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Busch moving theme parks HQ from St. Louis to Orlando

2007-10-24

By Robert Niles: Here's some big news that makes perfect sense....

Busch Entertainment Corporation, the arm of the Anheuser-Busch Companies that runs the company's theme parks, has announced that it will move from A-B headquarters in St. Louis, Mo. to new digs in Orlando, home to the company's largest park, SeaWorld Orlando.

Busch reported in a press release that the move is to be completed by July 2008, but that a specific new location has not yet been determined. (Commercial real estate agents in Central Florida: Start your Escalades!)

The move means a change in personnel, too. Current theme parks president Keith M. Kasen is staying behind in St. Louis, taking a new gig as chairman of Busch Entertainment Corp. SeaWorld Orlando GM Jim Atchison gets the promotion to president and Chief Operating Officer.

Readers' Opinions

From Gareth H on October 24, 2007 at 4:19 PM
Any news where it will be located?
From Chris Walton on October 24, 2007 at 9:28 PM
That's good, very strategic location and some separation from the "brewery world" of A-B (not that I don't love the brewery world,LOL).
From Reid Loveland on October 25, 2007 at 7:12 AM
It makes sense. There are more theme parks in Orlando then in St Louis.
From Michael Willis on October 25, 2007 at 8:04 AM
It's also only a little over an hour away from Busch Gardens in Tampa.
From Bradley Robertson on October 30, 2007 at 1:31 PM
I think it makes sense in a couple of aspects. The first being that it puts them closer to two of their largest and most popular parks. Additionally, separating the Entertainment HQ from the Brewery HQ might make it easier for them to sell the division or spin it off later if they choose to do so.

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