Walt Disney has announced plans to invest at least $5 billion in film and television production across the UK and continental Europe over the next five years.

This investment will allocate approximately $1 billion annually to the EMEA region, which includes Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Jan Koeppen, Disney's president for the EMEA region, revealed the investment strategy in an interview with the Financial Times.

Koeppen oversees Disney's operations across 130 markets in the EMEA region, encompassing Disney+, motion pictures, television, content licensing, and local productions.

The announcement follows the success of recent films like 'Inside Out 2,' which grossed $1.6 billion globally, and 'Deadpool & Wolverine,' which earned over $900 million.

Disney's recent earnings report showed a 4% increase in total revenue to $23.1 billion, with operating income rising 19% to $4.2 billion.

Despite these positive developments, Disney has forecasted a slowdown in demand at its theme parks, leading to a 1.1% drop in shares.

Koeppen emphasized the ongoing popularity of the superhero genre, which presents significant potential for future projects.

Pinewood Studios in the UK has been a key production site for Disney, hosting 20 movies and TV shows over the past five years.

The investment will support a variety of projects across platforms, including Disney+ and National Geographic.

Upcoming projects at Pinewood include 'Snow White,' 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps,' and a new Star Wars film.

Koeppen also criticized France's regulatory environment for limiting competition and consumer choice in the media sector.