Agree w/ Pete on Holiday Buffet Extortion

[TheWho]

As a frequent traveler during the July 4th week (no choice, kids out of school, best time for me to take vacation), we hit our share of buffets. I also agree that hitting us with a "holiday tax" by adding a few bucks to the buffet price is shameless. I could care less if they add lobster to the menu. Going to a counter service is not an option. For example, we love going to the Crystal Palace at lunch to cool off, re-charge the batteries and eat casually. Now, the suits figured they can squeeze a few more bucks out of us. Give me break, I agree with Pete's rant on this one.

Dave in NJ

[simonkodousek]

I agree with Pete also. It is really petty of Disney to try and squeeze a few bucks more out of us by jacking up the prices of the buffets. Disney already charges outrageously high prices for their food and the price shouldn't increase just because there will be more people available who will want to dine at these eateries. :sad2:

~Simon

[akastitch@comcast.ne]

As a frequent traveler during the July 4th week (no choice, kids out of school, best time for me to take vacation), we hit our share of buffets. I also agree that hitting us with a "holiday tax" by adding a few bucks to the buffet price is shameless. I could care less if they add lobster to the menu. Going to a counter service is not an option. For example, we love going to the Crystal Palace at lunch to cool off, re-charge the batteries and eat casually. Now, the suits figured they can squeeze a few more bucks out of us. Give me break, I agree with Pete's rant on this one.

Dave in NJ

Disney also started an extra charge on week-ends for thier hotels that they never used to, even if you book an entire week!

[GrumpyFan]

Ditto! But, what do we do about it? We can write in our protest, but I don't really see anything changing. It's just plain wrong and quite unfriendly to your guests.

[akastitch@comcast.ne]

I agree with Pete also. It is really petty of Disney to try and squeeze a few bucks more out of us by jacking up the prices of the buffets. Disney already charges outrageously high prices for their food and the price shouldn't increase just because there will be more people available who will want to dine at these eateries. :sad2:

~Simon

I've also been told that Coca Cola doesn't charge them for the soft drinks in exchange for free advertising all over the parks. So the $4 for a soda is pure profit for them if this is true!

[akastitch@comcast.ne]

Ditto! But, what do we do about it? We can write in our protest, but I don't really see anything changing. It's just plain wrong and quite unfriendly to your guests.
If they hear from enough people they might! (one would hope)

[akastitch@comcast.ne]

Disney used to be our escape from reality, but it's becoming way too expesive even considering the deals they give to Fl reidents. There was an article in the paper down here that they want to start doing fast passes according to what hotel you are staying in, deluxe resorts 1st & on down the line! All they seem to care about is money, I know they need to make a profit to stay open, but come on!

[simonkodousek]

I've also been told that Coca Cola doesn't charge them for the soft drinks in exchange for free advertising all over the parks. So the $4 for a soda is pure profit for them if this is true!

Wait, if they are charging $4 for a bottle of soda that they don't pay anything for, that is pretty much robbery! What an obscene and tasteless thing for Disney to do. They should be very ashamed of themselves... :guilty:

[UrsulasShadow]

I've already decided that all the price increases for hotels and food have made it much more attractive to stay offsite. Combine that with the downfall in Orlando's occupancy rates, and there's going to be even MORE attractive deals to keep me eating/sleeping offsite. Don't get me wrong, I'm a HUGE Disney resort fan. I love the all-inclusive aspect of it, the 24/7 Disney-fication, but I have to honestly say....this last trip, when I stayed in a vacation home, I really didn't miss staying onsite. As a matter of fact, I found it very comfortable.

You can write all the letters you want, but until you speak to the wallet, I'm afraid Disney won't care how indignant you are. Just don't pay it. Try off-site, just for one trip. I guarantee that if enough people do that, prices will come RIGHT down.

[TheWho]

I think screaming from the hilltops (or a podcat or a message board)is not a bad thing.
Will it reverse the policy?, most likely not.

Am I not going to stop visting WDW and their buffets, most likely not.

But at least, for example, when airlines add a fuel surcharge or an added charge because of new security concerns, you can make the arguement.

Adding an additional charge just because it's the crowded holiday time is just shallow, no value added for the customer. I can see the power point chart now at Disney Corporate charting the additional revenue.

Dave in NJ

[simonkodousek]

This is like the DDP where a good tip is (or now, was) already included even if you want to pay it or not. If the server was horrible, he/she can do an awful job but still get a good tip on top of it... :(

[fakereadhed]

But, what do we do about it? We can write in our protest, but I don't really see anything changing.

Not only write, but don't go to the buffets when the pricing is in effect. That will be a clear message. As long as they can fill those places during the "holidays" :rolleyes: I'm sure it will continue.

The worst part is that most of the guests that come to WDW are really clueless about these things and won't realize they are getting gouged at all. Heck, half of the people on the DIS are excited that they are having more Pirate and Princess parties. My hat goes off to whoever thought up this idea to get more money-it's genius- but mine is going to stay in my wallet.

[akastitch@comcast.ne]

Not only write, but don't go to the buffets when the pricing is in effect. That will be a clear message. As long as they can fill those places during the "holidays" :rolleyes: I'm sure it will continue.

The worst part is that most of the guests that come to WDW are really clueless about these things and won't realize they are getting gouged at all. Heck, half of the people on the DIS are excited that they are having more Pirate and Princess parties. My hat goes off to whoever thought up this idea to get more money-it's genius- but mine is going to stay in my wallet.

Exactly! As long as people are paying Disney doesn't care! Guest satisfaction is no longer thier #1 priority

[kmk1180]

Not that I disagree with the paying more thing but to play devil's advocate...during the peak days it does take more staff, more operational costs, overhead, ect. and thus cost more to operate the parks.
I don't like $4 soda but in the end Disney World is a Business and operates to make money.

And being a former employee, I know there are alot of myths out there about Disney, and trust me, almost all of them are false.
Heck, MythBusters could do a whole show on Disney Myths.
So I doubt they get soda for free. Think about it, the amount of Coke product people drink in 1 day in the parks? There's no way that Coke would lose that must just to get advertising.
Disney get's it cheap I'm sure, like any other major corperation buying and selling anything, but not free.

[calypso*a*go-go]

I agree w/Mindy (Ursula) -- protest with your wallet! Money (or lack of) is really the only thing that motivates Disney.

[fakereadhed]

Heck, MythBusters could do a whole show on Disney Myths.
So I doubt they get soda for free. Think about it, the amount of Coke product people drink in 1 day in the parks? There's no way that Coke would lose that must just to get advertising.
Disney get's it cheap I'm sure, like any other major corperation buying and selling anything, but not free.

