Walt Disney Company History & Overview

The Walt Disney Company

Strategic Management – 3:30pm

September 20, 2011

Overview, Mission & Objectives

Founded on October 16, 1923, The Walt Disney Company, or “the Company”, is one of the world’s leading media conglomerates. Headquartered in Burbank, California, the Company continues striving to produce unparalleled entertainment experiences based on the legacy of quality creative content and exceptional storytelling. Started by one man, Walt Disney, as a cartoon studio, this 88 year old company is now a global powerhouse controlling some of the most venerable brands in the entertainment industry (The Walt Disney Corporation).

While operating across various consumer and media sectors, the Company as a whole shares one mission. “The mission of The Walt Disney Company is to be one of the world's leading producers and providers of entertainment and information. Using our portfolio of brands to differentiate our content, services and consumer products, we seek to develop the most creative, innovative and profitable entertainment experiences and related products in the world” (The Walt Disney Corporation). Like many mission statements, Walt Disney’s is a broad statement that can be applicable to all of their divisions and affiliates. This mission ensures that the company can all move forward as a whole, regardless of the industry.

In terms of objectives, Disney wants to be one of the world's leading manufacturers and suppliers of entertainment and information by “using its portfolio of brands to differentiate its content, services and consumer products.” For financial objectives, Disney wants to maximize earnings and cash flow while also “allocating capital toward growth initiatives that will drive long-term shareholder value”(The Walt Disney Company). While exact figures weren’t released, these objectives can be considered measurable targets that the Company strives to reach as it fulfills its mission.

Historical

Originally founded as the Disney...