Walt Disney World has been implementing discounts on admission prices and hotel stays in response to increasing customer dissatisfaction and a decline in park attendance.
Starting in May, Disney introduced discounted three-day ticket packages, allowing guests to visit Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom for $89 per day, although tickets to Magic Kingdom must be bought separately. This promotion is set to continue until September 24 and offers a significant reduction from the previous peak price of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
In addition to ticket discounts, Disney has reduced rates for its budget hotel accommodations. A night at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music and Sports Resort can be as low as $100, depending on the booking date, representing discounts of up to 27%, according to a Bloomberg analysis.
The parks have also launched new dining packages this summer, which cut meal costs by 20% to 30%. Families can now purchase all-day meal passes priced at $30 per child and $95 per adult, redeemable for various meals and snacks. Furthermore, Disney World is reportedly introducing more quick meal options, more affordable kids’ food, and more adaptable restaurant policies.
Experts indicate that increased food costs within the parks have contributed to the decline in customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, stated that customer satisfaction ratings dropped from 90% to 60% as Disney transitioned from a la carte dining to fixed-price meals at many popular restaurants.
While Testa acknowledges the positive impact of Disney’s cost-cutting measures, he warns that these actions might not genuinely reflect a long-term commitment to affordability or improving guest satisfaction. He noted that Disney has historically been willing to sacrifice customer ratings for increased revenue.