The Coca-Cola company pays enormous amounts of money to other businesses to exclusively carry its products. Also the cost of the syrup to make a fountain drink is very small in relation to the cost for the consumer. That is without any exclusive contracts. That is a fact.

[akastitch@comcast.ne]

I work in a restraunt, & know the cost of fountain sodas. Trust me, even if they aren't geting it for free, it' darn close. Especially when you factor in how much they charge for a soft drink!:scared1:

[mandymommy4]

Disney used to be our escape from reality, but it's becoming way too expesive even considering the deals they give to Fl reidents. There was an article in the paper down here that they want to start doing fast passes according to what hotel you are staying in, deluxe resorts 1st & on down the line! All they seem to care about is money, I know they need to make a profit to stay open, but come on!

What?!?! If they give deluxe guest perks over other people visiting the parks I think I might have to protest. I am a local passholder who enjoys visiting the parks in the afternoons or weekends. We pay a huge amount for our passes and Disney continues to add more special ticketed parties that it has become difficult to go to the MK for a couple rides and fireworks.:mad: Now what about the less affluent locals? I know some family's that would have to make huge sacrifices to drop the $$$ to just visit one park for one day, let alone stay in a value. Could you imagine having to explain to your kids why you are waiting 90+ min to ride Peter Pan but those people get to jump right on because the are staying at a extra special hotel. Basically it would be like saying the more money you spend the better we treat you! It's obvious that Disney's focusing more and more on the big spenders and less and less on the little guys that live in the back yard. What a shame to forget those who have had passes for 15+ years and came when no one else would. Anyone run down here in the fall of 01? (sept 11th)

[kmk1180]

akastitch,
I'm sorry but I can't help but find it funny that your talking about prices being too high when you have comcast.net.
I find it kind of ironic. Maybe it's different where you live but here Comcast is sooo much more expensive compared to satilite. I can't justify the price difference.
I know it's apple to oranges with cable and Disney but it just shows it all goes to what people are willing to spend to have what makes them happy.
If comcast works for you..great. Doesn't for me, fine.
That's what will happen with these prices we're talking about. It it's too much people won't spend it and it'll change.

[simonkodousek]

akastitch,
I'm sorry but I can't help but find it funny that your talking about prices being too high when you have comcast.net.
I find it kind of ironic. Maybe it's different where you live but here Comcast is sooo much more expensive compared to satilite. I can't justify the price difference.
I know it's apple to oranges with cable and Disney but it just shows it all goes to what people are willing to spend to have what makes them happy.
If comcast works for you..great. Doesn't for me, fine.
That's what will happen with these prices we're talking about. It it's too much people won't spend it and it'll change.

I'm going to take a guess that akastitch's Comcast is the $99 per month triple play offer which most people have. :rolleyes:

[UrsulasShadow]

deleted.

[calypso*a*go-go]

All I know is that I've given a heck of a lot more money to Disney over the last year than I have Comcast!!!

Personally, we've already started cutting back...I had the DDP on a package for a quick trip in Feb., called before final payment was due and cancelled it because I felt like it just wasn't worth the time and trouble to plan our vacation around meal times for food that has steadily been going down in quality, but up in price.

Also, instead of planning a long trip back to WDW later in the year with the whole family, we've decided to go a spend a few days @ Disneyland instead (staying in an off-site hotel and eating most of our meals at non-Disney restaurants).

Now, we do have the cruise to look forward to in '09, but have decided not to go back to WDW until that time. We will do a 3-day post cruise stay and that's it.

As much as I love Disney, I've been really disappointed lately with some of the things I've encountered...the CM I spoke with when cancelling the DDP couldn't find my ADR for Le Cellier and was very rude when I insisted that she keep looking as I wanted to make sure it was cancelled to free up the space for others. She indicated it was taken care of, but I really think she never found it (yes, I had the conf. #). Just little things like that are really starting to bug me.

And yes, I know we can't expect every CM to be happy everytime we call about something because they're people just like us that have good days and bad days...but in the past they usually were!

[beachwarmer]

Double post..sorry

[beachwarmer]

Did you all see the new information that Arkershus is now going to be priced the same as CRT with the photo package being included in the price.

Here are the prices:
Breakfast: $28.99 ages 10 and older; $12.99 ages 3-9
Lunch: $30.99 ages 10 and older; $13.99 ages 3-9
Dinner: $35.99 ages 10 and older; $14.99 ages 3-9

Holiday Pricing will be:

Breakfast: $32.99 ages 10 and older; $14.99 ages 3-9
Lunch: $34.99 ages 10 and older; $15.99 ages 3-9
Dinner: $39.99 ages 10 and older; $16.99 ages 3-9

People use to have the option of paying the premium for CRT but now they don't have that choice with the Norway Princess meal being the same price.

I have been having a similar discussion on another thread.

If I was to return next year and do the exact same vacation I just experienced in December it would cost me an additonal $1000 with no added value. That is a huge increase for one year...really this would be the increase for a trip only four month away.

You are right UrsulasShadow we will have to speak with our wallets.

[mandymommy4]

Nicely put:thumbsup2

And if kmk1180 some how wants to compare cable companys to how Disney is upping the prices of certain restaurants, you could. What if you were charged more to watch the Super Bowl or the Emmy's? It is a special event and a lot of people will want to watch them so hey it's only 3 or 4 bucks more and people won't mind since it's a "special program".....

It's sleazy business no matter how you look at!

[calypso*a*go-go]

On a side note, when pricing our trip to DLR I was shocked to see that our price had gone up approx. $1000 over what we paid to go the same week for the same amount of time a couple of years ago. Surprisingly, our flights were about the same cost...I thought for sure they'd be a lot higher!

[UrsulasShadow]

Arrrrggghhh, someone quoted me before I deleted...and I'm trying sooo hard not to be a sea-witch!

[mandymommy4]

sorry Ursula.... if you tell me how I can delete it...

[calypso*a*go-go]

I think there were some valid points made and the post shouldn't have been deleted. My sea-witch meter did not go off when reading it. :teeth:

[UrsulasShadow]

sorry Ursula.... if you tell me how I can delete it...
Naaahhh, don't worry about it. I don't mind being perceived as snarky ONCE in a while....

