New Attractions Keep Disney Earnings Strong

The Walt Disney Company reported strong earnings for the second quarter of 2008, thanks in large part to the parks and resorts division. In spite of negative news in other sectors of the economy, Disney’s parks and resorts division saw revenues for the quarter increase 11%, to $2.73 billion, and the segment’s operating income jumped 33%, to $339 million.

In addition to adding more value-priced hotel rooms and creating better-value vacation packages, Disney has added several new attractions to its theme parks worldwide, as well as updating existing attractions and shows. At Walt Disney World, the recent upgrades include the newly renovated Spaceship Earth at Epcot, Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and new parades, performances and attractions at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, including the interactive adventure Toy Story Mania, which had its grand opening over Memorial Day Weekend.