Josh D'Amaro: Disney World Remains 'On the Offensive' as EPIC Universe Opens Nearby

31 days ago in "The Walt Disney Company"

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Josh D'Amaro Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products 2025

Posted: Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:10am ET by WDWMAGIC Staff

During his appearance at the MoffettNathanson Media, Internet & Communications Conference on May 14, 2025, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro directly addressed the opening of Universal’s new theme park, EPIC Universe, and how it may impact Walt Disney World.

Universal Epic Universe - Front Gate

Rather than signaling concern, D’Amaro positioned Disney’s approach as consistently forward-looking and built for long-term strength.

“If you just go back five or 10 years and you think about what’s happened at Walt Disney World, we’ve always been on the offensive. You’ll never find us in a defensive position.”

Citing Major Investments Across All Four Parks

D’Amaro pointed to the slate of high-profile additions at each Walt Disney World park in recent years as proof of Disney’s proactive strategy:

Magic Kingdom: TRON Lightcycle / Run
Animal Kingdom: Pandora – The World of Avatar, featuring Flight of Passage
Hollywood Studios: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
EPCOT: Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

“We’re constantly investing for the long term, fortifying each one of our theme parks to make sure that our destination stays together as a whole. And that’s worked incredibly well for us.”

Wide view of the new Frontierland, with two Cars-themed attractions replacing Tom Sawyer Island

No Signs of Cannibalization

D’Amaro downplayed any potential negative impact from EPIC Universe’s arrival. Instead, he suggested new additions to the Central Florida theme park market are likely to bring more visitors—and that Disney remains a mandatory stop.

“If something is built new in Central Florida, like EPIC Universe, and if it brings in additional tourists, I can almost guarantee you that that new tourist coming into the market is going to have to visit the Magic Kingdom. They’re not going to miss Star Wars at Hollywood Studios. They’re absolutely getting on Guardians of the Galaxy in EPCOT.”

Universal Epic Universe - Celestial Park - Starfall Racers

He also pointed to Disney’s recent earnings to reinforce the point.

“You saw the results. They were phenomenal for Q2. And Hugh [Johnston] talked about the forward bookings in Q3 and Q4 being very strong. So our strategy is working.”

“Always on the Offensive”

D’Amaro was clear that Disney’s approach to competition is not reactionary. The company continues to invest heavily and maintain guest interest through new experiences and infrastructure across its parks.

“We have a very solid strategy in place, always on the offensive. And as you see our investment plan in the future, you’ll notice that that’ll continue.”

With EPIC Universe set to open in 2025, Disney is publicly signaling confidence rather than concern. The company is betting that its existing infrastructure, continued investments, and brand strength will keep it ahead in Orlando’s increasingly crowded theme park market.

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DCBaker5 days ago

In a new CNBC video on theme park investments by Disney and Universal, Michael Hundgen, Vice President Creative, Walt Disney World Portfolio at Walt Disney Imagineering, briefly talks about upcoming projects (video begins at the Walt Disney World discussion):

TheMaxRebo26 days ago

I think there is a lot more variety for quick service at WDW than Uni so easier to find some better/unique options (especially outside of MK) Though I think this shifts greatly once Epic is factored in as they seem to really have stepped up their food game there

Agent H26 days ago

I’m assuming you referring to quick service in which case yeah I understand. We have one or two places we go to in each park that have food we like.

James Alucobond26 days ago

I would agree at MK and probably HS, but not at AK and EPCOT.

Agent H26 days ago

I’d say they’re about equal when it comes to quick service. ( pizza aside) if the buffet at cafe 4 was any indication though table service is significantly better at Disney.

doctornick26 days ago

I definitely find WDW food generally better than Uni. WDW has plenty of mediocre places but - especially taking the resorts into account - has a lot of places that are good food on their own (beyond being able to say "good for an amusement park"). I mean, I wouldn't go to WDW with the intent of having the best food ever but it's generally good enough that it enhances a vacation rather than detracts from it IMHO.

Chi8426 days ago

I fairness, I’m not expecting a restaurant review but I would be interested in whether the poster is commenting on park food, resort restaurants, counter or table service, etc. While not inexpensive, I’ve always found the food at WDW to be pretty good.

eddie10426 days ago

Right. There are literally hundreds of places to eat on property. Some better than others of course but to just leave that comment with no context is silly.

Chi8426 days ago

Where did you eat?

wendysue26 days ago

Just wrapping up our latest (and last) visit to WDW. It was just ok and that's not good enough for the price. I hope they invest some money in better food.

Disone27 days ago

While absolutely true I also meant it more tongue and cheek.

Nottamus28 days ago

I miss rides that close to be replaced, BUT it’s also awesome to have something new. We’ve all been on Dinosaur many times, and it’s one of my favorites - it will be in my memory - until the new ride. None of this pertains to Illuminations ROE. They never should have attempted a replacement. Upgrade? Sure.

Nottamus28 days ago

TheMaxRebo28 days ago

Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular was basically an opening day attraction (was supposed to be but was delayed) and that is still there And that is practically a new park with a new theme/vision.