SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. - Annual Report: 2016 (Form 10-K)

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C.  20549

FORM 10-K

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016

or

For the transition period from              to            

Commission File Number: 001-35883

SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

9205 South Park Center Loop, Suite 400

Orlando, Florida 32819

(Address of principal executive offices)(Zip Code)

(407) 226-5011

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes  ☑    No  ☐

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.    Yes  ☐    No  ☑

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  ☑    No  ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  ☑    No  ☐

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  ☑

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).    Yes  ☐    No  ☑

The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 30, 2016, the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter, was $969,166,737 based upon the closing price of the registrant’s common stock, par value $0.01 per share, reported for such date on the New York Stock Exchange.  For purposes of this computation, shares of the registrant’s common stock held by each executive officer and director and each person known to the registrant to own 10% or more of the outstanding voting power of the registrant have been excluded since such persons may be deemed to be affiliates. This determination of affiliate status is not a determination for other purposes.

The registrant had outstanding 88,835,076 shares of Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share as of February 21, 2017.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the registrant’s definitive proxy statement to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission relating to the 2017 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which statement will be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this report.

SEAWORLD ENTERTAINMENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Unless otherwise noted or the context otherwise requires, (i) references to the “Company,” “SeaWorld,”  “we,” “our” or “us” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K refer to SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries, (ii) references to “Blackstone” refer to certain investment funds affiliated with The Blackstone Group L.P., (iii) references to the “Partnerships” refer, collectively, as applicable, to ten limited partnerships owned by affiliates of Blackstone and certain co-investors: SW Delaware L.P., SW Delaware A L.P., SW Delaware B L.P., SW Delaware C L.P., SW Delaware D L.P., SW Delaware E L.P., SW Delaware F L.P. (f/k/a SW Cayman F L.P.), SW Delaware Co-Invest L.P. (f/k/a SW Cayman Co-Invest L.P.), SW Delaware (GS) L.P. and SW Delaware (GSO) L.P. provided that, as of August 25, 2014, SW Delaware (GS) L.P.  no longer owned shares of the Company’s common stock,  (iv) references to “ABI” refer to Anheuser-Busch, Incorporated, (v) references to “guests” refer to our theme park visitors, (vi) references to “customers” refer to any consumer of our products and services, including guests of our theme parks, (vii) references to the “TEA/AECOM Report” refer to the 2015 Theme Index: The Global Attractions Attendance Report, TEA/AECOM, 2016,  (viii) references to the “2016 Amusement Today Annual Survey” or the “Amusement Today 2016 Golden Ticket Awards” refer to the Amusement Today 2016 Golden Ticket Awards, Vol. 20, issue 6.2 dated September 2016 and (ix) references to the “IBISWorld Report” refer to the IBISWorld Industry Report 71311: Amusement Parks in the US dated April 2016. Unless otherwise noted, attendance rankings included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are based on the TEA/AECOM Report and theme park industry statistics are based on the IBISWorld Report.

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

In addition to historical information, this Annual Report on Form 10-K may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), which are subject to the “safe harbor” created by those sections. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, including statements concerning our plans, objectives, goals, beliefs, business strategies, future events, business conditions, our results of operations, financial position and our business outlook, business trends and other information, may be forward-looking statements. Words such as “might,” “will,” “may,” “should,” “estimates,” “expects,” “continues,” “contemplates,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “plans,” “potential,” “predicts,” “intends,” “believes,” “forecasts,” “future,” “targeted” and variations of such words or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are not historical facts, and are based upon our current expectations, beliefs, estimates and projections, and various assumptions, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and beyond our control. Our expectations, beliefs, estimates and projections are expressed in good faith and we believe there is a reasonable basis for them. However, there can be no assurance that management’s expectations, beliefs, estimates and projections will result or be achieved and actual results may vary materially from what is expressed in or indicated by the forward-looking statements.

There are a number of risks, uncertainties and other important factors, many of which are beyond our control, that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Such risks, uncertainties and other important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, among others, the risks, uncertainties and factors set forth under “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including the following:

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We caution you that the risks, uncertainties and other factors referenced above may not contain all of the risks, uncertainties and other factors that are important to you. In addition, we cannot assure you that we will realize the results, benefits or developments that we expect or anticipate or, even if substantially realized, that they will result in the consequences or affect us or our business in the way expected. There can be no assurance that (i) we have correctly measured or identified all of the factors affecting our business or the extent of these factors’ likely impact, (ii) the available information with respect to these factors on which such analysis is based is complete or accurate, (iii) such analysis is correct or (iv) our strategy, which is based in part on this analysis, will be successful. All forward-looking statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K apply only as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K or as the date they were made and, except as required by applicable law, we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

Trademarks, Service Marks and Trade names

We own or have rights to use a number of registered and common law trademarks, service marks and trade names in connection with our business in the United States and in certain foreign jurisdictions, including SeaWorld Entertainment, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, SeaWorld^®, Shamu^®, Busch Gardens^®, Aquatica^®, Discovery Cove^®, Sea Rescue^® and other names and marks that identify our theme parks, characters, rides, attractions and other businesses. In addition, we have certain rights to use Sesame Street^® marks, characters and related indicia through certain license agreements with Sesame Workshop (f/k/a Children’s Television Workshop).

Solely for convenience, the trademarks, service marks, and trade names referred to hereafter in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are without the ® and ™ symbols, but such references are not intended to indicate, in any way, that we will not assert, to the fullest extent under applicable law, our rights or the rights of the applicable licensors to these trademarks, service marks, and trade names. This Annual Report on Form 10-K may contain additional trademarks, service marks and trade names of others, which are the property of their respective owners. All trademarks, service marks and trade names appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are, to our knowledge, the property of their respective owners.

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PART I.

Item 1.  Business

Company Overview

We are a leading theme park and entertainment company providing experiences that matter and inspiring guests to protect animals and the wild wonders of our world.  We own or license a portfolio of recognized brands including SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and Sea Rescue. Over our more than 50 year history, we have built a diversified portfolio of 12 destination and regional theme parks that are grouped in key markets across the United States, many of which showcase our one-of-a-kind zoological collection. Our theme parks feature a diverse array of rides, shows and other attractions with broad demographic appeal which deliver memorable experiences and a strong value proposition for our guests.

During the year ended December 31, 2016, we hosted approximately 22.0 million guests in our theme parks, including approximately 2.9 million international guests. In the year ended December 31, 2016, we had total revenues of $1.34 billion and generated a net loss of $12.5 million.

We generate revenue primarily from selling admission to our theme parks and from purchases of food, merchandise and other spending. For the year ended December 31, 2016, theme park admissions accounted for approximately 61% of our total revenue, and food, merchandise and other revenue accounted for approximately 39% of our total revenue. Over the same period of time, we reported $37.17 in admission per capita (calculated as admissions revenue divided by total attendance) and $23.93 in-park per capita spending (calculated as food, merchandise and other revenue divided by total attendance).

In November 2015, we communicated our roadmap to stabilize our business to drive sustainable growth.  This strategic plan encompasses five key points which include (i) providing experiences that matter; (ii) delivering distinct guest experiences that are fun and meaningful; (iii) pursuing organic and strategic revenue growth; (iv) addressing the challenges we face; and (v) financial discipline.  The plan is intended to build on our strong business fundamentals by evolving the guest experience to align with consumer preferences for experiences that matter.  Through family entertainment and distinct experiences and attractions, we provide our guests an opportunity to explore and learn more about the natural world and the plight of animals in the wild, to be inspired and to act to make a better world. The plan includes a new approach to in-park activities as well as “turning parks inside out” by taking our guests behind the scenes to provide a better understanding of our veterinary care and animal rescue operations. Other elements of the plan include implementing a simplified pricing model, targeted capital investments in new attractions across our parks, and an ongoing focus on cost control as part of a larger commitment to overall financial discipline.  Additionally, we announced a new resort strategy that will include evaluating opportunities which could include purchasing or developing resort properties in or near some of our parks.  We also recently announced our partnership with Miral Asset Management LLC to develop SeaWorld Abu Dhabi (see the “International Development Strategy” section which follows).

On March 17, 2016, we announced that we have ended all orca breeding and the orcas currently in our care will be the last generation of orcas at SeaWorld (the “Orca Announcement”).  We also announced that we will introduce new, inspiring, natural orca encounters and phase out our current theatrical shows, as part of our ongoing commitment to education, marine science research, and rescue of marine animals. These programs will focus on orca enrichment, exercise, and overall health. This change will start in our SeaWorld San Diego park in 2017, and will be at all three SeaWorld parks by 2019. In conjunction with the Orca Announcement, the orca habitat expansion we previously disclosed (the “Blue World Project”), as originally designed and planned, will not move forward and we will spend significantly less capital than the originally proposed Blue World Project.  The “new” SeaWorld will maintain our unique value proposition of providing experiences that matter and inspiring guests to protect animals and the wild wonders of our world.  We have implemented an integrated marketing plan designed to attract new and repeat guests to the “new” SeaWorld with its unique blend of compelling animal experiences and new rides and attractions for the whole family.  See the “Capital Improvements” section which follows for a discussion of new rides and attractions.

As one of the world’s foremost zoological organizations and a global leader in animal welfare, training, husbandry, veterinary care and marine animal rescue, we are committed to helping protect and preserve the environment and the natural world. For more information, see the “—Our Animals” and “—Philanthropy and Community Relations” sections included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Recent Developments

Potential Debt Refinancing Transaction

We are currently exploring a potential refinancing of our existing senior secured credit facilities in order to improve our capital structure by extending maturities and improving certain other terms of our debt.  The debt refinancing will be subject to certain customary closing conditions and there can be no assurance that we will be successful in completing the refinancing on any particular terms or at all.

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Restructuring Program

On December 6, 2016, we committed to and implemented a restructuring program in an effort to reduce costs, increase efficiencies, reduce duplication of functions and improve the Company’s operations (the “2016 Restructuring Program”). The 2016 Restructuring Program is part of our previously announced comprehensive cost optimization program that is expected to reduce costs by approximately $65.0 million, with a targeted $40.0 million in net savings by the end of 2018. The 2016 Restructuring Program involved the elimination of approximately 320 positions by the end of the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2016 across our twelve theme parks and our headquarters. As a result, we recorded approximately $8.9 million in pre-tax restructuring charges in the fourth quarter of 2016 related to severance and other related expenses incurred in connection with the 2016 Restructuring Program. See Note 4–Restructuring Programs and Separation Costs to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

International Development Strategy

We believe that in addition to the growth potential that exists domestically, our brands can also have significant appeal in certain international markets. We assess these opportunities while maintaining a conservative and disciplined approach towards the execution of our international development strategy.  We have identified certain international market priorities as well as identified certain international partners within such markets for prioritization of our resources. The market priorities were developed based on a specific set of criteria to ensure we expand our brands into the most attractive markets.

On December 13, 2016, we announced our partnership with Miral Asset Management LLC to develop SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, a first-of-its-kind marine life themed park on Yas Island (the “Middle East Project”).   As part of this partnership, we are providing certain services pertaining to the planning and design of the Middle East Project, with funding received from our partner in the Middle East expected to offset our internal expenses.  As of December 31, 2016, we have received a nonrefundable payment of $10.0 million from our partner in consideration of the design and planning services described above which is recorded as deferred revenue in other liabilities and have incurred approximately $2.8 million of deferred costs which is recorded in other assets on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2016. On November 3, 2016, the definitive documents related to the Middle East Project were finalized and executed by the parties.  

This next generation SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will also introduce the United Arab Emirates’ (“UAE”) first dedicated marine life research, rescue rehabilitation and return center with world-class facilities and resources for the care and conservation of local marine life.  Planned to open ahead of the marine life themed park, the facility will provide an important resource for UAE nationals and residents looking to develop or enhance expertise in marine life sciences and will serve as a hub for collaboration with local and international environmental organizations and projects.  

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will be the first new SeaWorld without orcas, and will integrate up-close animal experiences, mega attractions and a world class aquarium, bringing the latest technology in visitor engagement.  SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is expected to open by 2022.  The Middle East Project is subject to various conditions, including, but not limited to, the parties completing the design development and there is no assurance that the Middle East Project will be completed or advance to the next stage.

For a discussion of certain risks associated with our international development strategy, including the Middle East Project, see “Risk Factors” included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including “Risks Related to Our Business and Our Industry—We may not realize the benefits of acquisitions or other strategic initiatives.”

Dividend Policy

In September 2016, our Board of Directors (the “Board”) suspended the Company’s quarterly dividend to allow the Company greater flexibility to deploy capital, when possible, to opportunities that offer the greatest long term returns to shareholders, such as, but not limited to, investments in new attractions, debt repayments or share repurchases.  Future dividends, if any, and the timing of declaration of any such dividends, will be at the discretion of the Board and will depend upon, among other things, the Company’s financial condition, capital needs, covenants, economic conditions and other factors that the Board may deem relevant.  

Other Matters

In March 2016, we converted Aquatica San Antonio into a stand-alone, separate admission park that guests can access through an independent gate without the need to purchase admission to SeaWorld San Antonio.  Prior to 2016, Aquatica San Antonio was only accessible to SeaWorld San Antonio guests for an additional fee. This separate gate has provided incremental attendance; however, we have also seen a shift in guests from SeaWorld San Antonio to Aquatica San Antonio. Total combined attendance at our Texas park locations increased by approximately 330,000 guests in 2016 when compared to 2015.

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On February 22, 2016, the Board declared a cash dividend of $0.21 per share to all common stockholders of record at the close of business on March 14, 2016, which was paid on April 1, 2016.  Based on this dividend payment, certain performance-vesting restricted shares originally granted on or before our initial public offering in 2013 (the “2.25x Performance Restricted shares”) held by some of our equity plan participants vested on April 1, 2016.  During the year ended December 31, 2016, we recognized $27.5 million of total equity compensation expense (recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses and in operating expenses) and recorded approximately $3.4 million of accumulated dividends related to these 2.25x Performance Restricted shares.  See Note 18–Equity-Based Compensation in our notes to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

During the first quarter of 2016, we removed deep-water lifting floors from the orca habitats at each of our three SeaWorld-branded theme parks.  The deep-water lifting floors were intended as another safety tool for conducting in-water training in the deeper pools. The lifting floors located in the medical pools, where our orca in-water training currently takes place, were not affected. That training will continue as an essential part of our overall safety program.  Having safely and successfully conducted in-water training in the medical pools for almost 4 years, our safety and zoological professionals determined that the deep-water lifting floors in the deeper pools were no longer needed. This change provides more space for the animals, and increases the time that the deep-water pool is available by eliminating downtime for maintenance and cleaning. As a result, during the first quarter of 2016, we recorded $33.7 million of accelerated depreciation related to the disposal of these lifting floors, which is included in depreciation and amortization expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of comprehensive (loss) income during the year ended December 31, 2016. During the year ended December 31, 2016, we also recorded approximately $6.4 million in asset write-offs associated with the canceled Blue World Project.

Regulatory Developments

On July 16, 2015, Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) offered an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2016 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies spending bill during consideration of the bill by the full Committee on Appropriations. The amendment directed the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (“APHIS”) to issue updated regulations for the display of marine mammals in domestic zoos and aquaria within six months of enactment. While that amendment was not included in the final Fiscal Year 2016 Omnibus Appropriations Bill, APHIS released a proposed rule on February 3, 2016 to amend the Animal Welfare Act regulations concerning the humane handling, care and treatment of marine mammals in captivity (the “Proposed APHIS Regulations”).  The Proposed APHIS Regulations were subject to public comment which ended on May 4, 2016.  We submitted a comment letter to APHIS on the final date for comments, expressing our views on the Proposed APHIS Regulations.  The full impact of the Proposed APHIS Regulations on our business will not be known until the Proposed APHIS Regulations are finalized.

On October 8, 2015, the California Coastal Commission approved our plan to build a new killer whale habitat (the “Blue World Project”) in San Diego. On October 8, 2015, the California Coastal Commission approved the Blue World Project in San Diego, but attached certain conditions to its approval. Those conditions included, among other things, a prohibition against breeding orcas or transporting orcas to or from the habitat. On December 29, 2015, we filed a lawsuit against the California Coastal Commission on the grounds that the California Coastal Commission decision was outside the scope of its authority in imposing such conditions because it does not have jurisdiction over orcas, which are regulated under federal law.  As a result of the Orca Announcement, on April 18, 2016, we sent a letter to the California Coastal Commission requesting to formally withdraw our coastal development permit application for the Blue World Project habitat and discuss dismissal of the pending litigation since our legal challenge to the proposed conditions is no longer warranted. On July 27, 2016, we filed a request for dismissal to dismiss our lawsuit against the California Coastal Commission.  On October 17, 2016, we sent a letter to the California Coastal Commission objecting to the approval of the proposed revised findings for the Blue World Project.  We stated that the adoption of revised findings was not warranted or needed because of the Orca Announcement and recent changes in California law.  On November 4, 2016 the California Coastal Commission voted in the affirmative to reverse findings on the Blue World Project.

On November 16, 2015, Representative Adam Schiff (D-CA) introduced the Orca Responsibility and Care Advancement Act (the “ORCA Act”). The bill has been referred to the Natural Resources and Agriculture Committees. It is unclear whether this bill will be enacted into law, but if enacted, this bill would amend the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and the Animal Welfare Act to prohibit the breeding, the taking (wild capture), and the import or export of orcas for the purposes of public display.  

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On August 26, 2016, following the Orca Announcement, the California Orca Protection Act was enacted into law and (i) codified the end of captive breeding programs and the export and import of genetic materials for orcas in California, (ii) prohibits the import or export of new orcas into or out of California, (iii) permits the transfer of orcas currently in California among existing SeaWorld facilities and (iv) requires educational presentations of orcas in California. As discussed above, the new orca programs we are developing will be consistent with these standards and begin in our San Diego park in 2017 with our other SeaWorld parks following by 2019.  On November 4, 2016, the California Coastal Commission granted approval to permit the renovation of the existing backdrop at the orca habitat at our San Diego park.  This approval allows us to continue to develop our new orca program in our San Diego park.

For a discussion of certain risks associated with federal and state regulations governing the treatment of animals, see “Risk Factors” included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including “Risks Related to Our Business and Our Industry—We are subject to complex federal and state regulations governing the treatment of animals, which can change, and to claims and lawsuits by activist groups before government regulators and in the courts.”

On February 8, 2016, the San Diego City Council decided to put a proposal on the June 7, 2016 primary ballot for voters to decide whether the city of San Diego should have a higher minimum wage than the $10 per hour required by the State of California. The proposal was approved by San Diego voters and, beginning on July 11, 2016, the city’s minimum wage was increased to $10.50 and, beginning on January 1, 2017, was increased again to $11.50. Two years later in January 2019, annual increases to the San Diego minimum wage as well as the State of California minimum wage based on the consumer price index will start to be implemented. For a discussion of certain risks associated with the San Diego minimum wage and State of California minimum wage increases, see “Risk Factors” included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including “Risks Related to Our Business and Our Industry—Increased labor costs and employee health and welfare benefits may negatively impact our operations.”   

Our Competitive Strengths

We have also leveraged our brands into media, entertainment and consumer products.  We produce two educational and entertaining television shows that highlight our rescue and rehabilitation and animal care efforts, Sea Rescue and The Wildlife Docs.  In 2016, both Sea Rescue and The Wildlife Docs were nominated for the Daytime Emmy^® Award in the category of Outstanding Children’s Series by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. In 2016, Sea Rescue won the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Children’s Series.  In 2015, both Sea Rescue and The Wildlife Docs were each presented with a silver honor from the Parents' Choice Award^®, a nonprofit program created to recognize quality children’s media.  Sea Rescue is a Saturday morning television show airing on the ABC Network featuring our ongoing work to rescue injured animals in coordination with various government agencies and other rescue organizations. The Wildlife Docs, which also airs on the ABC Network on Saturday mornings, centers on the day-to-day activities at our Animal Care Center at Busch Gardens Tampa.  

