Business

Universal raises hourly wage to $17, setting pace for parks

Published

2 years ago

February 15, 2023

FILE - Visitors arrive at Universal Studios, on June 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. Universal Orlando Resort plans to raise its starting minimum wage by $2 to $17 an hour, according to a letter to workers Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023, becoming the local theme park wage leader in central Florida, just as its crosstown rival, Walt Disney World, is in contract talks with service worker unions who are pushing to increase the starting hourly wage from $15 to $18. (AP Photo/John Raoux, File)

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Universal Orlando Resort plans to raise its starting minimum wage by $2 to $17 an hour, becoming the wage leader among the big theme parks in central Florida, just as its crosstown rival, Walt Disney World, is in contract talks with service worker unions who are pushing to increase the starting hourly wage from $15 to $18.

The new wage structure, which includes raising pay for other workers based on the new rates and their time with the company, goes into effect in June, Universal Orlando Resort President and Chief Operating Officer Karen Irwin said in a letter Tuesday to the resort’s 25,000 workers.

The starting hourly wage hike is part of a larger effort aimed at improving worker benefits in a tight labor market that includes increasing 401(k) matches and tuition reimbursement, adding compassionate leave, doubling the amount of parental leave and upgrading behind-the-scenes areas for workers like break rooms and bathrooms, park officials said.

“But it doesn’t stop there, our culture seeks to create a path forward that supports our Team Members, gives them an opportunity to grow and fosters a real sense of purpose and belonging,” Irwin said in the letter.

Universal Orlando currently is recruiting for 2,500 positions across the resort. It also is gearing up toward opening a new park, Epic Universe, in 2025. The resort’s workers aren’t unionized.

At crosstown rival Walt Disney World, union members voted down a contract proposal covering 45,000 service workers earlier this month, saying it didn’t go far enough toward helping employees face cost-of-living hikes in housing and other expenses in central Florida. The company and unions plan to return to the negotiating table.

Disney World service workers who are in the six unions that make up the Service Trades Council Union coalition had been demanding a starting minimum wage jump to at least $18 an hour in the first year of the contract, up from the starting minimum wage of $15 an hour won in the previous contract.

The rejected proposal would have raised the starting minimum wage to $20 an hour for all service workers by the last year of the five-year contract, an increase of $1 each year for a majority of the workers it covered. Certain positions, like housekeepers, bus drivers and culinary jobs, would start immediately at a minimum of $20 under the proposal.

Related Topics:Attractions business Universal Orlando

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Business

Florida National News Appoints Jenna Greaves as Social Media Manager

Published

3 days ago

March 13, 2025

Willie David

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Florida National News (FNN) is proud to announce the appointment of Jenna Greaves as Social Media Manager, effective March 10, 2025, during Women’s History Month.

In her new role, Jenna Greaves will oversee FNN’s social media team and manage its growing social media platforms. She will also serve as a reporter, covering both political and environmental news.

Educational Background and Experience

Jenna holds a bachelor’s degree in print/digital journalism with a minor in political science/pre-law from the University of Central Florida. Her media experience includes working and interning at various local broadcast stations, a radio station, and print publications, giving her a well-rounded background in the industry.

Leadership and Vision

“Jenna is the right manager to lead our social media team, increase brand awareness, and engage our audience,” said FNN President J. Willie David III. “Her experience will play a vital role in enhancing FNN’s online presence and driving higher website traffic and content visibility for several of our platforms.”

– Florida National News Social Media Page

In her role as Social Media Manager, Jenna will develop and execute a comprehensive social media strategy designed to boost brand awareness, audience engagement, and online presence. She will collaborate closely with the editorial team to align content strategies with audience interests, ensuring FNN continues to deliver impactful news coverage.

Florida National News reached 1.4 million audience members in February 2025, and Jenna’s leadership is expected to expand this reach even further.

_________________________________________________________________________

J Willie David, III
Florida National News and FNN News Network
News@FloridaNationalNews.com

Business

Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando Honors Business Leaders at Exclusive Trustee Reception

Published

4 days ago

March 12, 2025

Willie David

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – The Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando (Hispanic Chamber) hosted its exclusive Trustee Reception on Thursday, March 6, bringing together influential leaders and businesses for an evening dedicated to recognition, networking, and fostering impactful relationships.

Held at Houndsmen Lounge in Live at the Pointe Orlando, a proud member of the Hispanic Chamber, the event welcomed over 120 attendees, including trustees, business leaders, and prominent community figures.

