Bob Iger sheds light on Disney's response to upcoming Universal Epic Universe in Orlando

Apr 03, 2024 in "The Walt Disney Company"

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Bob Iger

Posted: Wednesday April 3, 2024 2:22pm ET by WDWMAGIC Staff

At today's Walt Disney Co. Annual Shareholders meeting, Disney CEO Bob Iger was asked about Universal's 2025 opening of Epic Universe in Orlando and how Disney has responded to the competition for theme park guests.

Bob Iger at Walt Disney World

Iger said, "We've been aware of Universal's plans for a new park for more than a decade. And we have a sophisticated approach to analyzing the needs of all of our businesses and strategically deploying capital."

He went on to list recent openings at Walt Disney World, including Star Wars Galaxy's Edge, the EPCOT transformation, and TRON Lightcycle Run at Magic Kingdom.

Nova Corps Starblaster with Spaceship Earth and Monorail passing by Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind

Iger continued, "By staggering these major launches, we've been able to commercially and operationally optimize our new offerings over time, rather than having to do it all at once. And based on the guest experience that we've heard all about, from all of these items that I just mentioned, we know that they're extremely popular and they're serving our guests extremely well."

Universal Epic Universe – Bird’s-Eye View map

According to Universal, "Epic Universe will present a level of theme park immersion that is unmatched – transporting guests to expansive worlds featuring more than 50 awe-inspiring attraction, entertainment, dining and shopping experiences that come together to create an unforgettable adventure that is nothing short of epic. The addition of Universal Orlando's fourth theme park will also transform the award-winning resort into a weeklong vacation destination filled with even more compelling experiences. "

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DCBaker31 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):

TheMaxReboMay 19, 2025

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 HMay 19, 2025

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 AlucobondMay 19, 2025

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

Agent HMay 19, 2025

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.

doctornickMay 19, 2025

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.

Chi84May 18, 2025

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.

eddie104May 18, 2025

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.

Chi84May 18, 2025

Where did you eat?

wendysueMay 18, 2025

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.

DisoneMay 18, 2025

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

NottamusMay 17, 2025

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.

NottamusMay 17, 2025

TheMaxReboMay 17, 2025

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.