing dated today, SeaWorld Entertainment Inc. will be (or already has) furloughing over 90% of its employees and affected employees will not be paid after March 31st.
However, the filing also states that “The Company looks forward to welcoming back its ambassadors and guests when it is safe to open again.” Theme parks like SeaWorld are major employers, and the massive furloughs are creating a difficult situation for its employees with only 4 days until they are no longer eligible for a SeaWorld paycheck.
Who’s Staying?
Since SeaWorld is an aquatic life park in addition to a theme park, the remaining staff are most likely caretakers for the animals. SeaWorld is asking for public and government support to keep the animals in good care.
To our family of SeaWorld fans across the world – your support is now more important than ever. Take action here: https://t.co/4bi7cGfA4y pic.twitter.com/8pVYVPRkCZ
— SeaWorld (@SeaWorld) March 25, 2020
Let’s Hear From You
March 31st is just days away and SeaWorld’s employees are obviously in a state of shock. Regardless of your feelings about SeaWorld, we can all likely agree that the animals must be cared for. What are your thoughts on whether the state should possibly step in to assure the care of the animals in the park.
With one major California theme park announcing staff reductions, could other parks follow? Please let us know your thoughts in the comments below.