Disney Adds 2027 Stock Plan, Overhauls Health Benefits for 200,000 Workers
Updated
Updated · Business Insider · Aug 21
Disney Adds 2027 Stock Plan, Overhauls Health Benefits for 200,000 Workers
3 articles · Updated · Business Insider · Aug 21
Summary
Disney told U.S. employees it plans to launch an employee stock purchase plan later in 2027, pending approvals, while requiring nearly all staff to actively re-enroll in revamped medical coverage for that year.
Most medical plans will change as Disney responds to rising healthcare costs; Aon expects employer healthcare expenses to climb 9.5% next year, though Disney is not changing insurers.
The stock plan could widen equity access beyond managers and help retention after 2026 layoffs, including April cuts and reduced stock awards for some tech staff, followed by additional ESPN job losses in July.
Disney shares are up more than 15% from a late-July low but remain down 8% over the past year and 38% over five years, making a discounted purchase plan potentially more appealing than weaker stock-based compensation.
The benefits overhaul also includes broader 2027 coverage restrictions for spouses with other employer insurance and a doubling of counseling sessions in Disney's employee assistance program.