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Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel/Tribune News Service via Getty Images
- Disney’s CFO Hugh Johnston addressed the upcoming Epic Universe theme park by Universal Studios.
- Johnston noted that new attractions opening in Central Florida are ”generally beneficial” for Disney.
- Both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort are enhancing their offerings with new attractions.
The Impact of Epic Universe on Central Florida’s Theme Park Landscape
The introduction of Epic Universe in Central Florida could have positive implications for its main competitor, Walt Disney World. During a recent earnings call, Hugh Johnston, the Chief Financial Officer of Disney, shared insights regarding the anticipated theme park from Universal Orlando Resort set to open in May 2025. His outlook was notably optimistic when discussing potential impacts on Disneyland’s operations.
“The early reservations we’re seeing for next summer look promising,” Johnston remarked. He emphasized that the emergence of additional attractions within the region tends to be advantageous for Disney as well.
Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for Disney Dreamers Academy
Increased Tourist Engagement Expected with New Attractions
Dennis Speigel, founder of International Theme Park Services, Inc., conveyed to Business Insider that the launch of Epic Universe is likely to draw more visitors to Central Florida. This influx could significantly benefit local attractions and businesses alike. “I anticipate a notable increase in tourists’ length of stay,” he stated. ”Visitors may extend their trips by an additional day or so due to increased activities available.”
As reported earlier this week, representatives from both Universal Orlando Resort and The Walt Disney Company did not provide immediate comments regarding these developments when approached by Business Insider.
A Major Investment: NBCUniversal’s Commitment to Growth
NBCUniversal first unveiled plans for Epic Universe back in 2019. Brian L. Roberts, CEO of Comcast Corporation, highlighted this project as a monumental investment: “Our new park signifies Comcast NBCUniversal’s largest financial commitment ever made towards our theme parks and overall growth within Florida,” he stated during an official announcement. “This reflects our immense enthusiasm about both our future endeavors within the theme park sector and our broader corporate trajectory here.”
Universal Orlando Resort
A Glimpse into What Awaits Visitors at Epic Universe
Epic Universe will offer guests an immersive experience across five distinct realms: Super Nintendo World; The Ministry of Magic inspired by the Harry Potter series; Berk Island from How to Train Your Dragon; Dark Universe featuring classic horror film monsters; and Celestial Park—each promising unique adventures tailored for all ages.
Disney’s Response: Expansions Within Existing Parks Instead Of New Ones
This past August brought surprising news as Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Experiences at The Walt Disney Company announced expansions within existing parks rather than constructing a brand-new one altogether. This revelation followed approval from local authorities concerning a substantial $17 billion development initiative aimed at enhancing current facilities across Central Florida over two months prior.
The enhancements include exciting additions such as a land dedicated entirely to beloved villains along with another themed around Pixar’s Cars franchise set within Magic Kingdom itself.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom will introduce Pueblo Esperanza—a vibrant area inspired by Encanto (2021) alongside elements drawn from Indiana Jones films.
At Hollywood Studios visitors can look forward exploring lands based on Monsters Inc., while Disneyland Resort prepares its Avengers Campus expansion along with an attraction linked directly back James Cameron’s Avatar series!
Future Projections For The Entertainment Giant
According To Thursday earnings report projections indicate operating income growth between 6% -8% expected across Experiences segment compared against figures recorded last year (2024).