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Our Theme Parks

Our legacy started in 1959 with the opening of our first Busch Gardens theme park in Tampa, Florida. Since then, we have built our portfolio of strong brands and have strategically expanded our portfolio of theme parks across five states on approximately 2,000 acres of owned land and 190 acres of leased land in San Diego. Our theme parks offer guests a variety of exhilarating experiences, from animal encounters that invite exploration and appreciation of the natural world, to thrilling rides and spectacular shows. Our theme parks are beautifully themed venues that are consistently recognized among the top theme parks in the world and rank among the most highly attended in the industry.

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In 2015, SeaWorld Orlando ranked among the top 25 theme parks worldwide based on attendance, and Aquatica Orlando ranked among the top 10 water parks worldwide based on attendance, according to the TEA/AECOM Report. In the 2016 Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice^TM Awards, 8 of our theme parks were ranked among the top 25 amusement parks or water parks in the United States.  In addition, Discovery Cove was ranked the #2 amusement park in the world in the 2016 and 2015 Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice Awards and was ranked the #1 amusement park in the world in the 2014 and 2013 Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice Awards.

We generally locate our theme parks in geographic clusters, which improve our ability to serve guests by providing them with a varied, comprehensive vacation experience and valuable multi-park pricing packages, as well as improving our operating efficiency through shared overhead costs.  Our portfolio of branded theme parks includes the following names:

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The following table summarizes our theme park portfolio for 2016: 

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Capital Improvements

We make annual targeted investments to support our existing theme park facilities and attractions, as well as enable the development of new theme park attractions and infrastructure. Maintaining and improving our theme parks, as well as opening new attractions, is critical to remain competitive, grow revenue and increase our guests’ length of stay.  Our theme parks feature a variety of attractions for our guests.  Some of the new attractions in 2016 included:

During 2017, we plan to introduce an extensive lineup of new rides and attractions, including a virtual reality experience in Orlando, a new realm and a new orca presentation in San Diego and new shows and events at many other park locations.  We expect 2017 to be one of the largest new attraction years in our over 50 year history.  Some of the new attractions planned for 2017 include:

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Maintenance and Inspection

Safety is of utmost importance to us.  Maintenance at our theme parks is a key component of safety and guest service and includes two areas of focus: (i) facilities and infrastructure and (ii) rides and attractions. Facilities and infrastructure maintenance consists of all functions associated with upkeep, repair, preventative maintenance, code compliance and improvement of theme park infrastructure. This area is staffed with a combination of external contractors/suppliers and our employees.

Rides and attractions maintenance represents all functions dedicated to the inspection, upkeep, repair and testing of guest experiences, particularly rides. Rides and attractions maintenance is also staffed with a combination of external suppliers, inspectors and our employees, who work to assure that ride experiences are operating within the manufacturer’s criteria and that maintenance is conducted according to internal standards, industry best practice and standards (such as ASTM International), state or jurisdictional requirements, as well as the ride designer or manufacturer’s specifications. All ride maintenance personnel are trained to perform their duties according to internal training processes, in addition to recognized industry certification programs for maintenance leadership. Every ride at our theme parks is inspected regularly, according to daily, weekly, monthly and annual schedules, by both park maintenance experts and external consultants. Additionally, all rides are inspected daily by maintenance personnel before use by guests to ensure proper and safe operation.

A networked enterprise software system is used to plan and track various maintenance activities, in order to schedule and request work, track completion progress and manage costs of parts and materials.

Deep Blue Creative

In 2016, we created the Deep Blue Creative team, designed to drive the creative heartbeat of the Company. From the development of new events and entertainment concepts, to breakthrough attractions and resorts, the Deep Blue Creative team is committed to developing experiences that matter. There are six creative divisions under the umbrella of Deep Blue Creative:

Through collaboration, each division of Deep Blue Creative brings its individual expertise forward to create bold new frontiers in guest experiences, ultimately advancing the protection and preservation of our world’s wild wonders.

Our Animals

We are one of the world’s foremost zoological organizations with more than 1,500 employees dedicated to animal welfare, training, husbandry, veterinary care and marine animal rescue. Our mission is to provide experiences that matter, inspire guests through education and entertainment, and to care for and protect animals and the wild wonders of our world. We believe we have one of the largest zoological collections in the world. Animals in our care include certain endangered or threatened species such as the cheetah, Bengal tiger, West Indian manatee, black rhinoceros and polar bear.

The well-being of the animals in our care is a top priority. Our veterinarians and zoological staff have been caring for animals for more than five decades, and our expertise is a resource for zoos, aquariums and conservation organizations worldwide. Our expertise and innovation in animal husbandry have led to many advances in the care of species in zoological facilities and in the conservation of wild populations.  More than 80% of the marine mammals living in our zoological theme parks were born in human care.

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We have made many pioneering contributions to the zoological community. Until the birth of our first orca calf in 1985, no zoological institution had successfully bred orcas. We have not collected a killer whale from the wild in almost 40 years.  We care for the largest orca population in zoological facilities worldwide and today have the most genetically diverse orca and dolphin population in our history. Six of our orcas are presently on loan to a third party pursuant to an agreement entered into in February 2004. Pursuant to this agreement, we receive an annual fee, which is not material to our results of operations. In addition to generating incremental revenue for our business, the agreement provides for additional housing capacity for our orcas. The agreement expires in 2031 and is renewable at the option of the parties.

Our commitment to animals also extends beyond our theme parks and throughout the world. We actively participate in species conservation and rescue efforts as discussed in “—Conservation Efforts” and “—Philanthropy and Community Relations” below.

Our Products and Services

Admission Tickets

We generate most of our revenue from selling admission to our theme parks. For the year ended December 31, 2016, theme park admissions accounted for approximately 61% of our total revenue. We engage with travel agents, ticket resellers and travel agencies, and directly with our guests through our websites and social media, to promote advanced ticket sales and provide guest convenience and ease of entry. Approximately 44% of our admission revenues are from ticket purchases made online.

Guests who visit our theme parks have the option of purchasing multiple types of admission tickets, from single and multi-day tickets to season and annual passes. We also offer a Fun Card at select theme parks that allows multiple visits throughout a calendar year. In addition, visitors can purchase vacation packages with preferred hotels, behind-the-scenes tours, specialty dining packages and front of the line “Quick Queue” access to enhance their experience.

We also participate in joint programs that are designed to provide visitors to certain markets with flexibility and value in creating their vacation itineraries. We have partnered with several theme parks and attractions to create joint ticket products which allow guests to purchase a ticket providing access to our theme parks as well as other local area attractions.  We also partner with independent third parties who sell tickets and/or packages to our theme parks.

We actively run promotions and campaigns to maximize revenue and manage capacity.  Recently, we introduced a simplified pricing framework to reduce complexity in the number of ticket offerings, encourage advanced purchases and provide products that are more flexible for our guests to use.  In 2015, we also launched a new website portal to give guests a balanced look at our park offerings with the ability to choose their experience, such as upgrades to include multiple parks, additional days, dining experiences, tours or animal interactions.

Theme Park Operations

Our theme park operations strive to deliver a high level of safety, security, guest service and cleanliness at our theme parks. The theme park operations team manages the planning and execution of the overall theme park experience on a daily basis, which is comprised of rides, shows and attractions operations, safety, security, environmental, water park and guest arrival services (including parking, tolls, admissions, guest relations, entry and exit).  Our theme park operations team identifies and leverages internal best practices across all of our theme parks in order to create a seamless and enjoyable guest experience throughout the entire visit.

Culinary Offerings

We strive to deliver a variety of high quality, creative and memorable culinary experiences to our guests. Our culinary operations are strategically organized into five key guest-oriented disciplines designed to drive in-park per capita spending: restaurants, catering, carts and kiosks, specialty snacks and vending. Our culinary team focuses on providing creative menu offerings and ways to deliver those offerings that appeal to our diverse guest base.

We offer a variety of dining programs that provide quality food and great value to our guests and drive incremental revenues. While our menu offerings have broad appeal, they also cater to guests who desire healthy options and those with special allergy-related needs. Our successful all-day-dining program delivers convenience and value to our guests with numerous restaurant choices for one price. In addition, in late 2016, we introduced an all-season dining pass option at some of our park locations. We also offer creative immersive dining experiences that allow guests to dine up-close with our animals and characters. Our commitment to care for the natural world extends to the food that we serve. Some of our menus feature sustainable, organic, seasonal and locally grown ingredients that aim to minimize environmental impacts to animals and their habitats. In addition, through culinary supply chain management initiatives, we are well-positioned to take advantage of changing economic and market conditions.

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Merchandise

We offer guests the opportunity to capture memories through our products and services, including through traditional retail shops, game venues and customized photos and videos. We make a focused effort to leverage the emotional connection of the theme park experiences, capitalize on trends and optimize brand alignment with our merchandise product offerings.

We operate over 300 photo and specialty retail shops at our theme parks, and our retail business encompasses the entire value chain, from product design to production and sourcing, importing and logistics and visual presentation up to the point of sale. Our products encompass more than 60,000 unique SKUs annually. Whether a plush toy, a stylish apparel item showcasing an attraction, a commemorative memento or a tote to carry it all, we carry items both big and small so that every guest has a chance to find that perfect item that is a reminder of the memories made in our theme parks.

Guests can purchase visual memories to commemorate their experience with us through real time photo and video technologies. Whether on a traditional ride or during one of our numerous animal experiences, we capture the moment through the use of state-of-the-art processes and technologies. We continue to explore and develop our photo and retail business with advanced offerings to extend beyond the visit with online opportunities to further create customized products. An example is PhotoKey through which guests can instantly view and share all of their photos using the PhotoKey app available on their smartphone devices.

In-park games span from traditional theme park operations to arcade experiences, all with the goal of creating positive family experiences for guests of every age.  Our merchandise teams also focus on making a visit to our theme parks easy, convenient and comfortable. This includes offering lockers or service vehicle rentals such as strollers, electric personal carts and wheelchairs.

Licensing, Consumer Products and Media Enterprises

To capitalize on our popular brands, we leverage content through media and licensing arrangements. Our original television series, Sea Rescue and The Wildlife Docs, showcase our rescue and rehabilitation efforts. These Emmy-nominated programs are broadcast nationally through the ABC network, and have been renewed through the summer of 2018. In 2016, Sea Rescue won the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Children’s Series.  We also developed licensed consumer products to drive consumer sales through retail channels beyond our theme parks and continue to look for this channel to grow.

In addition, we have expanded our brand appeal through strategic alliances with well-known external brands, including Sesame Street.  In 2016, we incorporated Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and other well-known characters into five of our park holiday programs under a license agreement with Character Arts, LLC. While currently these products do not represent a material percentage of our revenue, we believe by leveraging our brands and our intellectual property through media and consumer products, we will create new revenue streams and enhance the value of our brands through greater brand visibility, consumer awareness and increased consumer loyalty.

Group Events and Conventions

We host a variety of different group events, meetings and conventions at our theme parks both during the day and at night. Our venues offer indoor and outdoor space for meetings, special events, entertainment shows, picnics, teambuilding events, group tours and special group ticket packages. Park buy-outs allow groups to enjoy exclusive itineraries, including meetings and shows, up-close encounters with animals and behind the scenes tours. Each of our theme parks offers attractive venues, such as SeaWorld Orlando’s Ports of Call, a 70,000 square foot dedicated special events complex and banquet facility at the theme park, which is themed as a nautical wharf-side warehouse district, complete with two miniature submarines. The facility offers more than 30,000 square feet of dining space, with a ballroom that provides seating for more than 750 guests and a larger outdoor garden reception area that can accommodate additional guests. For the year ended December 31, 2016, we hosted over 1,800 group events at our theme parks across the country.

Corporate Sponsorships and Strategic Alliances

We seek to secure long-term corporate sponsorships and strategic alliances with leading companies and brands that share our core values, deliver significant brand value and influence and drive mutual business gains. We identify prospective corporate sponsors based on their industry and industry-leading position, and we select them based on their ability to deliver impactful value to our theme parks and our brands, as well as to consumer products and various entertainment platforms. Our corporate sponsors contribute to us in a multitude of ways, such as through direct marketing, advertising, media exposure and licensing opportunities, as well as through contributions to the non-profit SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund.

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Our Corporate Culture

As a purpose-driven company, our corporate culture is built on our mission to provide experiences that matter for every guest, inspiring them to protect animals and the wild wonders of our world.  Our management team and our employees, often referred to as ambassadors, are committed to connect people to nature and animals and to do so in a socially responsible manner. As guests explore our parks, we train our ambassadors to create an environment where each guest can explore a diverse range of experiences meant to inspire and motivate them to join us in protecting animals and our planet. Our purpose and focus on creating experiences that matter for our guests are integral to our organization and the cornerstone of our success.

Conservation Efforts

To achieve our purpose, we partner with organizations around the world focused on species conservation, wildlife rescue, and environmental stewardship. Through the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, a non-profit organization, we invite our guests, ambassadors and vendor partners to help us support wildlife research, habitat protection, animal rescue and conservation education. We also work directly with many other conservation organizations, including the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the American Humane Association, to ensure the sustainability of animal species in the wild.

SeaWorld operates one of the world’s most respected rescue programs for ill and injured marine animals. For more than five decades, our animal experts have helped more than 29,000 ill, injured, orphaned and abandoned animals. We do this in collaboration with federal, state and local governments, along with members of accredited animal stranding networks with the goal of rehabilitating and returning them to the wild.

We believe it is important to inspire others to have a deeper connection with nature through amazing encounters with our animals. Through our theme parks’ up-close animal encounters, educational exhibits and innovative entertainment, we strive to inspire each guest who visits one of our parks to care for and conserve the natural world. Our animals, many who are rescued, serve as ambassadors for their species through numerous national media and public appearances, to educate the public and raise awareness for issues facing wildlife and wild places.

Finally, our commitment to research and conservation has also led to advances in the care of animals in zoological facilities and in conserving wild populations. We have pioneered new ways to rehabilitate animals in need. For example, we helped to create nutritional formulas and custom nursing bottles to hand-feed orphaned animals and developed techniques to help save sea turtles with cracked shells, created prosthetic beaks for injured birds and outfitted injured manatees with an “animal wetsuit” allowing them to stay afloat and warm.

Philanthropy and Community Relations

We are committed to the communities in which our theme parks are located and focus our philanthropic efforts on three areas: animal preservation and stewardship; youth development and education; and sustainable community initiatives that address environmental sustainability concerns and local socio-economic issues. We also partner with charities across the country whose values and missions are aligned with our own by providing financial support, in-kind resources, strategic guidance, and/or hands-on volunteer work.

Our theme parks inspire and educate children and guests of all ages by providing experiences that matter. Our philanthropic efforts reflect this commitment through educational outreach visits to inner-city schools and hosting “special wish” children to enjoy our theme parks. Plus, through our SeaWorld Cares and Busch Gardens Cares initiatives, our employees are actively involved in volunteer activities such as beach and river cleanup efforts.

Finally, a key component of our community outreach is our long-term commitment to honoring the service of members of the U.S. military and acknowledging the sacrifices that their families have made. Currently, we offer a free admission program to the majority of our theme parks, which provides free single day passes to active military personnel and their families.

Our Guests and Customers

Our theme parks are located near a number of large metropolitan areas, with a total population of over 63 million people located within 150 miles of our parks. Additionally, because our theme parks are divided between regional and destination theme parks, our guests include local visitors, non-local domestic visitors and international tourists. Our theme parks are entertainment venues and have broad demographic appeal. For the year ended December 31, 2016, families comprised 52% of our attendance with an average party size of 3.8 people.

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Seasonality

The theme park industry is seasonal in nature. Historically, we generate the highest revenues in the second and third quarters of each year, in part because seven of our theme parks are only open for a portion of the year. Approximately two-thirds of our attendance and revenues are generated in the second and third quarters of the year and we typically incur a net loss in the first and fourth quarters. The percent mix of revenues by quarter is relatively constant each year, but revenues can shift between the first and second quarters due to the timing of Easter and spring break holidays and between the first and fourth quarters due to the timing of Christmas and New Year. Even for our five theme parks open year-round, attendance patterns have significant seasonality, driven by holidays, school vacations and weather conditions. One of our goals is to continue to generate cash flow throughout the year to maximize profitability and minimize the effects of seasonality, in particular at our theme parks that are open year-round. In recent years, we have begun to drive attendance during non-peak times by offering a variety of seasonal programs and events, such as shows for kids, special food and concert series, and Halloween and Christmas events. In addition, during seasonally slow times, operating costs are controlled by reducing operating hours and show schedules. Employment levels required for peak operations are met largely through part-time and seasonal hiring.

Marketing

Our marketing and sales efforts are focused on generating profitable attendance, growing in-park per capita spending and building the value of our brands. Through advertising, including park specific messages, promotions, retail and corporate partners, digital platforms, public relations and sales initiatives, we drive awareness of and intent to visit our theme parks, attendance and higher in-park per capita spending on an international, national and regional level. Our attractive destination locations and strategy of grouping parks together creates high appeal for multi-day visits. Our strategic priorities include: (i) increasing awareness and visit intent, (ii) strengthening loyalty and retention, (iii) driving maximum revenue and (iv) using data-driven marketing to deepen our understanding of guest interests and buying behaviors.

Intellectual Property

Our business is affected by our ability to protect against infringement of our intellectual property, including our trademarks, service marks, domain names, copyrights and other proprietary rights. Important intellectual property includes rights in names, logos, character likenesses, theme park attractions, content of television programs and systems related to the study and care of certain of our animals. In addition, we are party to key license agreements as licensee, including our agreements with Sesame Workshop and ABI as discussed below. To protect our intellectual property rights, we rely upon a combination of trademark, copyright, trade secret and unfair competition laws of the United States and other countries, as well as contract provisions and third-party policies and procedures governing internet/domain name registrations.

Busch Gardens License Agreement

Our subsidiary, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment LLC, is a party to a trademark license agreement with ABI, which governs our use of the Busch Gardens name and logo. Under the license agreement, ABI granted to us a perpetual, exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free license to use the Busch Gardens trademark and certain related domain names in connection with the operation, marketing, promotion and advertising of our theme parks, as well as in connection with the production, use, distribution and sale of merchandise sold in connection with such theme parks.

The license extends to our Busch Gardens theme parks located in Williamsburg, Virginia and Tampa, Florida, and may also include any amusement or theme park anywhere in the world that we acquire, build or rebrand with the Busch Gardens name in the future, subject to certain conditions. ABI may not assign, transfer or sell the Busch Gardens mark without first granting us a reasonable right of first refusal to purchase such mark.

We have agreed to indemnify ABI from and against third party claims and losses arising out of or in connection with the operation of the theme parks and the related marketing or promotion thereof, any merchandise branded with the licensed marks and the infringement of a third party’s intellectual property. We are required to carry certain insurance coverage throughout the term of the license.

The license agreement can be terminated by ABI under certain limited circumstances, including in connection with certain types of change of control of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment LLC.

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Sesame Licenses

Sesame Place Theme Park License Agreements

Our subsidiary, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment LLC (f/k/a SPI, Inc.), is a party to a license agreement with Sesame Workshop (f/k/a Children’s Television Workshop). Under the license agreement, we were granted the right to use titles, marks, names, and characters from the Sesame Street and The Electric Company television series, as well as certain characters and elements created by Muppets Inc. for the Sesame Street series, related marketing materials, and the Sesame Place design trademark in connection with the children’s play parks in Langhorne, Pennsylvania. We pay specified royalties to Sesame Workshop based on receipts from business conducted on the premises of the theme park. We are required to include Sesame Workshop and Muppets Inc. as insured parties under any relevant insurance policies, and have agreed to indemnify Sesame Workshop from and against certain claims and expenses arising out of any personal or property injury at our Sesame Place park or breach of the license agreement. The license agreement can be terminated by Sesame Workshop under certain circumstances, including in connection with a specified change of control of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment LLC, specified uncured breaches of the license agreement or specified bankruptcy events.

Under a separate agreement, Sesame Workshop granted SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment LLC a license to develop, manufacture, and produce in the United States (and, in some circumstances, elsewhere in the world) and to distribute and sell at Sesame Place branded play parks, certain products bearing Sesame Place, Sesame Street, and Sesame Street Muppet characters, likenesses, logos, marks and materials, including apparel, flags, bags, mugs, buttons, pens, wristbands and other miscellaneous products. The parties have agreed to indemnify each other from and against claims and expenses in connection with our respective performance under the license agreement and any breach thereof. Sesame Workshop may terminate the license under certain circumstances, including our uncured breach or bankruptcy.

