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The Tom Anstey Column
But recent financial results have revealed an
interesting contrast between Disney and Universal, with Disney continuing to gain momentum in the Orlando tourism market while Universal has faced some recent pressure. Despite a strong start for Epic Universe,
attendance across Universal Orlando Resort softened during the summer. The company pointed to higher fuel costs, pricier airline tickets and weaker consumer sentiment affecting Orlando travel more broadly. Disney, by contrast, reported a 3% increase in
domestic attendance alongside a strong quarter at Walt Disney World. According to Disney CFO Hugh Johnston, the company's internal models had been “extremely accurate” in predicting the market impact of Epic Universe, with Johnston crediting Disney’s growth to organic actions, targeted promotions and localised marketing campaigns. In other words, a new park that Disney didn't
invest a penny into – in fact, a competitor’s park – has turned out to be a pretty effective marketing tool. Universal brought more people to Central Florida to experience its new park, and Disney has been able to capitalise on that increased demand for the destination. With continued investment in its existing parks,
Disney’s experiences business grew 10% year- over-year, generating US$9.9bn in quarterly revenue. That performance was driven by a 3% increase in overall attendance and a 4% increase in guest spending. Disney’s financial performance therefore
suggests that a fifth gate isn't currently necessary. It isn't falling behind Universal; it's growing. More importantly, it demonstrates the impact a major
DARK RIDE EDITION 2026
development can have on the wider market when the surrounding operators respond effectively.
Capacity or cannibalism? There is, however, one major argument in favour of a fifth gate: capacity. I remember a recent trip to Epcot – probably
my favourite park in Florida – which turned into a complete disappointment. The crowds were so large that, over a full day exploring the park, we managed to get on just three rides. We missed all the big hitters, including Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, something I’m still yet to experience as a result. A fifth gate could offer some much-needed
breathing room across Disney’s existing parks. Attendance would likely increase, but that demand could then be distributed across five parks instead of four. That could benefit the visitor experience,
reducing queues, easing congestion and ultimately creating a more enjoyable and authentic Disney experience. On the flip side of this, a fifth gate introduces
a self-inflicted bottleneck. Rather than drawing entirely new tourists, the all-new park five risks diverting traffic away from lower-tier parks, potentially impacting overall attendance rather than improving it.
Consumer demand A fifth gate remains a valuable legal asset for Disney’s long-term future under the Comprehensive Plan, but it isn't currently one that the company needs to build. Universal needed to expand its Orlando
footprint. Disney, meanwhile, remains the dominant 41
player in the market, not just in Florida but globally. Expanding existing parks is faster, lower- cost and makes better use of the infrastructure Disney already has in place. Disney is the ruler of Florida through strong
financial performance and continued investment in its existing portfolio. For the foreseeable future, the company may well be better served improving the kingdoms it already has rather than building a new one. But imagine the impact if it did add that fifth
gate. A new park would create additional capacity,
provide space for new IP and attractions, generate another reason to visit Walt Disney World and potentially put it so far in the lead in Florida tourism that it stands almost uncatchable. So, does Disney need a fifth gate?
No. But keep watching that 900-acre space…
TOM ANSTEY Tom is a world-traveled journalist with over a decade of experience covering the global attractions and leisure industries. The former Editor of two major industry publications, he is now a freelance writer who also lends his industry expertise to Amazon’s AI initiatives. Tom is dedicated to uncovering the stories and meeting the people behind the world’s most ambitious attractions. If you’re lucky, you might find him riding his favourite coaster - Mako at SeaWorld Orlando, or visiting his favourite park - Le Pal in France.
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