Disney Shakes Up Consumer Products Business Ahead of 2026 Restructure

Disney is overhauling its Consumer Products business as part of a major restructuring effort. The changes will take effect on October 4, 2026, and affect both Disney's global licensing and publishing businesses.

The global licensing and publishing businesses are being moved under the Disney Entertainment, Studios umbrella, putting them alongside Disney's major creative groups. This move brings these businesses closer to the studios that create the stories and characters they license and publish.

Cathleen Taff has been appointed as President of Disney Entertainment, Studios and Consumer Products. With 32 years of experience at Disney, she will oversee Theatrical Distribution, Franchise Management, Production Services, Disney Theatrical Group, and Disney Music Group, in addition to the incoming Consumer Products businesses.

Meanwhile, Lisa Baldzicki has been named Executive Vice President, Global Experience & Innovation. She will continue to oversee Disney Parks merchandise but now also lead the company's owned-and-operated retail businesses, including Disney Store locations worldwide and DisneyStore.com.