Both agreements are scheduled to remain in effect until December 31, 2021.

Multi-Park License

Under a separate agreement, Sesame Workshop granted SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment LLC rights to use the Sesame Place and Sesame Workshop names and logos, certain Sesame Street characters (including Elmo, Big Bird and Cookie Monster), and granted a limited term right of first negotiation to utilize characters from other Sesame Workshop television series at SeaWorld San Diego, SeaWorld San Antonio, SeaWorld Orlando, and our two Busch Gardens theme parks. Within these theme parks we have rights to use the marks and characters in connection with Sesame Street themed attractions, Sesame Street shows and character appearances, and the marketing, advertising and promotion of the theme parks.

Sesame Workshop has also granted us the right to develop, manufacture, distribute and sell products within our SeaWorld and Busch Gardens theme parks, at other parks in the United States that are owned or operated by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment LLC, its subsidiaries or affiliated entities, and through online stores on websites for our parks.

Pursuant to this agreement we pay a specified annual license fee, as well as a specified royalty based on revenues earned in connection with sales of licensed products, all food and beverage items utilizing the licensed elements and any events utilizing such elements if a separate fee is paid for such event.

The parties have agreed to indemnify each other from and against third party claims and expenses arising from their respective performance under the agreement or any breach thereof. Sesame Workshop has the right to terminate the agreement under certain limited circumstances, including a change of control of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment LLC, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment LLC’s bankruptcy or uncured breach of the agreement, or the termination of the license agreement regarding our Sesame Place theme park.

The agreement is scheduled to remain in effect until December 31, 2021 unless earlier terminated or extended.

Our Industry

We believe that the theme park industry is an attractive sector characterized by a proven business model that generates significant cash flow and has avenues for growth. Theme parks offer a strong consumer value proposition, particularly when compared to other forms of out-of-home entertainment such as concerts, sporting events, cruises and movies. As a result, theme parks attract a broad range of guests and generally exhibit strong operating margin across regions, operators, park types and macroeconomic conditions.

According to the IBISWorld Report, the U.S. amusement park industry is comprised of a large number of venues ranging from a small group of high attendance, heavily themed destination theme parks to a large group of lower attendance local theme parks and family entertainment centers. According to the TEA/AECOM Report, the United States is the largest theme park market in the world with five of the ten largest theme park groups worldwide and 10 of the 25 most-visited theme parks in the world. In 2016, the U.S. amusement park industry was expected to generate approximately $16.0 billion in revenues, according to the IBISWorld Report.

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Competition

Our theme parks and other product and entertainment offerings compete directly for discretionary spending with other destination and regional theme parks and water and amusement parks and indirectly with other types of recreational facilities and forms of entertainment, including movies, home entertainment options, sports attractions, restaurants and vacation travel. Principal direct competitors of our theme parks include theme parks operated by The Walt Disney Company, Universal Studios, Six Flags, Cedar Fair, Merlin Entertainments and Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company. Our highly differentiated products provide a value proposition and a complementary experience to those offered by fantasy-themed Disney and Universal parks. In addition, we benefit from the significant capital investments made in developing the tourism industry in the Orlando area. The Orlando theme park market is extremely competitive, with a high concentration of theme parks operated by several companies.

Competition is based on multiple factors including location, price, the originality and perceived quality of the rides and attractions, the atmosphere and cleanliness of the theme park, the quality of food and entertainment, weather conditions, ease of travel to the theme park (including direct flights by major airlines), and availability and cost of transportation to a theme park. We believe we can compete effectively, due to our strong brand recognition, unique and extensive zoological collection, targeted capital investments and valuable real estate. Additionally, we believe that our theme parks feature a sufficient quality and variety of rides and attractions, educational and interactive experiences, merchandise locations, restaurants and family orientation to make them highly competitive with other destination and regional theme parks, as well as other forms of entertainment.

Employees

As of December 31, 2016, we employed approximately 5,000 full-time employees and approximately 8,300 part-time employees.  During our peak operating season in 2016, we employed approximately 13,000 seasonal employees, many of whom are high school and college students. None of our employees are covered by a collective bargaining agreement, and we consider our employee relations to be good.

Regulatory

Our operations are subject to a variety of federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances including, but not limited to, those regulating the environment, display, possession and care of our animals, amusement park rides, building and construction, health and safety, labor and employment, workplace safety, zoning and land use and alcoholic beverage and food service. Key statutes and treaties relating to the display, possession and care of our zoological collection include the Endangered Species Act, Marine Mammal Protection Act, Animal Welfare Act, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species and Fauna Protection Act and the Lacey Act. We must also comply with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, Wild Bird Conservation Act and National Environmental Policy Act, among other laws and regulations. We believe that we are in substantial compliance with applicable laws, regulations and ordinances; however, such requirements may change over time, and there can be no assurance that new requirements, changes in enforcement policies or newly discovered conditions relating to our properties or operations will not require significant expenditures in the future.  For information on recent regulatory developments, see the “—Recent Developments—Regulatory Developments” section above.

Insurance

We maintain insurance of the type and in the amounts that we believe to be commercially reasonable for businesses in our industry. We maintain primary and excess casualty coverage of up to $125 million. As part of this coverage, we retain deductible/self-insured retention exposures of $1 million per occurrence for general liability claims, $250,000 per accident for automobile liability claims, and $750,000 per occurrence for workers compensation claims. We maintain employers’ liability and all coverage required by law in the states in which we operate. Defense costs are included in the insurance coverage we obtain against losses in these areas. Based upon our historical experience of reported claims and an estimate for incurred-but-not-reported claims, we accrue a liability for our deductible/self-insured retention contingencies regarding general liability, automobile liability and workers compensation exposures. We maintain additional forms of special casualty coverage appropriate for businesses in our industry. We also maintain commercial property coverage against fire, natural perils, so-called “extended coverage” perils such as civil commotion, business interruption and terrorism exposures for protection of our real and personal properties (other than land). We generally renegotiate our insurance policies on an annual basis. We cannot predict the amounts of premium cost that we may be required to pay for future insurance coverage, the level of any deductibles/self-insured retentions we may retain applicable thereto, the level of aggregate excess coverage available or the availability of coverage for special or specific risks.

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Corporate History

On December 1, 2009, investment funds affiliated with The Blackstone Group L.P. and certain co-investors, through SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiary, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. (“SEA”), acquired 100% of the equity interests of Sea World LLC (f/k/a Sea World, Inc.) and SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment LLC (f/k/a Busch Entertainment Corporation) from certain subsidiaries of Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. We refer to this acquisition and related financing transactions as the “2009 Transactions.”

SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. was incorporated in Delaware on October 2, 2009 in connection with the 2009 Transactions and changed its name from SW Holdco, Inc. to SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. in December 2012.  We completed our initial public offering (the “IPO”) in April 2013 and our common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “SEAS”.  As of December 31, 2016, Blackstone and the other co-investors owned, through the Partnerships, approximately 21.9% of our total outstanding common stock.

Available Information

Our website is http://www.seaworldentertainment.com. Information contained on our website is not incorporated by reference herein and is not a part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We make available free of charge, on or through the “Investor Relations” section of our website, our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports, if any, or other filings filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably practicable after electronically filing or furnishing these reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). We have adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics applicable to our employees including our principal executive, financial and accounting officers, and it is available free of charge, on or through the “Investor Relations” section of our website along with our Corporate Governance Guidelines, and the charters of our Audit Committee, Compensation Committee and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. The Company will disclose within four business days any substantive changes in, or waivers of, the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics granted to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, by posting such information on our website as set forth above rather than by filing a Form 8-K.

The SEC maintains a website at http://www.sec.gov that contains our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports, if any, or other filings filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, and our proxy and information statements. All reports that we file with the SEC may be read and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, DC, 20549. Information about the operation of the Public Reference Room can be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330.

Website and Social Media Disclosure

We use our websites (www.seaworldentertainment.com and www.seaworldinvestors.com) and our corporate Twitter account (@Seaworld) as channels of distribution of company information.  The information we post through these channels may be deemed material.  Accordingly, investors should monitor these channels, in addition to following our press releases, SEC filings and public conference calls and webcasts.  In addition, you may automatically receive e-mail alerts and other information about SeaWorld when you enroll your e-mail address by visiting the “E-mail Alerts” section of our website at www.seaworldinvestors.com. The contents of our website and social media channels are not, however, a part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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Item 1A.  Risk Factors

The following risk factors should be read carefully in connection with evaluating us and this Annual Report on Form 10-K.  Certain statements in “Risk Factors” are forward-looking statements.  See “Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” elsewhere in this report:

Risks Related to Our Business and Our Industry

We are subject to complex federal and state regulations governing the treatment of animals, which can change, and to claims and lawsuits by activist groups before government regulators and in the courts.

We operate in a complex and evolving regulatory environment and are subject to various federal and state statutes and regulations and international treaties implemented by federal law. The states in which we operate also regulate zoological activity involving the import and export of exotic and native wildlife, endangered and/or otherwise protected species, zoological display and anti-cruelty statutes. We incur significant compliance costs in connection with these regulations and violation of such regulations could subject us to fines and penalties and result in the loss of our licenses and permits, which, if occurred, could impact our ability to display certain animals. Future amendments to existing statutes, regulations and treaties or new statutes, regulations and treaties may potentially restrict our ability to maintain our animals, or to acquire new ones to supplement or sustain our breeding programs or otherwise adversely affect our business.

For instance, on July 16, 2015, Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) offered an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2016 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies spending bill during consideration of the bill by the full Committee on Appropriations. The amendment directed the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to issue updated regulations for the display of marine mammals in domestic zoos and aquaria within six months of enactment.  While that amendment was not included in the final Fiscal Year 2016 Omnibus Appropriations Bill, APHIS released a proposed rule on February 3, 2016 to amend the Animal Welfare Act regulations concerning the humane handling, care and treatment of marine mammals in captivity (the “Proposed APHIS Regulations”).  This proposed rule would affect sections in the regulations for the protection of all marine mammals in the United States relating to human marine mammal interactive programs, space requirements, water quality, indoor facilities, outdoor facilities, implementation dates, and variances.  The Proposed APHIS Regulations were subject to public comment which ended on May 4, 2016.  We submitted a comment letter to APHIS on the final date for comments, expressing our views on the Proposed APHIS Regulations.  The full impact of the Proposed APHIS Regulations on our business will not be known until the Proposed APHIS Regulations are finalized.  Once effective, the Proposed APHIS Regulations may increase our regulatory compliance burdens and costs, impact the way and manner the Company’s marine mammals are displayed and require additional management attention and investments to come into compliance.

On October 8, 2015, the California Coastal Commission approved the Blue World Project in San Diego, but attached certain conditions to its approval.  Those conditions included, among other things, a prohibition against breeding orcas or transporting orcas to or from the habitat.  On December 29, 2015, we filed a lawsuit against the California Coastal Commission on the grounds that the California Coastal Commission decision was outside the scope of its authority in imposing such conditions because it does not have jurisdiction over orcas, which are regulated under federal law.  As a result of the Orca Announcement, on April 18, 2016, we sent a letter to the California Coastal Commission requesting to formally withdraw our coastal development permit application for the Blue World Project habitat and discuss dismissal of the pending litigation since our legal challenge to the proposed conditions was no longer warranted. On July 27, 2016, we filed a request for dismissal to dismiss our lawsuit against the California Coastal Commission.  On October 17, 2016, we sent a letter to the California Coastal Commission objecting to the approval of the proposed revised findings for the Blue World Project.  We stated that the adoption of revised findings was not warranted or needed because of the Orca Announcement and recent changes in California law.  On November 4, 2016 the California Coastal Commission voted in the affirmative to reverse findings on the Blue World Project.

On November 16, 2015, Representative Adam Schiff (D-CA) introduced the Orca Responsibility and Care Advancement Act (the “ORCA Act”).  The bill has been referred to the Natural Resources and Agriculture Committees.  It is unclear whether this bill will be enacted into law, but if enacted, this bill would amend the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and the Animal Welfare Act to prohibit the breeding, the taking (wild capture), and the import or export of orcas for the purposes of public display.

On August 26, 2016, following the Orca Announcement, the California Orca Protection Act was enacted into law and (i) codified the end of captive breeding programs and the export and import of genetic materials for orcas in California, (ii) prohibits the import or export of new orcas into or out of California, (iii) permits the transfer of orcas currently in California among existing SeaWorld facilities and (iv) requires educational presentations of orcas in California. The new orca programs we are developing will be consistent with these standards and begin in our San Diego park in 2017 with our other SeaWorld parks following by 2019.  On November 4, 2016, the California Coastal Commission granted approval to permit the renovation of the existing backdrop at the orca habitat at our San Diego park.  This approval allows us to continue to develop our new orca program in our San Diego park.

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In light of the uncertain legal, legislative and regulatory environment and evolving public sentiment, we continue to evaluate a broad spectrum of enhancements, modifications and alternatives with respect to the display, husbandry and breeding practices, handling and care, and study and research of our orcas and other marine animals. Any decisions regarding such matters are subject to consideration and assessment of various factors including, but not limited to, the health and welfare of the animals, guest sentiment, market conditions, anticipated impact on our business, regulatory environment, legal proceedings, input from our shareholders and conservation partners, and other factors. If we were to pursue or be required to pursue any alternative approaches with respect to the display, husbandry and breeding practices, handling and care, or study and research of our orcas or other animals in our zoological collection, the full impact of such alternatives on our business will not be known until such alternatives are finalized.  In the meantime, we continue to invest significant management attention and resources to evaluate the impact of and ensure compliance with the applicable regulatory and other developments.

From time to time, animal activist and other third-party groups may make claims before government agencies, bring lawsuits against us, and/or attempt to generate negative publicity associated with our business. Such activities sometimes are based on allegations that we do not properly care for some of our featured animals. On other occasions, such activities are specifically designed to change existing law or enact new law in order to impede our ability to retain, exhibit, acquire or breed animals. While we seek to structure our operations to comply with all applicable federal and state laws and vigorously defend ourselves when sued, there are no assurances as to the outcome of future claims and lawsuits that could be brought against us. In addition, negative publicity associated with such activities could adversely affect our reputation and results of operations. At times, activists and other third-party groups have also attempted to generate negative publicity related to our relationships with our business partners, such as corporate sponsors, promotional partners, vendors, ticket resellers and others. For example, since 2014, we have experienced demand pressures, particularly in California, which we believe were partly due to media attention relating to the legislation proposed in that state. In addition, we have experienced increased media attention since 2014 extending to our relationships with some of our business partners.

Various factors beyond our control could adversely affect attendance and guest spending patterns at our theme parks.

Various factors beyond our control could adversely affect attendance and guest spending patterns at our theme parks. These factors could also affect our suppliers, vendors, insurance carriers and other contractual counterparties. Such factors include:

Any one or more of these factors could adversely affect attendance and total per capita spending at our theme parks, which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. For example, the June 2016 announcement of the Referendum of the United Kingdom’s Membership of the European Union (referred to as Brexit) has introduced additional volatility and uncertainty in global stock markets and currency exchange rates which could have an impact on our future international attendance and from the United Kingdom in particular.  Historically, attendance from the United Kingdom represents approximately 5% of our total annual attendance. Furthermore, macroeconomic conditions, political instability and policies that result in economic uncertainty or the strengthening of the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies could adversely affect our international attendance and our business. For example, during 2016, the majority of our international attendance shortfall came from Brazil, which has recently faced currency exchange rate pressures, political instability and an economic recession.

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Incidents or adverse publicity concerning our theme parks or the theme park industry generally could harm our brands or reputation as well as negatively impact our revenues and profitability.

Our brands and our reputation are among our most important assets. Our ability to attract and retain guests depends, in part, upon the external perceptions of the Company, the quality of our theme parks and services and our corporate and management integrity. The operation of theme parks involves the risk of accidents, illnesses, environmental incidents and other incidents which may negatively affect the perception of guest and employee safety, health, security and guest satisfaction and which could negatively impact our brands or reputation and our business and results of operations. An accident or an injury at any of our theme parks or at theme parks operated by competitors, particularly an accident or an injury involving the safety of guests and employees, that receives media attention, is the topic of a book, film, documentary or is otherwise the subject of public discussions, may harm our brands or reputation, cause a loss of consumer confidence in the Company, reduce attendance at our theme parks and negatively impact our results of operations. Such incidents have occurred in the past and may occur in the future. In addition, other types of adverse publicity concerning our business or the theme park industry generally could harm our brands, reputation and results of operations. The considerable expansion in the use of social media over recent years has compounded the impact of negative publicity.

We could be adversely affected by a decline in discretionary consumer spending or consumer confidence.

Our success depends to a significant extent on discretionary consumer spending, which is heavily influenced by general economic conditions and the availability of discretionary income. In the past, severe economic downturns, coupled with high volatility and uncertainty as to the future global economic landscape, have had an adverse effect on consumers’ discretionary income and consumer confidence.

Volatile, negative or uncertain economic conditions and recessionary periods may adversely impact attendance figures, the frequency with which guests choose to visit our theme parks and guest spending patterns at our theme parks. The actual or perceived weakness in the economy could also lead to decreased spending by our guests. For example, in 2009 and 2010, we experienced a decline in attendance as a result of the global economic crisis, which in turn adversely affected our revenue and profitability. Both attendance and total per capita spending at our theme parks are key drivers of our revenue and profitability, and reductions in either can materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

A significant portion of our revenues are generated in the States of Florida, California and Virginia and in the Orlando market. Any risks affecting such markets, such as natural disasters and travel-related disruptions or incidents, may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Approximately 57%, 18% and 13% of our revenues in 2016 were generated in the States of Florida, California and Virginia, respectively. In addition, our revenues and results of operations depend significantly on the results of our Orlando theme parks. The Orlando theme park market is extremely competitive, with a high concentration of theme parks operated by several companies.

Any risks described in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, such as the occurrence of natural disasters and travel-related disruptions or incidents, affecting the States of Florida, California and Virginia generally or our Orlando theme parks in particular may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations, especially if they have the effect of decreasing attendance at our theme parks or, in extreme cases, cause us to close any of our theme parks for any period of time. For example, in 2016, Florida was impacted by Tropical Storm Colin and both Florida and Virginia were impacted by Hurricanes Hermine and Matthew, which caused physical damage and power outages in various parts of Florida and Virginia.  Although we attempted to manage our exposure to such events by implementing our hurricane preparedness plan, our theme parks located in Orlando and Tampa, Florida and in Williamsburg, Virginia experienced closures as a result of these storms.

Our operating results are subject to seasonal fluctuations.

We have historically experienced and expect to continue to experience seasonal fluctuations in our annual theme park attendance and revenue, which are typically higher in our second and third quarters, partly because seven of our theme parks are only open for a portion of the year. Approximately two-thirds of our attendance and revenues are generated in the second and third quarters of the year and we typically incur a net loss in the first and fourth quarters. In addition, school vacations and school start dates also cause fluctuations in our quarterly theme park attendance and revenue.

Furthermore, the operating season at some of our theme parks, including SeaWorld San Antonio, Aquatica San Antonio, Adventure Island, Aquatica San Diego, Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Water Country USA and Sesame Place, is of limited duration. In addition, most of our expenses for maintenance and costs of adding new attractions at our seasonal theme parks are incurred when the operating season is over, which may increase the need for borrowing to fund such expenses during such periods.

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When conditions or events described in this section occur during the operating season, particularly during the second and third quarters, there is only a limited period of time during which the impact of those conditions or events can be mitigated. Accordingly, such conditions or events may have a disproportionately adverse effect on our revenues and cash flow.

Because we operate in a highly competitive industry, our revenues, profits or market share could be harmed if we are unable to compete effectively.

The entertainment industry, and the theme park industry in particular, is highly competitive. Our theme parks compete with other theme, water and amusement parks and with other types of recreational facilities and forms of entertainment, including movies, home entertainment options, sports attractions, restaurants and vacation travel.

