Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, a division of the Burbank-based Walt Disney Company, has acquired Yamaha Motor Corporation USA’s longtime 25-acre U.S. headquarters in Cypress, according to property records. The purchase, completed on September 23, represents a notable land transaction in North Orange County. Transfer tax records indicate the property, located at 6555 Katella Avenue, sold for an estimated $115 million.
The acquisition comes as Yamaha prepares to move its remaining local motor operations to Georgia. This relocation is part of a larger strategy by Yamaha Motor officials to enhance the profitability of its U.S. operations amidst changing market conditions, including rising tariffs and higher manufacturing costs. Yamaha officials previously stated intentions to lease the entire Cypress property back until December 31, 2028, to facilitate the completion of their move to Georgia.
The 25-acre campus, purchased by Iwata-based Yamaha in 1978 with its U.S. headquarters opening in 1979, covers a full city block and is accessible from Katella Avenue, Holder Street, and Yamaha Way. Zoned for industrial use, the site features a warehouse, flex space, and an office building totaling 279,000 square feet. It stands as one of the largest redevelopment sites in North Orange County, an area where available space is limited.
Yamaha has gradually consolidated its operations in Georgia over two decades. Its marine business moved to Kennesaw, Georgia, in 1999, followed by its motorsports operations in 2019. Prior to the sale, only corporate and financial services remained at the Cypress location.
The sale was handled by Avison Young, with Patrick Barnes, Paul Clark, Nick Slonek, and Jae Estep representing Yamaha Motor Co. Patrick Barnes, a principal at Avison Young, described the acquisition as "a transformational moment for both Yamaha and the city of Cypress." He added that the purchase highlights the quality of the asset and the strength of the local market, suggesting future benefits for nearby businesses and continued corporate investment in Cypress.
With this acquisition, Disney, which stands as Orange County’s top employer, now controls a substantial industrial and office property located approximately seven miles, or a 15-20 minute drive, west of Disneyland Resort in Anaheim. Officials from Yamaha and Disneyland Resort did not respond to the Business Journal’s request for a statement on the sale.
