Waterworld sold to new owners

Shropshire-raised entrepreneur Mo Chaudry has sold his iconic Waterworld Aqua Park in a multi-million pound deal which takes his family investment company’s net worth to over £170 million.

Mo, who was raised in Wellington and attended Wellington Grammar School and Telford College, has sold the Staffordshire-based attraction to European leisure giant the Looping Group.

The value of the multi-million pound deal has not been disclosed, but it marks a new chapter for one of the largest tropical-themed aqua parks in the UK which has been a landmark destination in Stoke-on-Trent for over three decades.

Since opening in 1989 Waterworld has welcomed millions of visitors and has become one of the most recognisable leisure attractions.

Under Mo Chaudry’s ownership, Waterworld underwent extensive reinvestment, transforming it into a highly successful leisure complex with high-adrenaline rides and family entertainment zones.

Mo, who is chairman of M Investment Group, said: “Waterworld has been a huge part of my life and business journey and I am proud of everything we have achieved as a team.

“I am now handing over the baton to Looping, a world-class operator with the vision and expertise to take Waterworld even further ensuring the resort has an exciting future.”

M Investment Group owns a diverse range of businesses including the premium fitness chain M Club Spa and Fitness and a majority stake in the international fitness solutions provider Pulse Global Group along with several other health and leisure ventures.

Mo said: “It now allows us to focus squarely on our core strengths, expanding our gyms and wellness brands here in the UK and driving Pulse Group’s growth ambition.”

The Looping Group, which operates more than 20 leisure destinations across Europe, confirmed its commitment to preserving Waterworld’s legacy while unlocking new opportunities for growth and innovation.

Q&A with Mo Chaudry on the deal

Q1: Why have you decided to sell Waterworld now?
A: Waterworld has been an incredible success story and a big part of my life for over 26 years. But the time is right to hand over the baton to Looping, a world-class operator with the scale and expertise to take the attraction to the next level. This sale also enables M Investment Group to sharpen our focus on our core strengths in fitness, wellness, and international leisure opportunities.

Q2: How much did the deal value Waterworld at?
A: While the sale price remains confidential, I can confirm that as a result, M Investment Group’s net assets now exceed £110 million, and our overall business worth has grown to more than £170 million. It’s a major milestone in our journey.

Q3: What does this mean for the future of Waterworld and its staff?
A: Waterworld has a bright future under Looping. They have a proven track record of running successful leisure destinations across Europe, and they’ve made a clear commitment to investing in the park and supporting the local community. Staff jobs are secure, and the park’s loyal visitors can expect even more exciting developments ahead.

Q4: What will M Investment Group focus on now?
A: Our core strategy is centred on gyms, fitness, wellness and childcare. Through our premium health club brand M Club and our affordable fitness chain igym, we will continue expanding across the UK. At the same time, our fitness solutions provider Pulse Global Group is targeting strong international growth in the Middle and Far East regions with outstanding long-term potential.

Q5: What role did Waterworld play in your business journey?
A: Waterworld has been more than just a business — it’s been a passion. It taught me valuable lessons in entrepreneurship, resilience, and vision. It’s been a place where millions of families have created memories, and I am proud to have played a part in that.

Q6: Will you remain involved with Waterworld in any capacity?
A: No, Waterworld will now be fully operated by Looping. I will remain a passionate supporter but my focus as Chairman of M Investment Group will be on driving our next phase of growth.

Q7: What excites you most about this next chapter?
A: I am excited about the opportunity to make a lasting impact on health and wellbeing, both in the UK and internationally. With the combined strength of M Club and Pulse Global Group, we are well positioned in the fast-growing fitness and wellness sector whilst continuing to build a world-class family investment group.