Zip World's near £1bn impact on the Welsh economy as adventure giant reveals expansion plans

Adrenaline attraction venture Zip World has had a near £1bn impact on the Welsh economy over the last decade. The impact of the attractions operated by the Gwynedd-based business, both direct, indirect and induced, is highlighted in new research from North Wales Tourism.

Set up in 2013 the business launched its first attraction, Zip World Velocity, at Penrhyn Quarry in 2014. It now operates 33 different adventures at seven locations across Wales and England, including its latest venues with the indoor Zip World Conwy and Zip World Windermere and Manchester sites. In South Wales it has a zipwire attraction at the former Tower Colliery site in the Cynon Valley.

The impact over the last decade has been assessed at £941m, which represents a significant rise on the £251m figure calculated back in 2018.

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Chief executive of Zip World, Andrew Hudson, said: "We're incredibly proud of our contribution to economic regeneration in Wales, and this report underscores the impact we've had and will continue to have. Our ambition has always been to create long-term jobs and to support the wider economy of our local communities."

"Since launching in 2013, Zip World has opened seven sites including our newest location in Conwy and North Wales Tourism's analysis will provide invaluable insight to guide our future endeavours in driving more growth and prosperity."

"There are also ongoing initiatives to expand our UK presence further including in the Lakes and proposals in the south east of England. Investment is key for us, not only in our new sites but by adding value to our existing locations."

Zip World's expansion plans and enhanced management of existing attractions are supported by both the Welsh and UK governments, securing £6.2m worth of matched funding as part of the North Wales Growth Deal.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles, said: "The economic impact Assessment from North Wales Tourism shows the benefits of a world-class tourist attraction."

"Zip World's growth, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic, has been instrumental in championing tourism in rural Welsh communities and generating more year-round job opportunities."

"Zip World is a North Wales home-grown company who have gone from strength to strength, and it's great to see the impact they are having."

Jim Jones, chief executive of North Wales Tourism, said: "As Zip World continues to enthuse adventure seekers from near and far to Wales, the positive economic ripple effect of this leading tourist operator has been felt across our communities."

"Every pound visitors spend in North Wales circulates within the local economy, meaning the impact is even higher among other local businesses. By attracting tourists to the region, Zip World has injected over £414m in local reinvestment across the last five years alone."

"Zip World has been the catalyst to the branding of North Wales as the adventure capital of Europe, and the company remains steadfast in its mission to not only thrill visitors but also to enrich and empower our Welsh communities."

In addition to its adventures, Zip World has recently launched its brand-new luxury Forest Lodges and Camping Pods as well as renovated its Tyn-y-Coed Hotel, further expanding its accommodation offerings in the region.

The business directly employs 270.