Happy Monday, Orlando, and welcome back to the newsletter. Expect a partly cloudy start to the day, with some scattered storms rolling in this afternoon. Highs will reach about 93° with lows of 77°. Here’s what’s on deck:

• Disney Reveals Details on Major Expansion Coming to Orlando Parks

• Aviara Boats to Close Central Florida Facility Amid Asset Exchange Deal

Let’s dive in.

THEME PARKS

Disney Reveals Details on Major Expansion Coming to Orlando Parks

What's happening: Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro announced several significant expansions at the company’s D23 event, including several new attractions coming to Orlando.

Why it matters: This is part of Disney’s largest expansion ever, which is expected to create more jobs and help Orlando’s tourism industry bounce back to pre-Covid levels. With 74 million visitors last year, the region is close to surpassing the 75 million visitors it had before the pandemic.

Key Orlando announcements:

• New villain-themed land: An entirely new land is coming, based on classic villains from Disney’s long history of characters. The land will include two attractions, as well as dining and shopping experiences. More details have yet to be announced.

• Cars-themed attractions: Frontierland will see two new rides themed after Pixar’s Cars, enhancing the area's appeal alongside the newly opened Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.

• Epcot’s Test Track update: A major renovation is set for 2025, introducing new scenes focused on technological advances in mobility.

• New lounges: Two themed lounges will open in 2025, one at Epcot inspired by Spaceship Earth and another at Magic Kingdom themed to Pirates of the Caribbean.

• Animal Kingdom expansion: An 11-acre section will include new attractions like an Indiana Jones adventure and an Encanto ride.

• Monsters Inc. land: Disney's Hollywood Studios will add a new area based on Monsters Inc., featuring a suspended coaster.

The bottom line: Disney’s expansive plans come as competition in Orlando’s theme park industry heats up, with Universal’s Epic Universe set to open in 2025. As both entertainment giants push the boundaries of immersive experiences, Central Florida is poised to experience continued growth in the tourism economy.

Read more here (Orlando Business Journal)

ON THE DOCKET

What’s Happening this Week?

1. First, a quick recap: Orlando City’s Leagues Cup run came to an end on Friday night as the club lost 5-4 in PKs after a scoreless draw in regulation. The boys will be back on the pitch again on the 24th to continue the regular season.

2. Access for All is back at the Orlando Museum of Art this Thursday, with free admission from 10 AM to 8 PM.

3. Third Thursday returns to downtown Orlando this Thursday from 6-9 PM, with live performances, art exhibitions, and more.

BUSINESS

Aviara Boats to Close Central Florida Facility Amid Asset Exchange Deal

What’s happening: Luxury boat brand Aviara Boats, a subsidiary of MasterCraft, is closing its Central Florida facility in Brevard County, leading to the elimination of 181 jobs. The closure began on August 8th, with all positions expected to be terminated by October 5th.

Why it matters: The closure is part of a broader asset exchange agreement between MasterCraft and MarineMax’s subsidiary, Cruisers Yachts. MasterCraft will transfer the Aviara brand to Cruisers Yachts, discontinue Aviara operations, and put the Merritt Island facility up for sale.

The bigger picture: This strategic move allows MasterCraft to concentrate on its core brands, including MasterCraft, Crest, and Balise. The transaction aligns with MasterCraft's focus on strengthening its market position while leaving Aviara’s future in the hands of MarineMax, a long-time U.S. distributor of the brand.

What’s next: The deal is expected to finalize within MasterCraft’s first fiscal quarter (July-September), with Aviara classified as a discontinued operation by Q1 2025. The global luxury yacht market is on an upward trajectory, anticipated to grow from $8.75 billion in 2024 to $17.33 billion by 2032.

Read more here (Orlando Business Journal)

QUICK HITS

In Other News…

1. After issues with bird flu and otter attacks, Orlando is looking to buy more swans for Lake Eola.

2. The IRS is offering tax relief to residents in counties impacted by storms across the state, including Orange County.

3. Two Orange County middle schools, Howard Middle and Luminary Middle, have received the necessary certifications to open on time for the first day of classes after facing construction delays.

Thanks for tuning in to today’s edition of the newsletter. See you back here tomorrow.

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