[mandymommy4]

Never mind.... i figured it out all by my self like a big girl.... Ha Ha:rotfl:

I don't think it was very "sea witch" like but only the two of us will know what you wrote! I'll keep your secret if you promise to let me keep my voice!:worship: Ha Ha

Congrats on winning the Podcast cruise!:thumbsup2 I was in the running for the one in December but didn't win, but I think I may have my sister talked into going to the podcast cruise! I couldn't imagine a better way to experience my first cruise than with the crew from the Dis!

[calypso*a*go-go]

Do it, do it, do it!!! How fun would that be to go with your sister and meet all of us crazies!

[My2Angels]

Does this change in the Norway pricing effect the Dining plan? I mean, I was counting on the Norway breakfast being 1 TS for my November trip, will it be increased to 2TS like CRT? I certainly hope not!!!

[calypso*a*go-go]

This will be even more fun...having everyone wonder what was edited out. ;) BTW, I can be bribed -- so I'll tell all (if the price is right!). :teeth:

[mandymommy4]

Do it, do it, do it!!! How fun would that be to go with your sister and meet all of us crazies!

I want to! I almost went to the meet in Dec. but chickened out.... I was a new listener then. I will be at the next one for sure! I live so close I may go to them both!

[mandymommy4]

This will be even more fun...having everyone wonder what was edited out. ;) BTW, I can be bribed -- so I'll tell all (if the price is right!). :teeth:

He He He (evil laugh) Ursula does have that cruise, and I'm sure she can bring a "guest" MWahahaha!

[UrsulasShadow]

This will be even more fun...having everyone wonder what was edited out. ;) BTW, I can be bribed -- so I'll tell all (if the price is right!). :teeth:

I'll let you come in and look at Will in the cistern with the night-vision goggles, if you don't...

[MLK-RI]

I think the holiday period price increase at certain restaurants is price gouging indeed and told them so in my last survey (they sometimes send surveys when you stay in their resorts).

They charge more for the resort rooms at holiday/peak times already, now more for the meals. Some restaurants are very hard to get into anyway so there is a finite amount of space/time/meals they can serve. Just like there are a finite number of rooms. The argument that more staff/food/electricity(?) is needed to service holiday/peak times doesn't hold up for me.
Does it cost more to obtain the food/prep/cook and serve during certain times of the year? I didn't notice anything different at the buffets we went to recently, but we paid about $5 each more per meal. Certainly the food supplied doesn't cost more for only a couple weeks here and there during peak times, then go back to "normal". If it is because they require more CMs to handle the increased work load of a holiday/peak period then the extra revenue from the added rooms/meals bought would cover it.
Apparently we are having to pay higher room rates and now higher meal rates during these busiest times, to offset those discounted prices we get during the "slow" times. :rolleyes:
I say this as someone who loves going to WDW, owns DVC and is also a Disney stockholder - so Disney folks if you are reading this thread -- room rate differences at certain times of year is something that is more familiar and usual in the entire hotel industry but this restaurant policy leaves a bad taste in my mouth and really spoils much of the "magic" of being there.

[kmk1180]

mandymommy,

I don't want to pay any more than I have to either.
All I'm doing is pointing out that as long as there's a market for it and people willing to pay it...they'll do it.
But I don't think we should demonize Disney for doing the same thing.
The fact that prices vary depending on the season is no secret or nothing new.

Point: What's the cost of a Dozen Roses now?
What's the cost of a Dozen Roses in 3 weeks?

It all goes back to Pete's original comment, that Disney is gauging guests during the Holiday and it's extortion. I'm just saying they are no different than anyone else.

[akastitch@comcast.ne]

akastitch,
I'm sorry but I can't help but find it funny that your talking about prices being too high when you have comcast.net.
I find it kind of ironic. Maybe it's different where you live but here Comcast is sooo much more expensive compared to satilite. I can't justify the price difference.
I know it's apple to oranges with cable and Disney but it just shows it all goes to what people are willing to spend to have what makes them happy.
If comcast works for you..great. Doesn't for me, fine.
That's what will happen with these prices we're talking about. It it's too much people won't spend it and it'll change.
???????:confused3 You don't have many other options when you don't have a landline phone!

[akastitch@comcast.ne]

I think the holiday period price increase at certain restaurants is price gouging indeed and told them so in my last survey (they sometimes send surveys when you stay in their resorts).

They charge more for the resort rooms at holiday/peak times already, now more for the meals. Some restaurants are very hard to get into anyway so there is a finite amount of space/time/meals they can serve. Just like there are a finite number of rooms. The argument that more staff/food/electricity(?) is needed to service holiday/peak times doesn't hold up for me.
Does it cost more to obtain the food/prep/cook and serve during certain times of the year? I didn't notice anything different at the buffets we went to recently, but we paid about $5 each more per meal. Certainly the food supplied doesn't cost more for only a couple weeks here and there during peak times, then go back to "normal". If it is because they require more CMs to handle the increased work load of a holiday/peak period then the extra revenue from the added rooms/meals bought would cover it.
Apparently we are having to pay higher room rates and now higher meal rates during these busiest times, to offset those discounted prices we get during the "slow" times. :rolleyes:
I say this as someone who loves going to WDW, owns DVC and is also a Disney stockholder - so Disney folks if you are reading this thread -- room rate differences at certain times of year is something that is more familiar and usual in the entire hotel industry but this restaurant policy leaves a bad taste in my mouth and really spoils much of the "magic" of being there.
Unfortunatly it's called supply & demand. The more ppl demand, the more the charge to supply(lol).:laughing: Sorry, but seriously though, price gouging is against the law in FL, it passed after hurricane Andrew hit & everyon jacked up prices for everything from batteries & plywood to milk & water.

[crazytp93]

I've also been told that Coca Cola doesn't charge them for the soft drinks in exchange for free advertising all over the parks. So the $4 for a soda is pure profit for them if this is true!

I heard that too

[UrsulasShadow]

mandymommy,

I don't want to pay any more than I have to either.
All I'm doing is pointing out that as long as there's a market for it and people willing to pay it...they'll do it.
But I don't think we should demonize Disney for doing the same thing.
The fact that prices vary depending on the season is no secret or nothing new.

Point: What's the cost of a Dozen Roses now?
What's the cost of a Dozen Roses in 3 weeks?

