Disney is rolling out major changes to its employee benefits package, introducing a stock purchase program while overhauling health insurance plans in response to increasing healthcare costs nationwide.
The news was circulated via a memo on Wednesday, August 19, that it plans to launch an Employee Stock Purchase Plan later in 2027, pending approvals. The program enables eligible workers to buy Disney shares at a discount, usually about 15% below market rate.
Details about the eligibility criteria and other specifics are yet to be sorted out, as per Disney’s EVP of Total Rewards and Employee Services, Eric Chaisson.
As for the timing of this decision, one can point to the falling share price that has decreased by 8% within the year and 38% over the past five years. According to industry insiders, this will serve as an encouragement to employees after repeated layoffs in 2019.
Major changes have also been announced in health insurance. From 2027, spouses and domestic partners will only be eligible for Disney benefits if they can’t obtain coverage through their own employer.
A Disney spokesperson said: “Like a growing number of large employers, we’re making measured adjustments to our employee benefits in response to rising healthcare costs nationwide.”
Unlike previous years, nearly all employees will need to actively choose their plans and re-enrol dependents for 2027. Disney is also expanding its Centres for Living Well with three new locations and doubling counselling sessions in its Employee Assistance Program.
2026-08-22 00:27:00
