Universal Orlando Resort

‘Remarkable’ attendance at Universal Studios points to upward trend in theme park business, Comcast says

ORLANDO, Fla. — “Remarkable” attendance in Orlando is why Comcast said it’s theme park business is on an upward trend.

The company still made less than this time last year, but it’s breaking even.

According to Comcast, guests at Universal Orlando Resort are helping all its theme parks worldwide break even, though revenue is down 33% compared to last year’s first quarter.

READ: ‘Let’s-a go!’: Super Nintendo World opens at Universal Studios Japan

“These results reflect Universal Orlando Resort’s operating at limited capacity, but trends remain encouraging as attendance continues to rebound,” said Edwin Torres with UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality, who listened in on Comcast’s earnings call on Thursday. “And we’ve been at or near capacity limits for Spring Break.”

Torres said the future looks good for a few reasons. The company has money to bring in new rides such as Jurassic World VelociCoaster, and work has resumed on the new theme park, Epic Universe.

READ: Universal announces the opening date for Jurassic World VelociCoaster

A Universal Orlando spokesperson said 98% of local furloughed workers are back.

READ: CDC says cruises could resume in July if majority of crew members, passengers are fully vaccinated

Cierra Putman

Cierra Putman, WFTV.com

Cierra Putman flew south to join Eyewitness News in July 2016.

Adam Poulisse, WFTV.com

Adam Poulisse joined WFTV in November 2019.