Principal direct competitors of our theme parks include theme parks operated by The Walt Disney Company, Universal Studios, Six Flags, Cedar Fair, Merlin Entertainments and Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company. The principal competitive factors of a theme park include location, price, originality and perceived quality of the rides and attractions, the atmosphere and cleanliness of the theme park, the quality of its food and entertainment, weather conditions, ease of travel to the theme park (including direct flights by major airlines), and availability and cost of transportation to a theme park. Certain of our direct competitors have substantially greater financial resources than we do, and they may be able to adapt more quickly to changes in guest preferences or devote greater resources to promotion of their offerings and attractions than us. Our competitors may be able to attract guests to their theme parks in lieu of our own through the development or acquisition of new rides, attractions or shows that are perceived by guests to be of a higher quality and entertainment value. As a result, we may not be able to compete successfully against such competitors. For example, in 2014, we experienced negative attendance trends, primarily at our destination parks in Florida, which we believe was due in part to significant new attraction offerings at competitor destination parks, along with a delay in the scheduled opening of one of our new rides at our Busch Gardens Tampa park.

Featuring animals at our theme parks involves risks.

Our theme parks feature numerous displays and interactions that include animals. All animal enterprises involve some degree of risk. All animal interaction by our employees and our guests in attractions in our theme parks, where offered, involves risk. While we maintain strict safety procedures for the protection of our employees and guests, injuries or death, while rare, have occurred in the past. For example, in February 2010, a trainer was killed while engaged in an interaction with an orca. Following this incident, we were subject to an inspection by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”), which resulted in three citations concerning alleged violations of the Occupational Safety and Health Act and certain regulations thereunder.  In 2012, we initiated an appeal of certain of these citations with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.  On April 11, 2014, the Court of Appeals denied our appeal and we elected to not pursue further appeal.  In connection with this incident, we reviewed and revised our safety protocols and made certain safety-related facility enhancements such as revising training protocols used in show performances. This incident has also been and continues to be the subject of significant media attention, including extensive television and newspaper coverage, a documentary and a book, as well as discussions in social media. This incident and similar events that may occur in the future may harm our reputation, reduce attendance and negatively impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

In addition, six orcas are presently on loan to a third party. Although the occurrence of any accident or injury involving these orcas would be outside of our control, any such occurrence could negatively affect our business and reputation.

We maintain insurance of the type and in amounts that we believe is commercially reasonable and that is available to animal enterprise related businesses in the theme park industry. We cannot predict the level of the premiums that we may be required to pay for subsequent insurance coverage, the level of any self-insurance retention applicable thereto, the level of aggregate coverage available, or the availability of coverage for specific risks.

Animals in our care are important to our theme parks, and they could be exposed to infectious diseases.

Many of our theme parks are distinguished from those of our competitors in that we offer guest interactions with animals. Individual animals, specific species of animals or groups of animals in our zoological collection could be exposed to infectious diseases. While we have never had any such experiences, an outbreak of an infectious disease among any animals in our theme parks or the public’s perception that a certain disease could be harmful to human health may materially adversely affect our zoological collection, our business, financial condition and results of operations.

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The high fixed cost structure of theme park operations can result in significantly lower margins if revenues decline.

A large portion of our expenses is relatively fixed because the costs for full-time employees, maintenance, animal care, utilities, advertising and insurance do not vary significantly with attendance. These fixed costs may increase at a greater rate than our revenues and may not be able to be reduced at the same rate as declining revenues. If cost-cutting efforts are insufficient to offset declines in revenues or are impracticable, we could experience a material decline in margins, revenues, profitability and reduced or negative cash flows. Such effects can be especially pronounced during periods of economic contraction or slow economic growth.

Changes in consumer tastes and preferences for entertainment and consumer products could reduce demand for our entertainment offerings and products and adversely affect the profitability of our business.

The success of our business depends on our ability to consistently provide, maintain and expand theme park attractions as well as create and distribute media programming, online material and consumer products that meet changing consumer preferences. In addition, consumers from outside the United States constitute an increasingly important portion of our theme park attendance, and our success depends in part on our ability to successfully predict and adapt to tastes and preferences of this consumer group. If our entertainment offerings and products do not achieve sufficient consumer acceptance or if consumer preferences change, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially adversely affected.

Cyber security risks and the failure to maintain the integrity of internal or guest data could result in damages to our reputation, the disruption of operations and/or subject us to costs, fines or lawsuits.

We collect and retain large volumes of internal and guest data, including credit card numbers and other personally identifiable information, for business purposes, including for transactional or target marketing and promotional purposes, and our various information technology systems enter, process, summarize and report such data. We also maintain personally identifiable information about our employees. The integrity and protection of our guest, employee and Company data is critical to our business and our guests and employees have a high expectation that we will adequately protect their personal information. The regulatory environment, as well as the requirements imposed on us by the credit card industry, governing information, security and privacy laws is increasingly demanding and continues to evolve. Maintaining compliance with applicable security and privacy regulations may increase our operating costs and/or adversely impact our ability to market our theme parks, products and services to our guests. We also rely on accounting, financial and operational management information technology systems to conduct our operations. If these information technology systems suffer severe damage, disruption or shutdown and our business continuity plans do not effectively resolve the issues in a timely manner, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.

We face various security threats, including cyber security attacks on our data (including our vendors’ and guests’ data) and/or information technology infrastructure. Although we utilize various procedures and controls to monitor and mitigate these threats, there can be no assurance that these procedures and controls will be sufficient to prevent penetrations or disruptions to our systems. Furthermore, a penetrated or compromised data system or the intentional, inadvertent or negligent release or disclosure of data could result in theft, loss, fraudulent or unlawful use of guest, employee or Company data which could harm our reputation or result in remedial and other costs, fines or lawsuits and require significant management attention and resources to be spent.  In addition, our insurance coverage and indemnification arrangements that we enter into, if any, may not be adequate to cover all the costs related to cyber security attacks or disruptions resulting from such events.  To date, cyber security attacks directed at us have not had a material impact on our financial results.  Due to the evolving nature of security threats, however, the impact of any future incident cannot be predicted.

Increased labor costs and employee health and welfare benefits may negatively impact our operations.

Labor is a primary component in the cost of operating our business. We devote significant resources to recruiting and training our managers and employees. Increased labor costs due to competition, increased minimum wage or employee benefit costs or otherwise, would adversely impact our operating expenses. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 and the amendments thereto contain provisions that have impacted our healthcare costs. It is possible that any future amendments could significantly increase our compensation costs, which would reduce our net income and adversely affect our cash flows.  More recently, on February 8, 2016, the San Diego City Council decided to put a proposal on the June 7, 2016 primary ballot for voters to decide whether the city of San Diego should have a higher minimum wage than the $10 per hour required by the State of California.  The proposal was approved by San Diego voters and, beginning on July 11, 2016, the city’s minimum wage was increased to $10.50 and, beginning on January 1, 2017, was increased again to $11.50.   Two years later in January 2019, annual increases to the San Diego minimum wage as well as the State of California minimum wage based on the consumer price index will start to be implemented.  Increases to the San Diego minimum wage and State of California minimum wage will impact our operating expenses, particularly at the Company’s SeaWorld San Diego and Aquatica San Diego parks.

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Our growth strategy may not achieve the anticipated results.

Our future success will depend on our ability to grow our business, including through capital investments to improve existing and develop new theme parks, rides, attractions and shows, as well as in-park product offerings and product offerings outside of our theme parks. Our growth and innovation strategies require significant commitments of management resources and capital investments and may not grow our revenues at the rate we expect or at all. As a result, we may not be able to recover the costs incurred in developing our new projects and initiatives or to realize their intended or projected benefits, which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.  

We may not be able to fund theme park capital expenditures and investment in future attractions and projects.

A principal competitive factor for a theme park is the originality and perceived quality of its rides and attractions. We need to make continued capital investments through maintenance and the regular addition of new rides and attractions. Our ability to fund capital expenditures will depend on our ability to generate sufficient cash flow from operations and to raise capital from third parties. We cannot assure you that our operations will be able to generate sufficient cash flow to fund such costs, or that we will be able to obtain sufficient financing on adequate terms, or at all, which could cause us to delay or abandon certain projects or plans.

Adverse litigation judgments or settlements resulting from legal proceedings in which we may be involved in the normal course of our business could reduce our profits or limit our ability to operate our business.

We are subject to allegations, claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of our business, which may include claims by third parties, including guests who visit our theme parks, our employees or regulators. We are currently subject to securities litigation.  The Company is also subject to audits, inspections and investigations by, or receives requests for information from, various federal and state regulatory agencies, including, but not limited to, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal-OSHA), the Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission (FWC), the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). From time to time, various parties may also bring lawsuits against the Company.

We discuss the securities litigation and other litigation to which we are subject to in greater detail below under the caption “Item 3. Legal Proceedings” and Note 14–Commitments and Contingencies to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The outcome of many of these proceedings cannot be predicted. If any proceedings, audits, inspections or investigations were to be determined adversely against us or resulted in legal actions, claims, regulatory proceedings, enforcement actions, or judgments, fines, or settlements involving a payment of material sums of money, or if injunctive relief were issued against us, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.  Even the successful defense of legal proceedings may cause us to incur substantial legal costs and may divert management’s attention and resources.

Our intellectual property rights are valuable, and any inability to protect them could adversely affect our business.

Our intellectual property, including our trademarks, service marks, domain names, copyrights, patent and other proprietary rights, constitutes a significant part of the value of the Company. To protect our intellectual property rights, we rely upon a combination of trademark, copyright, patent, trade secret and unfair competition laws of the United States and other countries, as well as contract provisions and third-party policies and procedures governing internet/domain name registrations. However, there can be no assurance that these measures will be successful in any given case, particularly in those countries where the laws do not protect our proprietary rights as fully as in the United States. We may be unable to prevent the misappropriation, infringement or violation of our intellectual property rights, breaching any contractual obligations to us, or independently developing intellectual property that is similar to ours, any of which could reduce or eliminate any competitive advantage we have developed, adversely affect our revenues or otherwise harm our business.

We have obtained and applied for numerous U.S. and foreign trademark and service mark registrations and will continue to evaluate the registration of additional trademarks and service marks or other intellectual property, as appropriate. We cannot guarantee that any of our pending applications will be approved by the applicable governmental authorities. Moreover, even if the applications are approved, third parties may seek to oppose or otherwise challenge these registrations. A failure to obtain registrations for our intellectual property in the United States and other countries could limit our ability to protect our intellectual property rights and impede our marketing efforts in those jurisdictions.

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We are actively engaged in enforcement and other activities to protect our intellectual property rights. If it became necessary for us to resort to litigation to protect these rights, any proceedings could be burdensome, costly and divert the attention of our personnel, and we may not prevail. In addition, any repeal or weakening of laws or enforcement in the United States or internationally intended to protect intellectual property rights could make it more difficult for us to adequately protect our intellectual property rights, negatively impacting their value and increasing the cost of enforcing our rights.

We may be subject to claims for infringing the intellectual property rights of others, which could be costly and result in the loss of significant intellectual property rights.

We cannot be certain that we do not and will not infringe the intellectual property rights of others. We have been in the past, and may be in the future, subject to litigation and other claims in the ordinary course of our business based on allegations of infringement or other violations of the intellectual property rights of others. Regardless of their merits, intellectual property claims can divert the efforts of our personnel and are often time-consuming and expensive to litigate or settle. In addition, to the extent claims against us are successful, we may have to pay substantial money damages or discontinue, modify or rename certain products or services that are found to be in violation of another party’s rights. We may have to seek a license (if available on acceptable terms, or at all) to continue offering products and services, which may significantly increase our operating expenses.

If we lose licenses and permits required to exhibit animals and/or violate laws and regulations, our business will be adversely affected.

We are required to hold government licenses and permits, some of which are subject to yearly or periodic renewal, for purposes of possessing, exhibiting and maintaining animals. Although our theme parks’ licenses and permits have always been renewed in the past, in the event that any of our licenses or permits are not renewed or any of our licenses or permits are revoked, portions of the affected theme park might not be able to remain open for purpose of displaying or retaining the animals covered by such license or permit. Such an outcome could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

In addition, we are subject to periodic inspections by federal and state agencies and the subsequent issuance of inspection reports. While we believe that we comply with, or exceed, requisite care and maintenance standards that apply to our animals, government inspectors can cite us for alleged statutory or regulatory violations. In unusual instances when we are cited for an alleged deficiency, we are most often given the opportunity to correct any purported deficiencies without penalty. It is possible, however, that in some cases a federal or state regulator could seek to impose monetary fines on us. In the past, when we have been subjected to governmental claims for fines, the amounts involved were not material to our business, financial condition or results of operations. However, while highly unlikely, we cannot predict whether any future fines that regulators might seek to impose would materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Moreover, many of the statutes under which we operate allow for the imposition of criminal sanctions. While neither of the foregoing situations are likely to occur, either could negatively affect the business, financial condition or results of operations at our theme parks.

If we lose key personnel, our business may be adversely affected.

Our success depends in part upon a number of key employees, including members of our senior management team who have extensive experience in the industry. We may be unable to retain them or to attract other highly qualified employees, particularly if we do not offer employment terms that are competitive with the rest of the market. Failure to attract, motivate and retain highly qualified employees, or failure to develop and implement a viable succession plan, could adversely affect our business and our future success. We have employment agreements with certain members of our senior management, but these employment agreements do not ensure that they will not voluntarily terminate their employment with us.

Unionization activities or labor disputes may disrupt our operations and affect our profitability.

Although none of our employees are currently covered under collective bargaining agreements, we cannot guarantee that our employees will not elect to be represented by labor unions in the future. If some or all of our employees were to become unionized and collective bargaining agreement terms were significantly different from our current compensation arrangements, it could adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. In addition, a labor dispute involving some or all of our employees may disrupt our operations and reduce our revenues, and resolution of disputes may increase our costs.

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Although we maintain binding policies that require employees to submit to a mandatory alternative dispute resolution procedure in lieu of other remedies, as employers, we may be subject to various employment-related claims, such as individual or class actions or government enforcement actions relating to alleged employment discrimination, employee classification and related withholding, wage-hour, labor standards or healthcare and benefit issues. Such actions, if brought against us and successful in whole or in part, may affect our ability to compete or materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Our business depends on our ability to meet our workforce needs.

Our success depends on our ability to attract, train, motivate and retain qualified employees to keep pace with our needs, including employees with certain specialized skills in the field of animal training and care. If we are unable to do so, our results of operations and cash flows may be adversely affected.

In addition, we employ a significant seasonal workforce. We recruit year-round to fill thousands of seasonal staffing positions each season and work to manage seasonal wages and the timing of the hiring process to ensure the appropriate workforce is in place. There is no assurance that we will be able to recruit and hire adequate seasonal personnel as the business requires or that we will not experience material increases in the cost of securing our seasonal workforce in the future. Increased seasonal wages or an inadequate workforce could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

If we are unable to maintain certain commercial licenses, our business, reputation and brand could be adversely affected.

We rely on licenses from Sesame Workshop to use the Sesame Place trade name and trademark and certain other intellectual property rights, including titles, marks, characters, logos and designs from the Sesame Street television series within our Sesame Place theme park and with respect to Sesame Street themed areas within certain areas of some of our other theme parks, as well as in connection with the sales of certain Sesame Street themed products. Our use of these intellectual property rights is subject to the approval of Sesame Workshop and the licenses may be terminated in certain limited circumstances or in the event of our bankruptcy. Furthermore, the current term of both the Sesame Place theme park license and the multi-park license expire on December 31, 2021, and there is no assurance that we will be able to renegotiate the use of such intellectual property on commercially acceptable terms or at all. The new terms of the licenses may significantly increase our operating expenses, or otherwise adversely affect our business.

ABI is the owner of the Busch Gardens trademarks and domain names. ABI has granted us a perpetual, exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free license to use the Busch Gardens trademark and certain related domain names in connection with the operation, marketing, promotion and advertising of certain of our theme parks, as well as in connection with the production, use, distribution and sale of merchandise sold in connection with such theme parks. Under the license, we are required to indemnify ABI against losses related to our use of the marks. If we were to lose or have to renegotiate this license, our business may be adversely affected.

Our existing debt agreements contain, and future debt agreements may contain, restrictions that may limit our flexibility in operating our business.

Our existing debt agreements contain, and documents governing our future indebtedness may contain, numerous financial and operating covenants that limit the discretion of management with respect to certain business matters. These covenants place restrictions on, among other things, our ability to incur additional indebtedness, pay dividends and other distributions, make capital expenditures, make certain loans, investments and other restricted payments, enter into agreements restricting our subsidiaries’ ability to pay dividends, engage in certain transactions with stockholders or affiliates, sell certain assets or engage in mergers, acquisitions and other business combinations, amend or otherwise alter the terms of our indebtedness, alter the business that we conduct, guarantee indebtedness or incur other contingent obligations and create liens. Our existing debt agreements also require, and documents governing our future indebtedness may require, us to meet certain financial ratios and tests. Our ability to comply with these and other provisions of the existing debt agreements is dependent on our future performance, which will be subject to many factors, some of which are beyond our control. The breach of any of these covenants or non-compliance with any of these financial ratios and tests could result in an event of default under the existing debt agreements, which, if not cured or waived, could result in acceleration of the related debt and the acceleration of debt under other instruments evidencing indebtedness that may contain cross-acceleration or cross-default provisions. Variable rate indebtedness subjects us to the risk of higher interest rates, which could cause our future debt service obligations to increase significantly.

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Our substantial leverage could adversely affect our ability to raise additional capital to fund our operations, limit our ability to react to changes in the economy or our industry, expose us to interest rate risk to the extent of our variable rate debt and prevent us from meeting our obligations under our indebtedness.

We are highly leveraged. As of December 31, 2016, our total indebtedness was approximately $1,598.0 million. Our high degree of leverage could have important consequences, including the following: (i) a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations is dedicated to the payment of principal and interest on indebtedness, thereby reducing the funds available for operations, future business opportunities, share repurchases pursuant to the Share Repurchase Program and capital expenditures; (ii) our ability to obtain additional financing for working capital, capital expenditures, debt service requirements, acquisitions and general corporate purposes in the future may be limited; (iii) certain of the borrowings are at variable rates of interest, which will increase our vulnerability to increases in interest rates; (iv) we are at a competitive disadvantage to less leveraged competitors; (v) we may be unable to adjust rapidly to changing market conditions; (vi) the debt service requirements of our other indebtedness could make it more difficult for us to satisfy our financial obligations; and (vii) we may be vulnerable in a downturn in general economic conditions or in our business and we may be unable to carry out activities that are important to our growth.

Our ability to make scheduled payments of the principal of, or to pay interest on, or to refinance indebtedness depends on and is subject to our financial and operating performance, which in turn is affected by general and regional economic, financial, competitive, business and other factors beyond our control, including the availability of financing in the international banking and capital markets. If unable to generate sufficient cash flow to service our debt or to fund our other liquidity needs, we will need to restructure or refinance all or a portion of our debt, which could cause us to default on our obligations and impair our liquidity. There can be no assurance that any refinancing of our indebtedness will be possible and any such refinancing could be at higher interest rates and may require us to comply with more onerous covenants that could further restrict our business operations. We from time to time may increase the amount of our indebtedness, modify the terms of our financing arrangements, issue dividends, make capital expenditures and take other actions that may substantially increase our leverage.

Despite our significant leverage, we may incur significant additional amounts of debt, which could further exacerbate the risks associated with our significant leverage.

We may not realize the benefits of acquisitions or other strategic initiatives.

