It's Clear Disney Is More Anticipated to Delight in Universal's Epic Universe's Offerings Next Year
At a question-and-answer session at the UBS Global Media and Communications Conference, Disney Chief Financial Officer Hugh Johnston spoke about the company's plans for the future in various divisions, including its theme parks. Conversations later shifted to Disney Experiences, which is preparing for the opening of Universal Studios Orlando's rival park, Epic Universe.
As per reports from Blog Mickey, the discussion offered insights into how Disney Experiences, the theme park and cruise brand of Walt Disney Company, plans to handle decreased demand due to rising prices at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World resorts. Johnston acknowledged that a decline in attendance during the summer of 2024 was a temporary issue, but things have been improving since.
However, the price hikes took effect just a few weeks ago as the parks' most popular season – the holidays – began. Southern California residents can currently avail themselves of a ticket deal at the Disneyland Resort through a promotion titled "Get a 3-Day Ticket for $67 Per Day." This offer, available up to May 15, 2025, allows for three visits.
Regarding Disney's stance on Epic Universe opening, which could potentially affect attendance at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Johnston expressed confidence, stating that Disney's parks division is a "standalone asset."
When it comes to intellectual properties (IPs), such as those from Marvel, Disney is working on incorporating recent hits, like Encanto, into future parades, and a 3D Zootopia show is in the works for the following year.
Upon direct questioning, Johnston communicated a positive perspective towards Epic Universe. Universal's theme park will debut with lands inspired by Harry Potter, How to Train Your Dragon, Nintendo, and the Universal Monsters' Dark Universe. The company's major IP at the moment is Wicked, which, as of now, does not have plans to feature at the parks despite popular demand.
Johnston mentioned the possibility of a "rising tide lifts all boats," suggesting that more attractions in Orlando could result in more visits to both resorts. However, he also highlighted that despite increased summer bookings at Walt Disney World, the company remains "cautious and conservative" about the future and has accounted for some negative aspects in its plans.
For more updates, check out the latest releases for Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek, the future of the DC Universe in film and television, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.
Io9, known for its coverage of future technology and pop culture, reported that Disney is planning to incorporate the recent hit movie 'Encanto' into future parades and is developing a 3D 'Zootopia' show for its theme parks. This strategy is part of Disney's efforts to enhance its attractions, possibly in response to the increased competition with Universal Studios Orlando's Epic Universe.
