Disney's Bold New Attractions to Boost Revenue
Walt Disney has revealed a slate of exciting new attractions at its theme parks, aiming to enhance revenue from its lucrative parks and cruise ships division. At the D23 fan event, several new experiences were announced, marking significant upcoming changes at Disney parks.
'Avatar' and Walt Disney Commemoration
A new 'Avatar' experience is set to be built at Disney California Adventure park, inspired by the second film in the franchise, “Avatar: The Way of Water”. Additionally, Disneyland will celebrate its 70th anniversary with a show featuring an audio-animatronic figure of founder Walt Disney, highlighting the park's rich history.
Tropical Americas at Disney's Animal Kingdom
The new Tropical Americas expansion at Disney's Animal Kingdom in Orlando, Florida, will feature two attractions. Visitors can join Indiana Jones on an adventure through a Mayan temple or follow Antonio from Disney's “Encanto” as he receives his magical gift. This expansion is scheduled to open in 2027.
Monsters, Inc. and Cars Attractions
Actor Billy Crystal announced an area dedicated to Pixar's “Monsters, Inc” at Disney's Hollywood Studios. It will include a roller coaster simulating a ride through the Laugh Factory's door vault. Pixar's “Cars” franchise will also feature in a re-imagined Frontierland at Magic Kingdom in Orlando, with attractions like an off-road adventure in Radiator Springs.
Strategic Capital Investment
Disney is allocating $60 billion in capital investments over the next decade, nearly doubling its spending. These investments are aimed at re-imagining attractions at its 12 global parks and expanding its cruise line capacity. Disney Experiences Chairman, Josh D'Amaro, emphasized the active development of these plans, ensuring fans that the groundwork is in progress.
Financial Strategy Amid Competition
Disney's parks have increasingly become a key profit driver, now contributing 60% to the company's operating profit. This growth provides stability amid challenges in traditional television and streaming sectors. Furthermore, CEO Bob Iger has outlined a $17 billion investment for Walt Disney World Resort, aiming to build on popular recent attractions like Tiana's Bayou Adventure and Cosmic Rewind.
Facing Competition from Universal Studios
With Universal Studios expanding its Epic Universe in central Florida, Disney faces stiff competition. Universal's new attractions will include themes from Harry Potter, "How to Train Your Dragon," and Nintendo's Donkey Kong. In response, Disney plans significant investments, such as a $2 billion development at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California.
Commitment to Innovation and Growth
Disney's commitment to innovation ensures it remains a leader in the theme park industry. The company plans to merge hotels, shops, and attractions into cohesive themed worlds, similar to Tokyo DisneySea Park's Fantasy Springs. Josh D'Amaro highlighted the company's obligation to continue enhancing its offerings in both California and Florida, investing aggressively and intelligently.