Our business strategy may include selective expansion, both domestically and internationally, through acquisitions of assets or other strategic initiatives, such as joint ventures, that allow us to profitably expand our business and leverage our brands. For example, on December 13, 2016, we announced our partnership with Miral Asset Management LLC to develop SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, a first-of-its-kind marine life themed park on Yas Island. There is no assurance that this partnership or any other expansion effort for our business will be successful. Any international transactions and partnerships are subject to additional risks, including foreign and U.S. regulations on the import and export of animals, the impact of economic fluctuations in economies outside of the United States, difficulties and costs of staffing and managing foreign operations due to distance, language and cultural differences, as well as political instability and lesser degree of legal protection in certain jurisdictions, currency exchange fluctuations and potentially adverse tax consequences of overseas operations. In addition, the success of any acquisitions depends on effective integration of acquired businesses and assets into our operations, which is subject to risks and uncertainties, including realization of anticipated synergies and cost savings, the ability to retain and attract personnel, the diversion of management’s attention from other business concerns, and undisclosed or potential legal liabilities of acquired businesses or assets.

In November 2015, we communicated our roadmap to stabilize our business to drive sustainable growth.  This plan encompasses five key points which include (i) providing experiences that matter; (ii) delivering distinct guest experiences that are fun and meaningful; (iii) pursuing organic and strategic revenue growth; (iv) addressing the challenges we face; and (v) financial discipline. As part of our five point plan, on December 6, 2016, we committed to and implemented a restructuring program to reduce costs, increase efficiencies, reduce duplication of functions and improve the Company’s operations (the “2016 Restructuring Program”). The 2016 Restructuring Program is part of our previously announced comprehensive cost optimization program that is expected to reduce costs by approximately $65.0 million, with a targeted $40.0 million in net savings by the end of 2018. The 2016 Restructuring Program involved the elimination of approximately 320 positions by the end of the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2016 across our twelve theme parks and our headquarters. Any of these strategies to drive sustainable growth in our business may be unsuccessful and we may not be able to achieve the targeted cost savings or grow our business.

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Our insurance coverage may not be adequate to cover all possible losses that we could suffer and our insurance costs may increase.

We seek to maintain comprehensive insurance coverage at commercially reasonable rates. Although we maintain various safety and loss prevention programs and carry property and casualty insurance to cover certain risks, our insurance policies do not cover all types of losses and liabilities. There can be no assurance that our insurance will be sufficient to cover the full extent of all losses or liabilities for which we are insured, and we cannot guarantee that we will be able to renew our current insurance policies on favorable terms, or at all. In addition, if we or other theme park operators sustain significant losses or make significant insurance claims, then our ability to obtain future insurance coverage at commercially reasonable rates could be materially adversely affected.

We may be unable to purchase or contract with third-party manufacturers for our theme park rides and attractions.

We may be unable to purchase or contract with third parties to build high quality rides and attractions and to continue to service and maintain those rides and attractions at competitive or beneficial prices, or to provide the replacement parts needed to maintain the operation of such rides. In addition, if our third-party suppliers’ financial condition deteriorates or they go out of business, we may not be able to obtain the full benefit of manufacturer warranties or indemnities typically contained in our contracts or may need to incur greater costs for the maintenance, repair, replacement or insurance of these assets.

Our operations and our ownership of property subject us to environmental requirements, and to environmental expenditures and liabilities.

We incur costs to comply with environmental requirements, such as those relating to water use, wastewater and storm water management and disposal, air emissions control, hazardous materials management, solid and hazardous waste disposal, and the clean-up of properties affected by regulated materials.

We have been required and continue to investigate and clean-up hazardous or toxic substances or chemical releases, and other releases, from current or formerly owned or operated facilities. In addition, in the ordinary course of our business, we generate, use and dispose of large volumes of water, including saltwater, which requires us to comply with a number of federal, state and local regulations and to incur significant expenses. Failure to comply with such regulations could subject us to fines and penalties and/or require us to incur additional expenses. Although we are not now classified as a large quantity generator of hazardous waste, we do store and handle hazardous materials to operate and maintain our equipment and facilities and have done so historically.

We cannot assure you that we will not incur substantial costs to comply with new or expanded environmental requirements in the future or to investigate or clean-up new or newly identified environmental conditions, which could also impair our ability to use or transfer the affected properties and to obtain financing.

The suspension or termination of any of our business licenses may have a negative impact on our business.

We maintain a variety of business licenses issued by federal, state and local authorities that are renewable on a periodic basis. We cannot guarantee that we will be successful in renewing all of our licenses on a periodic basis. The suspension, termination or expiration of one or more of these licenses could materially adversely affect our revenues and profits. In addition, any changes to the licensing requirements for any of our licenses could affect our ability to maintain the licenses.

Delays or restrictions in obtaining permits for capital investments could impair our business.

Our capital investments require regulatory permits from one or more governmental agencies in order to improve existing or build new theme parks, rides, attractions and shows. Such permits are typically issued by state agencies, but federal and local governmental permits may also be required. The requirements for such permits vary depending on the location of such capital investments. As with all governmental permitting processes, there is a degree of uncertainty as to whether a permit will be granted, the time it will take for a permit to be issued, and the conditions that may be imposed in connection with the granting of the permit. Therefore, our capital investments in certain areas may be delayed, interrupted or suspended for varying lengths of time, causing a loss of revenue to us and adversely affecting our results of operations.

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The policies of the recently elected U.S. President and his administration could adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

While the new administration’s policies in many areas are uncertain at this time, certain types of policies regarding foreign travel to the United States, foreign trade, manufacturing, development and investment could adversely affect our business. In addition, according to publicly released statements, a top legislative priority of the new administration and the next Congress may be significant reform of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, including uncertain changes to taxation of business entities. Furthermore, policies that strengthen the U.S. dollar against a variety of foreign currencies could impact international tourist spending, including at our theme parks. Lastly, foreign tourists may opt to reduce their travel to the United States as a result of the new administration’s policies regarding immigration, foreign trade or other matters. While there is currently a substantial lack of clarity and uncertainty around the likelihood, timing and details of any such policies and reforms, such policies and reforms may materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and the value of our securities.

We could be adversely impacted by actions of activist stockholders, and such activism could impact the value of our securities.

We have recently seen certain investors increase their ownership positions in our common stock and their communications with us regarding our business, and there can be no assurance that these stockholders’ interests align with our business or the interests of our other stockholders. While we continually engage with stockholders and consider their views on business and strategy, stockholder activism, including potential proxy contests, could be costly and time consuming, disrupt our operations and divert the attention of management and our employees from our business.  Such activities could also interfere with our ability to execute our strategic plan and our long term growth. The perceived uncertainties as to our future direction caused by activist actions could affect the market price of our securities, result in the loss of potential business opportunities and make it more difficult to attract and retain qualified personnel and business partners. In addition, any interference with our annual meeting process, including but not limited to a proxy contest for the election of directors at our annual meeting, could require us to incur significant legal fees and proxy solicitation expenses and require significant time and attention by management and our board of directors.

Affiliates of Blackstone will continue to be able to significantly influence our decisions and their interests may conflict with ours or yours in the future.

Affiliates of Blackstone beneficially own approximately 21.9% of our common stock. As a result, investment funds associated with or designated by affiliates of Blackstone will have the ability to elect members of our Board of Directors and thereby continue to influence our policies and operations, including the appointment of management, future issuances of our common stock or other securities, the payment of dividends, if any, on our common stock, the incurrence or modification of debt by us, amendments to our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws and the entering into of extraordinary transactions, and their interests may not in all cases be aligned with your interests. In addition, Blackstone may have an interest in pursuing acquisitions, divestitures and other transactions that, in its judgment, could enhance its investment, even though such transactions might involve risks to you. For example, Blackstone may be interested in making acquisitions that increase our indebtedness or in selling revenue-generating assets. Additionally, in certain circumstances, acquisitions of debt at a discount by purchasers that are related to a debtor can give rise to cancellation of indebtedness income to such debtor for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

Blackstone is in the business of making investments in companies and may from time to time acquire and hold interests in businesses that compete directly or indirectly with us. For example, Blackstone has several investments in the leisure and hospitality industries.

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides that none of Blackstone, any of its affiliates or any director who is not employed by us (including any non-employee director who serves as one of our officers in both his director and officer capacities) or his or her affiliates will have any duty to refrain from engaging, directly or indirectly, in the same business activities or similar business activities or lines of business in which we operate. Blackstone also may pursue acquisition opportunities that may be complementary to our business, and, as a result, those acquisition opportunities may not be available to us. So long as affiliates of Blackstone continue to own a significant amount of our combined voting power, even if such amount is less than 50%, Blackstone will continue to be able to influence our decisions and, so long as Blackstone and its affiliates collectively own at least 5% of all outstanding shares of our stock entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, it will be able to appoint individuals to our Board of Directors under the stockholders agreement. In addition, Blackstone will be able to influence the outcome of all matters requiring stockholder approval and prevent a change of control of the Company or a change in the composition of our Board of Directors and could preclude any unsolicited acquisition of the Company. The concentration of ownership could deprive you of an opportunity to receive a premium for your shares of common stock as part of a sale of the Company and ultimately might affect the market price of our common stock.

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Risks Related to Ownership of Our Common Stock

Our stock price may change significantly, and you may not be able to sell shares of our common stock at or above the price you paid or at all, and you could lose all or part of your investment as a result.

The trading price of our common stock has been, and is likely to continue to be, volatile. Since shares of our common stock were sold in our IPO in April 2013 through December 31, 2016, our common stock price has ranged from $12.12 to $38.92. In addition to the risk factors discussed in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the trading price of our common stock may be adversely affected due to a number of factors, many of which are beyond or control, including:

We have suspended the dividend on our common stock, and our indebtedness could limit our ability to pay dividends on our common stock in the future.

In September 2016, our Board suspended the Company’s quarterly dividend to allow the Company greater flexibility to deploy capital to opportunities that offer the greatest long term returns to shareholders, such as, but not limited to, share repurchases, investments in new attractions or debt repayments.  Future dividends, if any, and the timing of declaration of any such dividends, will be at the discretion of the Board and will depend upon many factors, including, but not limited to, our results of operations, financial condition, level of indebtedness, capital requirements, contractual restrictions, restrictions in our debt agreements and in any preferred stock, business prospects and other factors that the Board deems relevant. Our ability to declare dividends and make other restricted payments is limited by covenants in our senior secured credit facilities pursuant to a credit agreement dated as of December 1, 2009, as the same may be amended, restated, supplemented or modified from time to time (the “Senior Secured Credit Facilities”). The fiscal amount available for dividend declarations, share repurchases and other restricted payments under the covenant restrictions in the debt agreements adjusts at the beginning of each quarter. See Note 11–Long-Term Debt in the notes to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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We cannot guarantee that our allocation of capital to various alternatives will enhance long-term stockholder value, and in some cases, our Share Repurchase Program could increase the volatility of the price of our common stock.

Our goal is to invest capital to maximize our overall long-term returns. This includes spending on capital projects and expenses, managing debt levels, and periodically returning capital to our shareholders through share repurchases and dividends.  There can be no assurance that our capital allocation decisions will enhance shareholder value.  During 2015, we repurchased a total of 2,413,803 shares of common stock at an average price of $18.62 per share and a total cost of approximately $45.0 million. There were no share repurchases during the year ended December 31, 2016, leaving $190.0 million available for future repurchases under the Share Repurchase Program as of December 31, 2016.  Repurchases of our common stock pursuant to the Share Repurchase Program could affect our stock price and increase its volatility. The existence of the Share Repurchase Program could cause our stock price to be higher than it would be in the absence of such a program and could potentially reduce the market liquidity for our stock.  There can be no assurance that any share repurchases will enhance stockholder value because the market price of our common stock may decline below the levels at which we repurchased shares of stock. Although the Share Repurchase Program is intended to enhance long-term stockholder value, there is no assurance that it will do so and short-term stock price fluctuations could reduce such program’s effectiveness.

If securities analysts do not publish research or reports about our business or if they downgrade our stock or our sector, our stock price and trading volume could decline.

The trading market for our common stock relies in part on the research and reports that industry or financial analysts publish about us or our business. We do not control these analysts. Furthermore, if one or more of the analysts who do cover us downgrade our stock or our industry, or the stock of any of our competitors, or publish inaccurate or unfavorable research about our business, the price of our stock could decline. If one or more of these analysts ceases coverage of the Company or fails to publish reports on us regularly, we could lose visibility in the market, which in turn could cause our stock price or trading volume to decline.

Future sales, or the perception of future sales, by us or our existing stockholders in the public market could cause the market price for our common stock to decline.

The sale of a substantial number of shares of our common stock in the public market, or the perception that such sales could occur, could harm the prevailing market price of shares of our common stock. These sales, or the possibility that these sales may occur, also might make it more difficult for us to sell equity securities in the future at a time and at a price that we deem appropriate.

Shares held by the Partnerships and certain of our directors, officers and employees are eligible for resale, subject to volume, manner of sale and other limitations under Rule 144. In addition, pursuant to a registration rights agreement entered into in connection with the 2009 Transactions, we granted the Partnerships the right, subject to certain conditions, to require us to register the sale of their shares of our common stock under the Securities Act.

As restrictions on resale end or if the Partnerships exercise their registration rights, the market price of our shares of common stock could drop significantly if the holders of these shares sell them or are perceived by the market as intending to sell them. These factors could also make it more difficult for us to raise additional funds through future offerings of our shares of common stock or other securities.

In addition, the shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under the Omnibus Incentive Plan will become eligible for sale in the public market once those shares are issued, subject to provisions relating to various vesting agreements, lock-up agreements and Rule 144, as applicable. A total of 15,000,000 shares of common stock were reserved for issuance under the Omnibus Incentive Plan, of which 8,642,630 shares of common stock remain available for future issuance as of December 31, 2016. In the future, we may also issue our securities in connection with investments or acquisitions. The amount of shares of our common stock issued in connection with an investment or acquisition could constitute a material portion of our then-outstanding shares of our common stock. Any issuance of additional securities in connection with investments or acquisitions may result in additional dilution to you.

Anti-takeover provisions in our organizational documents could delay or prevent a change of control.

Certain provisions of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws may have an anti-takeover effect and may delay, defer or prevent a merger, acquisition, tender offer, takeover attempt or other change of control transaction that a stockholder might consider in its best interest, including those attempts that might result in a premium over the market price for the shares held by our stockholders.

These provisions provide for, among other things:

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These anti-takeover provisions could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire us, even if the third-party’s offer may be considered beneficial by many of our stockholders. As a result, our stockholders may be limited in their ability to obtain a premium for their shares.

Non-U.S. holders who own or owned more than a certain ownership threshold may be subject to United States federal income tax on gains realized on the disposition of our common stock.

We believe that we are currently a U.S. real property holding corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. So long as our common stock continues to be regularly traded on an established securities market, a non-U.S. stockholder who holds or held (at any time during the shorter of the five year period preceding the date of disposition or the holder’s holding period) more than 5% of our common stock will be subject to United States federal income tax on the disposition of our common stock. Non-U.S. holders should consult their own tax advisors concerning the consequences of disposing of shares of our common stock.

Item 1B.  Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

Item 2.  Properties

The following table summarizes our principal properties, which includes approximately 400 acres of land available for future development.

We believe that our properties are in good operating condition and adequately serve our current business operations.

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Lease Agreement with City of San Diego

Our subsidiary, Sea World LLC (f/k/a Sea World Inc.), leases approximately 190 acres from the City of San Diego, including approximately 17 acres of water in Mission Bay Park, California (the “Premises”). The current lease term commenced on July 1, 1998 and extends for 50 years or the maximum period allowed by law. Under the lease, the Premises must be used as a marine park facility and related uses. In addition, we may not operate another marine park facility within a radius of 560 miles from the City of San Diego.

The annual rent under the lease is calculated on the basis of a specified percentage of Sea World LLC’s gross income from the Premises, or the minimum yearly rent, whichever is greater. The minimum yearly rent is adjusted every three years to an amount equal to 80% of the average accounting year rent actually paid for the three previous years. The current minimum yearly rent is approximately $10.4 million, which is subject to adjustment on January 1, 2020.

Item 3.  Legal Proceedings

We are subject to various allegations, claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business.  While it is impossible to determine with certainty the ultimate outcome of any of these proceedings, lawsuits and claims, management believes that adequate provisions have been made and insurance secured for all currently pending proceedings so that the ultimate outcomes will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position.

Securities Class Action Lawsuit

On September 9, 2014, a purported stockholder class action lawsuit consisting of purchasers of the Company’s common stock during the periods between April 18, 2013 to August 13, 2014, captioned Baker v. SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc., et al., Case No. 14-CV-02129-MMA (KSC), was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California against the Company, the Chairman of the Company’s Board, certain of its executive officers and Blackstone.  On February 27, 2015, Court-appointed Lead Plaintiffs, Pensionskassen For Børne- Og Ungdomspædagoger and Arkansas Public Employees Retirement System, together with additional plaintiffs, Oklahoma City Employee Retirement System and Pembroke Pines Firefighters and Police Officers Pension Fund (collectively, “Plaintiffs”), filed an amended complaint against the Company, the Chairman of the Company’s Board, certain of its executive officers, Blackstone, and underwriters of the initial public offering and secondary public offerings.  The amended complaint alleges, among other things, that the prospectus and registration statements filed contained materially false and misleading information in violation of the federal securities laws and seeks unspecified compensatory damages and other relief.  Plaintiffs contend that defendants knew or were reckless in not knowing that Blackfish was impacting SeaWorld’s business at the time of each public statement. On May 29, 2015, the Company and the other defendants filed motions to dismiss the amended complaint.  On March 31, 2016, the Court granted the motions to dismiss the amended complaint, in its entirety, without prejudice.  On May 31, 2016, Plaintiffs filed a second amended consolidated class action complaint (“Second Amended Complaint”), which, among other things, no longer names the Company’s Board or underwriters as defendants.  On June 29, 2016, the remaining defendants filed a motion to dismiss the Second Amended Complaint.  On September 30, 2016, the Court denied the motion to dismiss.  On October 28, 2016, defendants filed their Answer to the Second Amended Complaint. The Company believes that the class action lawsuit is without merit and intends to defend the lawsuit vigorously; however, there can be no assurance regarding the ultimate outcome of this lawsuit.

Shareholder Derivative Lawsuit

On December 8, 2014, a putative derivative lawsuit captioned Kistenmacher v. Atchison, et al., Civil Action No. 10437, was filed in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware against, among others, the Chairman of the Company’s Board, certain of the Company’s executive officers, directors and shareholders, and Blackstone.  The Company is a “Nominal Defendant” in the lawsuit.  On March 30, 2015, the plaintiff filed an amended complaint against the same set of defendants.  The amended complaint alleges, among other things, that the defendants breached their fiduciary duties, aided and abetted breaches of fiduciary duties, violated Florida Blue Sky laws and were unjustly enriched by (i) including materially false and misleading information in the prospectus and registration statements; and (ii) causing the Company to repurchase certain shares of its common stock from certain shareholders at an alleged artificially inflated price.  The Company does not maintain any direct exposure to loss in connection with this shareholder derivative lawsuit as the lawsuit does not assert any claims against the Company.  The Company’s status as a “Nominal Defendant” in the action reflects the fact that the lawsuit is maintained by the named plaintiff on behalf of the Company and that the plaintiff seeks damages on the Company’s behalf.  On May 21, 2015, the defendants filed a motion to stay the lawsuit pending resolution of the Company’s securities class action lawsuit. On September 21, 2015, the Court granted the motion and ordered that the derivative action to be stayed in favor of the securities class action captioned Baker v. SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc., et al., Case No. 14-CV-02129-MMA (KSC).

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Consumer Class Action Lawsuits

On March 25, 2015, a purported class action was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California against the Company, captioned Holly Hall v. SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc., Case No. 3:15-cv-00600-CAB-RBB (the “Hall Matter”).  The complaint identifies three putative classes consisting of all consumers nationwide who at any time during the four-year period preceding the filing of the original complaint, purchased an admission ticket, a membership or a SeaWorld “experience” that includes an “orca experience” from the SeaWorld amusement park in San Diego, California, Orlando, Florida or San Antonio, Texas respectively.  The complaint alleges causes of action under California Unfair Competition Law, California Consumers Legal Remedies Act (“CLRA”), California False Advertising Law, California Deceit statute, Florida Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act, Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act, as well as claims for Unjust Enrichment.  Plaintiffs’ claims are based on their allegations that the Company misrepresented the physical living conditions and care and treatment of its orcas, resulting in confusion or misunderstanding among ticket purchasers, and omitted material facts regarding its orcas with intent to deceive and mislead the plaintiff and purported class members.  The complaint further alleges that the specific misrepresentations heard and relied upon by Holly Hall in purchasing her SeaWorld tickets concerned the circumstances surrounding the death of a SeaWorld trainer.  The complaint seeks actual damages, equitable relief, attorney’s fees and costs.  Plaintiffs claim that the amount in controversy exceeds $5.0 million, but the liability exposure is speculative until the size of the class is determined (if certification is granted at all).

