Disney's U.S. theme parks generate $67 billion in economic impact and support 403,000 jobs, with suppliers from Alaska to California powering its attractions.
Disney's U.S. theme parks generate nearly $67 billion in total economic impact and support about 403,000 jobs nationwide, the company said. The figure covers direct spending and supplier purchases, with employee wages included.
The entertainment giant relies on a network of outside businesses to build and run its attractions. Sarah Salvador, senior manager of strategic sourcing for Disney Experiences, said the company finds vendors through industry events and internal networks, plus referrals from existing partners. "We recognize that there's a lot of value, a lot of perspective, a lot of creativity that resides in companies of all sizes," she told Fox Business.
One of those partners is Allen Marine Tours, a family-owned operator based in Sitka, Alaska. The company has worked with Disney Cruise Line since its early Alaska sailings. Zakary Kirkpatrick, chief marketing officer, said the firm tries to keep a family feel as it grows. "We still try to maintain that family ambiance aboard our vessels with our crew," he said.
Another longtime supplier is Rando Productions, a North Hollywood firm that has built parade floats, showpieces, and attraction elements for about 35 years. Joe Rando, the owner, said the relationship started with parade floats and expanded into themed entertainment and projects with Walt Disney Imagineering. "Working with Disney has definitely elevated our company because they are a group of professionals and subject matter experts," Rando said.
Disney is highlighting these partners as part of its celebration of the nation's 250th anniversary. The company's new "Soarin' Across America" attraction features states where several suppliers are based: Missouri, Alaska, New York, Florida, and California.
Salvador said guests may not realize how many outside businesses help create Disney experiences. "It really does take a village to create these immersive experiences for our guests," she said.
Disney's stock carries an Alpha Score of 39 out of 100, a mixed reading that reflects the gap between the company's operational scale and its market valuation.
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