Walt Disney World has been implementing a series of discounts on admission and hotel stays over the past few months due to growing customer dissatisfaction and a drop in park attendance.
Starting in May, Disney introduced three-day ticket packages allowing visitors to experience Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for $89 per day, although entry to Magic Kingdom still requires a separate purchase. This price marks a significant reduction from the peak price of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
In addition to lowering ticket prices, Disney is also reducing the cost of its most affordable hotel accommodations. For instance, a night at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort can be as low as $100, depending on booking dates. These discounts can reach up to 27% off the usual rates.
This summer, Disney has also launched new dining packages aimed at lowering food costs within the parks by 20% to 30%. Families can purchase all-day meal passes costing $30 for children and $95 for adults, redeemable for various meals and snacks throughout the parks. Disney is reportedly introducing more quick meal options and less expensive kids’ meals, along with enhanced restaurant flexibility.
Experts attribute rising food costs inside the parks as one contributor to diminished customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, noted a decline in customer satisfaction ratings from 90% to 60% as Disney transitioned from a la carte dining to fixed price meals at many favored restaurants.
While Testa acknowledged the positive impact of Disney’s cost-cutting measures, he expressed concern that these efforts might not genuinely signify a commitment to affordability or improved guest experiences. He commented that Disney has historically been willing to compromise certain customer satisfaction levels for increased revenue.