Universal’s theme parks continue to act a growth driver for parent company Comcast, after the company recorded revenue increases of 9 per cent to US$1.1bn (€1bn, £853m) in the first quarter of 2017.

For the quarter, Universal’s theme parks drew a profit of US$397m (€364m, £307.8m) – a 6.1 per cent increase on last year’s figures.

Continued growth in the company’s theme park business thanks to continued investment and the 100 per cent purchase of Universal Studios Japan in late 2015 gave strength to the rise, which is particularly impressive considering the spring break period – which traditionally falls in the first quarter – fell outside of the first three months of the year.

Universal’s parks continue to do exceptionally well for Comcast, with revenue growing around 150 per cent between 2011 and 2016, thanks in large part to the addition of Harry Potter attractions at Universal attractions, which have been a huge draw for visitors.

The parks division was so successful in 2016 that it contributed more profit to the company than Universal’s film and broadcast unit.

As part of its investment programme, Universal is currently planning to create Nintendo attractions starting at Universal Japan, while the debut of Volcano Bay in Orlando is also imminent, with an opening date set for next month.

Last year the company broke ground on its US$7.4bn (€6.9bn £5.9bn) Chinese venture – its largest ever theme park project.