Celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, Disney's rose to become the world's most powerful entertainment empire, it all started with a simple idea and a drawing of a mouse. With an ever-growing collection of timeless classics, Disney continues to captivate generations of fans around the world.
So let's look back on this incredible journey and explore how Walt Disney's drawing of a mouse forever changed entertainment.
How it Started
Walt Disney began his career in animation. After various endeavors, including working for the Kansas City Film Ad Company and founding the 'Laugh-O-Gram' studio in Kansas City, Walt Disney and his brother Roy had their first significant success with the Alice Comedies in 1923.
On October 16, 1923, Walt and Roy Disney founded the Disney Bros. Cartoon Studio, which would later be renamed Walt Disney Studios.
After a few more creations, including Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, Disney released Steamboat Willie in 1928, introducing Mickey Mouse to the world.
This character would soon become one of - if not THE most iconic cartoon figure ever known.
Company's Growth Over the Decades
Now, decades later (100 years to be exact), Disney has become a leading entertainment powerhouse with its extensive collection of films, television networks, and streaming platforms.
From theme parks to retail stores and radio stations, Disney continues to expand into new areas of the media and entertainment industry. Disney's investment in animation and storytelling has led to a continual appreciation of its value.
Today, the company's net worth is over $170 billion.
How Does Disney Receive its Earnings?
Merchandise sales, movie tickets, cable and streaming subscriptions, licensing fees, book publishing, and more contribute to Disney's earnings. Its theme parks, resorts, and cruise lines also receive considerable revenue.
On the other hand, much of Disney's expenses go to production, marketing, employee salaries, and operating expenses.
Flickr/Inside The Magic
Disney's Most Profitable Acquisitions
Disney's most profitable acquisitions include:
- Lucasfilm
- Marvel Entertainment
- Pixar Animation Studios.
These investments gave Disney control over some of the largest franchises in entertainment (Star Wars, The Avengers, Pixar's beloved animated movies, etc.).
Disney's Strategy
Acquisitions are a significant part of Disney's strategy, providing the company access to new audiences and content.
The company has also pursued organic growth by launching streaming services like Disney+, ESPN+, and Hulu.
Continual investments in technology and diversified products leverage existing brands and strengthen their competitive advantage.
Other strategies that have led them to success include:
- Investing in new and expanding markets
- Developing high-quality and innovative content
- Partnering with other companies to expand their reach
- Diversifying their portfolio of products and services
- Developing new technologies to improve the customer experience
Implemented Innovations
Disney has always been at the forefront of innovation. It was one of the first media companies to launch its own streaming service, Disney+, in 2019.
Virtual reality (VR) projects, revolutionary travel experiences, and new technologies to enhance customer experience are all more of Disney's significant innovations.
It's no surprise that Disney adventured into the metaverse business since its innovation in storytelling has always been their signature and it's how they've stayed ahead of many others.
They have also invested in other projects involving NFT’s, mobile apps, education to name a few.
How Disney Expanded into Different Segments Inside the Entertainment Category
Pixabay/Henning E
What sets Disney apart from other film studios is its expansion into different segments within the entertainment industry.
Disney has a global presence, not only with its movie and television franchises, but also with theme parks, resorts, cruise ships, attractions, merchandise stores, commercial centers, radio stations.
- Film
- Amusement parks
- Merchandise
- Intellectual rights
- Sports content
- Hospitality
- Streaming
Leaders in Their Segment
Pixabay/woshinidayess
Disney's success is attributed to the company's willingness to be creative, taking risks and investing in new technologies and ideas.
Their strong strategy of diversifying into different segments within the entertainment industry has enabled them to reach a global audience and remain competitive. They also always remain at the forefront of trends and consumer preferences, allowing them to stay ahead of the competition.
What Should We Expect from Disney in the Future?
With Disney, the possibilities are endless. We can definitely expect them to continue their acquisitions, partnerships, and investments in new technologies. They will also likely continue to invest in content creation and better serve their customers with new and innovative products.
Envato/ijeab
There's also no doubt that they will continue telling stories and creating experiences that resonate with their global audience.
Disney is a company that has been able to capture hearts and minds around the world and, with their ever-evolving strategies, will continue to do so for another 100 years.
