The Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger recently highlighted how critical the corporation is to the United States economy in an impact statement on its website.
On the company’s official website, a letter from Iger emphasized Disney’s longstanding role in shaping the American experience and driving economic growth. He wrote:
“Disney has stood the test of time as a constant source of happiness for families and communities, and a shining example of innovation and imagination. That enduring cultural influence sets Disney apart as both a brand and business, which is a privilege we take seriously. That’s why we’ve always believed it’s important to be one of the world’s most admired companies — not only for what we create, but for the positive impact we have.”
Iger’s statement came at a time when many Americans are facing rising costs and economic uncertainty, with fears of a potential recession looming. Amid these concerns, Disney has promised to spend $30 billion on domestic expansions, including new attractions like Pueblo Esperanza at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, the Disney Villains land at Magic Kingdom Park, and the DisneylandForward project.
Iger boasted about these expansions creating 10,000 new jobs in Florida and California, adding to the 160,000 employees it already has across the United States:
“Today, we have more than 160,000 U.S. employees across all 50 states from virtually every trade and profession, from animators and accountants to zoning engineers and zoologists. We are invested in their success and the communities they call home. Major new initiatives like our $30 billion+ investment in our domestic theme parks will add some 10,000 new jobs in Florida and California. And in 2025, we’ll spend over $23 billion on production for our movies and television series and licensed content, the majority of which is spent here in the U.S. Meanwhile, we’ve invested $370 million in higher education and professional development for our hourly workers nationwide through our Disney Aspire program.”
In addition to the economic contributions, Iger also emphasized Disney’s charitable efforts, pointing to the company’s partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation and children’s hospitals around the globe:
“I’m particularly proud of the ways we’re able to use the power of Disney stories to lift children’s spirits when they need it most. Through our longtime relationship with Make-A-Wish, Disney is the No. 1 wish-granter in the world for children facing critical illness, and we grant a child’s wish every hour of every day. We also support children’s hospitals across the nation and internationally, and recently fulfilled our $100 million commitment to enhance the children’s hospital experience for patients and their families.”
Disney’s investments in theme parks and other ventures, including a planned $23 billion in entertainment content production in 2025, represent a major step in the company’s efforts to continue being a driving force for good in the U.S. economy.
Iger concluded by reaffirming Disney’s commitment to its mission of being a “force for good” and making a positive impact in the communities where it operates: “All of this ongoing work and more is part of our unwavering commitment to being a force for good in the world, especially right here in our own back yard.”
Does The Walt Disney Company make the American economy better? Share your opinion with Disney Dining in the comments!
Of course, it’s the only goid thing about the stupid country. You should change the name to the United States of Disney.