Josh D’Amaro discusses Disney’s theme park strategy, including Epic Universe competition, the new Abu Dhabi resort, and future plans for immersive experiences.
Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences, was interviewed today during the MoffettNathanson Media, Internet & Communications Conference. Since rumors have D’Amaro back in the running for Disney CEP to replace Bob Iger, this marked a significant stage for him to show off his skills and thoughts.
D’Amaro mostly used standard corporate-speak when talking about Disney and its future. In fairness, they would be expected in this setting. What did he speak about?
Josh D’Amaro Speaks About Epic Universe
He continues the company line about the brand-new theme park, Universal Epic Universe, owned by NBCUniversal, not hurting the Walt Disney World theme parks. When asked, he stated that he is not concerned about the Epic Universe theme park reducing traffic to Walt Disney World Resort. he thinks the opening of the rival theme park will help boost attendance.
Josh D’Amaro said, “We’re always on the offensive… We’re constantly investing for the long term, fortifying each one of our theme parks.” In addition, he stated, “If something is built new in central Florida, like Epic Universe, that draws new visitors to the region, that tourist is going to have to visit the Magic Kingdom.” As expected, he presented the Walt Disney World brand as a must-do. Of course, he said that Magic Kingdom was a must-do, but did not elaborate on the other three theme parks being must-dos.
Regarding being on the offensive in the Florida theme park market, Josh D’Amaro said that recent investments at Walt Disney World, such as Galaxy’s Edge and Epcot’s transformation, show a commitment to improvement that protects Walt Disney World from lower attendance.
Disney Abu Dhabi
In his interview, D’Amaro also marketed Disney’s plans to open the new theme park in Abu Dhabi, which was announced last week. He noted that Disneyland in Anaheim will turn 70 years old this year. The Abu Dhabi park will be the company’s seventh theme park resort. He stated that opening a new park is a once-in-a-decade decision.
“We knew there was demand for Disney product around the world,” D’Amaro said about the company’s scoping out locations for its next park. The team focused on the Middle East region and ultimately settled on Abu Dhabi. One-third of the world’s population is within a four-hour flight radius of Abu Dhabi.” He also said. “This is a crossroads for the world.”
D’Amaro said the resort in Abu Dhabi will be “the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio” and the setting “will allow us to tell our stories in completely new ways.”
Disney did not provide a timeline for the new park’s construction or opening target date, though it is expected to open before the new Universal theme park in the UK. Well, at least that is Disney’s hope.
The project is being developed in partnership with Miral, an Abu Dhabi-based maker of immersive destinations and experiences, which is funding the park’s buildout under Disney’s license. Disney, which will have creative control and oversight of the Abu Dhabi park.
Josh D’Amaro Voiced Optimism About Disney Parks
In this session, Josh D’Amaro said, “For every one park visitor, Disney believes there are ten people who want to visit a Disney theme park. Also, the Disney Company has 3,000 Imagineers around the world.” D’Amaro stated that Disney is trying to raise the bar in immersive storytelling. He proudly stated that Disney has more projects underway than at any other time in Disney history.
Fans of the Disney movies and the theme park also heard positive words from D’Amaro. He stated that the interaction with the Walt Disney Studios is very strong right now. When a film is released, the parks are doing something to bring it to life in physical form, according to Josh D’Amaro.
Josh D’Amaro stated in answer to a query that he is incredibly proud to work for The Walt Disney Company. He says their north star is always long-term in nature. When they encounter something like a pandemic, they continue to look to the future and invest for the future.
For more theme park-related news and information, visit MSM News.
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