Walt Disney World has been quietly implementing discounts on admission and hotel stays in response to growing customer dissatisfaction and decreasing park attendance over the past few months.
Disney recently introduced discounted three-day ticket packages priced at $89 per day, allowing guests to access Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom, although tickets for Magic Kingdom must be purchased separately. This promotion will be available until September 24 and marks a significant reduction from the previous high price of $254 for a daily Park Hopper pass.
In addition to ticket discounts, Disney is lowering the cost of its most affordable hotel accommodations. Rates at Disney’s All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports Resort can start as low as $100 per night, depending on booking dates. Bloomberg analysis indicates that these reductions can amount to a 27% decrease from regular prices.
The parks have also rolled out new dining packages this summer, which aim to cut dining expenses by 20% to 30%. Families can purchase all-day meal passes for $30 per child and $95 per adult, redeemable for select meals and snacks throughout the parks. Furthermore, Disney World is reportedly offering more quick meal options, more affordable children’s food, and flexible restaurant policies.
Experts attribute the rise in dining costs as a key factor contributing to diminishing customer satisfaction. Len Testa, president of TouringPlans.com, noted that customer satisfaction ratings have dropped from 90% to 60% as Disney shifted from a la carte offerings to fixed-price meals at many popular restaurants.
While Testa commended Disney’s cost-cutting measures, he cautioned that these actions might not truly signify a commitment to guest affordability or satisfaction. He indicated that Disney has historically been willing to compromise customer ratings in exchange for increased revenue.