This week The Walt Disney Company reported its earnings for the most recent quarter with the Theme Parks unit posting gains in revenue, profit and attendance, along with a significant rise in point sales by Disney Vacation Club.
For the 2nd quarter of Disney's fiscal year 2025, the company reported revenue of $23.6 billion for its Experiences unit, a figure that is up 7% compared to the same period in 2024. Operating income hit $4.4 billion, up 15% over the prior year. Increases in the Experiences division were attributed to higher guest spending, expanded capacity of Disney Cruise Line and increased sales by Disney Vacation Club.
DVCNews.com sales tracking showed Disney selling approximately 321,000 vacation points in January - March 2024. This figure does not include any sales of resorts in California or Hawaii. In the same period of 2025, the sales of the same group of resorts rose to more than 544,000 points. The re-launch of sales for Disney's Polynesian Villas and Bungalows contributed to the increase.
The Theme Parks alone saw revenue rise 9% to $6.5 billion, while profits came in at $1.82 billion or 13% higher than the same period last year. Park attendance and hotel occupancy rates were also said to have increased year-over-year. Disney runs on a fiscal calendar with the year beginning on October 1. The second quarter runs from approximately January through March annually.
Disney projects continued strong performance for the remainder of 2025. This comes as Walt Disney World faces increased competion from the imminent debut of Universal Studios Epic Universe theme park. However, Disney CEO Bob Iger has consistenly expressed optimism, claiming that future reservations showed favorable indicators even as the Epic Universe opening approaches. Despite the absence of flashy new attractions in 2025, Disney has used perks like free water park entry, ticket and hotel room discounts to help boost demand. This summer, both Walt Disney World water parks will operate simultaneously for the first time since before the COVID-19 pandemic. Later this year will bring the reopening of Magic Kingdom's Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and EPCOT's Test Track following extensive refurbishment. New shows are slated to make their debut at both Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom.
Disney Consumer Products saw a 14% increase in operating income. TV networks struggled with ESPN income down $91 million compared to 2024. ABC experienced modest gains. The streaming business fared well with Disney+ adding 1.4 million new subscribers. Overall the direct-to-consumer division, which includes all of Disney's streaming ventures, saw profits rise from $47 million a year ago to $336 million in 2025.
Company-wide net income came in at $3.1 billion with earnings per share up 20% to $1.45.
