Josh D’Amaro Says That Epic Universe Will Benefit Disney
Since NBCUniversal announced that Epic Universe was coming to Central Florida, fans, observers, and investors have debated how the new park will affect Walt Disney World.
While it is clear that the new theme park will not be the end of The Most Magical Place on Earth, it remains to be seen whether Universal will siphon off some of Disney’s customers.
Essentially, there are two ways to view how Epic Universe will affect Disney. On one hand, the new park may simply bring more tourists to Central Florida and benefit the entire theme park industry.
Photo: Universal
The other line of thought, however, is that Disney guests will choose to spend part of their vacation at Universal, perhaps even to the point that they will choose not to stay on Disney property.
Disney Has Taken Countermeasures to Prepare For Epic Universe’s Opening
While Disney has continued to preach that they are not concerned about the arrival of Epic Universe, they have also unleashed a torrent of new deals, experiences, and discounts meant to keep guests on property this summer.
If you need evidence that Disney is concerned about Epic’s effect on attendance, look no further than the fact that Cool Kid Summer is about to launch at Walt Disney World, and theme park tickets are cheaper than they have been in years.
Josh D’Amaro Projects Confidence
Despite these actions, at today’s MoffettNathanson Media, Internet & Communications Conference, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro once again took a confident tone regarding Epic Universe.
Photo: The Walt Disney Company-
Josh D’Amaro (Chairman; Disney Parks, Experiences and Products)
“We’re always on the offensive… We’re constantly investing for the long term, fortifying each one of our theme parks,” he said.
Turning his attention to Universal, D’Amaro asserted that the park will drive new guests to Disney.
“If something is built new in central Florida, like Epic Universe,” he continued. “That tourist is going to have to visit the Magic Kingdom.”
Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom
Whether or not Epic Universe siphons guests away from Walt Disney World, one thing is clear: The arrival of the new park will usher in a new era in theme park battles.
Photo: Universal
That should be a good thing for Disney fans and Universal visitors alike.