Celebrating Leadership and Partnerships

During the reception, Pedro Turushina, President and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber, underscored the value of trust and collaboration in building a lasting legacy.

“Tonight, we celebrate you—our investors, our trustees, and our key partners who continuously fuel the growth and success of the Hispanic Chamber,” Turushina shared. “We grow when we trust each other, when we come together to create an impact. If you are here tonight, it’s because you want to leave a legacy. You want to make a difference.”

The evening also featured remarks from Alejandra Escobar, Vice President of the Hispanic Chamber, who highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit driving the region’s Hispanic business community.

Other Business News: FloridaNationalNews.com congratulates Ambassador Rudolph Moise on being selected as one of the “12 Good Men 2025” by Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida

“Thank you for being here this evening, where we recognize the spirit of entrepreneurship and the commitment that drives our thriving Hispanic business community,” Escobar said.

Industry Representation and Community Engagement

The Hispanic Chamber’s 55 Trustees span key industries vital to Central Florida’s economic growth, including:

13 minority-owned businesses
14 financial services institutions
6 higher education organizations
5 healthcare and wellness providers
5 construction companies
6 government and nonprofit agencies
4 major parks and hotels

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Distinguished Guests and Live Entertainment

The Hispanic Chamber welcomed prominent leaders such as City of Orlando District 2 Commissioner Tony Ortiz and City of Kissimmee Mayor Jackie Espinoza.

The reception’s entertainment featured a captivating tango performance by Art and Movement LLC and lively music from DJ Paulo, both Chamber members.

Acknowledging Key Supporters

The Chamber extended special thanks to Travel + Leisure, the presenting sponsor, for their invaluable support. Appreciation was also given to over 80 dedicated volunteers, including the Board of Directors, Ambassadors, Supplier Council, and the Hispanic Business Advocacy Committee for their continued efforts in advancing the Chamber’s mission.

“We are incredibly grateful for the 55 Trustees — corporations, government agencies, and regional leaders — who help power our mission forward,” Turushina stated.

He further encouraged sponsors and strategic partners to continue investing in the Chamber’s impactful programs, events, and initiatives to further strengthen Central Florida’s business community.
_________________________________________________________________________________

J Willie David, III
Florida National News and FNN News Network
News@FloridaNationalNews.com

Business

Comcast Business Unveils ‘Powering the Engine of Modern Business’ Campaign with PGA TOUR Star Billy Horschel

Published

4 days ago

March 12, 2025

FNN NEWS

PHILADELPHIA & PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (FNN) – Comcast Business has unveiled a new multichannel brand campaign titled “Powering the Engine of Modern Business,” showcasing its role as a global enterprise technology partner. The campaign, which debuted ahead of THE PLAYERS® Championship 2025, features three TV spots highlighting Comcast Business’ advanced technology in real-world business scenarios.

The campaign includes cameos from Billy Horschel, golf legend Tom Watson, and Golf Channel’s Rich Lerner, with narration by Josh Brolin.

In conjunction with the campaign, Comcast Business announced a new two-year partnership with Billy Horschel, an eight-time PGA TOUR event winner and former United States President’s Cup representative. Horschel will sport the Comcast Business logo on his hat for the 2025 and 2026 PGA TOUR seasons.

“This new campaign reflects the evolution of the Comcast Business brand as a global technology solutions partner, demonstrating not just what could be possible, but what we’re actively doing for customers across industries today,” said Eileen Diskin, Chief Marketing Officer for Comcast Business.

The campaign’s three TV spots showcase Comcast Business’ innovative solutions for various industries, including retail, hospitality, healthcare, and sports. The ads highlight Comcast Business’ ability to power businesses through seamless connectivity, cybersecurity, and networking solutions.

To celebrate its second year as a Proud Partner of THE PLAYERS Championship, the campaign includes a dedicated PGA TOUR spot featuring Rich Lerner, Tom Watson, and Billy Horschel. Comcast Business plays a crucial role in supporting the technological backbone of THE PLAYERS Championship, serving as the Official Business Internet, Voice, Wi-Fi, and SD-WAN Service Provider for the PGA TOUR.

Comcast Business’ connectivity solutions power everything from international tournament broadcasts to greenskeepers’ software for robotic mowers and automated sprinklers.

The campaign, developed by Goodby Silverstein & Partners (GS&P), debuts March 10 and will run across TV, digital, and social media platforms.

For more information, visit business.comcast.com.