In addition, four other purported class actions were filed against the Company and its affiliates.  The first three actions were filed on April 9, 2015, April 16, 2015 and April 17, 2015, respectively, in the following federal courts: (i) the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida, captioned Joyce Kuhl v. SeaWorld LLC et al., 6:15-cv-00574-ACC-GJK (the “Kuhl Matter”), (ii) the United States District Court for the Southern District of California, captioned Jessica Gaab, et. al. v. SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc., Case No. 15:cv-842-CAB-RBB (the “Gaab Matter”), and (iii) the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas, captioned Elaine Salazar Browne v. SeaWorld of Texas LLC et al., 5:15-cv-00301-XR (the “Browne Matter”).  On May 1, 2015, the Kuhl Matter and Browne Matter were voluntarily dismissed without prejudice by the respective plaintiffs.  On May 7, 2015, plaintiffs Kuhl and Browne re-filed their claims, along with a new plaintiff, Valerie Simo, in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California in an action captioned Valerie Simo et al. v. SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc., Case No. 15:cv-1022-CAB-RBB (the “Simo Matter”). All four of these cases, in essence, reiterate the claims made and relief sought in the Hall Matter.

On August 7, 2015, the Gaab Matter and Simo Matter were consolidated with the Hall Matter, and the plaintiffs filed a First Consolidated Amended Complaint (“FAC”) on August 21, 2015.  The FAC pursued the same seven causes of action as the original Hall complaint, and added a request for punitive damages pursuant to the California CLRA.  

The Company moved to dismiss the FAC in its entirety, and its motion was granted on December 24, 2015.  The United States District Court for the Southern District of California granted dismissal with prejudice as to the California CLRA claim, the portion of California Unfair Competition Law claim premised on the CLRA claim, all claims for injunctive relief, and on all California claims premised solely on alleged omissions by the Company.  The United States District Court for the Southern District of California granted leave to amend as to the remainder of the complaint.  On January 25, 2016, plaintiffs filed their Second Consolidated Amended Complaint (“SAC”).  The SAC pursues the same causes of action as the FAC, except for the California CLRA, which, as noted above, was dismissed with prejudice.  The Company filed a motion to dismiss the entirety of the SAC with prejudice on February 25, 2016.  The United States District Court for the Southern District of California granted the Company’s motion to dismiss the entire SAC with prejudice and entered judgment for the Company on May 13, 2016.  Plaintiffs filed their notice of appeal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit (the “Ninth Circuit”) on June 10, 2016.  The appeal has been fully briefed and is awaiting an oral argument date.

On April 13, 2015, a purported class action was filed in the Superior Court of the State of California for the City and County of San Francisco against SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc., captioned Marc Anderson, et. al., v. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc., Case No. CGC-15-545292 (the “Anderson Matter”).  The putative class consists of all consumers within California who, within the past four years, purchased tickets to SeaWorld San Diego.  On May 11, 2015, the plaintiffs filed a First Amended Class Action Complaint (the “First Amended Complaint”).  The First Amended Complaint alleges causes of action under the California False Advertising Law, California Unfair Competition Law and California CLRA.  Plaintiffs’ claims are based on their allegations that the Company misrepresented the physical living conditions and care and treatment of its orcas, resulting in confusion or misunderstanding among ticket purchasers, and omitted material facts regarding its orcas with intent to deceive and mislead the plaintiff and purported class members.  The First Amended Complaint seeks actual damages, equitable relief, attorneys’ fees and costs.  Based on plaintiffs’ definition of the class, the amount in controversy exceeds $5.0 million, but the liability exposure is speculative until the size of the class is determined (if certification is granted at all).  On May 14, 2015, the Company removed the case to the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, Case No. 15:cv-2172-SC.  

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On May 19, 2015, the plaintiffs filed a motion to remand.  On September 18, 2015, the Company filed a motion to dismiss the First Amended Complaint in its entirety.  The motion was fully briefed.  On September 24, 2015, the United States District Court for the Northern District of California denied plaintiffs’ motion to remand.  On October 5, 2015, plaintiffs filed a motion for leave to file a motion for reconsideration of this order, and contemporaneously filed a petition for permission to appeal to the Ninth Circuit, which the Company opposed.  On October 14, 2015, the United States District Court for the Northern District of California granted plaintiffs’ motion for leave.  Plaintiffs’ motion for reconsideration was fully briefed.  On January 12, 2016, the United States District Court for the Northern District of California granted in part and denied in part the motion for reconsideration, and refused to remand the case.  On January 22, 2016, plaintiffs filed a petition for permission to appeal the January 12, 2016 order to the Ninth Circuit, which the Company opposed.  On April 7, 2016, the Ninth Circuit denied both of plaintiffs’ petitions for permission to appeal and the plaintiffs filed a motion for leave to file a Second Amended Class Action Complaint (“Second Amended Complaint”), seeking to add two additional plaintiffs and make various pleading adjustments.  The Company opposed the motion.  On August 1, 2016, the United States District Court for the Northern District of California issued an order granting in part the Company’s motion to dismiss and granting plaintiffs leave to file an amended complaint by August 22, 2016, which they filed.

The Second Amended Complaint likewise asserted causes of action based on the California False Advertising Law, California Unfair Competition Law and California CLRA.  Essentially plaintiffs allege there were fraudulent representations made by the Company about the health of its orcas that ultimately induced consumers to purchase admission tickets to SeaWorld parks and in some cases, plush toys while in the parks.  The Company moved to dismiss this on various grounds.

On November 7, 2016, the United States District Court for the Northern District of California issued an order granting in part, and denying in part, the Company’s motion to dismiss. The United States District Court for the Northern District of California found that one named plaintiff failed to allege reliance on any specific statements so those claims, in their entirety, have been dismissed.  In addition, the United States District Court for the Northern District of California determined that plaintiffs did not allege any misrepresentations made about the plush toy purchases, which disposes of the CLRA claims based on the toys.  The United States District Court for the Northern District of California also found that certain plaintiff’s conversation with SeaWorld’s trainers was not “advertising,” and dismissed the false advertising claim and Unfair Competition Law claim premised on it. 

Plaintiffs filed a Third Amended Class Action Complaint on November 22, 2016.  The Company moved to dismiss portions of that pleading, but the motion to dismiss was denied.  What remains at this point are plaintiff’s claims under California’s Unfair Competition Law, False Advertising Law and the CLRA based on the purchase of tickets; plaintiff’s California Unfair Competition Law and False Advertising Law claims based on the purchase of plush toys; and plaintiff’s claims under California’s Unfair Competition Law based on the purchase of plush toys.

The Company believes that these consumer class action lawsuits are without merit and intends to defend these lawsuits vigorously; however, there can be no assurance regarding the ultimate outcome of these lawsuits.

Other Matters

The Company is a party to various other claims and legal proceedings arising in the normal course of business. In addition, from time to time the Company is subject to audits, inspections and investigations by, or receives requests for information from, various federal and state regulatory agencies, including, but not limited to, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal-OSHA), the Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission (FWC), the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). From time to time, various parties may also bring lawsuits against the Company. Matters where an unfavorable outcome to the Company is probable and which can be reasonably estimated are accrued. Such accruals, which are not material for any period presented, are based on information known about the matters, the Company’s estimate of the outcomes of such matters, and the Company’s experience in contesting, litigating and settling similar matters. Matters that are considered reasonably possible to result in a material loss are not accrued for, but an estimate of the possible loss or range of loss is disclosed, if such amount or range can be determined. At this time, management does not expect any known claims, legal proceedings or regulatory matters to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 4.  Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

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PART II.

Item 5.  Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Market Information

The Company’s common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) under the ticker symbol “SEAS.”  As of February 20, 2017, there were approximately 906 holders of record of our outstanding common stock.  This does not include persons who hold our common stock in nominee or “street name” accounts through brokers or banks.  The following table sets forth the high and low closing sales prices per share of our common stock during the periods indicated and the amount of cash dividends declared per share:

Dividends

Prior to September 19, 2016, our Board had a policy to pay, subject to legally available funds, a regular quarterly dividend.  The payment and timing of cash dividends was within the discretion of our Board and depended on many factors, including, but not limited to, our results of operations, financial condition, level of indebtedness, capital requirements, contractual restrictions, restrictions in our debt agreements and in any preferred stock, business prospects and other factors that our Board deemed relevant.  On September 19, 2016, our Board declared a cash dividend of $0.10 per share of common stock.  Subsequent to this dividend declaration, our Board also suspended the Company’s quarterly dividend policy to allow greater flexibility to deploy capital to opportunities that offer the greatest long-term returns to shareholders such as, but not limited to, share repurchases, investments in new attractions or debt repayments. Future dividends, if any, and the timing of declaration of any such dividends, will be at the discretion of the Board and will depend upon the many factors described above.

We declared cash dividends of $0.73 per share in 2016 and $0.84 per share in 2015.  Our ability to declare dividends and make other restricted payments is limited by covenants in our senior secured credit facilities pursuant to a credit agreement dated as of December 1, 2009, as the same may be amended, restated, supplemented or modified from time to time (the “Senior Secured Credit Facilities”). The fiscal amount available for dividend declarations, share repurchases and other restricted payments under the covenant restrictions in the debt agreements adjusts at the beginning of each quarter. See Note 11–Long-Term Debt in the notes to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. For tax purposes, all of the dividends paid in 2016 and a portion of the dividends paid in 2015 were treated as a return of capital to stockholders.

Our ability to pay dividends depends on our receipt of cash dividends from our operating subsidiaries, which may further restrict our ability to pay dividends as a result of the laws of their jurisdiction of organization, agreements of our subsidiaries or covenants under any existing and future outstanding indebtedness we or our subsidiaries incur. In particular, the ability of our subsidiaries to distribute cash to SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. to pay dividends is limited by covenants in the Senior Secured Credit Facilities.

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Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

The information called for by this item is incorporated by reference from our definitive proxy statement relating to our 2017 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which we will file with the SEC within 120 days after our December 31, 2016 fiscal year end.

Stock Price Performance

This performance graph shall not be deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act, or incorporated by reference into any filing of SeaWorld under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in such filing.

The following graph shows a comparison from April 19, 2013 (the date our common stock commenced trading on the New York Stock Exchange) through December 31, 2016 of the cumulative total return for our common stock, the Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”) 500 Index, the S&P Midcap 400 Index and the S&P 400 Movies & Entertainment Index. The graph assumes that $100 was invested in the Company’s common stock and in each index at the market close on April 19, 2013 and assumes that all dividends were reinvested. The stock price performance of the following graph is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance.

Note: Comparison of 45 months cumulative total return.  Data complete through last fiscal year. Prepared by Zacks Investment Research, Inc. Used with permission. All rights reserved. Copyright 1980-2017.

Index Data: Copyright Standard and Poor’s Inc. Used with permission. All rights reserved.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities

There were no unregistered sales of equity securities during the year ended December 31, 2016.

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Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer

The following table sets forth information with respect to shares of our common stock purchased by the Company during the periods indicated:

Item 6.  Selected Financial Data

The following tables set forth our selected historical consolidated financial and operating data as of the dates and for each of the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

The selected financial data as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 and for each of the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 has been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.  The selected financial data as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements not included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

The following tables should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

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SEAWORLD ENTERTAINMENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA

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Item 7.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion contains management’s discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations and should be read together with “Selected Financial Data” and the historical consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”.  This discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates and beliefs and involve numerous risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to those described in the “Risk Factors” section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Actual results may differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. You should carefully read “Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors.”

Business Overview

We are a leading theme park and entertainment company providing experiences that matter and inspiring guests to protect animals and the wild wonders of our world.  We own or license a portfolio of recognized brands, including SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and Sea Rescue. Over our more than 50 year history, we have built a diversified portfolio of 12 destination and regional theme parks that are grouped in key markets across the United States, many of which showcase our one-of-a-kind zoological collection. Our theme parks feature a diverse array of rides, shows and other attractions with broad demographic appeal which deliver memorable experiences and a strong value proposition for our guests.

During the year ended December 31, 2016, we hosted approximately 22.0 million guests, including approximately 2.9 million international guests. In the year ended December 31, 2016, we had total revenues of $1.34 billion and we generated a net loss of $12.5 million.

In November 2015, we communicated our roadmap to stabilize our business to drive sustainable growth.  This strategic plan encompasses five key points which include (i) providing experiences that matter; (ii) delivering distinct guest experiences that are fun and meaningful; (iii) pursuing organic and strategic revenue growth; (iv) addressing the challenges we face; and (v) financial discipline.  The plan is intended to build on our strong business fundamentals by evolving the guest experience to align with consumer preferences for experiences that matter.  Through family entertainment and distinct experiences and attractions, we provide our guests an opportunity to explore and learn more about the natural world and the plight of animals in the wild, to be inspired and to act to make a better world. The plan includes a new approach to in-park activities as well as “turning parks inside out” by taking our guests behind the scenes to provide a better understanding of our veterinary care and animal rescue operations. Other elements of the plan include implementing a simplified pricing model, targeted capital investments in new attractions across our parks, and an ongoing focus on cost control as part of a larger commitment to overall financial discipline.  Additionally, we announced a new resort strategy that will include evaluating opportunities which could include purchasing or developing resort properties in or near some of our parks. We also recently announced our partnership with Miral Asset Management LLC to develop SeaWorld Abu Dhabi (see the “International Development Strategy” section which follows).

In March 2016, we converted Aquatica San Antonio into a stand-alone, separate admission park that guests can access through an independent gate without the need to purchase admission to SeaWorld San Antonio.  Prior to 2016, Aquatica San Antonio was only accessible to SeaWorld San Antonio guests for an additional fee. This separate gate has provided incremental attendance; however, we have also seen a shift in guests from SeaWorld San Antonio to Aquatica San Antonio. Total combined attendance at our Texas park locations increased by approximately 333,000 guests in the year ended December 31, 2016 when compared to 2015.

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Key Business Metrics Evaluated by Management

Attendance

We define attendance as the number of guest visits to our theme parks. Attendance drives admissions revenue as well as total in-park spending. The level of attendance at our theme parks is a function of many factors, including the opening of new attractions and shows, competitive offerings, weather, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates and global and regional economic conditions, travel patterns of both our domestic and international guests, consumer confidence and other factors beyond our control, including the potential spread of contagious diseases.

Total Revenue Per Capita

Total revenue per capita, defined as total revenue divided by total attendance, consists of admission per capita and in-park per capita spending:

Trends Affecting Our Results of Operations

Our ability to attract and retain customers depends, in part, upon the external perceptions of our brands and reputation.  Adverse publicity concerning our business generally could harm our brands, reputation and results of operations.  The considerable expansion in the use of social media over recent years has amplified the impact of negative publicity.  Our SeaWorld-branded parks have been the target of negative media attention concerning the orcas in our care, particularly in the state of California, and we believe we experienced demand pressures in 2014 and 2015 in California due to such media attention.  We introduced a number of initiatives, including new marketing and reputation campaigns to address public perceptions, share facts and correct misinformation.  We believe that these efforts, among others, have had a positive impact on public perception and on our reputation as we have seen improvement in our attendance and revenue trends in California in 2016.

On March 17, 2016, we announced that we have ended all orca breeding and the orcas currently in our care will be the last generation of orcas at SeaWorld (the “Orca Announcement”).  We also announced that we will introduce new, inspiring, natural orca encounters and phase out our current theatrical shows, as part of our ongoing commitment to education, marine science research, and rescue of marine animals. These programs will focus on orca enrichment, exercise, and overall health. This change will start in our SeaWorld San Diego park in 2017, and is expected to be at all three SeaWorld parks by 2019.  In conjunction with the Orca Announcement, the orca habitat expansion we previously disclosed (the “Blue World Project”), as originally designed and planned, will not move forward and we will spend significantly less capital than the originally proposed Blue World Project.  The “new” SeaWorld will maintain our unique value proposition of providing experiences that matter, and inspiring guests to protect animals and the wild wonders of our world.  We have implemented an integrated marketing plan designed to attract new and repeat guests to the “new” SeaWorld with its unique blend of compelling animal experiences and new rides and attractions for the whole family.

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Attendance declined in 2016 by approximately 471,000 guests, or 2.1%, primarily due to weakness at our Florida park locations, and to a lesser extent, a decline in attendance at our Northeast park locations, partially offset by an increase of 333,000 in attendance at our Texas park locations, which mainly benefited from the new gate at its water park in 2016.  The weakness in Florida, a decline of approximately 547,000 guests when compared to 2015, can be attributed to the following factors: (i) a decline in international attendance, particularly from Latin America which decreased by approximately 383,000 guests, or 32%; (ii) an overall softness in the Orlando market as evidenced by reduced hotel occupancy at Orlando-area hotels, along with competitive pressures in Orlando early in 2016; and, to a lesser extent, (iii) the adverse effects of Tropical Storm Colin, Hurricane Matthew and Hurricane Hermine at our Florida park locations.  Passholder attendance for SeaWorld Orlando in 2016 also declined, and we believe this decline resulted from less discounting on season pass products early in 2016 when compared to the same period of 2015.  To address this issue, we introduced new strategic season pass promotions later in 2016.  Passholder attendance for SeaWorld Orlando declined by 18% in the first half of 2016 compared to the first half of 2015; however, passholder attendance improved later in the year and increased by 4% in the second half of 2016 when compared to the second half of 2015.  The decline in attendance at our Northeast park locations for 2016 was primarily due to the effects of Hurricane Matthew and Hurricane Hermine.

We believe the decline in international attendance results from the strengthening of the U.S. dollar against a variety of foreign currencies.  Our internal indicators show the majority of the international shortfall is coming from Brazil, which has recently faced political instability and an economic recession.  In 2016, the decline from Latin America that we experienced in the first quarter (down 32%) accelerated during the second quarter (down 47%) but abated in the third quarter (down 28%) and the fourth quarter (down 23%).  Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates impact our business due to the effect a strong dollar has on international tourist spending. To manage this impact going forward, we modified our international marketing to reflect more appropriate ticket offers in light of the foreign currency exchange rate pressures and we shifted portions of our marketing spend from Latin America to domestic markets. The June 2016 announcement of the Referendum of the United Kingdom's Membership of the European Union (referred to as Brexit) has introduced additional volatility and uncertainty in global stock markets and currency exchange rates which could also have an impact on our future international attendance from the United Kingdom in particular.  Historically, attendance from the United Kingdom represents approximately 5% of our total annual attendance.

Looking ahead to 2017, we have introduced strategic season pass promotions and other ticket offers, expanded on our special events and announced an extensive 2017 new line-up of attractions, shows and events. We expect 2017 to be one of the largest new attraction years in our more than 50 year history. We have also begun working with a leading consulting firm in an effort to enhance our pricing capabilities and capitalize on what we believe are meaningful total revenue per capita opportunities. We plan to work together on revenue enhancement and pricing with a goal of increasing our total revenue per capita.  

Our success depends on our ability to grow our business, in part through targeted capital investments to improve our existing theme parks, rides, attractions and shows. Our growth and innovation strategies require significant commitments of management resources and capital investments designed to improve guest satisfaction and generate returns.  As a result, we make annual investments to support and improve our existing theme park facilities and attractions.  Maintaining and improving our theme parks, as well as opening new attractions, is critical to remain competitive, grow revenue, and increase our guests’ length of stay.  As mentioned above, we expect to invest in capital spending on new attractions for 2017, which will include a virtual reality experience in Orlando, a new realm and orca presentation in San Diego and new roller coasters in both Williamsburg and San Antonio.  