It all goes back to Pete's original comment, that Disney is gauging guests during the Holiday and it's extortion. I'm just saying they are no different than anyone else.
It's true that other businesses do it(logical fallacy of Tu Quoque). Doesn't make it right, especially for a business that supposedly prides itself on family values, etc.
And to compare it to the roses analogy, I'd say that's rather a non-sequitur. You do not need roses to exist, not even on Valentine's Day (okay, maybe some do!). But you do need to eat. If you're staying onsite, you've already paid a premium for being there at a holiday time. To make you pay much more for no clear benefit for food that you have to eat anyway whilst you are there...that's akin to extortion. Maybe I exaggerate a little...one can still eat CS, I suppose...but it certainly seems like an unfair business practice.
Oh, and the Ad Hominem attack on the poster for using Comcast? Another logical fallacy, to discredit said poster's point of view. Not very nice.

[ADP]

I heard that too

I don't know for sure, but I believe it because several other business owners I've spoken with told me that is how the contracts work with Coca-Cola; and Pepsi for that matter.

It all depends on volume and since Disney pumps out the soft drinks it wouldn't surprise me if Coke pays Disney to supply soft drinks to guests.

[akastitch@comcast.ne]

What?!?! If they give deluxe guest perks over other people visiting the parks I think I might have to protest. I am a local passholder who enjoys visiting the parks in the afternoons or weekends. We pay a huge amount for our passes and Disney continues to add more special ticketed parties that it has become difficult to go to the MK for a couple rides and fireworks.:mad: Now what about the less affluent locals? I know some family's that would have to make huge sacrifices to drop the $$$ to just visit one park for one day, let alone stay in a value. Could you imagine having to explain to your kids why you are waiting 90+ min to ride Peter Pan but those people get to jump right on because the are staying at a extra special hotel. Basically it would be like saying the more money you spend the better we treat you! It's obvious that Disney's focusing more and more on the big spenders and less and less on the little guys that live in the back yard. What a shame to forget those who have had passes for 15+ years and came when no one else would. Anyone run down here in the fall of 01? (sept 11th)
Yeah, it kinda ticked me off too! If you live in FL then you've heard of the Sun Senntinel, that's the paper down here it was in. The fast passes will supposedly start w/ deluxe & DVC guests, then moderate, then value, then if there are any time slots left, off property guests. The article, however, didn't give a time frame for when this was supposed to start happening. Oh, & about your question about fall '01- yeah, I was there the difference in how they treated guests(especially passholders) is like night & day. They don't seem to care as much for thier passholders any more. I'm not saying I want them to kiss my tush, just alittle respect as a person & not cattle is all I'm looking for.

[beachwarmer]

This will be even more fun...having everyone wonder what was edited out. ;) BTW, I can be bribed -- so I'll tell all (if the price is right!). :teeth:

Can I join in too. I know what was edited out. I read it and then typed my response but when I posted I saw the comment gone. I then went back and edited my reply too...causing me to mess up and double posted.

I want to see Will too...please...I can be easily bought


Going on a cruise with you all would be fun....I will have to send in to get a quote.

[Iggipolka]

I completely agree with the outrage regarding the increased buffet prices at "holiday" time. The reason I put holiday in quotes, is because when I made my ADR's for June, I was told that holiday pricing was in effect for the entire summer! This is ridiculous! A Disney trip is always expensive, but the holiday pricing + the diminished DDP, really pisses me off.

I understand that Disney is a business and businesses want to turn a profit, but they are going to hurt themselves in the long run as more and more people are not able to afford a Disney vacation.

[UrsulasShadow]

I completely agree with the outrage regarding the increased buffet prices at "holiday" time. The reason I put holiday in quotes, is because when I made my ADR's for June, I was told that holiday pricing was in effect for the entire summer! This is ridiculous! A Disney trip is always expensive, but the holiday pricing + the diminished DDP, really pisses me off.

I understand that Disney is a business and businesses want to turn a profit, but they are going to hurt themselves in the long run as more and more people are not able to afford a Disney vacation.

I agree. A time of economic downturn is NOT a time to be perceived as price-gouging and greedy. I think they're shooting themselves in the foot on this one.

[willis37862]

I completely agree with the outrage regarding the increased buffet prices at "holiday" time. The reason I put holiday in quotes, is because when I made my ADR's for June, I was told that holiday pricing was in effect for the entire summer! This is ridiculous! A Disney trip is always expensive, but the holiday pricing + the diminished DDP, really pisses me off.

I understand that Disney is a business and businesses want to turn a profit, but they are going to hurt themselves in the long run as more and more people are not able to afford a Disney vacation.

It's insanity! Pure and simple ! Sticking it to families that have to travel when the kids are out of school. And I totally agree with Pete about most of it being mediocre food at exorbitant prices. :sad2: The way they cheaped out on the DDP this year was bad enough but now this.

I feel a letter/email writing campaign coming on ;)

[MrToady]

Probably the next step is to have a holiday surcharge for the DDP or tiered pricing depending on the season.

[Timon-n-Pumbaa Fan]

Did you guys see MousePlanet today? http://www.mouseplanet.com/articles.php?art=wd080204mg

The story on seasonal dining surcharges
We've been receiving some e-mail asking about dining surcharges during peak seasons, but we didn't want to report on them until we had a response from Walt Disney World. We've finally received that response, so here's the story.

"During certain times of the year, many of our Walt Disney World food and beverage locations experience increased Guest demand," said Disney spokewoman Zoraya Suarez. "As a result, new seasonal pricing has been implemented for select fixed-price dining locations during these periods, specifically during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, spring break, and summer vacation months. In other words, seasonal pricing is not a surcharge, it is the price of the dining experience during certain times of the year."

The dining locations effected by the seasonal price increases are:

1900 Park Fare
Akershus
Biergarten
Boma
Cape May Café
Chef Mickey’s
Cinderella’s Royal Table
Crystal Palace
Garden Grill
Hollywood and Vine
Liberty Tree Tavern (dinner only)
‘Ohana
Trails End
Tusker House

These price increases were and are in effect for:

November 18 through November 24, 2007
December 16, 2007 through January 5, 2008
March 16, 2008 through March 29, 2008
May 25, 2008 through July 5, 2008

Projecting forward, it's likely that we'll see them again for:

November 23 through November 29, 2008
December 14, 2008 through January 4, 2009

Again, the seasonal increase is "a result of high demand at select fixed-price dining locations," according to Suarez. So apparently, it's a supply-and-demand thing. Rather than keeping prices steady year-round and just dealing with people who can't get reservations, Disney has elected to see what price the market will bear and take the risk of pricing some people out in order to pull in a little extra cash from food & beverage operations.

The net effect will still have the same number of people mobbing the restaurants to keep them full, but the mix will be shifted from those with the foresight to get their reservations early enough to those either with larger budgets or the Disney Dining Plan who might take a little longer to reserve their table. So be aware, if you're planning to be at the parks during these affected times, you may need to either budget a bit more for food during your trip if you're planning to eat at one of the affected restaurants or plan to sign up for a Disney Dining Plan, which will keep your cost steady regardless of meal cost.

THIS TOTALLY BLOWS!

I am going to have to squish in all of the already hugely overpriced dining experiences into the first 3 days of our trip to avoid the freakin outrageous upcharges.....DURING VALUE SEASON! :headache:

This is soooooooo not cool.

[angelmav]

I just dont understand the thinking at Disney sometimes. There normal prices are already outrageous. I can completely understand a 'Holiday' surcharge but not a seasonal surcharge. Selling repeat Disney vacations to the spouse keeps getting harder and harder!

[WebmasterPete]

If you think last weeks rant was bad - wait until you hear this weeks. I blew a gasket when I heard their FORCING you to take a photo package with the Princess buffet at Norway now. Really, I'm going to have a stroke on the air one of these days. It also doesn't help that my back is acting up, and the pain is making me - shall we say - grumpy :)

Pete

[Annette_VA]

If you think last weeks rant was bad - wait until you hear this weeks. I blew a gasket when I heard their FORCING you to take a photo package with the Princess buffet at Norway now. Really, I'm going to have a stroke on the air one of these days. It also doesn't help that my back is acting up, and the pain is making me - shall we say - grumpy :)

Pete


:scared1: :eek: That is just insane!! Can't wait to hear about it.

Sorry your back is acting up :guilty:

[bcvdreamer]

I agree with Pete on the dining and picture prices. Forcing someone to buy a small photo package is stupid. Practically everyone owns a digital camera, so it's not even as though you are getting a photo with superb quality.

Not all kids/adults like having their pictures taken, I know my kids don't. I have threaten them on every trip that if they give me a hard time about taking pictures I'm making then ride It's A Small World over and over again...so far it's worked! They especially hate waiting in line to have their picture taken. (I'll need a new threat.)

[calypso*a*go-go]

Well, the situation is not going to change until people stop falling all over themselves trying to book these overpriced meals. :sad2:

[Alicnwondrln]

I agree. A time of economic downturn is NOT a time to be perceived as price-gouging and greedy. I think they're shooting themselves in the foot on this one.

I agree :thumbsup2

[Alicnwondrln]

If you think last weeks rant was bad - wait until you hear this weeks. I blew a gasket when I heard their FORCING you to take a photo package with the Princess buffet at Norway now. Really, I'm going to have a stroke on the air one of these days. It also doesn't help that my back is acting up, and the pain is making me - shall we say - grumpy :)

Pete
this made me glad I dont have daughters
sad

[fakereadhed]

I am going to have to squish in all of the already hugely overpriced dining experiences into the first 3 days of our trip to avoid the freakin outrageous upcharges.....DURING VALUE SEASON! :headache:

This is soooooooo not cool.

Time to get a car and dine off property. :drive: I would rather pack a lunch than pay extra just because they have me over a barrel. It really isn't a fair price- if it was you know they would increase the prices altogether. But the truth is no one would put up with it. That just means they are trying to take advantage of customers during the busy season- when there are more folks that come to WDW totally unaware, and will not notice until they get their bill. :mad:

[kmk1180]

UrsulasShadow
Another logical fallacy, to discredit said poster's point of view. Not very nice.

I'm not going to get into a name calling war with you, that seems childish, You have your opinion and I have mine.
I simply pointing out the Cable is Notorious for Price hikes. And if someone chooses to use the product it's their choice. Some like the product and think it's worth the money. Other think it's too much and choose not to use it anymore.
That's all. Same with these prices changes that are being mentioned here.
And all remember, Disney is 100% optional and find it odd that people get so upset if of a special meal goes up $10, then spend the night in a room that costs $200-$300 a night. Where's the perspective?
But I give up trying to point out examples how prices change everwhere.
Just don't demonize me for not thinking they are "extorting" tourists who Choose to spend their vacation money there.

[willis37862]

THIS TOTALLY BLOWS!




My thoughts exactly! Jerks! :sad2:


If you think last weeks rant was bad - wait until you hear this weeks. I blew a gasket when I heard their FORCING you to take a photo package with the Princess buffet at Norway now. Really, I'm going to have a stroke on the air one of these days. It also doesn't help that my back is acting up, and the pain is making me - shall we say - grumpy :)

Pete


We have a thread going about that over on the dining forum and I thought I was going to blow a casket myself over the insanity! I don't want their crappy photos! I want a decent priced meal and to take my own pictures ( which always turn out better than their's anyway) :sad2:


UGH! They are really starting to tick me off. All I can hope is enough people complain and cancel their ADR's for the above restaurants during the "peak/holiday" times and Disney gets the message. Enough is enough :mad:

[ADP]

this made me glad I dont have daughters
sad


Boy, you said that right. I have a Daughter who is 7 (soon to be 8) and now we've basically been forced to purchase a picture package everytime we decided to dine at the castle or Akershus. The only princess meal left is dinner at 1900 Park Fare and some would not call that a princess meal since the only princess is Cinderella.

[beachwarmer]

UrsulasShadow
Another logical fallacy, to discredit said poster's point of view. Not very nice.

I'm not going to get into a name calling war with you, that seems childish, You have your opinion and I have mine.
I simply pointing out the Cable is Notorious for Price hikes. And if someone chooses to use the product it's their choice. Some like the product and think it's worth the money. Other think it's too much and choose not to use it anymore.
That's all. Same with these prices changes that are being mentioned here.
And all remember, Disney is 100% optional and find it odd that people get so upset if of a special meal goes up $10, then spend the night in a room that costs $200-$300 a night. Where's the perspective?
But I give up trying to point out examples how prices change everwhere.
Just don't demonize me for not thinking they are "extorting" tourists who Choose to spend their vacation money there.

The price of a hotel room and the price increases for dining are very different issues.

I will give you "my" perspective of the difference between a $59/night Pop Century room and a $200-300 room at the WL. At the WL you pay extra for location, room size, sit down restaurants, pool slide and hot tubs, children's activities and crafts, theme, in room amenities, towels at the pool, water pagent at night, beach, access to marina with boat and bike rentals and room service. You can actually list differences and added services and ammenities for the additional dollars. It is then up to each individual to decide if you would rather stay at Pop or pay extra for these "added value" items. You really have stated this point and your perspecitve very clearly in one of your previous posts...you had the choice between hotels...

And yes I'm taking my family to Disney World this June so I'm in the same boat and face the same prices. It's all about what you can afford and can't afford. I'd love to stay the WL but can't afford it so we're doing PC and staying longer, give and take.
But good for those who can afford it, and as long as demand is up for things so will the prices go.


When we discuss the paying of additional money for dining there is nothing additional being added...there is no added value for the addtional dollars. There is no alternative to choose from.

Also to point out that because a person can afford to pay $200 for a hotel room that they should not comment or dislike the increased price for a totally different product is a bit questionable.

I think Disney management is very much hoping that the majority of people hold the same opinion as you do. I think that the majority of the people that are upset about Disney's pricing are not upset about only one thing...this is a "straw that broke the camel's back" kind of issue.

First it was CRT price increase...more expensive items dropped off the menus ....next it was DDP dropping the appetizer and tip....next it was Holiday surcharge for buffets.....price increases at Food and Wine booths with smaller sizes.....smaller portions at all restaurants.........overall food quality going down....price increase for Norway Princess meal.....price increase for Wonderland Tea Party....Price increase for Pirate Cruise....parking price going up....weekend vs weekend day hotel pricing....taking the free bread away from meals

That is a lot of price increases without added value, and that can not really be tied to additonal costs or inflation. At this point it is not the money it is the priciple.

[kmk1180]

Pete,
I do agree with you on that one,the dinner and photos...the two should stay seperate.
But as for other arguements...again...it's choice.
Since the park opened I'm sure people have complained about price increases and getting value for their money..and will continue to do so.
And since the park opened Disney has been a vacation some can afford very comfortably, Nicely, and affordably. Also there's always been those who can't afford it. And probably shouldn't. If their money is that tight, then Disney isn't the place to spend it. They have other priorities it should be spent on.
Sorry I don't see the big deal. I can't afford Disney's best. I can't justify paying for some of their meals. If they price it beyond me budget...I don't go. But it's my choice, not them extorting money from me because I'm not forced to do it.
That's my whole point.
I guess enough others agree on both sides because enough people are still paying for it while others pass.

[kmk1180]

ok before I get killed for saying "and shouldn't".
yes in an ideal world everyone should get to go to Disney
I just meant, if your on a tight budget Disney is a place maybe you
shouldn't go on vacation to just yet.

[willis37862]

UrsulasShadow
Another logical fallacy, to discredit said poster's point of view. Not very nice.

I'm not going to get into a name calling war with you, that seems childish, You have your opinion and I have mine.
I simply pointing out the Cable is Notorious for Price hikes. And if someone chooses to use the product it's their choice. Some like the product and think it's worth the money. Other think it's too much and choose not to use it anymore.
That's all. Same with these prices changes that are being mentioned here.
And all remember, Disney is 100% optional and find it odd that people get so upset if of a special meal goes up $10, then spend the night in a room that costs $200-$300 a night. Where's the perspective?
But I give up trying to point out examples how prices change everwhere.
Just don't demonize me for not thinking they are "extorting" tourists who Choose to spend their vacation money there.

Well I can only speak for myself but we don't stay in rooms that are $200-$300 a night because (1) We can't afford it and (2) I like the moderates and don't feel the need to give Disney more money for a room than what I pay at the moderates. So I do I get to complain about the price hikes of the Disney dining ?

I am sorry but I have several problems with what Disney is doing here. The whole month of June as a holiday? And then what happens when the whole summer is a holiday season ? ( You know they will do this if they think they can get away with it) When are families suppose to go that have kids in school? To me it seems they are penalizing people who don't want to take their kids out of school during the year. And who do the character meals appeal to? Families with kids. I'm sorry but for a family vacation destination it seems like they sure are sticking it to families. :mad:

[meb7]

I just went to Disney in November for a week and was really excited about trying to go back very soon. However they are just raising the prices of everything for just greed apparently... And now I don't know when I will go again. This past time we stayed off site at the Sheraton Vistana and loved it. We go to Daytona every year so it is an easy drive over, however I think the next time I drive over it will be for Aquatica or Islands of Adventure esp with HP coming.
Who knows I love Disney & really want to go, but they are really making me mad.

[DisneyKevin]

Just don't demonize me for not thinking they are "extorting" tourists who Choose to spend their vacation money there.

I'm not trying to demonize anyone but I think we are talking about different things here.

I dont think this is about affordability. I think it's about personal comfort with what you are paying. I frequently tell you whether I think something is a "good value" or not.

I think a $150 meal at Jiko is a good value. I think a cold $4.00 hotdog at Casey's is a rip off. It doesnt really have anything to do with price. It about perceived value. Did you get something decent for your money?

I also understand your point about hotels being more expensive during peak season. It's business, but it doesnt usually happen in restaurants UNLESS there is a special circumstance. An example would be a buffet at Thanksgiving because a turkey and all of the finins are included. There is a perceived increase in what you are getting. I dont know if the actual cost is increased but the perceived value is.

I do not see where the Tea Party is including anything else for raising the price. I do not see where the Princess meal is adding anything different becasue it's June. There is no increase in value...just an increase in cost.

Usually, a business will try to take focus away from the higher cost by pointing out what a value the lower pricing is. We hear things like value season, early bird pricing, bargain matinees, but not Disney.

And again....I understand that some businesses charge more during peak seasons...but I think the question begs to be asked.....

Would you be ok with paying a higher price to get into the theme park because it's a holiday?

Were this to happen, I'm betting there would be a public outcry like none we have ever heard and I think Disney knows that. I think that if they thought they could get away with it....it would happen. Instead, they are going to "nickle and dime" you to death. I think forcing you to pay for this cheesy photo package is proof of that.

Kicking the soapbox back under the desk for now.

Kevin

[wildeoscar]

OK, I am not defending Disney, nor defending higher prices. But let me interject an economics lesson in today's post...

Scarcity of Goods... There is only one Castle Suite at WDW. Only one family at a time can stay the night in that suite. If Disney were to open up that suite to the public, charging $10,000 a night, and with the reservation requiring payment in full at time of reservation... with in 24 hours the wait list would be over 5 years. Why? Cause you would be part of a small select group, cause your 5 year old would love you forever, cause it is completely unique. What if we increase that price to $100,000? Are there, would there, still be people that would pay that price? Yup, and you would only have to sell the room one out of 10 nights to make the same money, the group of people that can and will pay that money become a smaller group. For something completely unique, you can charge what people will pay... which in this case, would be a lot.

A commodity is something that is made by a lot of people and price must be competitive, because it is something that is common enough that many people can get into the market, you make very small margins. Like the price of apples at the grocery. If grocer A is charging too much, you goto grocer B for a lower price or maybe you like the service at grocer A and are willing to pay more for the service?

What folks are trying to do is compare The princess breakfast to other breakfasts as a commodity, which it is not. There is only one place on earth that you can eat breakfast with all the Disney Princesses ('cept Cindy). This is a unique item, but many can buy that unique item at the same time. there is however a limit to the number of people that can buy that item in a given day. There are only so many tables and seating's. During high demand (during the holidays) you can charge more, and according to Adam Smith ( the free market, and capitalism) you should charge more. This maintains the balance between price and demand. This is the system of economy we have adopted in this country.

So during the holidays, when the parks are busy... the hotel rooms cost more because demand is up... in Sept they offer free DDP because demand is down. The show has discussed before how there is not really a slow time at WDW any more, as they have normalized the population and increased business in the slow times... it also is true that by increasing the prices, they decrease demand in the busy times. This has to do with supply and staffing levels. If staff were infinite they could charge the same price all year and staff to the level where they have enough people on-site to handle the Christmas/new years crowd all year. But that wastes money, paying people salary and benefits all year when they are only used at that capacity one week a year. So instead of staffing to that level, they normalize the population... increase prices in the busy times (which covers the cost of overtime and increased supply, and increased waste during that period) to decrease demand, and lower prices in Sept. to increase demand... so that they can maintain a fully utilized work force all year.

The answer is not so simple as they are robbing you and are being greedy. I have only begun to touch on the variables that make business sense to increase prices when you are busy, and decrease price when you are slow. There has to be more supply, the suppliers might charge more for increased delivery, or charge more to deliver on a holiday, or on a day that is not normal for delivery. Do you think the suppliers are going to miss an opportunity to up their price? Because you are not staffed to 100% holiday capacity you have to pay the cooks and bussers, etc. over time (it is not logical to staff to 100% of a peak, as you would have idol employees the rest of the time, not that some employees are not idol anyway).

I hate to throw cold water on every ones pyre, but it is good for business to charge more when you are busy, and demand justifies the increase in price.

[DisneyKevin]

So accroding to your logic, Disney should be able to double their price of admission on New Year's Eve or July 4th when there are a limited number of available spaces in the parks and lots of people that want them?

Would you accept that...even if the laws of economics suggest it should be true?

[wildeoscar]

So according to your logic, Disney should be able to double their price of admission on New Year's Eve or July 4th when there are a limited number of available spaces in the parks and lots of people that want them?

Would you accept that...even if the laws of economics suggest it should be true?

it is not my logic... it is the way free markets work. Look at how much Hanna Montana tickets are going for, and people are paying it. The same thing would happen with gate prices at the parks. Double, triple... those that can and will pay when demand is high vs. those that can't or won't pay. Absolute free markets usually result in things like the French Revolution. Which is why when tickets for Hanna Montana go on sale there is tiered pricing... not free market prices. Once the scalpers get blocks of tickets you see free market prices. Something is only worth what someone is willing to pay. If the parks used a ticket system like a concert venue, you would easily see people pay $1000 for Christmas and New Years... but they make it a first come first served system.

You made the joke about poor people in WDW, but there is truth to that... it is priced out of many house holds in the US.

Let me give a different way in which the same forces work. The Federal Reserve. The idea is to regulate the money supply so that things like the Great Depression or the run away inflation of the 70's don't happen again. When times are good, and things are expanding, the fed tightens up the money supply vs. when things are bad they let loose the money supply to stimulate the economy. They do this with the interest rates among other things.

Notice the timing on the tax rebate. Roughly a year before the election, same as last time. And who do they target the rebates to, people that will go blow it on the new DVD player with Kung Fu grip, because that spending gets money circulating, and there is something called the money multiplier effect where someone going out and spending $300 will in turn move $3000 to $7500 of money though the economy as that money changes hands.

Anyway, economics is the study of the way things work... I am not defending the holiday price in crease of the buffets, but those that can and will pay it are still going to WDW. The only way to change the suppliers price is to decrease the demand. If no one shows up to the princess dinner at the higher price, well then they lower their price. But the princess breakfast is starting to catch on and go on that must do list, even at the new higher price, ADR's will still be gone 180 days advance, just like BBB or CRT.

Gate tickets would be the same thing, double the price during the holidays, the people that can and will pay are still going. You can only charge what people are willing to pay... and there are a lot of families out there that are willing to pay a lot more for WDW. Add the incentive that paying more, means there will be less crowd... people will jump at the offer. It is just a matter of hitting the right mix of demand at a given cost. E ticket nights proved this... the incentive of less people in the parks alone was not incentive enough for a lot of people to pay extra, but mix less people in the parks with the MVMCP or MNSSHP and you hit a mix that draws a big crowd.

These things are not random, they are spending a lot of money to figure out how to part you from your money and make it their money. They are adjusting prices to what the market is willing to pay, such that demand is level for staffing purposes. That's how the service and hotel industries work from an economic vantage. Ya have to remove the moral relativism when observing market forces, the market doesn't care if it is right or wrong, it is just tring to get the max amount of money for the least amount of service at a given time.

[wildeoscar]

So accroding to your logic, Disney should be able to double their price of admission on New Year's Eve or July 4th when there are a limited number of available spaces in the parks and lots of people that want them?

Would you accept that...even if the laws of economics suggest it should be true?

and to answer the question more directly, it would not matter to me. I do not goto the parks during peak or holiday season, I go in Feb and Sept. The reason for this is two fold, I am cheap and I hate crowds.

[wishspirit]

Wow! I am not liking these ideas at all!

I HATE the idea of segregated fastpassing, which is what it would be. This 'richest' getting first dibs is not fair. My family are DVC owners, but i would not be happy to go infront of a family who have saved and saved for a nice vacation at disney but could only afford value. I feel that is wrong. They have just as much right to the fastpasses as anyone. I have been to plenty of moderate and value resorts in my time, but if disney did this i would go OFF PROPERTY, and encourage my family to sell the timeshare.

I dont like the idea that they are raising food prices too! I know i can't really compain in the sense that it is still fairly cheap compaired to prices in England, but for the quality of food they produce it isnt worth it! We have always hired a car if going for anything more than a week (so we can go to, if i dare say it, Universal and Seaworld). We bring our own lunches into the parks (i know, im such a rebel!), and we only eat at Disney on rare occasions. We love a chain called Bob Evans, so we wil drive out ot eat there, and boy what a difference in price for basicaly the same food! Although as time has gone on we are more able to afford Disney dinning prices (esspecially with the exchange rate) it doesnt detract from the fact that Disney is money grabbing!

Anyone for an IHOP instead?

[beachwarmer]

By increasing the price beyond a certain price point sales volume decreases by an amount more than proportional to the price increase. This is the principle of the price elasticity of demand (PED). That is an elasticity that measures the nature and degree of the relationship between changes in quantity demanded of a good and changes in its price.

Yes Disney can raise prices. Yes in principle this is good for Disney's bottom line. Yes they can continue to raise prices...but a price point will be found that reduces the demand of the product. This is where the moral relativism that you speak of comes into play.

What I am saying is that Disney has found that price point where I will not be spending $42 for a tea party...I was okay with $28. With all the "nickel and diming" added together disney is now having people examine what price point they are willing to live with for a Disney vacation.

Disney is forcing it's most loyal fans to help them determine their price elsaticity of demand model. Only time will tell if Disney's economics and marketing people are correct in their price elasticity analysis. We as the consumer do have a say....not buying what Disney is selling.

[wildeoscar]

By increasing the price beyond a certain price point sales volume decreases by an amount more than proportional to the price increase. This is the principle of the price elasticity of demand (PED). That is an elasticity that measures the nature and degree of the relationship between changes in quantity demanded of a good and changes in its price.

Yes Disney can raise prices. Yes in principle this is good for Disney's bottom line. Yes they can continue to raise prices...but a price point will be found that reduces the demand of the product. This is where the moral relativism that you speak of comes into play.

What I am saying is that Disney has found that price point where I will not be spending $42 for a tea party...I was okay with $28. With all the "nickel and diming" added together disney is now having people examine what price point they are willing to live with for a Disney vacation.

Disney is forcing it's most loyal fans to help them determine their price elasticity of demand model. Only time will tell if Disney's economics and marketing people are correct in their price elasticity analysis. We as the consumer do have a say....not buying what Disney is selling.

exactly! once people are no longer willing to pay the price the equation changes. but remember to factor in exclusivity, brand and marketing. Why do people pay Prada $10,000 for a purse when a shopping bag will due... Disney knows they still have a lot of upward mobility in price that people are still willing to pay.

[beachwarmer]

exactly! once people are no longer willing to pay the price the equation changes. but remember to factor in exclusivity, brand and marketing. Why do people pay Prada $10,000 for a purse when a shopping bag will due... Disney knows they still have a lot of upward mobility in price that people are still willing to pay.

Disney is however doing something that Prada does not. Disney has value rooms to fill, not just the Grand Floridian. They have differentiated their hotel product to target not just the Prada people but the Target people too. Prada has the exclusivity that that you speak of but Disney is selling to everyone. The commercial running here is that a family of four can go to WDW for only $1500 dollars for seven days. It is a status symbol to carry a Prada bag due to the limited supply...Disney is not that kind of a status symbol and they have an lot of hotel rooms to fill. They had empty rooms at the resort over Christmas this year....the busy time.

Disney does have some upward mobility but with a down turn in the economy price will become an even more important factor.

Prada has a different problem of knock off bags......will Disney have the same problem with a knock off theme park taking market share.......Universal will become a option to the masses.

[Wish2BinWDW]

:confused3 I never understand why people always compare a value room at $59 a night, because I have to go to WDW in the summer (I teach and have children in school). I pay a lot more than $59 a night. This year with my AAA discount, I am paying $98.10 during the week and $107.10 on the weekend. The moderate with AAA discount was going to be $161.10 during the week and $170.10 on the weekend. It is costing me about $120 more for my room this year compared to last year at the same time.

This year, I also have to pay more for my food at TS restaurants! :sad2: This is exactly why I am buying a GPS. I'll be able to find restaurants that serve great food at reasonable prices! :thumbsup2

[DisneyKevin]

Disney doesnt want just the folks staying at the Grand Floridian dining in their restaurants. They want EVERYONE dining in their restaurants.

If they see a line of cars on Hotel Plaza Blvd headed for Olive Garden, they will do one of their famous surveys and while we may never see the price lowered or the cheesy picture package removed from breakfast with a princess.....you will eventually see a watered down version with a lower price tag.

It's just the way Disney works.

[SamIAm21]

I'm just of the mind that they can raise all the prices they want at the buffets, but I don't have to pay it. I don't have to eat at Akershush, I don't have to eat at Crystal Palace or Cinderella's Castle. I'll just take my business to the other side of 535 or use the counter service. We are not completely at their mercy, we can simply choose with our pocketbooks what we want or do not want to buy.

I want to check out that Buffet that Bob raved about at one of the hotels near Downtown Disney. I can't remember which, but I'll go back and research it if anyone is interested.

[willis37862]

By increasing the price beyond a certain price point sales volume decreases by an amount more than proportional to the price increase. This is the principle of the price elasticity of demand (PED). That is an elasticity that measures the nature and degree of the relationship between changes in quantity demanded of a good and changes in its price.

Yes Disney can raise prices. Yes in principle this is good for Disney's bottom line. Yes they can continue to raise prices...but a price point will be found that reduces the demand of the product. This is where the moral relativism that you speak of comes into play.

What I am saying is that Disney has found that price point where I will not be spending $42 for a tea party...I was okay with $28. With all the "nickel and diming" added together disney is now having people examine what price point they are willing to live with for a Disney vacation.

Disney is forcing it's most loyal fans to help them determine their price elsaticity of demand model. Only time will tell if Disney's economics and marketing people are correct in their price elasticity analysis. We as the consumer do have a say....not buying what Disney is selling.

Disney is however doing something that Prada does not. Disney has value rooms to fill, not just the Grand Floridian. They have differentiated their hotel product to target not just the Prada people but the Target people too. Prada has the exclusivity that that you speak of but Disney is selling to everyone. The commercial running here is that a family of four can go to WDW for only $1500 dollars for seven days. It is a status symbol to carry a Prada bag due to the limited supply...Disney is not that kind of a status symbol and they have an lot of hotel rooms to fill. They had empty rooms at the resort over Christmas this year....the busy time.

Disney does have some upward mobility but with a down turn in the economy price will become an even more important factor.

Prada has a different problem of knock off bags......will Disney have the same problem with a knock off theme park taking market share.......Universal will become a option to the masses.

I agree with both of your posts :thumbsup2 I know Disney is a corporation and the almighty dollar is all they care about. :sad2: And if that is going to be the case they should stop advertising themselves as a family vacation destination. Because they are quickly becoming out of reach for more and more families.