Wild Planet Trust has secured the long-term future of Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo by entering into an agreement with Dutch leisure company Libéma.
The charity, which currently operates the South West zoos, had been seeking a buyer to ensure the continued operation and development of both attractions. Throughout the process, Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo remained fully operational and open to visitors.
After reviewing interest from multiple potential investors, Wild Planet Trust concluded that Libéma was the ideal partner to take the zoos forward. Ownership of both sites will transfer to Libéma on 1 January for an undisclosed sum, securing their future and continued contribution to wildlife conservation and education.
Libéma have over 40 years’ experience in the zoo and wildlife sector and currently operates four zoos in the Netherlands, welcoming a combined total of more than 1.5 million visitors last year. Under Libéma’s control, Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo will no longer operate as charities.
Following a transition period, Wild Planet Trust will step back from operating the zoos to focus on its charitable mission of wildlife conservation in the UK and worldwide.
Stephen Kings, interim CEO of Wild Planet Trust, said: “This marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Paignton and Newquay Zoos as Libéma take over the commercial operations of Wild Planet Trust from 1 January 2026.
“Under Libéma’s ownership, both zoos are not only guaranteed to survive but to thrive into the future. Libéma share our commitment to animal welfare, conservation and hospitality, and we believe visitors will see significant new developments as a result.”
Sarah Barr, Chair of Wild Planet Trust, added: “When we began seeking investment, our top priority was finding a new owner who would continue to operate the zoos and protect their legacy. We were determined to find someone who shared our deep passion for conservation and animal welfare. We are confident that, under Libéma’s stewardship, the zoos will go from strength to strength whilst The Trust concentrates on its vital conservation work.”
Dirk Lips, CEO of Libéma, said: “We currently operate four zoos, including Beekse Bergen — the Netherland’s most visited wildlife attraction — but we’ve been looking to expand our activities for animal welfare, education, research and conservation.
“When the opportunity to invest in these two incredible zoos arose, we seized it with both hands. We have exciting plans to invest and enhance the visitor experience, and some of which have already been shared.”
Libéma’s purchase will ensure the vital conservation, educational and breeding programmes at Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo continue. The organisation is fully committed to conservation, supporting more than 120 breeding programmes and, through Stichting Wildlife, currently supports more than 30 active conservation initiatives worldwide, including the Northern Corridors Project. The project created safe wildlife corridors between nature reserves in Kenya to allow elephants to move safely and avoid conflict with local communities.
Paignton Zoo is currently home to more than 2,000 animals and Newquay Zoo is home to around 1000 animals. The zoos welcome approximately 400,000 guests per year.