Our success also depends to some extent on discretionary consumer spending, which is heavily influenced by general economic conditions and the availability of discretionary income. High volatility and uncertainty as to the future global economic landscape continues to have an adverse effect on consumers’ discretionary income and consumer confidence. Difficult economic conditions and recessionary periods may adversely impact attendance figures, the frequency with which guests choose to visit our theme parks and guest spending patterns at our theme parks. Generally, our revenue and attendance growth have been correlated with domestic economic growth, as reflected in the gross domestic product (“GDP”) and the overall level of growth in domestic consumer spending.

Both attendance and total revenue per capita at our theme parks are key drivers of our revenue and profitability, and reductions in either can materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

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Regulatory Developments

On July 16, 2015, Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) offered an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2016 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies spending bill during consideration of the bill by the full Committee on Appropriations. The amendment directed the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (“APHIS”) to issue updated regulations for the display of marine mammals in domestic zoos and aquaria within six months of enactment. While that amendment was not included in the final Fiscal Year 2016 Omnibus Appropriations Bill, APHIS released a proposed rule on February 3, 2016 to amend the Animal Welfare Act regulations concerning the humane handling, care and treatment of marine mammals in captivity (the “Proposed APHIS Regulations”).  The Proposed APHIS Regulations were subject to public comment which ended on May 4, 2016.  We submitted a comment letter to APHIS on the final date for comments, expressing our views on the Proposed APHIS Regulations.  The full impact of the Proposed APHIS Regulations on our business will not be known until the Proposed APHIS Regulations are finalized.

On October 8, 2015, the California Coastal Commission approved the Blue World Project in San Diego, but attached certain conditions to its approval. Those conditions included, among other things, a prohibition against breeding orcas or transporting orcas to or from the habitat. On December 29, 2015, we filed a lawsuit against the California Coastal Commission on the grounds that the California Coastal Commission decision was outside the scope of its authority in imposing such conditions because it does not have jurisdiction over orcas, which are regulated under federal law.  As a result of the Orca Announcement, on April 18, 2016, we sent a letter to the California Coastal Commission requesting to formally withdraw our coastal development permit application for the Blue World Project habitat and discuss dismissal of the pending litigation since our legal challenge to the proposed conditions is no longer warranted. On July 27, 2016, we filed a request for dismissal to dismiss our lawsuit against the California Coastal Commission.  On October 17, 2016, we sent a letter to the California Coastal Commission objecting to the approval of the proposed revised findings for the Blue World Project.  We stated that the adoption of revised findings was not warranted or needed because of the Orca Announcement and recent changes in California law.  On November 4, 2016 the California Coastal Commission voted in the affirmative to reverse findings on the Blue World Project.

On November 16, 2015, Representative Adam Schiff (D-CA) introduced the Orca Responsibility and Care Advancement Act (the “ORCA Act”). The bill has been referred to the Natural Resources and Agriculture Committees. It is unclear whether this bill will be enacted into law, but if enacted, this bill would amend the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and the Animal Welfare Act to prohibit the breeding, the taking (wild capture), and the import or export of orcas for the purposes of public display.  

On August 26, 2016, following the Orca Announcement, the California Orca Protection Act was enacted into law and (i) codified the end of captive breeding programs and the export and import of genetic materials for orcas in California, (ii) prohibits the import or export of new orcas into or out of California, (iii) permits the transfer of orcas currently in California among existing SeaWorld facilities and (iv) requires educational presentations of orcas in California. As discussed above, the new orca programs we are developing will be consistent with these standards and begin in our San Diego park in 2017 with our other SeaWorld parks following by 2019.  On November 4, 2016, the California Coastal Commission granted approval to permit the renovation of the existing backdrop at the orca habitat at our San Diego park.  This approval allows us to continue to develop our new orca program in our San Diego park.

On February 8, 2016, the San Diego City Council decided to put a proposal on the June 7, 2016 primary ballot for voters to decide whether the city of San Diego should have a higher minimum wage than the $10 per hour required by the State of California. The proposal was approved by San Diego voters and, beginning on July 11, 2016, the city’s minimum wage was increased to $10.50 and, beginning on January 1, 2017, was increased again to $11.50. Two years later in January 2019, annual increases to the San Diego minimum wage as well as the State of California minimum wage based on the consumer price index will start to be implemented. For a discussion of certain risks associated with the San Diego minimum wage and State of California minimum wage increases, see “Risk Factors” included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including “Risks Related to Our Business and Our Industry—Increased labor costs and employee health and welfare benefits may negatively impact our operations.”

For a discussion of certain risks associated with federal and state regulations governing the treatment of animals, see “Risk Factors” included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including “Risks Related to Our Business and Our Industry—We are subject to complex federal and state regulations governing the treatment of animals, which can change, and to claims and lawsuits by activist groups before government regulators and in the courts.”  

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International Development Strategy

We believe that in addition to the growth potential that exists domestically, our brands can also have significant appeal in certain international markets. We assess these opportunities while maintaining a conservative and disciplined approach towards the execution of our international development strategy.  We have identified certain international market priorities as well as identified certain international partners within such markets for prioritization of our resources. The market priorities were developed based on a specific set of criteria to ensure we expand our brands into the most attractive markets.

On December 13, 2016, we announced our partnership with Miral Asset Management LLC to develop SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, a first-of-its-kind marine life themed park on Yas Island (the “Middle East Project”).  As part of this partnership, we are providing certain services pertaining to the planning and design of the Middle East Project, with funding received from our partner in the Middle East expected to offset our internal expenses.  

As of December 31, 2016, we have received a nonrefundable payment of $10.0 million from our partner in consideration of the design and planning services described above which is recorded as deferred revenue in other liabilities and have incurred approximately $2.8 million of deferred costs which is recorded in other assets on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2016. On November 3, 2016, the definitive documents related to the Middle East Project were finalized and executed by the parties.  

This next generation SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will also introduce the United Arab Emirates’ (“UAE”) first dedicated marine life research, rescue, rehabilitation and return center with world-class facilities and resources for the care and conservation of local marine life.  Planned to open ahead of the marine life themed park, the facility will provide an important resource for UAE nationals and residents looking to develop or enhance expertise in marine life sciences and will serve as a hub for collaboration with local and international environmental organizations and projects.  

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will be the first new SeaWorld without orcas, and will integrate up-close animal experiences, mega attractions and a world class aquarium, bringing the latest technology in visitor engagement.  SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is expected to open by 2022.  The Middle East Project is subject to various conditions, including, but not limited to, the parties completing the design development and there is no assurance that the Middle East Project will be completed or advance to the next stage.

For a discussion of certain risks associated with our international development strategy, including the Middle East Project, see “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business and Our Industry—We may not realize the benefits of acquisitions or other strategic initiatives.”

Seasonality

The theme park industry is seasonal in nature. Historically, we generate the highest revenues in the second and third quarters of each year, in part because seven of our theme parks are only open for a portion of the year. Approximately two-thirds of our attendance and revenues are generated in the second and third quarters of the year and we typically incur a net loss in the first and fourth quarters. The percent mix of revenues by quarter is relatively constant each year, but revenues can shift between the first and second quarters due to the timing of Easter and spring break holidays and between the first and fourth quarters due to the timing of Christmas and New Year. Even for our five theme parks open year-round, attendance patterns have significant seasonality, driven by holidays, school vacations and weather conditions. One of our goals is to continue to generate cash flow throughout the year to maximize profitability and minimize the effects of seasonality, in particular at our theme parks that are open year-round. In recent years, we have begun to drive attendance during non-peak times by offering a variety of seasonal programs and events, such as shows for kids, special food and concert series, and Halloween and Christmas events. In addition, during seasonally slow times, operating costs are controlled by reducing operating hours and show schedules. Employment levels required for peak operations are met largely through part-time and seasonal hiring.

Principal Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations

Revenues

Our revenues are driven primarily by attendance in our theme parks and the level of per capita spending for admission to the theme parks and per capita spending inside the theme parks for culinary, merchandise and other in-park experiences. The level of attendance in our theme parks is a function of many factors, including the opening of new attractions and shows, competitive offerings, weather, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates and global and regional economic conditions, travel patterns of both our domestic and international guests, consumer confidence and other factors beyond our control, including the potential spread of contagious diseases. Admission per capita is driven by ticket pricing, the admissions product mix and the park attendance mix. In-park per capita spending is driven by pricing changes, penetration levels (percentage of guests purchasing), new product offerings, the mix of guests (such as local, domestic or international guests) and the mix of in-park spending.  For other factors affecting our revenues, see “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business and Our Industry.”

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In addition to the theme parks, we are also involved in entertainment, media and consumer product businesses that leverage our intellectual property. While these businesses currently do not represent a material percentage of our revenue, they are important strategic drivers in terms of consumer awareness and brand building.

Costs and Expenses

The principal costs of our operations are employee salaries and benefits, advertising, maintenance, animal care, utilities and insurance. Factors that affect our operating costs and expenses include minimum wage legislation, competitive wage pressures, commodity prices, costs for construction, repairs and maintenance, other inflationary pressures and attendance levels. A large portion of our expenses is relatively fixed because the costs for full-time employees, advertising, maintenance, animal care, utilities and insurance do not vary significantly with attendance. For factors affecting our costs and expenses, see “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business and Our Industry.”

Operating expenses in 2016 increased $28.1 million, or 4%, when compared to 2015.  The increase primarily relates to an increase in other direct labor and benefit costs and an increase in equity compensation expense.  The increase in other direct labor and benefit costs resulted primarily from wage and merit increases.  The additional equity compensation expense relates to an increase of $10.2 million primarily associated with certain performance-vesting restricted shares originally granted on or before our initial public offering in 2013, (the “2.25x Performance Restricted shares”), which vested on April 1, 2016 (see Note 18–Equity-Based Compensation to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K).  

Selling, general and administrative expenses in 2016 increased $24.5 million, or 11%, when compared to 2015.  The increase relates to an increase of $20.8 million in equity compensation expense primarily related to the 2.25x Performance Restricted shares which vested on April 1, 2016 (see Note 18–Equity-Based Compensation to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K).  In addition to the increase in equity compensation expense, selling, general and administrative expenses also increased by $10.6 million related to barter expense, which was partially offset by targeted costs savings initiatives and a decrease in marketing and reputation costs.

In 2016, we removed deep-water lifting floors from the orca habitats at each of our three SeaWorld-branded theme parks.  The deep-water lifting floors were intended as another safety tool for conducting in-water training in the deeper pools. The lifting floors located in the medical pools, where our orca in-water training currently takes place, were not affected. That training will continue as an essential part of our overall safety program.  Having safely and successfully conducted in-water training in the medical pools for almost 4 years, our safety and zoological professionals determined that the deep-water lifting floors in the deeper pools were no longer needed. This change provides more space for the animals, and increases the time that the deep-water pool is available by eliminating downtime for maintenance and cleaning. As a result, in 2016, we recorded $33.7 million of accelerated depreciation related to the disposal of these lifting floors, which is included in depreciation and amortization expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of comprehensive (loss) income for the year ended December 31, 2016.  During the year ended December 31, 2016, we also recorded approximately $6.4 million in asset write-offs associated with the canceled Blue World Project, which is included in operating expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of comprehensive (loss) income for the year ended December 31, 2016.

Following a fundamental review of our cost structure, we are executing a comprehensive cost optimization program that is expected to reduce costs by approximately $65.0 million, with a targeted $40.0 million in net savings by the end of 2018.  As part of this program, on December 6, 2016, we committed to and implemented a restructuring program in an effort to reduce costs, increase efficiencies, reduce duplication of functions and improve the Company’s operations (the “2016 Restructuring Program”). The 2016 Restructuring Program involved the elimination of approximately 320 positions by the end of the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2016 across our theme parks and our headquarters. As a result, we recorded approximately $8.9 million in pre-tax restructuring charges in the fourth quarter of 2016 related to severance and other related expenses incurred in connection with the 2016 Restructuring Program. See Note 4–Restructuring Programs and Separation Costs to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

We barter theme park admission products for advertising and various other products and services. The fair value of the admission products is recognized into admissions revenue and related expenses at the time of the exchange and approximates the estimated fair value of the goods or services received or provided, whichever is more readily determinable.  As mentioned above, barter expense increased by $10.6 million in 2016 when compared to 2015.  

Results of Operations

The following discussion provides an analysis of our consolidated financial data for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015. This data should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

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Comparison of the Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015

The following table presents key operating and financial information for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015:

Admissions revenue. Admissions revenue for the year ended December 31, 2016 decreased $29.1 million, or 3.4%, to $817.8 million as compared to $846.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2015.  The decrease in admissions revenue was a result of a decline in attendance of 2.1%, along with a decrease of 1.4% in admission per capita to $37.17 in 2016 from $37.69 in 2015.    Attendance declined by approximately 471,000 guests, primarily due to weakness at our Florida park locations, and to a lesser extent, a decline in attendance at our Northeast park locations, partially offset by an increase of 333,000 in attendance at our Texas park locations, which mainly benefited from the new gate at its water park in 2016.  The weakness in Florida, a decline of approximately 547,000 guests when compared to 2015, can be attributed to the following factors: (i) a decline in international attendance, particularly from Latin America which decreased by approximately 383,000 guests, or 32%; (ii) an overall softness in the Orlando market as evidenced by reduced hotel occupancy at Orlando-area hotels, along with competitive pressures in Orlando early in 2016; and, to a lesser extent, (iii) the adverse effects of Tropical Storm Colin, Hurricane Matthew and Hurricane Hermine at our Florida park locations.  Passholder attendance for SeaWorld Orlando in 2016 also declined, and we believe this decline resulted from less discounting on season pass products early in 2016 when compared to the same period of 2015.  To address this issue, we introduced new strategic season pass promotions later in 2016.  Passholder attendance for SeaWorld Orlando declined by 18% in the first half of 2016 compared to the first half of 2015; however, passholder attendance improved later in the year and increased by 4% in the second half of 2016 when compared to the second half of 2015.  The decline in attendance at our Northeast park locations for 2016 was primarily due to the effects of Hurricane Matthew and Hurricane Hermine.  The decline in admission per capita results primarily from an unfavorable park attendance mix, resulting from more guest concentration at our water parks in 2016 and the new gate for Aquatica San Antonio, along with the impact of fewer international guests when compared to 2015.  These factors were partially offset by an increase in admissions per capita due to additional revenue from barter transactions, which are offset in expenses.

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Food, merchandise and other revenue. Food, merchandise and other revenue for the year ended December 31, 2016 increased $2.4 million, or 0.5% to $526.5 million as compared to $524.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. This increase was primarily a result of a 2.6% increase in in-park per capita spending to $23.93 in 2016 from $23.32 in 2015, which was largely offset by the decline in attendance.  In-park per capita spending improved primarily due to increased sales of in-park products, such as front of the line “Quick Queue” access.

Costs of food, merchandise and other revenues. Costs of food, merchandise and other revenues for the year ended December 31, 2016 decreased $3.3 million, or 3.2%, to $100.6 million as compared to $104.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2015.  These costs represent 19.1% and 19.8% of related revenue earned for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The decrease as a percentage of revenue relates to our ongoing focus on cost savings initiatives.

Operating expenses. Operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2016 increased by $28.1 million, or 4.0% to $736.8 million as compared to $708.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase was largely related to an increase in other direct labor and benefit costs and an increase in equity compensation expense.  The increase in other direct labor and benefit costs resulted primarily from wage and merit increases.  The additional equity compensation expense relates to an increase of $10.2 million primarily associated with the 2.25x Performance Restricted shares, which vested on April 1, 2016 (see Note 18–Equity-Based Compensation in our notes to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further details).  Operating expenses were 54.8% of total revenues in 2016 compared to 51.7% in 2015.

Selling, general and administrative. Selling, general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2016 increased by $24.5 million, or 11.4% to $238.6 million as compared to $214.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase largely relates to an increase of $20.8 million in equity compensation expense primarily related to the 2.25x Performance Restricted shares which vested on April 1, 2016 (see Note 18–Equity-Based Compensation in our notes to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further details).  In addition to the increase in equity compensation expense, selling, general and administrative expenses also increased by $10.6 million related to barter expense which was partially offset by targeted costs savings initiatives and a decrease in marketing and reputation costs.  As a percentage of total revenue, selling, general and administrative expenses were 17.7% in 2016 compared to 15.6% in 2015.  Excluding non-cash equity compensation expense and barter expense, selling, general and administrative expenses decreased by a net of $6.9 million in 2016 when compared to 2015.  

Restructuring and other related costs. Restructuring and other related costs of $9.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 relates to severance and other related expenses primarily associated with certain positions eliminated in 2016 as a result of the 2016 Restructuring Program announced in December 2016. The 2016 Restructuring Program involved the elimination of approximately 320 positions by the end of the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2016 across our theme parks and our headquarters. Restructuring and other related costs of $2.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 represent salaries and severance for individuals with continuing service obligations, which were impacted by the restructuring program announced in December 2014. See Note 4–Restructuring Programs and Separation Costs to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense for the year ended December 31, 2016 increased by $17.1 million, or 9.4% to $199.6 million as compared to $182.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2015.  The increase in depreciation and amortization expense is primarily a result of $33.7 million in accelerated depreciation incurred in the first quarter of 2016 due to the disposal of deep-water lifting floors from our orca habitats along with new asset additions, partially offset by fully depreciated assets and asset retirements.

Interest expense. Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2016 decreased $2.9 million, or 4.4% to $62.7 million as compared to $65.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, due to the $260.0 million redemption of the 11.0% unsecured senior notes in April 2015 which were refinanced with additional term loans under our senior secured credit facilities at a lower interest rate (effective rate of 4.33% as of December 31, 2016). See Note 11–Long-Term Debt to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the “Our Indebtedness” section which follows for further details.  

Loss on early extinguishment of debt and write-off of discounts and debt issuance costs. Loss on early extinguishment of debt and write-off of discounts and debt issuance costs of $20.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 relates to a $14.3 million premium paid for the early redemption of $260.0 million of our Senior Notes, along with a write-off of approximately $6.0 million in related discounts and debt issuance costs and a $0.6 million write-off in discounts and debt issuance costs related to the voluntary prepayment of $30.0 million on our Senior Secured Credit Facilities during the fourth quarter of 2015.  See Note 11–Long-Term Debt to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the “Our Indebtedness” section which follows for further details.

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Provision for income taxes. The provision for income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2016 was $9.3 million compared to a provision of $23.7 million in the year ended December 31, 2015. The change primarily results from the impact of a decrease in pretax income in 2016 compared to 2015, offset by a change in our effective tax rate. Our effective income tax rate in 2016 (-291.5%) differs from the statutory federal income tax rate primarily due to permanent items, the majority of which relates to nondeductible equity-based compensation that was recorded in the first quarter of 2016 due to the 2.25x Performance Restricted shares, which vested on April 1, 2016, the revaluation of certain state net operating loss carryforwards as a result of a restructuring and state income taxes. See Note 18–Equity-Based Compensation and Note 13–Income Taxes in our notes to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further details.

Comparison of the Years Ended December 31, 2015 and 2014

The following table presents key operating and financial information for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014: 

 NM-Not Meaningful

Admissions revenue. Admissions revenue for the year ended December 31, 2015 decreased $12.5 million, or 1.5% to $846.9 million as compared to $859.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The decrease in admissions revenue was a result of a decrease of 1.8% in admission per capita to $37.69 in 2015 from $38.37 in 2014, offset slightly by an increase of 0.3% in attendance.  The change in admission per capita primarily related to an increase in promotional offerings and passholder visitation along with an unfavorable shift in the park attendance mix compared to the prior year period.  Attendance for 2015 primarily benefited from an improvement at all but two of our park locations, due to increased promotional offerings, strong passholder visitation, additional consumer event programs and a favorable operating schedule due to the later timing of Labor Day in 2015.  The positive impact of these factors was largely offset by reduced attendance in Texas and California in 2015.  The decline in Texas primarily related to a reduction in passholder visitation and promotional offerings, a lack of significant competitive offerings at this location and the impact of record levels of rainfall during the second quarter of 2015.  The decline in California in 2015 primarily related to continued SeaWorld brand challenges.  

