Disney+ EMEA Boss Karl Holmes has a lot to be proud of. With an 80% advertising revenue growth in the UK and a young adult audience share that leads the pack, Disney+ is clearly in the right direction. But what's even more fascinating is how Holmes plans to sustain this growth in a highly competitive market. In my opinion, the key to Disney+'s success lies in its ability to strike a balance between global hits and local originals, all while maintaining a strong focus on cinema releases. Let's dive into the details.
The Young Adult Advantage
What makes Disney+ stand out is its strong affinity for young adults. Almost 40% of viewing hours on the platform are from 16-34-year-olds, which is higher than any other streaming service. This is particularly interesting because it shows that Disney+ has successfully tapped into a demographic that is often overlooked by other platforms. Personally, I think this is a testament to the platform's ability to cater to a wide range of audiences, from kids to young adults.
Growth Mode and Local Originals
Disney+ is in growth mode, with a 25% increase in its EMEA customer base since the start of 2025. This growth is fueled by a 10% increase in average viewing per retail subscriber. But what's even more exciting is the focus on local originals. By increasing the number of local originals, Disney+ is not only catering to local tastes but also creating content that resonates with its audience. This is a smart move, as it allows the platform to stand out in a crowded market.
The Importance of Cinema Releases
One thing that immediately stands out is the importance of cinema releases. Disney+ has been the top studio at the EMEA box office for nine of the last 10 years, and its movies come to the platform straight after the cinemas. This is a smart strategy, as it ensures that Disney+ has a strong presence in the market and that its movies are seen by a wide audience. In my opinion, this is a key factor in Disney+'s success.
The Future of Disney+
As Disney+ continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how it navigates the competitive market. With a focus on local originals and cinema releases, the platform is well-positioned to continue its success. But it will also need to continue to innovate and adapt to changing consumer preferences. Personally, I think Disney+ has a bright future, and I'm excited to see how it continues to evolve and grow.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Disney+ EMEA boss Karl Holmes has a lot to be proud of. With a strong focus on young adults, local originals, and cinema releases, the platform is well-positioned to continue its success. But it will also need to continue to innovate and adapt to changing consumer preferences. From my perspective, Disney+ has a bright future, and I'm excited to see how it continues to evolve and grow.
