The Walt Disney Co. Is preparing for a pivotal period, with its theme park division under the leadership of Josh D’Amaro and the company expected to name its next CEO in early . D’Amaro, currently chairman of Disney Experiences, has been instrumental in expanding the company’s parks and resorts with new, intellectual property-driven attractions and a significant investment in gaming.
D’Amaro’s approach, highlighted at the D23 conference and subsequently at the Inbound Conference on , involved a comprehensive unveiling of future projects. The D23 event, described as a blend of concert, panel discussion and product keynote, culminated in the announcement of a new land dedicated to Disney villains at Walt Disney World. This strategy reflects a broader effort to continually innovate and provide fans with new experiences, acknowledging their intense loyalty and engagement with every company move.
The scale of investment and planning under D’Amaro is substantial. He delivered what he described as an “overwhelming amount of news” to Disney’s most dedicated fans, signaling a commitment to long-term growth and a proactive response to the competitive landscape. This includes not only new attractions but also a significant expansion into gaming, a sector where Disney is making a “multibillion-dollar bet.”
Interestingly, Disney appears to be anticipating, and even welcoming, increased competition in the theme park sector. Speaking at the MoffettNathanson Media, Internet & Communications Conference on , D’Amaro stated that the opening of NBCUniversal’s Epic Universe theme park in Orlando is expected to boost attendance at Walt Disney World. He explained that new visitors drawn to central Florida by Epic Universe will likely also visit the Magic Kingdom, framing the competition as a positive force for the entire region. Epic Universe officially opened on , and features over 50 experiences across five themed worlds.
D’Amaro’s strategy emphasizes continuous investment and fortification of Disney’s existing parks. He stated the company is “always on the offensive,” constantly investing for the long term. This approach is not limited to Orlando; Disney is also developing a new theme park in Abu Dhabi, demonstrating a global expansion strategy.
Beyond domestic expansion, Disney is also navigating a changing media landscape. While the search results do not detail specific financial figures, they allude to broader company developments, including an ESPN valuation of $30 billion and ad sales related to the Oscars. These indicate a diversified approach to revenue generation beyond the core theme park business.
The impending CEO decision adds another layer of complexity. With the announcement expected in early , D’Amaro has emerged as a leading contender for the role. His success in driving growth within the Disney Experiences division positions him as a strong candidate to succeed Bob Iger and lead the company into its next chapter. His ability to balance creative innovation with strategic investment will be crucial as Disney navigates the evolving entertainment industry.
The focus on intellectual property (IP) is a key element of D’Amaro’s strategy. The new Disney villain-themed land at Walt Disney World exemplifies this approach, leveraging established characters and stories to attract visitors. This reliance on IP is not new to Disney, but D’Amaro’s emphasis on it suggests a continued commitment to capitalizing on the company’s vast library of beloved franchises.
The company’s response to Epic Universe’s arrival is particularly noteworthy. Rather than viewing it as a direct threat, Disney anticipates a synergistic effect, believing the new park will draw more tourists to the Orlando area, ultimately benefiting all major players, including Disney. This optimistic outlook suggests a confidence in the enduring appeal of the Disney brand and its ability to attract visitors even in a more competitive environment.
As Disney prepares for these significant changes – a new CEO and continued expansion – the company’s ability to maintain its creative magic alongside its business acumen will be paramount. D’Amaro’s leadership within the Experiences division demonstrates a clear understanding of the importance of both, and his potential ascension to the CEO role could signal a continuation of this balanced approach.