Food, merchandise and other revenue. Food, merchandise and other revenue for the year ended December 31, 2015 increased $5.7 million, or 1.1% to $524.1 million as compared to $518.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. This increase was primarily a result of a 0.8% increase in in-park per capita spending to $23.32 in 2015 from $23.14 in 2014, along with an increase in attendance.

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Costs of food, merchandise and other revenues. Costs of food, merchandise and other revenues for the year ended December 31, 2015 decreased $5.0 million, or 4.6%, to $104.0 million as compared to $109.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.  These costs represent 19.8% and 21.0% of related revenue earned for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The decrease as a percent of related revenue primarily resulted from the impact of cost reduction initiatives including improved leveraged buying efforts.

Operating expenses. Operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2015 decreased by $18.9 million, or 2.6% to $708.7 million as compared to $727.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The decrease was primarily a result of cost savings initiatives including a reduction in headcount resulting from the Restructuring Program implemented in December 2014 and a decrease in entertainment-related costs due primarily to reduced show offerings in 2015 resulting from cost savings initiatives.  Operating expenses were 51.7% of total revenues in 2015 compared to 52.8% in 2014.

Selling, general and administrative. Selling, general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2015 increased by $24.7 million, or 13.0% to $214.1 million as compared to $189.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The increase in 2015 was largely related to: (i) additional third party consulting costs, (ii) an increase in labor related costs primarily associated with new equity grants awarded in 2015, (iii) an increase in marketing costs associated with our reputation campaign and (iv) an increase in legal fees when compared to the prior year period.  As a percentage of total revenue, selling, general and administrative expenses were 15.6% in 2015 compared to 13.7% in 2014.

Restructuring and other related costs. Restructuring and other related costs for 2015 include $2.0 million in severance associated with certain positions eliminated in the fourth quarter of 2015, and $0.3 million related to severance for individuals with continuing service obligations through the second quarter of 2015, which were impacted by the restructuring program announced in December 2014 (the “2014 Restructuring Program”). Restructuring and other related costs of $11.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 represent severance and other related expenses incurred in connection with the 2014 Restructuring Program. The 2014 Restructuring Program involved the elimination of approximately 300 positions across our theme parks and corporate headquarters in an effort to centralize certain operations and reduce duplication of functions to increase efficiencies.  

Separation costs. Separation costs for the year ended December 31, 2014 represented costs incurred in 2014 related to the separation of our former Chief Executive Officer and President.

Secondary offering costs. On April 9, 2014, the selling stockholders completed an underwritten secondary offering of our common stock.  Pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement, we paid all expenses related to the offering, other than underwriting discounts and commissions.  No shares were sold by us in the secondary offering and the selling stockholders received all of the net proceeds from the offering.  In connection with this secondary offering, we incurred fees and expenses of $0.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.

Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense for the year ended December 31, 2015 increased by $6.2 million, or 3.5% to $182.5 million as compared to $176.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 due primarily to approximately $5.0 million of accelerated depreciation related to the closure of the Gwazi wooden rollercoaster at our Busch Gardens Tampa park along with additional depreciation due to the impact of new asset additions, offset by fully depreciated assets and asset retirements.

Interest expense. Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2015 decreased $16.0 million, or 19.6% to $65.6 million as compared to $81.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, due to the $260.0 million redemption of the 11.0% unsecured senior notes in April 2015 which were refinanced with additional term loans under our senior secured credit facilities at a lower interest rate (effective rate of 4.33% as of December 31, 2015). See Note 11–Long-Term Debt to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the “Our Indebtedness” section which follows for further details.  

Loss on early extinguishment of debt and write-off of discounts and debt issuance costs. Loss on early extinguishment of debt and write-off of discounts and debt issuance costs of $20.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 related to a $14.3 million premium paid for the early redemption of $260.0 million of our Senior Notes, along with a write-off of approximately $6.0 million in related discounts and debt issuance costs and a $0.6 million write-off in discounts and debt issuance costs related to the voluntary prepayment of $30.0 million on our Senior Secured Credit Facilities during the fourth quarter of 2015.  See Note 11–Long-Term Debt to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the “Our Indebtedness” section which follows for further details.  Loss on early extinguishment of debt and write-off of discounts and debt issuance costs of $0.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 related to a write-off in discounts and debt issuance costs related to the voluntary prepayment of $31.5 million on our Senior Secured Credit Facilities during the third quarter of 2014.

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Provision for income taxes. The provision for income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $23.7 million compared to $28.9 million in the year ended December 31, 2014. The change primarily results from the impact of a decline in the effective tax rate (from 36.6% to 32.5%) along with a decrease in pretax income in 2015 compared to 2014. Our effective income tax rate decreased primarily due to the benefit of prior year adjustments, federal tax credits, and an adjustment to certain state net operating loss carryforwards as a result of restructuring.  These benefits were offset in part by a valuation allowance recorded on charitable contribution carryforwards expiring in 2016, a valuation allowance recorded on certain state net operating losses not expected to be entirely utilized prior to expiration, as well as the impact of non-deductible costs, including certain equity compensation awards.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Overview

Our principal sources of liquidity are cash generated from operations, funds from borrowings and existing cash on hand. Our principal uses of cash may include the funding of working capital obligations, debt service, investments in theme parks (including capital projects), common stock dividends and share repurchases. As of December 31, 2016, we had a working capital deficit of approximately $109.9 million. Partially as a result of the seasonal nature of our business, we typically operate with a working capital deficit and we expect that we will continue to have working capital deficits in the future. The working capital deficits are due in part to a significant deferred revenue balance from revenues paid in advance for our theme park admissions products and high turnover of in-park products that results in a limited inventory balance. Our cash flow from operations, along with our revolving credit facilities, have allowed us to meet our liquidity needs while maintaining a working capital deficit.

As market conditions warrant and subject to our contractual restrictions and liquidity position, we, our affiliates and/or our major stockholders, including Blackstone and its affiliates, may from time to time repurchase our outstanding equity and/or debt securities, including our outstanding bank loans in privately negotiated or open market transactions, by tender offer or otherwise. Any such repurchases may be funded by incurring new debt, including additional borrowings under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities. Any new debt may also be secured debt. We may also use available cash on our balance sheet. The amounts involved in any such transactions, individually or in the aggregate, may be material. Further, since some of our debt may trade at a discount to the face amount among current or future syndicate members, any such purchases may result in our acquiring and retiring a substantial amount of any particular series, with the attendant reduction in the trading liquidity of any such series. Depending on conditions in the credit and capital markets and other factors, we will, from time to time, consider other financing transactions, the proceeds of which could be used to refinance our indebtedness or for other purposes.

Potential Debt Refinancing Transaction

We are currently exploring a potential refinancing of our existing senior secured credit facilities in order to improve our capital structure by extending maturities and improving certain other terms of our debt.  The debt refinancing will be subject to certain customary closing conditions and there can be no assurance that we will be successful in completing the refinancing on any particular terms or at all.

Dividends

Prior to September 19, 2016, our Board of Directors (the “Board”) had a policy to pay, subject to legally available funds, a regular quarterly dividend.  The payment and timing of cash dividends was within the discretion of our Board and depended on many factors, including, but not limited to, our results of operations, financial condition, level of indebtedness, capital requirements, contractual restrictions, restrictions in our debt agreements and in any preferred stock, business prospects and other factors that the Board deemed relevant.  On September 19, 2016, our Board declared a cash dividend of $0.10 per share of common stock.  Subsequent to this dividend declaration, our Board also suspended the Company’s quarterly dividend policy to allow greater flexibility to deploy capital, when possible, to opportunities that offer the greatest long-term returns to shareholders such as, but not limited to, investments in new attractions, debt repayments or share repurchases. Future dividends, if any, and the timing of declaration of any such dividends, will be at the discretion of the Board and will depend upon the many factors described above.

Dividends paid to stockholders were $65.3 million, $72.3 million and $72.1 million in the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.  For tax purposes, all of the dividends paid in 2016 and a portion of the dividends paid in 2015 and 2014 were treated as a return of capital to stockholders.  See “Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities-Dividends.”

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Certain performance-vesting restricted shares originally granted on or before our initial public offering in 2013 (the “2.25x Performance Restricted shares”) held by some of our equity plan participants vested on April 1, 2016.  As a result, we recognized $27.5 million of equity compensation expense and recorded and paid approximately $3.4 million of accumulated dividends related to these 2.25x Performance Restricted shares during the year ended December 31, 2016. See Note 18–Equity-Based Compensation to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further details.

Approximately $0.9 million of dividends declared through December 31, 2016 relate to unvested time restricted shares and unvested performance restricted shares with a performance condition considered probable of being achieved and will be paid if the awards vest in accordance with their terms. Accumulated dividends on certain performance-vesting restricted share awards that are not considered probable of vesting as of December 31, 2016, were approximately $4.1 million and will be paid only if and to the extent the shares vest in accordance with their terms.

See Note 18–Equity-Based Compensation and Note 19–Stockholders’ Equity to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further details on our dividend activity and the “Covenant Compliance” section which follows for further details on covenants that could restrict our ability to make certain restricted payments, including dividend payments and share repurchases.

Share Repurchases

In 2014, our Board authorized a share repurchase program of up to $250.0 million of our common stock (the “Share Repurchase Program”). Under the Share Repurchase Program, we are authorized to repurchase shares through open market purchases, privately-negotiated transactions or otherwise in accordance with applicable federal securities laws, including through Rule 10b5-1 trading plans and under Rule 10b-18 of the Exchange Act. The Share Repurchase Program has no time limit and may be suspended or discontinued completely at any time.  The number of shares to be purchased and the timing of purchases will be based on the level of our cash balances, general business and market conditions, and other factors, including legal requirements, debt covenant restrictions and alternative investment opportunities.

There were no share repurchases during the year ended December 31, 2016. During the year ended December 31, 2015, we repurchased a total of 2,413,803 shares of common stock at an average price of $18.62 per share and a total cost of approximately $45.0 million, leaving $190.0 million available for future repurchases under the Share Repurchase Program as of December 31, 2016. See Note 19–Stockholders’ Equity to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further details.

Other

In June 2015, we entered into five forward interest rate swap agreements (the “Forward Swaps”) to effectively fix the interest rate on the three month LIBOR-indexed interest payments associated with $1.0 billion of our outstanding long-term debt. The Forward Swaps became effective on September 30, 2016, have a total notional amount of $1.0 billion and mature on May 14, 2020.

On September 30, 2016 our 4 traditional interest rate swap agreements (collectively, the “Interest Rate Swap Agreements”) with a combined notional amount of $1.25 billion matured in accordance with their terms. See Note 11–Long-Term Debt and Note 12–Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further details.

We believe that existing cash and cash equivalents, cash flow from operations, and available borrowings under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities will be adequate to meet the capital expenditures, dividends and working capital requirements of our operations for at least the next 12 months.

The following table presents a summary of our cash flows provided by (used in) operating, investing and financing activities for the periods indicated:

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Cash Flows from Operating Activities

Net cash provided by operating activities was $280.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to $286.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2015.  The change in net cash provided by operating activities was primarily impacted by a decrease in revenue in 2016 primarily due to a decline in attendance when compared to the prior year offset by favorable changes in working capital accounts.

Net cash provided by operating activities was $286.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2015 as compared to $261.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2014.  The change in net cash provided by operating activities was primarily impacted by a reduction in costs along with slightly favorable changes in working capital accounts, offset by a decrease in revenue in 2015 primarily due to a decline in admissions per capita when compared to the prior year.

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

Investing activities consist principally of capital investments we make in our theme parks for future attractions and infrastructure. Net cash used in investing activities during the year ended December 31, 2016 consisted primarily of capital expenditures of $160.5 million largely related to future attractions.

Net cash used in investing activities during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 consisted primarily of capital expenditures of $157.3 million and $154.6 million, respectively, largely related to attractions which opened in 2015 and 2016.  

The amount of our capital expenditures may be affected by general economic and financial conditions, among other things, including restrictions imposed by our borrowing arrangements. We generally expect to fund our 2017 capital expenditures through our operating cash flow.

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Net cash used in financing activities during the year ended December 31, 2016 was primarily attributable to $65.3 million in cash dividends paid to common stockholders and $12.6 million paid on our Senior Secured Credit Facilities, as defined below, which was offset by a net draw on our Revolving Credit Facility of $9.4 million.

Net cash used in financing activities during the year ended December 31, 2015 was primarily attributable to the following: (i) $306.2 million in repayment of long-term debt, which included the early redemption of $260.0 million of our Senior Notes and a voluntary prepayment of $30.0 million in Term B-3 Loans, (ii) $72.3 million in cash dividends paid to common stockholders, (iii) $50.7 million used for treasury stock purchases, of which $5.7 million relates to treasury stock purchases in December 2014 which settled in January 2015, (iv) $14.3 million paid as a redemption premium related to the Senior Notes, and (v) $4.6 million paid in debt issuance costs related to the new Term B-3 Loans, offset by $280.0 million in proceeds from the issuance of the Term B-3 Loans under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities, as defined below, and a net draw on the Revolving Credit Facility of $15.0 million.

Net cash used in financing activities during the year ended December 31, 2014 was primarily attributable to $72.1 million in cash dividends paid to common stockholders, $60.1 million used to repurchase 2.6 million shares of our common stock and $45.5 million paid on our Term B-2 Loan under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities, as defined below, which included a voluntary prepayment of $31.5 million.

Our Indebtedness

The Company is a holding company and conducts its operations through its subsidiaries, which have incurred or guaranteed indebtedness as described below.

Senior Secured Credit Facilities

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. (“SEA”) is the borrower under our senior secured credit facilities (the “Senior Secured Credit Facilities”) pursuant to a credit agreement dated as of December 1, 2009, by and among SEA, as borrower, Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, collateral agent, letter of credit issuer and swing line lender and the other agents and lenders party thereto, as the same may be amended, restated, supplemented or modified from time to time.  

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As of December 31, 2016, our Senior Secured Credit Facilities consisted of a $1,327.9 million senior secured term loan facility (the “Term B-2 Loans”), and a $245.8 million  senior secured term loan facility (the “Term B-3 Loans”) which, in each case, will mature on May 14, 2020 along with a $192.5 million senior secured revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”), of which $24.4 million was outstanding as of December 31, 2016.  The Revolving Credit Facility will mature on the earlier of (a) April 24, 2018 and (b) the 91st day prior to the maturity date of any indebtedness incurred to refinance any of the Term B-2 Loans or Term B-3 Loans, and includes borrowing capacity available for letters of credit and for short-term borrowings referred to as the swing line borrowings. As of December 31, 2016, SEA had approximately $17.2 million of outstanding letters of credit, leaving approximately $150.9 million available for borrowing. The outstanding balance under the Revolving Credit Facility is included in current maturities on long-term debt on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2016 included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, due to the Company’s intent to repay the borrowings within the next twelve months. Subsequent to December 31, 2016, SEA borrowed an additional $45.6 million under the Revolving Credit Facility for general working capital purposes and repaid $20.0 million.

The obligations under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities are fully, unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed by each of the Company, any subsidiary of the Company that directly or indirectly owns 100% of the issued and outstanding equity interests of SEA, and, subject to certain exceptions, each of SEA’s existing and future material domestic wholly-owned subsidiaries (collectively, the “Guarantors”). Our Senior Secured Credit Facilities are collateralized by first priority or equivalent security interests, subject to certain exceptions, in (i) all the capital stock of, or other equity interests in, substantially all of SEA’s direct or indirect material wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries (subject to certain exceptions and qualifications) and 65% of the capital stock of, or other equity interests in, any of SEA’s first tier foreign subsidiaries and (ii) certain tangible and intangible assets of SEA and those of the Guarantors (subject to certain exceptions and qualifications).

Our Senior Secured Credit Facilities contain a number of customary negative covenants. Such covenants, among other things, restrict, subject to certain exceptions, the ability of SEA and its restricted subsidiaries to incur additional indebtedness;  make guarantees; create liens on assets; enter into sale and leaseback transactions; engage in mergers or consolidations; sell assets; make fundamental changes; pay dividends and distributions or repurchase SEA’s capital stock; make investments, loans and advances, including acquisitions; engage in certain transactions with affiliates; make changes in the nature of the business; and make prepayments of junior debt.  Our Senior Secured Credit Facilities also contain covenants requiring SEA to maintain specified maximum annual capital expenditures, a maximum total net leverage ratio and a minimum interest coverage ratio. SEA is required to prepay the outstanding Term B-2 and Term B-3 Loans, subject to certain exceptions with 50% of SEA’s annual “excess cash flow” (with step-downs to 25% and 0%, as applicable, based upon achievement by SEA of a certain total net leverage ratio).  During the first quarter of 2017, we expect to make a mandatory prepayment of $6.3 million on our Senior Secured Credit Facilities based on our excess cash flow calculation as of December 31, 2016.

We are currently exploring a potential refinancing of our existing senior secured credit facilities in order to improve our capital structure by extending maturities and improving certain other terms of our debt.  The debt refinancing will be subject to certain customary closing conditions and there can be no assurance that we will be successful in completing the refinancing on any particular terms or at all.

See Note 11–Long-Term Debt to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further details.

Covenant Compliance

As of December 31, 2016, we were in compliance with all covenants in the credit agreement governing the Senior Secured Credit Facilities.

The credit agreement governing the Senior Secured Credit Facilities provide for certain events of default which, if any of them were to occur, would permit or require the principal of and accrued interest, if any, on the loans under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities to become or be declared due and payable (subject, in some cases, to specified grace periods).

Under the credit agreement governing the Senior Secured Credit Facilities, our ability to engage in activities such as incurring additional indebtedness, making investments, refinancing certain indebtedness, paying dividends and entering into certain merger transactions is governed, in part, by our ability to satisfy tests based on covenant Adjusted EBITDA.

The Senior Secured Credit Facilities generally defines “Adjusted EBITDA” as net income (loss) before interest expense, income tax expense (benefit), depreciation and amortization, as further adjusted to exclude certain unusual, non-cash, and other items permitted in calculating covenant compliance under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities.  Adjusted EBITDA as defined in the Senior Secured Credit Facilities is consistent with our reported Adjusted EBITDA.

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The Senior Secured Credit Facilities contain a number of covenants that, among other things, restrict our ability and the ability of our restricted subsidiaries to, among other things, make certain restricted payments (as defined in the Senior Secured Credit Facilities), including dividend payments and share repurchases. See Note 11–Long-Term Debt to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further details concerning the calculation of the Total Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Senior Secured Credit Facilities). As of December 31, 2016, the Total Leverage Ratio as calculated under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities was 4.61 to 1.00, which results in a $90.0 million capacity for restricted payments in the year ending December 31, 2017. The amount available for dividend declarations, share repurchases and certain other restricted payments under the covenant restrictions in the debt agreements adjusts at the beginning of each quarter as set forth in Note 11–Long-Term Debt to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Adjusted EBITDA

We believe that the presentation of Adjusted EBITDA is appropriate as it eliminates the effect of certain non-cash and other items not necessarily indicative of a company’s underlying operating performance. We use Adjusted EBITDA in connection with certain components of our executive compensation program. In addition, investors, lenders, financial analysts and rating agencies have historically used EBITDA related measures in our industry, along with other measures, to estimate the value of a company, to make informed investment decisions and to evaluate companies in the industry. In addition, the presentation of Adjusted EBITDA provides additional information to investors about the calculation of, and compliance with, certain financial covenants in the Senior Secured Credit Facilities.  Adjusted EBITDA is a material component of these covenants.

Adjusted EBITDA is not a recognized term under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”), and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for a measure of our financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP and is not indicative of income from operations as determined under GAAP. Adjusted EBITDA and other non-GAAP financial measures have limitations which should be considered before using these measures to evaluate our financial performance. Adjusted EBITDA, as presented by us, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies due to varying methods of calculation. The Senior Secured Credit Facilities generally defines “Adjusted EBITDA” as net income (loss) before interest expense, income tax expense (benefit), depreciation and amortization, as further adjusted to exclude certain unusual, non-cash, and other items permitted in calculating covenant compliance under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities.  Adjusted EBITDA as defined in the Senior Secured Credit Facilities is consistent with our reported Adjusted EBITDA.

The following table reconciles Adjusted EBITDA to net (loss) income for the periods indicated: