Childrens Place to give back Disney Stores!!

[S.S.]

Children's Place to curtail Disney stores
Retailer is in 'advanced' talks with the Walt Disney Co. to take back many Disney stores.
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SECAUCUS, N.J. (AP) -- Retailer Children's Place Retail Stores Inc. said Thursday it is in talks with Disney for the company to regain control of about two-thirds of the stores in the Disney Store chain.

Children's Place said it is in "advanced" talks with the Walt Disney Co. for Disney to take back many of the Disney stores in North America. Children's Place has operated those stores under a license.

Disney confirmed it is in talks with the company, saying the stores could be an important expansion of the Disney brand.

Children's Place also said it swung to a loss in its fourth quarter mainly because of impairment charges and other costs related to the Disney deal.

For the quarter ended Feb. 2, the company reported a loss of $58.5 million, or $2.01 per share, from a profit of $44.7 million, or $1.48 per share in the prior-year quarter.

Excluding asset impairment charges and other costs related to exiting the Disney business and costs associated with the decision to stop construction of a new headquarters building, the company earned $20.5 million, or about 70 cents per share.

Analysts polled by Thomson Financial expected earnings of 89 cents per share.

Revenue rose 4% to $670.9 million from $645.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2006. Analysts predicted revenue of $675.2 million.

Sales at the company's Children's Place (PLCE) stores rose in the quarter, but revenue from its Disney stores fell slightly.

Same-store sales, or sales at stores open at least a year, rose 3% across all the company's stores. Same-store sales is a key indicator of retailer performance since it measures growth at existing stores rather than newly-opened ones.

Disney (DIS, Fortune 500) store same-store sales, though, fell 4%.

Besides the hefty charges, the company blamed its loss on high inventory levels at its brands, saying merchandise did not resonate with consumers.

For the year, the company also swung to a loss of $59.6 million, or $2.05 per share, versus a profit of $87.4 million, or $2.92 per share in the prior year.

Revenue climbed 7% to $2.16 billion from $2.02 billion in 2006.

For the year ahead, Children's Place said it plans to cut about 80 jobs from its shared services workforce and will not fill about 50 open positions. The company said it will recognize savings of about $120 million.

The retailer said it will incur expenses associated with the cuts of $1.5 million to $2 million in its fiscal first quarter.

[TinaMedley]

Well, lets hope if Disney gets them back they'll make some major changes. CP was supposed to improve product and choice, but they hadn't really made that much of a change until recently. We'll see if this really happens.

[TinaMedley]

just heard that it is a done deal. I don't know when the transfer will happened, but hopefully it will be soon!!!:goodvibes

[RichmondTiggerFan]

Just hope that Disney will do it right this time. They need more adult clothing & household items and they don't need to put a Disney Store in every mall in the USA.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

Just hope that Disney will do it right this time. They need more adult clothing & household items and they don't need to put a Disney Store in every mall in the USA.

No, they don't need a store in every mall in the USA - that's part of the reason why they sold the stores in the first place. They extended themselves too far so it wasn't unique anymore.

Some of the stores currently carry adult clothing and household items, but not all of them do. It's sad because it's really nice product. Hopefully if/when the stores go back to Disney, they will make sure that all stores carry the product that sells.

[nicolemm]

Did Disney store employees receive a cast member discount before the move to childrens place. If so, hopefully they all get it back! Yeah for them!

[kiddisney]

it's about time - the children's place didn't do disney justice - again like others have said - no adult clothing - no housewares -

we loved going to the disney store before - it was special - watches - collectibles -

i hope disney does it back to what it used to be

[ColleenG]

I hope they'll improve the qualtiy of the toys they sell. Most of the Cars toys we have gotten there have broken with in 10 minutes of taking it out of the package. I was very upset that they would sell such junk and DS couldn't understand why couldn't just get another one.

[honeymom]

If the DS store goes back to Disney and they get the old cast member perks, I am applying for a job.

[JulianneCP]

I work at the Disney Store Crossing my fingers that my store will stay open! It is a done deal Even though they make is sound like it is not It is! However we have no time table nor do we know what stores will stay open. They are going to keep just 200 stores~ So a lot of jobs will be lost

While I have a few fun perks it is nothing like what the old CM got when it was manged by Disney I would love to regain them

I work at a small mall however we have a high volume and do well 10 miles down the road from me there is a bigger mall so who knows if they will keep us both open and another one just over the MD boarder

[Family Fun Mom]

If the DS store goes back to Disney and they get the old cast member perks, I am applying for a job.

Me, too!

[PoohsFan1]

I work at the Disney Store Crossing my fingers that my store will stay open! It is a done deal Even though they make is sound like it is not It is! However we have no time table nor do we know what stores will stay open. They are going to keep just 200 stores~ So a lot of jobs will be lost

While I have a few fun perks it is nothing like what the old CM got when it was manged by Disney I would love to regain them

I work at a small mall however we have a high volume and do well 10 miles down the road from me there is a bigger mall so who knows if they will keep us both open and another one just over the MD boarder

I too work at the Disney Store and am very excited about Disney Corp. buying us back. I work in a mall that is in a suburb of Chicago which does very well for our district, so hopefully our store will not be one of the ones closing. I believe that now that Disney Corp. has bought us back, the magic that was once lost will be regained.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

If the DS store goes back to Disney and they get the old cast member perks, I am applying for a job.

Me, too!


What I'm about to say, I truly don't mean it in a disrespectful way, but I do feel like I need to respond to these comments.

If the only reason you want to work at the Disney Store is because of the Disney perks, you won't be working there for the right reason. I was with the stores before the sale and I'm still with the stores now. I'm not there because of the perks, not even for the pay (which isn't that great), but I'm there because of the feeling I get when I can make it a magical experience for our guests. I love the looks on the children's faces when they see Mickey hanging from the ceiling. I love the way some adults act like kids in the store and I just love talking to guests about anything and everything Disney.

The sale of the stores nearly ripped us apart (emotionally it was horrible, we lost so many long-time CMs) but we survived. We've made it through the last four years together - still spreading the Disney magic while not getting anything by the way of perks back for it. We've done it because we love it. We do it for the guests and for each other.

Since the news broke on Thursday, I can't tell you how many threads I have read where people are all gung-ho to get jobs at the stores to get the perks. In a way, it really upsets me because if we weren't good enough before there was the chance we would get the perks back, why are we now?

Once again, I truly don't mean any disrespect to anybody on this thread or on the boards at all, but this has really been bothering me the last couple of days. If you want to join the Disney Store cast, just make sure you're in it for the long-haul. It's sort of like a marriage, you have to be there through the good and the bad.

:)

[dvc at last !]

Did Disney store employees receive a cast member discount before the move to childrens place. If so, hopefully they all get it back! Yeah for them!

I agree. The CM's at
The Disney Store are selling the product and should have the perks !

:cool1:

[Family Fun Mom]

What I'm about to say, I truly don't mean it in a disrespectful way, but I do feel like I need to respond to these comments.

If the only reason you want to work at the Disney Store is because of the Disney perks, you won't be working there for the right reason. I was with the stores before the sale and I'm still with the stores now. I'm not there because of the perks, not even for the pay (which isn't that great), but I'm there because of the feeling I get when I can make it a magical experience for our guests. I love the looks on the children's faces when they see Mickey hanging from the ceiling. I love the way some adults act like kids in the store and I just love talking to guests about anything and everything Disney.

The sale of the stores nearly ripped us apart (emotionally it was horrible, we lost so many long-time CMs) but we survived. We've made it through the last four years together - still spreading the Disney magic while not getting anything by the way of perks back for it. We've done it because we love it. We do it for the guests and for each other.

Since the news broke on Thursday, I can't tell you how many threads I have read where people are all gung-ho to get jobs at the stores to get the perks. In a way, it really upsets me because if we weren't good enough before there was the chance we would get the perks back, why are we now?

Once again, I truly don't mean any disrespect to anybody on this thread or on the boards at all, but this has really been bothering me the last couple of days. If you want to join the Disney Store cast, just make sure you're in it for the long-haul. It's sort of like a marriage, you have to be there through the good and the bad.

:)

I wasn't even thinking about the Disney "perks." I would just love to be a part of the Disney family. Children's Place is just another store, Disney is something special. I'd love to be a part of that. A Disney run Disney store is the closest thing to being a true Disney cast member as I can get here in Metro Detroit.

[SandraVB79]

Oh, I really hope the Disney Stores will become something more than a place for kids stuff.
I hope they'll bring back the art and collectibles and watches and... All the adult stuff :)

[TheDisneyGirl02]

I wasn't even thinking about the Disney "perks." I would just love to be a part of the Disney family. Children's Place is just another store, Disney is something special. I'd love to be a part of that. A Disney run Disney store is the closest thing to being a true Disney cast member as I can get here in Metro Detroit.

Thank you for saying that you wouldn't be in it just for the perks, because from all of the message boards I have read over the last couple of days, most people are in for the perks. Even after TCP took over, we still were a Disney family. We banded together and stayed together through thick and thin. It never mattered who signed our paychecks, it was what was in our hearts that mattered.

I felt exactly the same way that you did when I first got my job at the store (about being the closest thing to a WDW CM while still at home), but regardless if you work at WDW or your local Disney Store, you ARE a CM and you help bring magic to guests every single day!

[mamaprincess]

If the DS store goes back to Disney and they get the old cast member perks, I am applying for a job.


That is exactly what I will do! I hope and pray our little Disney Store in Peoria Illinois will be one of the 2/3rds going back to Disney!:wizard: I always talk to the employees at our local stores and they miss the perks. I was planning on working at the store when my daughter goes to Kindergarten anyway but the perks would be an awesome bonus and I would be happy to see the employees regain them.

[JulianneCP]

DisneyGirl02 you must work at a wonderful store When I started working at TDS I thought it would be filled with magic Nope We have lost two asst. manger's since i started working there 4 months ago!!! Everyone asks "oh what a fun job that must be" Not really I love spreading magic to the kids talking about everyone's upcoming trips, giving gift ideas, helping plan bday parties etc... but some of our upper mangement does not have Diseny in there heart so it makes it hard to work with them

[bevgray]

As someone who stayed loyal to the Disney Stores here in Indianapolis from the first Castleton store (when they had low/high end collectibles), through the downturn (when the collectibles went away), through the down and then upswing of Children's Place ownership, one thing remained constant for me. The caliber of the Cast Members who hung in there and did their best to make even the less desirable merchandise look good and keep the place fun for the guests. Only a little snack of pixie dust, perhaps, but still present. Thanks to all of you.

I think the quality of the merchandise has been improving steadily, not as it was in the beginning but far better than the stuff that was carried just before the sale to Children's Place. Hopefully, Disney will return to the "glory" days and regain the full banquet of pixie dust.

[DisneyDeeva]

That is exactly what I will do! I hope and pray our little Disney Store in Peoria Illinois will be one of the 2/3rds going back to Disney!:wizard: I always talk to the employees at our local stores and they miss the perks. I was planning on working at the store when my daughter goes to Kindergarten anyway but the perks would be an awesome bonus and I would be happy to see the employees regain them.

I always stop in at the Northwoods store when I'm in town. I live in the Quad Cities but am originally from the Peoria area and still have family there. I absolutely refuse to give the store in Davenport any of my money. I still have very hard feelings about the manager there (she came in after TCP purchase) and how I was treated when I was a CM.

[lilo62]

Oh, I really hope the Disney Stores will become something more than a place for kids stuff.
I hope they'll bring back the art and collectibles and watches and... All the adult stuff :)

Couldn't have said it better myself!

[PuddyKronk]

Hi everyone! Was with TDS back in the Disney days, and stuck it through the TCP days, and am thrilled to be going HOME! It's always been about the people and the magic that has kept me going. If you are a TDS guest, please continue your support of the stores, keep shopping and help us get back to the level of quality that you expect from us. One aside: I've read many posts longing for the return of Adult wear, of housewares, of watches, etc. And while I agree that these have been lacking, PRE-TCP the guest would not buy anything adult unless it went onsale. I've been there, I've seen it. If guests want the return of this merchandise, they need to support it at full price, because if not, it will be seen as a low margin item and not profitable. Bottom line, Can't wait to come home, and show my current CM's what it's like to TRULY be a Disney Store!

[TheDisneyGirl02]

Hi everyone! Was with TDS back in the Disney days, and stuck it through the TCP days, and am thrilled to be going HOME! It's always been about the people and the magic that has kept me going. If you are a TDS guest, please continue your support of the stores, keep shopping and help us get back to the level of quality that you expect from us. One aside: I've read many posts longing for the return of Adult wear, of housewares, of watches, etc. And while I agree that these have been lacking, PRE-TCP the guest would not buy anything adult unless it went onsale. I've been there, I've seen it. If guests want the return of this merchandise, they need to support it at full price, because if not, it will be seen as a low margin item and not profitable. Bottom line, Can't wait to come home, and show my current CM's what it's like to TRULY be a Disney Store!

Couldn't have said it better myself!!!!!! :worship: :worship: :worship:

It's important for guests to buy the merchandise at full price in order for the company to still carry it. It will be interesting to see what happens with collectibles!!!!!

[Colson39]

Ex-TDS employee here. I worked there about 10-11 years ago, back in the glory days (although back when we had to wear those horrible sweaters). I helped open the store in the Pembroke Lakes Mall in South Florida. I'll never forget, we were there to see the building of the store, and were there when there was nothing in it. And they had like 5 huge trucks pull up to the back and we had to unload everything.

I worked there for almost 2 years (pre-career), and I have to admit, those were two years of a heck of a lot of fun. Somehow I maneuvered myself into mainly working the register, which I absolutely loved (I can't stand folding stuff). Had so many great interactions with guests, it really was tons of fun.

And yea, being able to get into Disney for free, and get half off on resort rooms was great as well ;)

[diznycrazed]

Couldn't have said it better myself!!!!!! :worship: :worship: :worship:

It's important for guests to buy the merchandise at full price in order for the company to still carry it. It will be interesting to see what happens with collectibles!!!!!

Sorry, but I don't pay full price for anything. Even at the big box stores ie Macys, I wait for the sales, min of 25% off.

Terry

[TheDisneyGirl02]

Sorry, but I don't pay full price for anything. Even at the big box stores ie Macys, I wait for the sales, min of 25% off.

Terry

I personally don't like to pay full price for anything either, however if some people don't do it, the company will stop carrying that product. Why should a business carry something that doesn't sell? I'll be perfectly honest with you, I do the buying for a gift shop. If something doesn't sell at the current selling price, then it doesn't get reordered to be put on sale. It's just the nature of the business. I truly believe that that is part of the reason why the stores stopped carrying collectables. They are fun to look at, but how many people have actually purchased a collectable from the Stores (when they did carry them)? I purchased one cel and one WDCC piece (granted I was in a college at the time so I didn't have that much extra spare cash), but truly how many collectables were sold?

I would love for Disney to bring back the collectables, however I don't know how much they would profit from it. I'll guess we'll all just have to wait and see!

[madaboutMickey]

Does any one remember when TDS only had 2 sales a year? Peolpe used to be waiting outsides the gate for us to open. Don't see those days any more,

[DisneyDeeva]

BREAKING NEWS!!
This just out...


***************
Disney is taking over on May 1st, 2008. On Monday the Disney Stores
that are closing will be announced.

Here is the latest news:

*Hoop Holdings, LLC and Its Subsidiaries D/B/A Disney Store North
America Pursuing Transfer of Substantial Portion of Disney Store Business to
The Walt Disney Company Under Chapter 11 Case

Chapter 11 Filing Does Not Apply to Parent Company, The Children's
Place Retail Stores, Inc.*
SECAUCUS, N.J., March 26, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- The Children's Place
Retail Stores, Inc. (Nasdaq:PLCE), today provided an update on its
plans to exit the Disney Store North America ("DSNA") business in order to
focus on its core namesake brand. The Company conducts the DSNA
business through its subsidiary Hoop Holdings, LLC and its subsidiaries
("Hoop") under a license agreement with The Walt Disney Company.
As previously announced on March 20, 2008, The Children's Place Retail
Stores, Inc. ("the Company") decided to exit the DSNA business as part
of the Company's review of strategic alternatives. As part of the
review, the current management team determined that the license agreement,
originated in 2004, requires substantial investments that are not
expected to deliver economic returns. The Company also took into account the
losses incurred by DSNA's operations, DSNA's current earnings prospects
as a licensee, and the restrictions imposed by the license agreement
on the sale of the business to a party other than The Walt Disney
Company. It was therefore concluded that the Company will be in a better
position to maximize value by focusing on its namesake Children's Place
brand. Importantly, this action is only one component of a broader
strategy to maximize shareholder value. As announced last week, the management
team is undertaking a number of initiatives to reduce expenses, strea
mline operations, and lower inventories and capital expenditures.
Also, as previously announced, the Company and Hoop have been engaged
in advanced negotiations concerning the transfer of a substantial
portion of the DSNA business to The Walt Disney Company. In connection with
these negotiations, Hoop's Board of Directors has determined that with
limited strategic and financial options available under the license
agreement, Hoop's only alternative was to file bankruptcy proceedings.
In a separate press release today, Hoop announced that it commenced a
Chapter 11 case for the reasons described above. It also intends to
pursue the transfer of a substantial portion of the DSNA business to an
affiliate of The Walt Disney Company in order to maximize proceeds
available to its stakeholders. By filing such a case, Hoop also expects to
complete an orderly wind-down of the rest of its affairs. The transaction
under negotiation is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions,
including approval of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court and is targeted for
completion by April 30, 2008. In the event that the transaction as agreed
to by the parties is approved by the Court, the Company would be
released from any liabilities and all claims that have been or might be
asserted by The Walt Disney Company. The Company continues to expect the
pre-tax cash costs to exit the DSNA business to be within the previously
stated range of $50 million to $100 million, payable over a period of
time.
Neither Hoop's parent company, The Children's Place Retail Stores,
Inc., nor any of its other subsidiaries, filed for bankruptcy.
Chuck Crovitz, Interim Chief Executive Officer of The Children's Place
Retail Stores, Inc., stated, "This exit strategy is consistent with the
corporate actions and strategic priorities we outlined last week. This
will enable the Company to transition away from the Disney Store
business in an orderly and expeditious manner so that we can concentrate
exclusively on The Children's Place, our core brand and business. We have
the utmost respect for the Disney Store brand, however, the cost of
running the Disney Store was no longer an acceptable use of Company's
resources. We were left with no other choice but to find a reasonable way
to exit the operations within the confines of the existing license
agreement."
"We believe this is the right decision for The Children's Place and its
shareholders as we move forward with our plans to strengthen
operations, a process which is well underway. We are pleased with recent sales
trends in the core business and continue to believe that The Children's
Place brand is strong and well-positioned for the future."
As previously disclosed, the Company has been conducting an ongoing
review of strategic and financial alternatives to accelerate improvement
of The Children's Place business and deliver enhanced shareholder value.
The management team has outlined a number of specific initiatives
including reducing expenses and streamlining operations and is also seeking
additional funding to strengthen its capital position. There can be no
assurance that the Company will be able to obtain such funding. As the
Company's review is ongoing, management will continue to provide
updates and report on progress throughout 2008.
The Children's Place Retail Stores, Inc. will host a conference call to
discuss this announcement tomorrow morning at 9 a.m. Eastern Time.
Interested parties are invited to listen to the call by dialing
800-895-0198 and providing the Conference ID, PLCE. The call will also be webcast
live and can be accessed via the Company's web site,
The Children's Place. A replay of the call will be available approximately one hour
after the conclusion of the call, until midnight on April 2, 2008. To
access the replay, please dial 800-688-9445, or you may listen to the
audio archive on the Company's website, The Children's Place.
***************

[fairygodmother29577]

What I'm about to say, I truly don't mean it in a disrespectful way, but I do feel like I need to respond to these comments.

If the only reason you want to work at the Disney Store is because of the Disney perks, you won't be working there for the right reason. I was with the stores before the sale and I'm still with the stores now. I'm not there because of the perks, not even for the pay (which isn't that great), but I'm there because of the feeling I get when I can make it a magical experience for our guests. I love the looks on the children's faces when they see Mickey hanging from the ceiling. I love the way some adults act like kids in the store and I just love talking to guests about anything and everything Disney.

The sale of the stores nearly ripped us apart (emotionally it was horrible, we lost so many long-time CMs) but we survived. We've made it through the last four years together - still spreading the Disney magic while not getting anything by the way of perks back for it. We've done it because we love it. We do it for the guests and for each other.

Since the news broke on Thursday, I can't tell you how many threads I have read where people are all gung-ho to get jobs at the stores to get the perks. In a way, it really upsets me because if we weren't good enough before there was the chance we would get the perks back, why are we now?

Once again, I truly don't mean any disrespect to anybody on this thread or on the boards at all, but this has really been bothering me the last couple of days. If you want to join the Disney Store cast, just make sure you're in it for the long-haul. It's sort of like a marriage, you have to be there through the good and the bad.

:)
Wow you said it all! I came to Disney Store during the TCP time. Myself and our managment team had the privilage of being trained by Pre TCP Store managers. I have to say we are not in it for the perks, we are here because we love it, because it is Disney, it has History. Guests walk into our stores and they feel the magic, it is all in the smile and way you greet the guests, they are truely welcome into out "home". It will be nice to actually work for Disney, for us it will be like an adopted child finally finding their birth parents. I wish all the Disney Store CM best of luck and my prayers go out to those CM's who stores they will close.

[madaboutMickey]

Yes, Hoop filed for Chapter 11 yesterday.

[fairygodmother29577]

BREAKING NEWS!!
This just out...


***************
Disney is taking over on May 1st, 2008. On Monday the Disney Stores
that are closing will be announced.

Here is the latest news:

*Hoop Holdings, LLC and Its Subsidiaries D/B/A Disney Store North
America Pursuing Transfer of Substantial Portion of Disney Store Business to
The Walt Disney Company Under Chapter 11 Case

Chapter 11 Filing Does Not Apply to Parent Company, The Children's
Place Retail Stores, Inc.*
SECAUCUS, N.J., March 26, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- The Children's Place
Retail Stores, Inc. (Nasdaq:PLCE), today provided an update on its
plans to exit the Disney Store North America ("DSNA") business in order to
focus on its core namesake brand. The Company conducts the DSNA
business through its subsidiary Hoop Holdings, LLC and its subsidiaries
("Hoop") under a license agreement with The Walt Disney Company.
As previously announced on March 20, 2008, The Children's Place Retail
Stores, Inc. ("the Company") decided to exit the DSNA business as part
of the Company's review of strategic alternatives. As part of the
review, the current management team determined that the license agreement,
originated in 2004, requires substantial investments that are not
expected to deliver economic returns. The Company also took into account the
losses incurred by DSNA's operations, DSNA's current earnings prospects
as a licensee, and the restrictions imposed by the license agreement
on the sale of the business to a party other than The Walt Disney
Company. It was therefore concluded that the Company will be in a better
position to maximize value by focusing on its namesake Children's Place
brand. Importantly, this action is only one component of a broader
strategy to maximize shareholder value. As announced last week, the management
team is undertaking a number of initiatives to reduce expenses, strea
mline operations, and lower inventories and capital expenditures.
Also, as previously announced, the Company and Hoop have been engaged
in advanced negotiations concerning the transfer of a substantial
portion of the DSNA business to The Walt Disney Company. In connection with
these negotiations, Hoop's Board of Directors has determined that with
limited strategic and financial options available under the license
agreement, Hoop's only alternative was to file bankruptcy proceedings.
In a separate press release today, Hoop announced that it commenced a
Chapter 11 case for the reasons described above. It also intends to
pursue the transfer of a substantial portion of the DSNA business to an
affiliate of The Walt Disney Company in order to maximize proceeds
available to its stakeholders. By filing such a case, Hoop also expects to
complete an orderly wind-down of the rest of its affairs. The transaction
under negotiation is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions,
including approval of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court and is targeted for
completion by April 30, 2008. In the event that the transaction as agreed
to by the parties is approved by the Court, the Company would be
released from any liabilities and all claims that have been or might be
asserted by The Walt Disney Company. The Company continues to expect the
pre-tax cash costs to exit the DSNA business to be within the previously
stated range of $50 million to $100 million, payable over a period of
time.
Neither Hoop's parent company, The Children's Place Retail Stores,
Inc., nor any of its other subsidiaries, filed for bankruptcy.
Chuck Crovitz, Interim Chief Executive Officer of The Children's Place
Retail Stores, Inc., stated, "This exit strategy is consistent with the
corporate actions and strategic priorities we outlined last week. This
will enable the Company to transition away from the Disney Store
business in an orderly and expeditious manner so that we can concentrate
exclusively on The Children's Place, our core brand and business. We have
the utmost respect for the Disney Store brand, however, the cost of
running the Disney Store was no longer an acceptable use of Company's
resources. We were left with no other choice but to find a reasonable way
to exit the operations within the confines of the existing license
agreement."
"We believe this is the right decision for The Children's Place and its
shareholders as we move forward with our plans to strengthen
operations, a process which is well underway. We are pleased with recent sales
trends in the core business and continue to believe that The Children's
Place brand is strong and well-positioned for the future."
As previously disclosed, the Company has been conducting an ongoing
review of strategic and financial alternatives to accelerate improvement
of The Children's Place business and deliver enhanced shareholder value.
The management team has outlined a number of specific initiatives
including reducing expenses and streamlining operations and is also seeking
additional funding to strengthen its capital position. There can be no
assurance that the Company will be able to obtain such funding. As the
Company's review is ongoing, management will continue to provide
updates and report on progress throughout 2008.
The Children's Place Retail Stores, Inc. will host a conference call to
discuss this announcement tomorrow morning at 9 a.m. Eastern Time.
Interested parties are invited to listen to the call by dialing
800-895-0198 and providing the Conference ID, PLCE. The call will also be webcast
live and can be accessed via the Company's web site,
The Children's Place. A replay of the call will be available approximately one hour
after the conclusion of the call, until midnight on April 2, 2008. To
access the replay, please dial 800-688-9445, or you may listen to the
audio archive on the Company's website, The Children's Place.
***************Do you know this forsure? I just left my DM and there was no news as to when the announcments of store closings will be. As far as we have been told it is still not completely determined which store will stay and which will go. I realize we all want to know, it is bitter sweet we want to go "Home" although we don't want to be one of the stores they are closing. I can say that for every Disney Store out here it is business as always, providing the guest service that is expected.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

Wow you said it all! I came to Disney Store during the TCP time. Myself and our managment team had the privilage of being trained by Pre TCP Store managers. I have to say we are not in it for the perks, we are here because we love it, because it is Disney, it has History. Guests walk into our stores and they feel the magic, it is all in the smile and way you greet the guests, they are truely welcome into out "home". It will be nice to actually work for Disney, for us it will be like an adopted child finally finding their birth parents. I wish all the Disney Store CM best of luck and my prayers go out to those CM's who stores they will close.

Thank you!!!! :hug:

I was just talking to my DBF and he said to me that I'm going to be stressed out until the announcement is made...and I said that I'm already stressed out!

:grouphug: Hugs to all of my fellow Disney Store CMs who are just as stressed out as I am!

Thank you for the kind words! :hug:

[Violet Crayon]

This could either be really good for the people I care about at my store, or really bad, and it's hard to have any definite feeling right now. Disney stepping in is not as cheerful when there are two stores in your city.

[ranidayz]

I will probably not have the popular opinion here, but.....


When my boys were little in the mid-90s, I could not afford to get them anything from the Disney Store....it was so expensive, I mean, really so expensive.

I have a daughter that is four now and she has had a life filled with Disney because it's been so affordable in recent years. I know some people will chime in about quality, but nothing of ours has broken at all!

Now I am a little stressed to think about our one store in the area closing --- anyone out there heard any rumors about the Gaithersburg, MD store? I think I would just stop going to the mall if it closed.....

Thanks for all the info on this board!

Ranidayz

[TheDisneyGirl02]

I will probably not have the popular opinion here, but.....


When my boys were little in the mid-90s, I could not afford to get them anything from the Disney Store....it was so expensive, I mean, really so expensive.

I have a daughter that is four now and she has had a life filled with Disney because it's been so affordable in recent years. I know some people will chime in about quality, but nothing of ours has broken at all!

Now I am a little stressed to think about our one store in the area closing --- anyone out there heard any rumors about the Gaithersburg, MD store? I think I would just stop going to the mall if it closed.....

Thanks for all the info on this board!

Ranidayz

:grouphug: You said nothing wrong in your post. I"m glad that your daughter has been able to have her life filled with Disney! You are the kind of guest I love! Your post brought a smile to my face! :)

[TheDisneyGirl02]

This could either be really good for the people I care about at my store, or really bad, and it's hard to have any definite feeling right now. Disney stepping in is not as cheerful when there are two stores in your city.

Do you know this forsure? I just left my DM and there was no news as to when the announcments of store closings will be. As far as we have been told it is still not completely determined which store will stay and which will go. I realize we all want to know, it is bitter sweet we want to go "Home" although we don't want to be one of the stores they are closing. I can say that for every Disney Store out here it is business as always, providing the guest service that is expected.

All I can say is hugs to you both and hugs to your entire Cast at your stores. :grouphug:

[Family Fun Mom]

Oh, I so hope my local Disney Store does not close. I have always loved that store. I'm thrilled Disney will regain control of the stores, but I'm nervous mine will be on the chopping block. Not only will it be sad for Detroit Disney lovers but for the Disney Store CMs. Our economy is so bad, the thought of more good people possibly losing their jobs is just terrible.

<Crossing my fingers for them>

[zippy doo dah]

Thanks for the info here...I have actually been keeping up on this here and in my newspaper b/c I have anxiously been awaiting the return of TDS to Disney b/c like so many, I miss the quailty of what TDS used to be. So just to give a quick update, here's what was in this today's paper...


N.J. retail operator giving back stores


The Children's Place Retail Stores Inc., which is based in Secaucus and temporarily still operates the Disney Store chain, said Thursday that its return of more than 200 stores to the Walt Disney Co. couls be completer by May if its restructuring plan is accepted by a bankruptcy judge.
The remaining 100-plus Disney Stores in North America would be closed, said interin CEO Chuck Crovitz.
His comments came less than a day after the Children's Place subsidiary filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware.


Asbury Park Press


Now I'm a little nervous...I have 3 stores close to me (1 is in the midst of a move to a new location, so it's currently "closed") and I visit each one b/c they each have things that the other doesn't, so I am hoping that none of them close. However, the possibility that one will remain closed, instead of being reloctated and renovated, in light of this new information.

[dizriz]

opps wrong thread!!!

[cmash95]

ok I am confused how many are they keeping open? that article made it sounds like they were closing all the stores.

[zippy doo dah]

a little more than 200 will remain open, while a little over 100 will close, so not all of them will be closing.

[Pixeldust Fairy]

I too remember when the Disney Store had such quality items. The beautiful embroidered henleys and tshirts. All of the merchandise was so wonderful. Im just sad that our Disney store closed earlier this month. The closest Disney store to us is 5 1/2 hours away. I hope that after they re group they will open ours back up. It is a sad place to see that empty space that was once filled with Disney pixie dust. I know they did phenomenal business there. BRING OUR STORE BACK.

[Villainess]

Thanks for the info here...I have actually been keeping up on this here and in my newspaper b/c I have anxiously been awaiting the return of TDS to Disney b/c like so many, I miss the quailty of what TDS used to be. So just to give a quick update, here's what was in this today's paper...


N.J. retail operator giving back stores


The Children's Place Retail Stores Inc., which is based in Secaucus and temporarily still operates the Disney Store chain, said Thursday that its return of more than 200 stores to the Walt Disney Co. couls be completer by May if its restructuring plan is accepted by a bankruptcy judge.
The remaining 100-plus Disney Stores in North America would be closed, said interin CEO Chuck Crovitz.
His comments came less than a day after the Children's Place subsidiary filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware.


Asbury Park Press


Now I'm a little nervous...I have 3 stores close to me (1 is in the midst of a move to a new location, so it's currently "closed") and I visit each one b/c they each have things that the other doesn't, so I am hoping that none of them close. However, the possibility that one will remain closed, instead of being reloctated and renovated, in light of this new information.


I know exactly which 3 malls you are referring to - my mom used to be assistant mgr at 2 of them (back inthe Disney days, she left before TCP took over).

I will be looking forward to Disney taking them back since the 'cast members' - I use the word loosely at the stores near me spread no magic. I've witnessed bickering, foul language and just plain rudeness most of the time we're there.

[ColleenG]

Hi! I'm pretty sure I know which 3 malls you mean too. Do you know if any of them are on the chopping block? The one that moved in the mall looks like they put a lot of work into it and it is much bigger, so I can't imagine they would close that one. The one in the mall by me is probably now the smallest of the 3 (it's the most southern if we are all talking about the same ones). It seems like the DS are far more spread out in other areas. There are always people in there, usually buying somithing when I'm there. Time to make a trip to get some more Disney $$ and ask.

[JulianneCP]

Raindayz~~

I'm a TDS CM in Va. Just moved from your neck of the beltway

I'm a little worried because there are three stores within 20 miles of us Lakeforest, Tyson and me at Dulles but all three stores are high volume and we are in the Metro area which helps My SM says do not worry We should be safe

If Lakeforest closes there is not reason to step foot in that mall ever again. TDS is keeping that place alive.

[Villainess]

Hi! I'm pretty sure I know which 3 malls you mean too. Do you know if any of them are on the chopping block? The one that moved in the mall looks like they put a lot of work into it and it is much bigger, so I can't imagine they would close that one. The one in the mall by me is probably now the smallest of the 3 (it's the most southern if we are all talking about the same ones). It seems like the DS are far more spread out in other areas. There are always people in there, usually buying somithing when I'm there. Time to make a trip to get some more Disney $$ and ask.

Yup you're talking about the same 3 I am - my mom was opening cast for the southern one, assistant mgr. She was a lead at the one that was recently redone and then transferred there as assistant mgr later on. She never worked at the one that is currently under renovations - I loved the gallery there; so sad when they got rid of that! I believe that store is supposed to reopen in June. Oh, forgot about the outlet one too!

[Colson39]

When I worked at TDS 11 years ago, that was one of my favorite parts of the store, the gallery. Always loved to check out all the new items that would come in, some of the items were amazing!

I also used to love getting way up high with the character scenes that were attached to the roof, to clean them all out. Always liked high places, so it would be a nice little escape from counting registers or restacking the character plush island.

Oh, if you are or have ever been a Disney Store Cast Member, you know that the character plush island (or half moon shape in some stores) is the most annoying thing to put back together. No one ever wanted to do that job!!!

[ColleenG]

Yup you're talking about the same 3 I am - my mom was opening cast for the southern one, assistant mgr. She was a lead at the one that was recently redone and then transferred there as assistant mgr later on. She never worked at the one that is currently under renovations - I loved the gallery there; so sad when they got rid of that! I believe that store is supposed to reopen in June. Oh, forgot about the outlet one too!

OOHHH! I forgot about the out let one. I don't get to those outlets too often. When I was there last spring I was surprised to find it. Do you think they'll keep the outlet open? There's a Childrens Place outlet there too. Need to take a short road trip to do some shopping.:thumbsup2

[PoohsFan1]

OOHHH! I forgot about the out let one. I don't get to those outlets too often. When I was there last spring I was surprised to find it. Do you think they'll keep the outlet open? There's a Childrens Place outlet there too. Need to take a short road trip to do some shopping.:thumbsup2

From what I heard from my Store Manager, I too work at my TDS in the Chicagoland area, she had said that Disney will most likely do away with the outlet stores, so if her theory rings true, then all Disney outlets will be closed. According to her, the outlets were never something that Disney was ever happy with.

[ColleenG]

From what I heard from my Store Manager, I too work at my TDS in the Chicagoland area, she had said that Disney will most likely do away with the outlet stores, so if her theory rings true, then all Disney outlets will be closed. According to her, the outlets were never something that Disney was ever happy with.

Bummer!:sad1:

[fairygodmother29577]

From what I heard from my Store Manager, I too work at my TDS in the Chicagoland area, she had said that Disney will most likely do away with the outlet stores, so if her theory rings true, then all Disney outlets will be closed. According to her, the outlets were never something that Disney was ever happy with.
Sure hope her theory is wrong. I am a manager of a new outlet store and we just opened in December. I can't see Disney just letting these stores go. I've heard that Disney really liked the new proto type stores. We do not know what Disney is thinking. We can all speculate based on the "old Disney". I would think that Disney would not enter back into the Disney Store business with intensions to run it the same way they did before. As for "Outlet Stores" there has to be a reason why Disney agreed to so many of them. So until we all know anything for sure it business as usual. It is still the place to escape and get your Disney fix.

[PatMcDuck]

Well, one thing Disney does not want to do, is run the stores before they were run before! They ran them rather poorly, I know, I worked there for 5 years. I LOVED it. But mistakes made at the Home Base level killed us. Disney did not know what they were doing, with the product, target market, etc. They began to hire outside consultants, that made it far worse (project GO, Disney Home/Play stores, etc).

I am very happy about Disney taking the stores back. I want to come back, maybe for the holidays. I also heard the outlets will likely close, but that could take along time, to break those leases, etc.

Good luck to all current TDS employees, hope you and your stores survive this takeover!

[fairygodmother29577]

Thank you for your well wishes. I suppose time will tell all. Who knows they may turn some of those Outlets into Retail stores depending on location and the volume they can drive. I know we have full price chains in our outlet center. Maybe Disney will be another. As they say waiting is the hardest part. Good luck to all CM"s and their Guests that their store will be able able to continue to provide them "Disney Magic"

[applepie28]

I will probably not have the popular opinion here, but.....


When my boys were little in the mid-90s, I could not afford to get them anything from the Disney Store....it was so expensive, I mean, really so expensive.

I have a daughter that is four now and she has had a life filled with Disney because it's been so affordable in recent years. I know some people will chime in about quality, but nothing of ours has broken at all!

Now I am a little stressed to think about our one store in the area closing --- anyone out there heard any rumors about the Gaithersburg, MD store? I think I would just stop going to the mall if it closed.....

Thanks for all the info on this board!

Ranidayz

i am a lead at the gaithersburg md store.... so far we know nothing about which stores will close and i can only hope that ours will not be one of them. i used to be a lead at the owings mills md store and when they closed in january this year i was transferred to lakeforest. i did stay until the end at my former home store and it was a very hard, emotional process. i really don't want to go through that again. i'm not sure how i feel about disney taking the stores back - i guess mostly it's good, it's just the transition mess that has me worried.

[Violet Crayon]

i am a lead at the gaithersburg md store.... so far we know nothing about which stores will close and i can only hope that ours will not be one of them. i used to be a lead at the owings mills md store and when they closed in january this year i was transferred to lakeforest. i did stay until the end at my former home store and it was a very hard, emotional process. i really don't want to go through that again. i'm not sure how i feel about disney taking the stores back - i guess mostly it's good, it's just the transition mess that has me worried.

Have you seen the potential list yet? There is a PDF file many of the stores have tracked down with those going to Disney and the remaining stores that will close.

[Zalera]

i am a lead at the gaithersburg md store.... so far we know nothing about which stores will close and i can only hope that ours will not be one of them. i used to be a lead at the owings mills md store and when they closed in january this year i was transferred to lakeforest. i did stay until the end at my former home store and it was a very hard, emotional process. i really don't want to go through that again. i'm not sure how i feel about disney taking the stores back - i guess mostly it's good, it's just the transition mess that has me worried.

Is that you Andra? :P
(quan btw)

Anywho..
@violetcrayon- are you sure there's a list out there because I'm a CM from the DS in gaithersburg, MD as well, and from what I've heard there hasn't been any information of which stores are going back and which are closing. Though, I may be wrong.

[Violet Crayon]

Is that you Andra? :P
(quan btw)

Anywho..
@violetcrayon- are you sure there's a list out there because I'm a CM from the DS in gaithersburg, MD as well, and from what I've heard there hasn't been any information of which stores are going back and which are closing. Though, I may be wrong.

There was a fax/e-mail that informed all of the stores that lists were being made and stores were being evaluated, and the information would be released on April 21st(?). My managers instantly started to seek out the list (knowing it had to exist someplace) and came across an internet archive for all legal proceedings regarding Hoop filing for chapter 11, and the lists are part of it in defining what stores Disney is acquiring. They printed the files for everyone to see at work. From some other forums I know that many other stores have done the same. The company has not officially released the information or told any of the stores personally, and small changes could be made.

[Zalera]

There was a fax/e-mail that informed all of the stores that lists were being made and stores were being evaluated, and the information would be released on April 21st(?). My managers instantly started to seek out the list (knowing it had to exist someplace) and came across an internet archive for all legal proceedings regarding Hoop filing for chapter 11, and the lists are part of it in defining what stores Disney is acquiring. They printed the files for everyone to see at work. From some other forums I know that many other stores have done the same. The company has not officially released the information or told any of the stores personally, and small changes could be made.

Yeah I've been looking into it and I've read through numerous forums about a "potential list" but I've yet to find it. I'll be looking some more tonight so I'll get back to you if I find anything.

[dvc at last !]

i am a lead at the gaithersburg md store.... so far we know nothing about which stores will close and i can only hope that ours will not be one of them. i used to be a lead at the owings mills md store and when they closed in january this year i was transferred to lakeforest. i did stay until the end at my former home store and it was a very hard, emotional process. i really don't want to go through that again. i'm not sure how i feel about disney taking the stores back - i guess mostly it's good, it's just the transition mess that has me worried.



I believe it was an emotional experience.
Cast Members love Disney and love their jobs !


:cool1:

[Mickey&Donald]

Hi ApplePie and Zalera... we all know each other. ;) I'm the one who provides homemade chocolate chip cookies.

I have found the list of stores that are being kept and the ones that aren't. We're told these lists are preliminary and NOT final yet, but it's definitely hard to sit by and wait for these decisions to become final... particularly as part of a team at a store on the bad list. :(

For anyone who enjoys sorting through endless pages of legal jargon.. the lists can be found here: http://chapter11.epiqsystems.com/clientdefault.aspx?pk=984b6fc1-5861-47e1-816a-0bfea854c839&l=1

Click on the "Docket" link at the top of the page and find Docket #91 -- the "Images" link on the right is actually a number of downloadable files where all of this information can be found.

[dvc at last !]

WOW !

:cool1:

[TheDisneyGirl02]

I believe it was an emotional experience.
Cast Members love Disney and love their jobs !


:cool1:


Disney Store Cast Members do love Disney and their jobs...that is why I am so sad that some stores are closing in the process. I'm still hoping that mine stays open...it is sort of like sitting on pins and needles waiting to see what is going to happen. I'm just keeping my fingers crossed for my store and my Disney family.

[ranidayz]

shout out the gaithersburg, md Disney Store cast members! I love that store! I am one of your faithful guests -- always looking for the small mickey/minnie plushes for DD, pins for trips and the clearance corner of course! I think I may stop in today and say hello ----

Thank you for always making it wonderful to shop there!

Rani

[applepie28]

HEY GUYS!! how come i didn't know you were on here??

thanks for posting the link to the list - i knew i had seen one somewhere but i never could find it again.

hope you're having a MAGICAL day - see you soon!

[Mickey&Donald]

shout out the gaithersburg, md Disney Store cast members! I love that store! I am one of your faithful guests -- always looking for the small mickey/minnie plushes for DD, pins for trips and the clearance corner of course! I think I may stop in today and say hello ----

Thank you for always making it wonderful to shop there!

Rani

Hi Rani -- I know exactly who you are! :)

The thought of a possible closure for our store is just heart-wrenching. It's a tragedy for those of us who have literally put our hearts and souls into making our store a success, and it's awful for our loyal guests who shop with us on a regular basis. We have so many guests whose kids I've watched grow up, who talk with me about exciting upcoming or just-ended Disney trips, or who I know are sure to come in every week just to say hi. The thought of all of that going away is so, so sad. :guilty:

This whole "wait and see" process is making me more than a little mad, too. These stores are filled with people who depend on that income for their lives to remain intact, and for the company to not give a definite answer one way or another is so incredibly selfish. I'm sure it's much better for them to give 3 or 4 weeks notice, so they can be sure to have teams remaining in the store to help it close down, but what about people who don't know how they're going to pay the mortgage next month because they haven't had sufficient time to find a new job?

:headache:

[Zalera]

Oh wow you're here too. You actually beat me to it, I just found it and came here to post it to find that my manager posted it before me... poo. It's hard seeing our store on the list in Annex G knowing how much everyone here loves what we do. *sigh* let's just hope for the best.

[ranidayz]

OK Lakeforest CMs --- you have to let me know who you are!!! I was just in there today and it was so sad as I looked at the screen that seems to never get fixed and all the music playing seemed to be sad music.....Remember The Magic! I was so sad to see this store on the "remaining stores" list today.....I don't think I'll need to go back to this mall anymore if you're not here... Just tell me - one of you posting has to be Tara....right?

I'll see you all in a couple days.....

Rani

PS - bought my son that chip/dale green canvas today -- he's so excited - I just didn't want to lose the chance.

[mickeymark34]

I'm waiting in great anxiety, and anticipation at the idea of becoming a Walt Disney Company employee again. It is the greatest company to work for. At least it was when they owned the Disney Stores. I still acted like we were owned by them, and gave every guest the best service I could possibly give, to each and every one of them. I hope everything turns out alright.

[ColleenG]

Are the stores on the Annex G list staying open or are they slated to close?

[LMCT88]

ok so what does it mean if a store is not on the list and does it mean if the store is on the list, it is definitely closing

[DisneyDeeva]

Are the stores on the Annex G list staying open or are they slated to close?

Annex A is Acquired Store Schedule. This is the list of stores that Disney is interested in acquiring. There are 221 stores on that list. Annex G is the USA Remaining Store Schedule. This is the list of stores Disney has not expressed an interest in acquiring. Remember this is just a preliminary filing. The list can and probably will be adjusted slightly as the process proceeds.

[fairygodmother29577]

Just remember what you were told on Saturday, this is prelimiary list. Hang tight and see if Mickey has any extra magic he is spreading. Nothing is finale until the I's are dotted and the T's are crossed.. Until then you and your fellow Cast memebers are in my thoughts. Good luck.

[mickeymark34]

I just read some of the document that discusses the possible store closures, and our store is on that list. But I hold out hope that it might change before this is over.

[baby1disney]

Hi ApplePie and Zalera... we all know each other. ;) I'm the one who provides homemade chocolate chip cookies.

I have found the list of stores that are being kept and the ones that aren't. We're told these lists are preliminary and NOT final yet, but it's definitely hard to sit by and wait for these decisions to become final... particularly as part of a team at a store on the bad list. :(

For anyone who enjoys sorting through endless pages of legal jargon.. the lists can be found here: http://chapter11.epiqsystems.com/clientdefault.aspx?pk=984b6fc1-5861-47e1-816a-0bfea854c839&l=1

Click on the "Docket" link at the top of the page and find Docket #91 -- the "Images" link on the right is actually a number of downloadable files where all of this information can be found.

Hey thanks for this link. I started another thread without knowing that this one had been started!! I'm a CM at TDS here in Toledo, OH. I think that they said our store was staying open!!! :woohoo: I'm too excited!!! But, I'm going to put the link you found on my thread so other people can see!! Thanks again!!

[dpuck1998]

okay, I poured thru the documents and couldn't figure out which stores are "safe" and which are possible closers. Am I looking for something specific to tell? The only one close to me right now is in Grand Rapids at rivertown crossings mall. We goto the Chicago store often too.

[Mickey&Donald]

The 221 stores listed in Annex A are most likely the ones to be bought by Disney. The shorter list of 104 stores on Annex G are the ones slated to close.

Has anyone heard any updates?

[JB2K]

It will be interesting to see what the Walt Disney Company plans to do with the 200 or so "reclaimed" Disney Stores.

The reason I say that, is the WDC put-up an arugument when they sold the stores to The Children's Place a few years back that they (WDC) were more into "brand management" than in running retail stores.

That is backed-up by the fact that many Disney-trademarked items (toys, children's clothing) are sold at a lot of different places (e.g., Toys "R" Us, Target, and Wal-Mart) besides the parks and the namesake mall-based stores.

That, and TCP not withstanding, Disney had past successes in licensing their brand to other operators (namely, the theme park businesses in Japan and Hong Kong).

Over the short term, I believe the WDC will continue to run the 200 or so mall stores that are remaining open -- mainly to avoid customer confusion, as the average person on the street believes the WDC still owns/operates these stores.

That said, over time, one of two things may happen:

1. The WDC will find another retail partner to run their namesake stores (hopefuly, an organization who has the resources to commit to the retail business).

2. Under the WDC, more mall stores may still close, and only those in North America's biggest cities may transition to a single "World of Disney" (NYC) type of store to satisfy the Disney purists, out there.

I don't mean to sound pessimistic, but when it comes to dollars and cents, we are living in financially-troubled times, and you can count on Disney saying something to that effect, if more sell-offs/store closings should happen...

[dpuck1998]

The 221 stores listed in Annex A are most likely the ones to be bought by Disney. The shorter list of 104 stores on Annex G are the ones slated to close.

Has anyone heard any updates?

I didn't see that list? Is it in the document somewhere?

[ranidayz]

It will be interesting to see what the Walt Disney Company plans to do with the 200 or so "reclaimed" Disney Stores.

The reason I say that, is the WDC put-up an arugument when they sold the stores to The Children's Place a few years back that they (WDC) were more into "brand management" than in running retail stores.

That is backed-up by the fact that many Disney-trademarked items (toys, children's clothing) are sold at a lot of different places (e.g., Toys "R" Us, Target, and Wal-Mart) besides the parks and the namesake mall-based stores.

That, and TCP not withstanding, Disney had past successes in licensing their brand to other operators (namely, the theme park businesses in Japan and Hong Kong).

Over the short term, I believe the WDC will continue to run the 200 or so mall stores that are remaining open -- mainly to avoid customer confusion, as the average person on the street believes the WDC still owns/operates these stores.

That said, over time, one of two things may happen:

1. The WDC will find another retail partner to run their namesake stores (hopefuly, an organization who has the resources to commit to the retail business).

2. Under the WDC, more mall stores may still close, and only those in North America's biggest cities may transition to a single "World of Disney" (NYC) type of store to satisfy the Disney purists, out there.

I don't mean to sound pessimistic, but when it comes to dollars and cents, we are living in financially-troubled times, and you can count on Disney saying something to that effect, if more sell-offs/store closings should happen...


oh gosh - at least if they're really going to make going to the Disney Store an experience -- please let the CMs wear lanyards and trade pins --- kids would make it a favorite weekend activity to make the drive to trade!

[we're all mad here]

We are REALLY hoping that list changes. 9 out of the 10 stores in our district are on the remaining store list. Makes for a very nerve wrecking work enviroment.

[mickey2000]

I'm confused ? I must have lost a moment in time ???
Didn't the quality of merchandise and collectibles decline under Disney before the Children's place took control !
Wasn't the GOAL of the Disney company to concentrate on thier NY store and internet sales ....
They saw the future with online sales.
Now with the economy on a down turn, not to be negative, why would they want control back? :confused3 We are in a near recession with many people out of work or giving up thier homes.
Convience me on why they should keep these stores. JMO
I just don't see the old Disney ever returning with the great merchandise from the past.

[DisneyDeeva]

I think two key point in Disney reentering the retail business are:

1) There will be less than half the number of stores that Disney saw in it's heyday. This would make the stores more of a destination experience.

2) Most importantly, WDC is under new management...new management that encourages teamwork and creativity.

Part of the problem in the past is that every corner that could be cut was. The stores were overexposed and micromanaged right into the red.

[mickey2000]

I think two key point in Disney reentering the retail business are:

1) There will be less than half the number of stores that Disney saw in it's heyday. This would make the stores more of a destination experience.

2) Most importantly, WDC is under new management...new management that encourages teamwork and creativity.

Part of the problem in the past is that every corner that could be cut was. The stores were overexposed and micromanaged right into the red.

Two very good points! :thumbsup2

[TheDisneyGirl02]

oh gosh - at least if they're really going to make going to the Disney Store an experience -- please let the CMs wear lanyards and trade pins --- kids would make it a favorite weekend activity to make the drive to trade!

It's funny you mention about making the Disney Stores an experience. This past weekend, I was straightening plush mountain and I overheard two guests talking about how they always come to the store just for the experience and to have their Disney fix. I stopped what I was doing and thanked them for saying that. To me, that is the highest honor as a Disney Store CM, to hear how my store can make it a wonderful experience for all Disney fans.


I think two key point in Disney reentering the retail business are:

1) There will be less than half the number of stores that Disney saw in it's heyday. This would make the stores more of a destination experience.

2) Most importantly, WDC is under new management...new management that encourages teamwork and creativity.

Part of the problem in the past is that every corner that could be cut was. The stores were overexposed and micromanaged right into the red.

:thumbsup2

All I can say is I'm glad Eisner is out and Iger is in because at least FINALLY the stores will receive the attention they deserve by Disney.

[ranidayz]

The Gaithersburg CMs can attest to seeing me in the store at least twice a week. Truthfully, through the planning stage of my cruise and now the aftermath --- I do like the fix --- it 're-youngs' me and restores innocense in my children in a disturbing world.

I like to walk out of there with something -- even if it's a washcloth -- because it's a little pixie dust in my pocket. However, aside from Ikea -- there are very few stores that I would travel to when I dont' need anything from them. Unfortunately, my husband (looking around our house) can not see that I need anything from a distant Disney store.

I honestly dont' think I'll be in mymall if our store goes!

By the way - if you go to that store -- every single cast member is amazing. I want to point out that if Tara is there - that woman knows everything about Disney and can sit and talk you through everything -- she's an experience in Disney all by herself! Now we just hurry up and wait....

[Mickey&Donald]

The Gaithersburg CMs can attest to seeing me in the store at least twice a week.

True! :)

By the way - if you go to that store -- every single cast member is amazing. I want to point out that if Tara is there - that woman knows everything about Disney and can sit and talk you through everything -- she's an experience in Disney all by herself! Now we just hurry up and wait....

Thanks so much -- it really means a lot to hear that. And we love Tara too! She's an awesome CM... it is really apparent that she used to be a CM at WDW too!:thumbsup2

[DisneyDeeva]

It's funny you mention about making the Disney Stores an experience. This past weekend, I was straightening plush mountain and I overheard two guests talking about how they always come to the store just for the experience and to have their Disney fix. I stopped what I was doing and thanked them for saying that. To me, that is the highest honor as a Disney Store CM, to hear how my store can make it a wonderful experience for all Disney fans.

Ahhh, Plush Mountain. When I was a CM - that was always my favorite "job" at closing on Friday night. I did Plush Mountain the "Disney Way" in preparation for the weekend Guests. It was honestly good enough that our DM took pictures to show other stores how it should look. The fixtures were dusted, the glass polished, the hangers all faced to the left and the floor was vacuumed at the close of each and every shift. It made me soo proud to hear guests nice things about their experience.

On the couple of times I've wandered into the store, I've come out in tears. It is such a mess - and dirty. The plush is just piled in the mountain - it looks like some 2 year-old's toy chest. I hope they make all the CMs go back through Traditions and reread the dress code (I did not like being greeted by some kid with more unnatural holes in her body than natural ones and her very long purple fingernails freaked me out!)

And, if anyone from Disney is out there listening - get rid of those hideous, cheap red shirts. When I put it on, I always felt like I worked at Jiffy Lube. Even after dozens of washings, the water was still pink.

[cindyfan]

And hopefully when Disney takes over.....
They won't have a CM standing at the front of the store screaming at people when you walk in.....
At our DS, the CM stands there and screams out what is "on Sale" or whatever promotion is going on.
When I was a CM we actually walked up to people to talk to them! Then casually mentioned the current promotions.
This whole screaming at people as they walk in is just RUDE! :sad2:

[cindyfan]

Oh yea, and they need to bring back the Disney Gallery!!!!! :worship:

[we're all mad here]

I didn't see that list? Is it in the document somewhere?

It's at the VERY end of those wonderful 197 pages. The "remaining" are pages 191-192 or 192-193.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

Ahhh, Plush Mountain. When I was a CM - that was always my favorite "job" at closing on Friday night. I did Plush Mountain the "Disney Way" in preparation for the weekend Guests. It was honestly good enough that our DM took pictures to show other stores how it should look. The fixtures were dusted, the glass polished, the hangers all faced to the left and the floor was vacuumed at the close of each and every shift. It made me soo proud to hear guests nice things about their experience.

On the couple of times I've wandered into the store, I've come out in tears. It is such a mess - and dirty. The plush is just piled in the mountain - it looks like some 2 year-old's toy chest. I hope they make all the CMs go back through Traditions and reread the dress code (I did not like being greeted by some kid with more unnatural holes in her body than natural ones and her very long purple fingernails freaked me out!)

And, if anyone from Disney is out there listening - get rid of those hideous, cheap red shirts. When I put it on, I always felt like I worked at Jiffy Lube. Even after dozens of washings, the water was still pink.

The store where I work, we have kept ALL of the Disney standards. I know not all stores have, but we do. No bright nail polish, one piecing per ear, one ring per hand, etc. The windows and mirrors are washed every morning and the store is swept every night (well, that is when the sweeper works...we have a problem with killing them!). I can't stand it when I see a hanger hung the wrong way. I will admit, I'm not the best at putting plush mountain together...I try to do it to the best that I can't but I"m not the best at it. I know many stores have changed since TCP took over, but my store hasn't been one of them.


And hopefully when Disney takes over.....
They won't have a CM standing at the front of the store screaming at people when you walk in.....
At our DS, the CM stands there and screams out what is "on Sale" or whatever promotion is going on.
When I was a CM we actually walked up to people to talk to them! Then casually mentioned the current promotions.
This whole screaming at people as they walk in is just RUDE! :sad2:

Current CM's don't see it as being rude, but instead trying to tell more guests at one time what is going on in the store. I never once considered myself being rude when I was at the greeter position. I'll be more than happy to talk to guests, I do every single shift, but if I'm at the greeter position, I'm going to do what am I am supposed to do even if some people do consider it rude. It's my job and it doesn't make me any less of a CM. I also don't think it's going to be going anywhere since the greeter position, as I'm sure you know as a former CM, has been around for a LONG time.

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

Of course the store I go to every week is slated to close. :rolleyes: There will still be 4 others in this general area, it will just be more of an effort to go to one. Hopefully they will be able to relocate the staff to the remaining stores, because they are truly wonderful CMs.

[cindyfan]

Current CM's don't see it as being rude, but instead trying to tell more guests at one time what is going on in the store. I never once considered myself being rude when I was at the greeter position. I'll be more than happy to talk to guests, I do every single shift, but if I'm at the greeter position, I'm going to do what am I am supposed to do even if some people do consider it rude. It's my job and it doesn't make me any less of a CM. I also don't think it's going to be going anywhere since the greeter position, as I'm sure you know as a former CM, has been around for a LONG time.

I would LOVE for them to have "greeters"!! :thumbsup2
But IMHO..... a greeter is actually someone who makes eye contact and "GREETS" such as "how are you doing today? Are you looking for anything special that I can help you with?" As opposed to a loud screaming voice coming from behind a fixture yelling to me "We have T shirts 2 for $12" !!
:scared1:

I know you are probably just doing what you are told..... I just think the greeter should greet on a personal level.
The whole premise of what the Disney Store used to be is to make each person feel SPECIAL! Screaming to the masses is not special... it's rude.

[DisneyDeeva]

I would LOVE for them to have "greeters"!! :thumbsup2
But IMHO..... a greeter is actually someone who makes eye contact and "GREETS" such as "how are you doing today? Are you looking for anything special that I can help you with?" As opposed to a loud screaming voice coming from behind a fixture yelling to me "We have T shirts 2 for $12" !!
:scared1:

I know you are probably just doing what you are told..... I just think the greeter should greet on a personal level.
The whole premise of what the Disney Store used to be is to make each person feel SPECIAL! Screaming to the masses is not special... it's rude.

I totally agree - Why is it so hard to give a pleasant smile (pay special attention to the littlest Guests) and using your best indoor voice tell me "Welcome To The Disney Store"? I used to love working in the Box Office...asking for a Guest's autograph and telling them to "Have a Magical Day!!"

I still have a hard time when I see the CMs wearing white socks or, worse yet, no socks at all. And, the sneakers and Crocs have got to to. If I wanted to be helped by a scary guy with black lipstick, I'd go a few more doors down to the Hip Hop clothing store!

[KerryCM]

I totally agree - Why is it so hard to give a pleasant smile (pay special attention to the littlest Guests) and using your best indoor voice tell me "Welcome To The Disney Store"? I used to love working in the Box Office...asking for a Guest's autograph and telling them to "Have a Magical Day!!"

I still have a hard time when I see the CMs wearing white socks or, worse yet, no socks at all. And, the sneakers and Crocs have got to to. If I wanted to be helped by a scary guy with black lipstick, I'd go a few more doors down to the Hip Hop clothing store!

WOW! I don't know where you shop, but at the store I work at we too have kept the Disney standard. Our SM and DM would be walking us right out the door if we dressed like that!

I have been at my store almost 15 years, I was an opening CM. Through everything we have still been "Disney" We have been told we represent the Disney name and we will go by all original standards.

I am curious to see what the changes will bring. I would love to see us go back to the old ways, but I really don't think they will all come back. This is a bussiness and Disney will run it as such. My store is currently on the "aquired" list, but we all know nothing is set in stone. I stayed with the changes to Hoop because of our cast and my love for Disney. I just hope the store stays open, but only time will tell.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

WOW! I don't know where you shop, but at the store I work at we too have kept the Disney standard. Our SM and DM would be walking us right out the door if we dressed like that!

I have been at my store almost 15 years, I was an opening CM. Through everything we have still been "Disney" We have been told we represent the Disney name and we will go by all original standards.

I am curious to see what the changes will bring. I would love to see us go back to the old ways, but I really don't think they will all come back. This is a bussiness and Disney will run it as such. My store is currently on the "aquired" list, but we all know nothing is set in stone. I stayed with the changes to Hoop because of our cast and my love for Disney. I just hope the store stays open, but only time will tell.

I couldn't have said it better myself! Your post sounds like I wrote it!

I personally greet the guests, don't yell at the guests. I've known CM (seasonal only) who truly did that and I don't really like that...however if there are a lot of people coming into the store at once, I'll try to greet many people at one time, just because it's nearly impossible to greet everyone individually.

Standards haven't changed at my store...at all. It upsets me when I hear standards have changed at some stores because it gives all stores (even the ones that follow the rules) a bad name.

[dpuck1998]

It's at the VERY end of those wonderful 197 pages. The "remaining" are pages 191-192 or 192-193.

Thanks!

Looks like the store closest to me is safe for now. yea.

[jenseib]

Can someone post the list here?

[DisneyDeeva]

Can someone post the list here?

Probably not a good idea. The list is part of a current legal proceeding. Not worth possibly getting Pete and The DIS in a barrel of hot water with Disney, Hoop Retail and the law.

[jenseib]

Probably not a good idea. The list is part of a current legal proceeding. Not worth possibly getting Pete and The DIS in a barrel of hot water with Disney, Hoop Retail and the law.

Why??? I don't see why anyone would get in trouble. It is a public document right? And I didn't ask for the document anyways, just a list of stores.

[DisneyDeeva]

Why??? I don't see why anyone would get in trouble. It is a public document right? And I didn't ask for the document anyways, just a list of stores.

True, it is a public document. As part of a bankruptcy proceeding, it is required to be made public.

BUT, this is an ongoing case and we haven't been given permission to reprint any portion of the filings. If you are having problems viewing the filing, I would be happy to send the attachements to you via e-mail but they should NOT be copied and posted here - either in part or in their entirety!!!

[jenseib]

No need. I found the list posted on another thread.

[Linzybrooke]

When I worked at TDS 11 years ago, that was one of my favorite parts of the store, the gallery. Always loved to check out all the new items that would come in, some of the items were amazing!

I also used to love getting way up high with the character scenes that were attached to the roof, to clean them all out. Always liked high places, so it would be a nice little escape from counting registers or restacking the character plush island.

Oh, if you are or have ever been a Disney Store Cast Member, you know that the character plush island (or half moon shape in some stores) is the most annoying thing to put back together. No one ever wanted to do that job!!!
Actually, Plush Mountain and Plush Fountain were always my favorite job! Even as a manager I would do the plush because it was the one thing that made the store for me. It sure did make everyone else that I worked with happy that I was willing to do that job! I miss it.

It will be interesting to see what the Walt Disney Company plans to do with the 200 or so "reclaimed" Disney Stores.

The reason I say that, is the WDC put-up an arugument when they sold the stores to The Children's Place a few years back that they (WDC) were more into "brand management" than in running retail stores.

That is backed-up by the fact that many Disney-trademarked items (toys, children's clothing) are sold at a lot of different places (e.g., Toys "R" Us, Target, and Wal-Mart) besides the parks and the namesake mall-based stores.

That, and TCP not withstanding, Disney had past successes in licensing their brand to other operators (namely, the theme park businesses in Japan and Hong Kong).

Over the short term, I believe the WDC will continue to run the 200 or so mall stores that are remaining open -- mainly to avoid customer confusion, as the average person on the street believes the WDC still owns/operates these stores.

That said, over time, one of two things may happen:

1. The WDC will find another retail partner to run their namesake stores (hopefuly, an organization who has the resources to commit to the retail business).

2. Under the WDC, more mall stores may still close, and only those in North America's biggest cities may transition to a single "World of Disney" (NYC) type of store to satisfy the Disney purists, out there.

I don't mean to sound pessimistic, but when it comes to dollars and cents, we are living in financially-troubled times, and you can count on Disney saying something to that effect, if more sell-offs/store closings should happen...
You took the words right out of my mouth. This is the exact conversation I have had with DH and several friends who still work for the store, and it is what they feel will ultimately happen as well.

I'm confused ? I must have lost a moment in time ???
Didn't the quality of merchandise and collectibles decline under Disney before the Children's place took control !
Wasn't the GOAL of the Disney company to concentrate on thier NY store and internet sales ....
They saw the future with online sales.
Now with the economy on a down turn, not to be negative, why would they want control back? :confused3 We are in a near recession with many people out of work or giving up thier homes.
Convience me on why they should keep these stores. JMO
I just don't see the old Disney ever returning with the great merchandise from the past.
Yes and yes. The stores going back deals a great deal with TCP not adhereing to things that were set forth in their purchase agreement with Disney. Too many things have gone wrong with the sale and for the last year WDC has been giving them guidelines, timelines and ultimatums. I believe this is a culmination of things that have occured over the last year, and TCP filing bankruptcy is making it easier and cheaper for WDC to get the stores out of the TCP black hole.

I think two key point in Disney reentering the retail business are:

1) There will be less than half the number of stores that Disney saw in it's heyday. This would make the stores more of a destination experience.

2) Most importantly, WDC is under new management...new management that encourages teamwork and creativity.

Part of the problem in the past is that every corner that could be cut was. The stores were overexposed and micromanaged right into the red.
These are good points, I hope you are correct.

I worked for TDS from 1999-2007, I left in August of last year. I loved my years with TDS because of the experience. It wasn't all pixie dust under Disney or under TCP, but the guests and my managers made it all worthwhile. In my 7.5 years I went from a seasonal CM and freshman in college to the ASM of the DFW flagship store, I learned so much and miss parts of the job every day. I left for many reasons, but primarily it was a change of career for me, and I became a high school teacher. I hope for those of you still employeed that things get better than they are. You are all in my thoughts.

I couldn't find the store listing on the link provided. If someone has a different link or can help me navigate the website I would love to see it. I know that 2 of my former stores are on the list because I have been told as much, but I have worked in a couple of different states and would love to see the entire listing.

[jenseib]

Will the children place stores be closing too?

[DisneyDeeva]

No - The Children's Place is a separate division and are not affected by the Chapter 11 filing.

[TinaMedley]

The list is just a primlinary (sp) one. What they did was take the stores and listed them in order of how much profit they make and took the top 212. They are now making some changes and looking at regions. I hope they do that, because if they don't change the list it will mean all the stores in the St. Louis Area will close.

[boston1029]

Tinamedley - Where did you get your info? I'm just curious about the makeup of the lists.

We were not told any info on how they made their decisions.

[DisneyDeeva]

The list is just a primlinary (sp) one. What they did was take the stores and listed them in order of how much profit they make and took the top 212. They are now making some changes and looking at regions. I hope they do that, because if they don't change the list it will mean all the stores in the St. Louis Area will close.

I'm sure that there was a lot more analysis that went into that list. Disney has some pretty hefty resources at it's disposal - and 212 would be an odd number to arbitrarily stop at. In addition to profit margins, they will have analyzed Guest traffic patterns merchandise volumes, lease situations, etc.

[TinaMedley]

Boston1029,
Heard from a current castmember that I know. Ran into her over the weekend doing the April Showers for Girl scouts!

[fairygodmother29577]

It is funny I currently work in a Disney Store and do not hear half of the things I read here. I have to agree with the fact they are looking at more than just the profit. There are quite a few new stores on the aquired list and they have no LY #'s to go by. Just probablity. I don't believe in saying anything that I don't as a fact there are too many Cast Members on here that are going to loose jobs and as much as I would love to come up for answers for all of them best I can do is be supportive and hope there is still a lot of pixie dust to go around. Just remember don't believe everything you read. Good Luck everyone!

[bevgray]

I hope it's a preliminary list. Otherwise all three stores in Indianapolis will close and leave only two in the northern part of the state (at least one of which can be served by the Chicago market) open. Since Indianapolis is the state capital and the major city in the state, I should think we'd keep at least one of the three. I'm not sure about the store to the southside of the city, but the downtown store does a pretty good business (and had a gallery nook since it is in an upscale mall) and the Castleton Store was in the first wave of stores when Disney expanded the stores way back when before the proliferated all over the place.

By the way, do you suppose anyone had the sense to use push pins in a map to get a visual of how this arrangement looks? You'd think they'd notice a big fat void in St. Louis and Indianapolis and that two northern Indiana cities are within spitting distance of each other as well as the Chicago stores.

[TinaMedley]

Of course they don't, that would require them thinking and not about the bottom line!:confused3 Who wonders what the higher up do, they probably close their eyes and point, and bam! your closing!!!! Let's hope they think this thing through and do some smart moves!

[TheDisneyGirl02]

It is funny I currently work in a Disney Store and do not hear half of the things I read here. I have to agree with the fact they are looking at more than just the profit. There are quite a few new stores on the aquired list and they have no LY #'s to go by. Just probablity. I don't believe in saying anything that I don't as a fact there are too many Cast Members on here that are going to loose jobs and as much as I would love to come up for answers for all of them best I can do is be supportive and hope there is still a lot of pixie dust to go around. Just remember don't believe everything you read. Good Luck everyone!

My thoughts exactly! :thumbsup2

I have to say (and I know I'm going to be flamed for saying this) it's kind of sad that people are so excited that stores are closing because they will be able to get good deals. All of those CMs are losing their jobs and some people are just worried about the good prices. I don't mean to be nasty when I say that, but I do know some CMs who will most likely lose their jobs and that thought makes me sick. The last thing on my mind is what price the merchandise is going to be on sale for. Whenever I go into a store that is going out of business I always think about the employees first and what they are going to do. I love good deals as much as the next person but I can't help but think about the 'people' involved.

I'm wishing ALL TDS CMs luck and well wishes during this anxious time!

[boston1029]

TheDisneyGirl02:

Thanks for that post. It's been very stressful in our store with all of this going on. We're keeping the faith and the positivity going though. This list is preliminary and that is the way we're looking at it. There is so much support from cast from other stores and from our guests who tell us that they wouldn't know what to do if we closed. I am excited about being owned by Disney again though. :banana: It'll be nice not to have to explain to people 4years later that no we are not owned by Disney.

I'm sending positive thoughts out to all the cast at every store. It's been a bumpy month.

[KerryCM]

TheDisneyGirl02, you said it perfectly. yes, my store is on the aquired list, but that does not mean we are safe from closing! The management team knows that, the cast memebers know that, yet we are still working "business as usual". For some of us it is just a small job for something to do, but for others it is their livelihood. I feel for these cast memebers.

Now, my feelings on the "sales" being held at closing store. I hope they just ship everything to exisiting stores! Let the "sale vultures" be disappointed. I know this is harsh, I like a good sale as well as the next person, but come on this is getting so bad. I remember when Burlington closed(in MA just about 6 weeks ago), our guests were saying we'll go up to Burlington it is cheaper. Well gosh Burlington is a good 1 hour drive from my store and you are going to spend the gas money to save $4.00! It was crazy.

Good luck to all TDS cast members. I will be glad when May 1st comes, but like my SM said we could still close after the acquisition!

[dpuck1998]

My thoughts exactly! :thumbsup2

I have to say (and I know I'm going to be flamed for saying this) it's kind of sad that people are so excited that stores are closing because they will be able to get good deals. All of those CMs are losing their jobs and some people are just worried about the good prices. I don't mean to be nasty when I say that, but I do know some CMs who will most likely lose their jobs and that thought makes me sick. The last thing on my mind is what price the merchandise is going to be on sale for. Whenever I go into a store that is going out of business I always think about the employees first and what they are going to do. I love good deals as much as the next person but I can't help but think about the 'people' involved.

I'm wishing ALL TDS CMs luck and well wishes during this anxious time!

How exactly is being happy to save a few bucks mean someone doesn't care about other people losing their jobs? I think the two things can be seperated. Should we not shop at any of the stores that are closing? We can't change which stores they close, so at least there can be some positive. Half full or half empty?

[TheDisneyGirl02]

How exactly is being happy to save a few bucks mean someone doesn't care about other people losing their jobs? I think the two things can be seperated. Should we not shop at any of the stores that are closing? We can't change which stores they close, so at least there can be some positive. Half full or half empty?

In no way shape or form am I saying that, but at the same time there are so many posts on here about people who are excited to see how cheap merchandise will go since their store may or may not be going out of business. All of the TDS CMs are on pins and needles right now (as you can tell by the PP who are all CMs) and as much as I wish I could say it's just business, it's not. We are like a family and it's killing me to wait and see if my family survives the cut. I've been with the store since 1999 so I have been there through the TCP change-over and it wasn't fun.

You should continue to shop at the stores, regardless if they are closing or not. It may not have been so much on this thread about people being excited about going out of business sale prices, but there is a thread on the Dis where many posters stated how they were looking forward to seeing what the sale prices are going to be. There's a chance there may not even be a going out of business sale, all of their merchandise maybe transfered to another store that is remaining open. I don't know that for a fact, but it could potentially happen.

It just bothers me that some people can be so excited about getting a t-shirt for $5 when there are many people who will be losing their jobs. I'm sure that many people don't see it that way though. To me, a store closing truly doesn't bring anything positive, not even good prices. My fingers are still crossed that my store survives.

[fairygodmother29577]

TheDisneyGirl02:
As a fellow CM I can understand how you feel. As current Cast Mamabers we are all just waiting to see what happens and waiting is the hardest part.:rolleyes1 We are thinking am going to loose my job (and we all know, whether you are in managment or part of the sales team it is more than a job) What will we all do. Should I start looking now. These are all questions that as CM's we are pondering. :confused: As it was mentioned it is not over until Mickey runs out of cheese, until Tink has no Pixie Dust! Although, from a consumers point of view, who really enjoys our stores and merchandise they are looking to see what is in it for them. We can not hold that against them, they just are not one of us. I am sure most of the guest would rather see their local store open and be a part of what Disney has to bring back to the stores. Most all the local guest have formed a bond or 2 with the CM's in their store. But at the end it is all about the $$$$. It was for Disney in 2003 and for TCP this year and I guess it is no different for the guests. Just hang in there. I think we will all know more after the court date on the 22nd. All the store are in my thoughts and prayers. Again good luck to all!

[TheDisneyGirl02]

TheDisneyGirl02:
As a fellow CM I can understand how you feel. As current Cast Mamabers we are all just waiting to see what happens and waiting is the hardest part.:rolleyes1 We are thinking am going to loose my job (and we all know, whether you are in managment or part of the sales team it is more than a job) What will we all do. Should I start looking now. These are all questions that as CM's we are pondering. :confused: As it was mentioned it is not over until Mickey runs out of cheese, until Tink has no Pixie Dust! Although, from a consumers point of view, who really enjoys our stores and merchandise they are looking to see what is in it for them. We can not hold that against them, they just are not one of us. I am sure most of the guest would rather see their local store open and be a part of what Disney has to bring back to the stores. Most all the local guest have formed a bond or 2 with the CM's in their store. But at the end it is all about the $$$$. It was for Disney in 2003 and for TCP this year and I guess it is no different for the guests. Just hang in there. I think we will all know more after the court date on the 22nd. All the store are in my thoughts and prayers. Again good luck to all!


I know in the end it is all about money - it's sad but it's true. I don't hold it against the guests for wanting to get the best deal (heck I love deals!), but I deep down, it still hurts a bit. I guess once the stores that are closing for sure are announced, some of us will feel better and others won't...it's this waiting game that is killing me.

I know there is nothing that we as CMs can do to help the stores that close. The only thing I know I can do is offer my support to those CMs who will be out of a job. One of my old managers' store is on the closing list (for now) and it just hurts me so much that she will be out of a job. I know of at least two CMs from my store who have had trouble sleeping the last couple of weeks because of the anxiety of waiting.

Sorry to anyone who read that who felt I was coming across as rude or cross. Sometimes I just need to vent about things on my mind and this is one thing for sure that has been on my mind for about a month now.

[fairygodmother29577]

I truely understand how you feel. We have 2 stores in our area and so far only 1 is on the acquired list. It is very stressful and very sad. I transfered from the retaining store 4 months ago to manage the store I am in now. I opened the store that is on the closing list. It will always be one of my babies. It is hard to see your blood and sweat be gone. We are hopefull this list will be revised, although as you said it will sad for all of us there will be those that have a sigh of relief. I am hoping htat soon after the court date we will have more answers and Disney will give us the vision the store are going to exist on. Well the week end is here and these days go by fast, so it won't be too much longer. Keep your chin up and vent all you need to. That is what we are here for.:rotfl2:

[remain seated please]

I was once, twice, no...three times a TDS CM. Working for the Disney Store was my "Dream Job" for a long time. I longed for the opportunity to share the Disney "magic" with everyone I came into contact with. I was a hardcore collector and would visit every Disney Store I could whenever I traveled. I also went to Disneyland and WDW every year. I was addicted to Disney for almost 15 years.

I started working at a "flagship" Disney Store, in the gallery department. I was a seasonal CM, who was a Store Manager at another retailer. I did the seasonal thing in 1995 and 1997. Each time I was asked to stay on but could not because of my other "real" job.

Finally, in 1999 I quit my job as a store manager to become an ASM at TDS. My dream job was coming true. Six months into my new position I was promoted to Store Manager. My dream job had finally arrived. I became the proud leader of a family of TDS Castmembers. My extended family included a DM who was not my biggest fan, but a RD who adored me.

My CM's were an interesting bunch. Some who loved spreading "pixie dust", many who overdosed on the stuff, and a couple who knew knew when it was appropriate to use it. The CM's who "overdosed" on the pixie dust were the problem children at my store. The ate, drank, breathed and lived everything Disney. There was a short time when I was like them. But I quickly realized that there was a world outside of TDS.

I left the company on very poor terms. My store was facing certain closure, while nothing was ever announced. My team's morale was dropping and many of them didn't know what they were going to do if they lost their jobs. My store was flooded with CM's from a nearby closed store looking for jobs. The DM and (new) RD told us not to hire any of the "dinosaurs" from the stores. Dinosaurs were known as long-term CM's who were set in their own ways and could not be changed.

What I couldn't understand was how for so many people, Disney was the end-all, be-all of the employment world. Sure, it was my "Dream Job", but even I was a realist. At the end of the day, a Dream Job is no more than a job.

I have read all these posts by current TDS cast members who don't know what they are going to do or if they are going to have a job after this latest transition is done. I am reading about the potential of people "losing their jobs" and am supposed to feel sorry for them or there must be something wrong with me.

It's hard to sympathize with people who have a choice. But believe me when I say that you have many options when it comes to work. As it turned out for me, Disney was far from a "Dream Job". It was just a job. There are many jobs and companies that are much better than Disney. I share this because it is very true. My days of bashing Disney are long over. I have seen TDS struggle for close to ten years, including the seven since I left the company.

It is time for you TDS cast members to think of yourself first and not the mouse. The only thing I can promise you is that when Disney considers which stores to close, they are not thinking "what about the CM's". You are not even a blip on thier radar. This is not meant to sound harsh. It's reality and it's business. The only thing Disney is interested in is money and the bottom line.

Some of you have given years of your lives to that company. For others, it may be the only job you have had. For most of you the biggest perk that you will ever get from working for that company is the ability to put the word "Disney" on your resume. It very well could be the deciding factor in your next job.

So GO FOR IT! You work in retail. There are plenty of jobs out there and as I said earlier, there are many better companies. You may not believe it now, and I will probably be flamed for some of my comments. But the worst part of the "magic" of Disney (or pixie dust, if you will), is the huge amount of denial that comes with it.

If you are a fan of Disney, you can give it a small place in your life. An appropriate place. When your life revolves around Disney, you need to take a look at your priorities and decide what is really important. I promise you that you will then rethink your allegiance to the Mouse.

Good Luck to all of you.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

I
Some of you have given years of your lives to that company. For others, it may be the only job you have had. For most of you the biggest perk that you will ever get from working for that company is the ability to put the word "Disney" on your resume. It very well could be the deciding factor in your next job.

Good Luck to all of you.

It's funny you say this because it wouldn't have been for my job at TDS, I never would have gotten the full time 'real' job that I have today. It was because of the experience I gained and the guest service skills that I am now a guest services supervisor and the manager of the gift shop at a science center. Without Disney, I wouldn't have my job.

As far as my world revolving around Disney, it truly does. I met my DBF on a Disney dating site, I met some of my best friends while working at WDW, and doing the college program saved me from nearly having a nervous breakdown after a pedestrian car accident I was involved in. If that makes my life pathetic, so be it.

It sounds you like you didn't have the best experience with the stores and it did leave a sour taste in your mouth. Not everybody's stores are that way though. I realize that there are other retail jobs out there, but I'm not working a second job just because I enjoy retail - I work it because it's Disney. If my store closed, I wouldn't get another retail job because I don't really need to.

Although I realize that it is business after all and that upper-management doesn't 'care' about the CMs, my fellow CMs care about each other. If my store closes, although I'll be sad, it will be best for the company and I'll understand.

To me, Disney is much more than just an item on my resume, it's part of my family. It's a place I can go every year (WDW) and forget about my worries. My store was one of the first places I went to after my grandmother passed away (I wasn't working there at the time) because I just needed the Disney magic to help me get through that life-changing event. My Disney family has been together through thick and thin and regardless to what happens, we'll get through this together.

[ranidayz]

I was once, twice, no...three times a TDS CM. Working for the Disney Store was my "Dream Job" for a long time. I longed for the opportunity to share the Disney "magic" with everyone I came into contact with. I was a hardcore collector and would visit every Disney Store I could whenever I traveled. I also went to Disneyland and WDW every year. I was addicted to Disney for almost 15 years.

I started working at a "flagship" Disney Store, in the gallery department. I was a seasonal CM, who was a Store Manager at another retailer. I did the seasonal thing in 1995 and 1997. Each time I was asked to stay on but could not because of my other "real" job.

Finally, in 1999 I quit my job as a store manager to become an ASM at TDS. My dream job was coming true. Six months into my new position I was promoted to Store Manager. My dream job had finally arrived. I became the proud leader of a family of TDS Castmembers. My extended family included a DM who was not my biggest fan, but a RD who adored me.

My CM's were an interesting bunch. Some who loved spreading "pixie dust", many who overdosed on the stuff, and a couple who knew knew when it was appropriate to use it. The CM's who "overdosed" on the pixie dust were the problem children at my store. The ate, drank, breathed and lived everything Disney. There was a short time when I was like them. But I quickly realized that there was a world outside of TDS.

I left the company on very poor terms. My store was facing certain closure, while nothing was ever announced. My team's morale was dropping and many of them didn't know what they were going to do if they lost their jobs. My store was flooded with CM's from a nearby closed store looking for jobs. The DM and (new) RD told us not to hire any of the "dinosaurs" from the stores. Dinosaurs were known as long-term CM's who were set in their own ways and could not be changed.

What I couldn't understand was how for so many people, Disney was the end-all, be-all of the employment world. Sure, it was my "Dream Job", but even I was a realist. At the end of the day, a Dream Job is no more than a job.

I have read all these posts by current TDS cast members who don't know what they are going to do or if they are going to have a job after this latest transition is done. I am reading about the potential of people "losing their jobs" and am supposed to feel sorry for them or there must be something wrong with me.

It's hard to sympathize with people who have a choice. But believe me when I say that you have many options when it comes to work. As it turned out for me, Disney was far from a "Dream Job". It was just a job. There are many jobs and companies that are much better than Disney. I share this because it is very true. My days of bashing Disney are long over. I have seen TDS struggle for close to ten years, including the seven since I left the company.

It is time for you TDS cast members to think of yourself first and not the mouse. The only thing I can promise you is that when Disney considers which stores to close, they are not thinking "what about the CM's". You are not even a blip on thier radar. This is not meant to sound harsh. It's reality and it's business. The only thing Disney is interested in is money and the bottom line.

Some of you have given years of your lives to that company. For others, it may be the only job you have had. For most of you the biggest perk that you will ever get from working for that company is the ability to put the word "Disney" on your resume. It very well could be the deciding factor in your next job.

So GO FOR IT! You work in retail. There are plenty of jobs out there and as I said earlier, there are many better companies. You may not believe it now, and I will probably be flamed for some of my comments. But the worst part of the "magic" of Disney (or pixie dust, if you will), is the huge amount of denial that comes with it.

If you are a fan of Disney, you can give it a small place in your life. An appropriate place. When your life revolves around Disney, you need to take a look at your priorities and decide what is really important. I promise you that you will then rethink your allegiance to the Mouse.

Good Luck to all of you.

Ah - you speak with the voice of someone who's flown the coop of Neverland......you grew up. While that may be your experience, allow those still residing there and enjoying their eternal youth to feel the way they feel. No one likes to be fired, relocated, left hanging or turned away - dream job or not. Reality has no choice but to drift in if true financial need is the motivation.

As someone who recently found my shadow again, I can attest as a very loyal disney customer that there is a very special joy to being a grown-up with child-like jubiliation.

You're right that a job is just a job -- but a passion that includes a job is a career --- and that is what the CMs are starting to mourn.

[MICKEY'SWORLD]

I always stop in at the Northwoods store when I'm in town. I live in the Quad Cities but am originally from the Peoria area and still have family there. I absolutely refuse to give the store in Davenport any of my money. I still have very hard feelings about the manager there (she came in after TCP purchase) and how I was treated when I was a CM.

Well i must disagree with you on the Davenport store. I think this store has never run better. The problem with "some" and I do mean "some" of the older cast members is...they cant except change. the cast members that work there now have a great passion for thier job and do there best to keep things as fun as when disney owned the stores...they are not there for the perks...they are there for the guest, and by far I have developed a great relationship to those gals and one special "grampa" who really makes our day! the cast members that were there before tcp and have stayed on at that store have been able to except change and the new friends at the store!! ;o)

[remain seated please]

It's funny you say this because it wouldn't have been for my job at TDS, I never would have gotten the full time 'real' job that I have today. It was because of the experience I gained and the guest service skills that I am now a guest services supervisor and the manager of the gift shop at a science center. Without Disney, I wouldn't have my job.

As far as my world revolving around Disney, it truly does. I met my DBF on a Disney dating site, I met some of my best friends while working at WDW, and doing the college program saved me from nearly having a nervous breakdown after a pedestrian car accident I was involved in. If that makes my life pathetic, so be it.

It sounds you like you didn't have the best experience with the stores and it did leave a sour taste in your mouth. Not everybody's stores are that way though. I realize that there are other retail jobs out there, but I'm not working a second job just because I enjoy retail - I work it because it's Disney. If my store closed, I wouldn't get another retail job because I don't really need to.

Although I realize that it is business after all and that upper-management doesn't 'care' about the CMs, my fellow CMs care about each other. If my store closes, although I'll be sad, it will be best for the company and I'll understand.

To me, Disney is much more than just an item on my resume, it's part of my family. It's a place I can go every year (WDW) and forget about my worries. My store was one of the first places I went to after my grandmother passed away (I wasn't working there at the time) because I just needed the Disney magic to help me get through that life-changing event. My Disney family has been together through thick and thin and regardless to what happens, we'll get through this together.

You are definately NOT pathetic. Disney is a source of comfort for many. It was that for me for a very long time. When I was down, Disney picked me up. I am very happy that I had Disney in my life for many years.

The job did leave a bad taste in my mouth. Fortunately that all ended in 2001 and I did not have to watch my store close. Nor did I have to go through the transition to TCP. My store was one of the original Disney Stores. It had a lot of history and it was a destination for locals, out-of-towners and tourists alike.

Today I have outgrown my adoration for "all things Disney". It just didn't fit in my life anymore. I found happiness with my partner and my own business. Where I used to go to Disneyland several times a year, it has now been several years since I have been there. I will always love the parks, but just don't feel the need to visit them anymore. I used to see the new movies on opening day in the theaters. The last Disney film I saw was "Fantasia 2000".
I used to have a Disney collection worth over $50,000. Much of that was sold on ebay and in private sales, or given away to friends or charity. What I have left sits in a storage unit, waiting for the day that I find them a new home.

My point is that I am living proof that there is life after Disney. When my life revolved around Disney, there was nothing else. My friends, family and co-workers (except CM's) thought I was a bit childish. That I was living in a dreamworld. And I guess I was both. Today I am a happier and better person than I was back then. I am not bitter towards Disney in any way, shape or form. I found my closure years ago. I just moved on.

[Family Fun Mom]

You are definately NOT pathetic. Disney is a source of comfort for many. It was that for me for a very long time. When I was down, Disney picked me up. I am very happy that I had Disney in my life for many years.

The job did leave a bad taste in my mouth. Fortunately that all ended in 2001 and I did not have to watch my store close. Nor did I have to go through the transition to TCP. My store was one of the original Disney Stores. It had a lot of history and it was a destination for locals, out-of-towners and tourists alike.

Today I have outgrown my adoration for "all things Disney". It just didn't fit in my life anymore. I found happiness with my partner and my own business. Where I used to go to Disneyland several times a year, it has now been several years since I have been there. I will always love the parks, but just don't feel the need to visit them anymore. I used to see the new movies on opening day in the theaters. The last Disney film I saw was "Fantasia 2000".
I used to have a Disney collection worth over $50,000. Much of that was sold on ebay and in private sales, or given away to friends or charity. What I have left sits in a storage unit, waiting for the day that I find them a new home.

My point is that I am living proof that there is life after Disney. When my life revolved around Disney, there was nothing else. My friends, family and co-workers (except CM's) thought I was a bit childish. That I was living in a dreamworld. And I guess I was both. Today I am a happier and better person than I was back then. I am not bitter towards Disney in any way, shape or form. I found my closure years ago. I just moved on.

If you are so over Disney, why are you here, posting on a Disney message board?

[Mickey&Donald]

You are definately NOT pathetic. Disney is a source of comfort for many. It was that for me for a very long time. When I was down, Disney picked me up. I am very happy that I had Disney in my life for many years.

The job did leave a bad taste in my mouth. Fortunately that all ended in 2001 and I did not have to watch my store close. Nor did I have to go through the transition to TCP. My store was one of the original Disney Stores. It had a lot of history and it was a destination for locals, out-of-towners and tourists alike.

Today I have outgrown my adoration for "all things Disney". It just didn't fit in my life anymore. I found happiness with my partner and my own business. Where I used to go to Disneyland several times a year, it has now been several years since I have been there. I will always love the parks, but just don't feel the need to visit them anymore. I used to see the new movies on opening day in the theaters. The last Disney film I saw was "Fantasia 2000".
I used to have a Disney collection worth over $50,000. Much of that was sold on ebay and in private sales, or given away to friends or charity. What I have left sits in a storage unit, waiting for the day that I find them a new home.

My point is that I am living proof that there is life after Disney. When my life revolved around Disney, there was nothing else. My friends, family and co-workers (except CM's) thought I was a bit childish. That I was living in a dreamworld. And I guess I was both. Today I am a happier and better person than I was back then. I am not bitter towards Disney in any way, shape or form. I found my closure years ago. I just moved on.

I don't think this has so much to do with Disney, but rather an addictive personality. At one time, you ate, breathed and slept Disney, spent insane amounts of money on it and let it take over your life. Now, you've rid yourself completely of anything bearing a resemblance to Disney, even to go so far as not ever visiting the parks again.

To be frank, I'm not sure what the point was of sharing your story on this thread. Most of us current CMs are of course mourning the potential loss of our physical stores -- losing ones job is never a fun thing -- but we're moreso thinking about missing the relationships we've developed with other CMs, about the passion that so many of us pour into our work each day, and of course, that little bit of pixie dust that most retail employees never see at their jobs. I can tell you with confidence that I will not be going to any other retailer should my store close. I interviewed with a major, high-end retailer recently and it felt so cold. I understand that business, and especially retail, is all about the bottom line, and obviously I understand that includes Disney. However, no other retail job encourages its employees to spread a little bit of magic to their guests, who in turn spread that magic back to us. It's a great feeling to know you've made that person's day a little brighter. I try to treat strangers on the street with the same attitude, and it always has a positive result. If that makes me a Disney Freak, so be it.

I'm sorry your experience with Disney left such a bad taste in your mouth. There is already so much negativity floating around with this upcoming transition, it's really unnecessary to come in here and attempt to spread more poison.

[KerryCM]

Mickey&Donald, you said exactly what i was thinking. I started at my store when we opened. I was a PT CM, I was teacher also. When I retired early from teaching I continued as a CM. I did this because of the cast, the guests and I was having fun. Disney does not rule my life, but enhances it. I love the fact that my grandchildren enjoy so many aspects of disney. I love my "girls" only trips I take with friends. I may go get another part time job if and I may not.

[fairygodmother29577]

Whew that is alot to say and you were right you wre going to take a hit on it. But this is how I see it, I love my job with Disney and yes there are other jobs, I know this because I left one to come here. With the other retailer I worked for, they too closed a few store while I was with them. One store they closed was the store I started out in. It was very hard for me to walk into that store after it was made into a Club Libby Lu's. Somtimes it is all about the people you work, the memories that are created, the guest or customers you serviced. I can tell you that I am not thrilled wth the thoughts of going out and interviewing for jobs again (that ranks right up there with getting a tooth pulled). So is there life after Disney, Yes, do we care to go and find it? Not really. I enjoy going to work and being able to be a bit silly with the kids, it sure beats being in seroius job. I smile and have fun, it give me an excuse to play with bubbles or a remote control dog. After all, if I did this at home all the time I just might have to agree something was wrong with maybe, to be truthful I couldn't find the time in my day to play with bubbles but at work I can. Now you tell me how awsome is that. Well we survive of course but for now I am happy to leave on my glass slippers and stay in Fantsyland..

[remain seated please]

I don't think this has so much to do with Disney, but rather an addictive personality. At one time, you ate, breathed and slept Disney, spent insane amounts of money on it and let it take over your life. Now, you've rid yourself completely of anything bearing a resemblance to Disney, even to go so far as not ever visiting the parks again.

To be frank, I'm not sure what the point was of sharing your story on this thread.

I'm sorry your experience with Disney left such a bad taste in your mouth. There is already so much negativity floating around with this upcoming transition, it's really unnecessary to come in here and attempt to spread more poison.

If you are so over Disney, why are you here, posting on a Disney message board?

This feels so familiar. Kind of like one of those bad, direct to DVD animated sequels that Disney is famous for. It's the same story, with different characters. There's no need to add fuel to the fire by dignifying these attacks with any type of direct response.

I shared my story so that others will realize that there is hope. I understand that some of you need a place to vent. My feedback was not meant to be critical of any current CM's, but rather supportive. I don't feel the need to join the choir of voices that question the whats and whys.

This is a hot button issue on these boards. It was a hot button issue when TDS was in trouble before, when it was up for sale and nobody bought it, and during and since the TCP transition. But then again, anytime somebody shares an opposing viewpoint on these boards, it seem to turn that topic into a hot button issue.

I wish people could see Disney from all sides instead of just one. I guess there's a reason why they call it Fantasyland.

Very Sad :sad2:

[TheDisneyGirl02]

I shared my story so that others will realize that there is hope. I understand that some of you need a place to vent. My feedback was not meant to be critical of any current CM's, but rather supportive. I don't feel the need to join the choir of voices that question the whats and whys.

I wish people could see Disney from all sides instead of just one. I guess there's a reason why they call it Fantasyland.

Very Sad :sad2:

I mean no offense when I say this, but I didn't take your story to mean hope for current CMs, I took it as somebody who parted ways with Disney and is still disgruntled by it. Of course, that is only my opinion.

I've seen Disney from all sides, trust me. I've work for the stores and I've worked down at WDW and I've seen things that aren't fair and how they are handled. However, I believe in the original dream that Walt set forth for his CMs and that is what carries me even when the Disney days maybe dark. To me, my hope is Disney. It maybe a Fantasyland, but I really do like it here and I'm not planning on going anywhere any time soon.

[Mickey&Donald]

Very Sad :sad2:


Yes, I can see now that you're just trying to be supportive. How silly of me to miss it before. :rolleyes1

[TheDisneyGirl02]

Yes, I can see now that you're just trying to be supportive. How silly of me to miss it before. :rolleyes1

:lmao:

[The1MamaBuch]

A Few comments from a confirmed Disneyaholic. I don't know about the other stores, however, in Memphis, the store has become a girls store for the most part. I have 2 girls, however, I believe that they shouldn't get 1/2 of the store! There are no stuffed animals to mention, no art, no housewares, no t-shirts for my youngest - a Boy, no collectibles, nada. A bunch of fairy, Hannah Montana, and High School Musical stuff, and that's about it! I'm looking VERY forward to Disney doing their thing and making the store magical again!!! I used to love walking in there, and my daughter still has the life size PLUS Winnie the Pooh to prove it!!!

Julie

[fairygodmother29577]

Well time will tell how Disney is going to run to the stores. From my understandings it to promote their brands, Pirates, Hannah Montana, High School Musical etc.

Does the line favor girls? Yes, it mostly what we sell, although I have just as much Meal time Fun for boys right as I do girls. As for collectible except for snowglobe we really don't carry much boy or girls. I have been told that we be getting HSM merchandise for boys too. And don;t forget the new line they are just starting to work with Phines and Pherb. Art collection we have 2 girl and 2 boys prints. Who knows what the future brings, I myself as a consumer of Disney products am happy to see the changes that have taken place from the time TCP took over, the selection has improved in the last 2 years. We have more adult merchandise, more adult hardlines. I only hope that as consumers, all of the guests out there will shop the new Disney stores, it may be what keeps us around for a long time. For me it is mot only a job, but a great place to receive a little Disney fix..

[remain seated please]

I'm looking VERY forward to Disney doing their thing and making the store magical again!!! I used to love walking in there, and my daughter still has the life size PLUS Winnie the Pooh to prove it!!!


Unfortunately what you are looking VERY forward to will not happen. The Children's Place has gotten the blame for many things. Most of that blame has been misplaced. It's a typical case of denial where Disney is concerned. Here's what you should know.

All of the things that you used to look forward to seeing in the Disney Stores were removed long before Children's Place took over. Housewares, Collectibles, Adult Clothing, etc. were taken out of the stores and carried by the Disney Catalog. Basically, Disney itself took away the "magic" that you were referring to. But there are reasons for this.

Boys hardlines do not sell in nearly the numbers as girls. This is a basic fact, and there is not a current TDS castmember on these boards who can argue this point AND back it up with numbers. Every time Disney tried to expand the boys merchandise, it failed. Toy Story is the one major exception. And of course I'm sure the pirate fad caught on. But stuff like Peter Pan, Hook, Tarzan, etc. have never been good sellers.

Now the girls departments have always been the highest selling areas in Disney Stores. From clothing and costumes to accessories and toys. Girls merchandise (led by the Princess line) is what has kept the stores afloat, thus the reason why they represent such a large part of the selection.

Adult items have suffered along with boys stuff. I've never really understood why. Disney always did a pretty good job with the adult stuff. And it seems obvious to me that more adults wear Disney clothing than kids. Plus it costs more. It seems like having adult merchandise would be a no brainer, but if adults are buying their stuff at the theme parks or other retailers, it makes sense not to carry it at TDS.

Back to the blaming that some have made with respect to The Children's Place. That company took over a chain of stores (TDS) that should have been shut down years ago. Disney tried selling the stores for over a year and nobody was interested. TCP was the best option available to Disney at the time. I am pretty sure that Disney Consumer Products is not very happy at the prospect of being stuck with these stores (although fewer) again.

It is possible that TCP bit off more than they could choose with this deal. And it is obvious that the Disney Stores hurt TCP in a big way. With all of the licensing that Disney has done (which contributed to the demise of the stores in the first place) I don't see how Disney can re-invent these stores to make them profitable. I would expect to see stores phased out as thier leases expire.

Possibly Disney will hand over some of these store to the parks division and convert them into WOD stores. I have suggested this option for years. But if this happens, it should (and would) only be in major population/tourist centers, which will mean an end to the mall stores and an overdue end to The Disney Store.

[dis24242]

I agree with your statement. When TDS when pure retail we lost lots of the Magic. We went from a unique store to a cheap kids store.

We lost

1. Collectables
2. Adult wear
3. Disney Store Trivia

We gained
1. Best in Plush
2. Cheap kids toys
3. The Biz Quiz

If the stores go back to 1993 standards - GREAT
If the stores go back to 2004 standards - might as well close em all now

[ranidayz]

I agree with your statement. When TDS when pure retail we lost lots of the Magic. We went from a unique store to a cheap kids store.

We lost

1. Collectables
2. Adult wear
3. Disney Store Trivia

We gained
1. Best in Plush
2. Cheap kids toys
3. The Biz Quiz

If the stores go back to 1993 standards - GREAT
If the stores go back to 2004 standards - might as well close em all now

All right - so I understand there are many more hard core Disney fans than I am on this board -- but I had to respond to this.

I grew up on the West Coast and went to DisneyLand frequently - had a great time. Moved to the East Coast - took my kids to Disney World - got one little souvenir because the parks are seriously sooo expensive. That was all they had from Disney....except for when I bough a Disney Poster Book at Borders for $1 and framed each page.

We would walk by the Disney Store in the mall and want to go in, but it was so prohibitively expensive....maybe I got each of them one shirt.

Then came my daughter who is now four. DisneyStore has been under TCP since she was born. This girl has been ensconced in Disney from birth because it was accessible to us and affordable. She loves Minnie so much that she tries to get people to call her Minnie. She stops by just to say hi to Sorcerer Mickey. Our wonderful Gaithersburg Cast Members know us when we come in and make us feel welcome. So between the store and our March cruise -- my daughter's life is filled with Disney Magic.

Not one of her toys has broken. Not one of her tops, nightgowns, jeans or anything else we've gotten from there has broken. Of course, the kitchen timer I ordered from the site doesn't work...but it's shaped like Mickey, so it stays.

If the goal of going back to 1993 standards is to make everything so expensive that most people can't spread the happiness to their children -- I'm totally against it. If the goal is to increase the feeling of magic when you can't be at the parks or on a cruise -- go for it, but keep the prices for the common man.

By the way, as much as my daughter lives Disney and talks about the cruise every day -- she absolutely couldn't stand WDW because it was too scary -- and she's fearless. So let us have our local magic.....

[remain seated please]

In light of the discussion that has been taking place on this thread, I wanted to take a trip to one of the Disney Stores in my area. I live in the Bay Area and the last area store I visited was the Post Street Store in Downtown San Francisco. This was last September, so I was overdue for a visit.

This morning I dropped by the Disney Store at Newpark Mall in Newark, CA. I went into this visit openminded. I didn't really know what to expect, but I kept my expectations very low. I figured that if I had normal Disney expectations, I would be let down. I think this was a good strategy going in.

My first impression was that the entire store was very well stocked. Most shelves, displays and clothing racks had a abundance of merchandise available. There was a 40% off sale going on. I guess sales have become the norm at TDS. Every fixture had at least one black sign with white lettering. Several other fixtures had larger red signs promoting the sale.

A signifigant portion of the merchandise in the store was heavily geared towards girls. From tons of princess stuff to an entire wall of HSM and a section dedicated to summer fun. The assortment of girls toys, accessories, dolls, plush, etc. was obviously the main focus of the store.

Plush was also fairly well represented. The plush "fountain" was small than I remembered, but maybe my memory is not the same. (The store that I used to manage had a plush "pier"). There was other plush on different fixtures, endcaps, etc. There were also many MBBP, although the quality had obviously gone way down, while the price went up.

There was a fixture dedicated to garden supplies with a Snow White theme, a wall bay with snowglobes (another merchandise group that has suffered in quality), and another fixture with kitchen wares (mostly plates). The usual mugs, souviners, DVD's and other small items were present.

The store had a small selection of boys and adult items. The boys was mainly cars related toys and some lingering pirates stuff. Adult items were made-up of mostly sleepware and occupied three wall bays near the back of the store.

The video screen was working and the sound system and lighting were adequate.

From a merchandise standpoint, I'd give this store a B-. It was about what I expected. Infact, with the exception of the missing collectibles, I'd say the selection was exactly the same as when I managed a Disney Store nine years ago.

Where this store lost points with me is in staffing and cleanliness. I arrived at this store shortly after 11am. The store had been open since 10. The floor had obviously not been vaccumed the night before or earlier in the morning. There was debris all over the floor. And the dust and junk along the bottom of the fixtures was an obvious indication that no deep cleaning had been performed in months.

The cashwrap was disorganized. There were several shipment boxes on the counter and a Starbucks cup on the counter behind the registers. The Mickey Mouse tile entrance had not been swept and it was heavily stained.

Now for the biggest surprise of my visit. Even with my lowered expectations, I was not prepared for my observations of the employees. I observed 2 employees at the store. 1 was working on the floor and the other had just arrived and made her way to the back. The gentleman who was working was probably in his early twenties. An asian guy with spiked hair and a small beard.

This guy was wearing a plain, black t-shirt (oversized) with black athletic pants (the really thin, baggy ones) and black and white tennis shoes. There was no name tag, no promotional clothing and no uniform of any kind. This guy was not helping any customers unless they walked to the cashwrap and asked him how to find something. He would then point and describe where they could find the item on the other side of the store.

Another customer asked the guy if they had a particular size and he said he could not go into the back room because he was the only one working.

Because the Disney "Magic" is supposed to be such an important part of a person's experience at a Disney Store, I'd have to give this visit a D-. According to the many comments posted on this very thread, it's the employees who spread the magic. Not at this store. And I should point out that in the last several years I have visited stores in several cities and states, and have yet to find the "magic" that is described in threads like these (or for that matter the "magic" that used to exist in Disney Stores).

All this being said, not much has changed at The Disney Store over the years, except perhaps for the quality of the employees.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

Wow...thank you for your review of the ONE store that you observed. Let me comment on a few of the concerns you obviously have with them.

My first impression was that the entire store was very well stocked. Most shelves, displays and clothing racks had a abundance of merchandise available. There was a 40% off sale going on. I guess sales have become the norm at TDS. Every fixture had at least one black sign with white lettering. Several other fixtures had larger red signs promoting the sale.

The black and white signs are the signage that TCP put into place. It actually can be very helpful to guests and does cut down on guest questions since everything is very well explained. As far as the sales being the norm, yes in a way they are and it's brought the stores many new guests. Right now, the way the ecomony is, everybody is looking to save a little money. When they can get a good quality item at a good price, people will buy it. Guest still buy the merchandise that isn't on sale, though.


Plush was also fairly well represented. The plush "fountain" was small than I remembered, but maybe my memory is not the same. (The store that I used to manage had a plush "pier"). There was other plush on different fixtures, endcaps, etc. There were also many MBBP, although the quality had obviously gone way down, while the price went up.

The newer stores have the plush fountain mountains, that is the way my store is. The 'mountain' hasn't changed in size as far as I know. As far the MBBP quality going down, I have to disagree with you. I think it is much better than when they first became popular. As far as the price is concerned, it may have gone up, but does anything cost the same amount that it did 10 years ago? No, MBBP included.


Where this store lost points with me is in staffing and cleanliness. I arrived at this store shortly after 11am. The store had been open since 10. The floor had obviously not been vaccumed the night before or earlier in the morning. There was debris all over the floor. And the dust and junk along the bottom of the fixtures was an obvious indication that no deep cleaning had been performed in months.
We vacuum the floor every evening at close, unless ALL (and when I mean all, I mean all 3 vacuums) are broken, which has happened. I will tell you that I'm OCD when I vacuum and even with being so careful, it is nearly impossible to pick up every string or piece of debris, which I'll pick up by hand. If the store was open for an hour before you arrived, there is a chance that the big pieces of debris could have been dropped since opening. As far as dusting is concerned, we do it often at my store. With that being said, we still do get dusty quickly, it's just the way the fixtures are - they are like dust magnets.


The cashwrap was disorganized. There were several shipment boxes on the counter and a Starbucks cup on the counter behind the registers. The Mickey Mouse tile entrance had not been swept and it was heavily stained.
As far as the Starbucks cup on the counter, it may not have belonged to a CM. I can tell you for a fact that this past Saturday when I worked we had an entire soda left in the store. We do no throw them away in our trash out on stage because of the garbage leaking, we take them back and dump them out in the sink and then dispose of the cup backstage. Sodas, coffee and slushies are left all over the store by guests frequently, as are the occational chicken nuggets. Just because it was on the cast wrap, you shouldn't assume that it belonged to the CM.

My mall sweeps and mops our Mickey tile and they do a great job with it. I don't know if this store is located inside or outside, but that may be the case with them also.


This guy was wearing a plain, black t-shirt (oversized) with black athletic pants (the really thin, baggy ones) and black and white tennis shoes. There was no name tag, no promotional clothing and no uniform of any kind. This guy was not helping any customers unless they walked to the cashwrap and asked him how to find something. He would then point and describe where they could find the item on the other side of the store. I will agree with you that this CM was out of line wearing what he was wearing. That really upsets me when I hear that because at my store, you cannot go out on stage unless you are in full costume. There is no excuse for that lack of standards and it just makes all of the stores look bad and that really upsets me.

Another customer asked the guy if they had a particular size and he said he could not go into the back room because he was the only one working.

With you being a former manager, you should understand that you cannot leave the stage if you are the only CM working. At my store, we always have at least 2 CMs on at a time, even if there is only one on stage. Some stores may not be able to do that because of scheduling hours though.

Because the Disney "Magic" is supposed to be such an important part of a person's experience at a Disney Store, I'd have to give this visit a D-. According to the many comments posted on this very thread, it's the employees who spread the magic. Not at this store. And I should point out that in the last several years I have visited stores in several cities and states, and have yet to find the "magic" that is described in threads like these (or for that matter the "magic" that used to exist in Disney Stores).

All this being said, not much has changed at The Disney Store over the years, except perhaps for the quality of the employees.

Just because you have failed to find a store that meets your expectations, doesn't mean that there aren't great Disney Stores out there. I've had many guests tell me that they need to come into my store just to get their Disney fix and their Disney magic. To me as a CM, that is the highest compliment. I have also visited many stores in many cities and states and I have always found the CMs to be kind and helpful and always happy to talk to a fellow CM.

Your last comment was what upset me the most. The quality of the CMs at my store has not changed in the last couple of years, if anything it has gotten better. I am so lucky and blessed to be working with such a wonderful group of people. Having worked at both the parks and the stores, I can tell you that TDS CMs are sometimes more dedicated than some park CMs.

You may not have liked it in Fantasyland, but as for me I'm not planning on leaving any time soon. And if you are ever in the great state of PA, stop in one of our stores. We'll help restore the magic that you seemed to have lost when you decided to leave Fantasyland. :thumbsup2

[remain seated please]

Wow...thank you for your review of the ONE store that you observed. Let me comment on a few of the concerns you obviously have with them.



The black and white signs are the signage that TCP put into place. It actually can be very helpful to guests and does cut down on guest questions since everything is very well explained. As far as the sales being the norm, yes in a way they are and it's brought the stores many new guests. Right now, the way the ecomony is, everybody is looking to save a little money. When they can get a good quality item at a good price, people will buy it. Guest still buy the merchandise that isn't on sale, though.




The newer stores have the plush fountain mountains, that is the way my store is. The 'mountain' hasn't changed in size as far as I know. As far the MBBP quality going down, I have to disagree with you. I think it is much better than when they first became popular. As far as the price is concerned, it may have gone up, but does anything cost the same amount that it did 10 years ago? No, MBBP included.



We vacuum the floor every evening at close, unless ALL (and when I mean all, I mean all 3 vacuums) are broken, which has happened. I will tell you that I'm OCD when I vacuum and even with being so careful, it is nearly impossible to pick up every string or piece of debris, which I'll pick up by hand. If the store was open for an hour before you arrived, there is a chance that the big pieces of debris could have been dropped since opening. As far as dusting is concerned, we do it often at my store. With that being said, we still do get dusty quickly, it's just the way the fixtures are - they are like dust magnets.



As far as the Starbucks cup on the counter, it may not have belonged to a CM. I can tell you for a fact that this past Saturday when I worked we had an entire soda left in the store. We do no throw them away in our trash out on stage because of the garbage leaking, we take them back and dump them out in the sink and then dispose of the cup backstage. Sodas, coffee and slushies are left all over the store by guests frequently, as are the occational chicken nuggets. Just because it was on the cast wrap, you shouldn't assume that it belonged to the CM.

My mall sweeps and mops our Mickey tile and they do a great job with it. I don't know if this store is located inside or outside, but that may be the case with them also.


I will agree with you that this CM was out of line wearing what he was wearing. That really upsets me when I hear that because at my store, you cannot go out on stage unless you are in full costume. There is no excuse for that lack of standards and it just makes all of the stores look bad and that really upsets me.



With you being a former manager, you should understand that you cannot leave the stage if you are the only CM working. At my store, we always have at least 2 CMs on at a time, even if there is only one on stage. Some stores may not be able to do that because of scheduling hours though.



Just because you have failed to find a store that meets your expectations, doesn't mean that there aren't great Disney Stores out there. I've had many guests tell me that they need to come into my store just to get their Disney fix and their Disney magic. To me as a CM, that is the highest compliment. I have also visited many stores in many cities and states and I have always found the CMs to be kind and helpful and always happy to talk to a fellow CM.

Your last comment was what upset me the most. The quality of the CMs at my store has not changed in the last couple of years, if anything it has gotten better. I am so lucky and blessed to be working with such a wonderful group of people. Having worked at both the parks and the stores, I can tell you that TDS CMs are sometimes more dedicated than some park CMs.

You may not have liked it in Fantasyland, but as for me I'm not planning on leaving any time soon. And if you are ever in the great state of PA, stop in one of our stores. We'll help restore the magic that you seemed to have lost when you decided to leave Fantasyland. :thumbsup2

Well thank you for passionately defending the store that I visited and for trying to justify the negative critiques I made. I appreciate your agreeing with me about the employee who was working. The one area where I must return the comment is where I spoke about the single person coverage.

I have no problem with one person working and can understand the need for this from a labor standpoint. And when I was a store manager, we did have the occasions (usually at opening) when we only had one person working in the entire store. Rather than tell the customer that he was the only person working, a more appropriate response would have been to say that "everything we have in that style is on display". This would have prevented him from leaving himself vulnerable to a potential robbery or other situation.

I have never had a chance to visit a Disney Store on the east coast. But from what I have read over the years on these boards, I have always stated that the "magic" seems to be a little bit stronger in states such as yours. For some reason it does not seem the same at stores out here. It was not that way when I worked for the company, nor is it today. It just seem that the farther you are from a Disney park, the better the magic is. That just my opinion.

[DisneyDeeva]

When I read your review of your recent visit to TDS, I could have sworn you had been to TDS in Davenport IA. I was in there a couple weeks ago and was horrified (and, at the same time heartbroken) at what I observed. The only difference wast that I was there in the afternoon. There were four CMs onstage, I was there for almost a half hour and not a single one even acknowledged my existance...until I stepped up to the Box Office to check out (found one item in the whole store - there goes the ADS and the UPT!).

The SM was sitting on the floor in front of Plush Mountain. She had her back to the Guests and was remarking items with sale tags. Can you believe it, she was barefooted. Plus (and this is one of my biggest pet peeves), the door to Backstage was propped wide open. The hallway was full of boxes and tubs of stuff. I just don't think the Guests should EVER see that mess.

They may be the only left store in the entire state of Iowa right now, but I can't say I'm surprised to see them on the "remaining stores" list.

JMHO!

[fairygodmother29577]

I would say, barefeet are unacceptable. I freak and send people home if they do not have a proper costume. I can tell you there are time when I am off for the day and find myself having to go in to the store, I always make it a point if I am behind officce to let the guest know that I not in costume this morning because I came in t odrop some thing off etc. But I also offer my assistance if my cm's are busy at the moment. There could be a great excuse as to why the guy (lets assume he was a manager of some type that is the only way he could be in the store alone) was dressed the way he was, he should of offered a explaination. I feel our guest deserve that respect if I am not presented the way I should be. Most Guest appreicate your help so they don't have to wait and understand. Most will not look down on the magic or information you can provide. Shame on him for not communicatig with the guests!!!!!

[cajunfan]

I have to jump here regarding the condition of the stores...I work in an Outlet store...it never ceases to AMAZE me what kind of behavior we see from GUESTS in our store. We can have our store spotless when we leave at night and it will take less than an hour for the store to look like it has been ransacked by thieves. I usually work late in the day/evening, so when I come in it literally looks like some one has picked up all the t-shirts and just thrown them in the air and let them fall where they may. (As I was folding t-shirts I had a guest tell me "thank you...we were in here last night and could not tell what kind of designs you had because the shelves were such a mess...she was very kind and realized it was not due to lack of effort on our part...she thought it was unsupervised kids doing it...unfortunately it is more adults with that behavior) Oh, and the stuff we find on shelves and the floor can be downright disgusting...like half eaten ice cream cones with chewed gum stuck to the side of it...yes, yuck, I know...almost lost my lunch over that one!

Anyway, I have only been working there since last fall (seasonal to part time), and I am so looking forward to being employed by the MOUSE! :goodvibes (So far, we are being kept open)

Speaking of which, does anyone know what kind of WDW perks (if any) we part timers will get?

Lynn

BTW...I work there for the fun of it...it is not my source of income...I do it to share my love for all things Disney!

[fairygodmother29577]

I am in an outlet also,but even the store I came from it did not matter (we are a tourist town) as much as I love my job guests can be slobs!!!! I think every person should work in retail at least one time in their life to have respect for the folks who have to pick up after guests. You are so right when our t's go $4.99 (and now we have the $5 t's) you can't keep them folded. Now really must you unfold every shirt in he stack when one size 4 looks like the other one? As for things you find on the floor we won't go there. Then we have to read how there is no magic. I may attempt to fold those shirts but first I am going to walk the floor and make sure my guests are greeted or are need any other assistance. Even if I am in Walmart and decide I don't want an item I have, I don't just put it anywhere. I can't imagine recovering a store the size of walmart. So the next time, think about the way you leave an item, if it was in a good a place and provided you with a good shopping experience shouldn't the next guest have the same???Take a second hand the item to a cast member or put it away. Then we may be a ble to use that time to restock the floor so no one would ever have to ask for sizes again. OOPPS again I am living in Fantasyland... Some reason I really it here....My perfect little world.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

Well thank you for passionately defending the store that I visited and for trying to justify the negative critiques I made.

I was defending the stores as a whole, not just that one store. I can't help it, when I believe in something, I will defend it passionately. I believe in the stores and what they stand for so I will stick up for them.


I think every person should work in retail at least one time in their life to have respect for the folks who have to pick up after guests. You are so right when our t's go $4.99 (and now we have the $5 t's) you can't keep them folded. Now really must you unfold every shirt in he stack when one size 4 looks like the other one? As for things you find on the floor we won't go there. Then we have to read how there is no magic. I may attempt to fold those shirts but first I am going to walk the floor and make sure my guests are greeted or are need any other assistance.

I think the same thing! EVERYBODY should work in retail at one time or another to see how messy people can be. It's really sad how little retail employees are respected. :sad2:

It is hard to zone, greet the guests, offer assistance to other guests and then read that because we are trying to do all three things that there is no magic in the stores. Sadly, I think there are some people who dislike the stores so much that it wouldn't matter what we as CMs did, they would still complain and say how horrible the stores have become. Oh well... :confused3

[ShawnaF]

I love our Disney store and I love the majority of the staff there. I love being able to buy a ton of cheap t-shirts for my 3 year old and don't have to think about them not fitting in two months! While it's certainly not as good as visiting World of Disney at Disneyland, it sure makes a little magic for our family and is one store that my 3 year old DEMANDS we visit on each trip. While we certainly don't dump our trash in the store, we do have a child who could possibly drop crumbs on the carpet (most of the people going in there have kids doing the same) - not intended though, sorry!

To anyone working with sadly pathetic and rude customers - I'm sorry anyone behaves badly to another person whether it's retail or food services, etc. Even with rude customers though, remember that you're working around Disney and that in itself is magic! I'm jealous of you and thank you all!

[Illuminations_Rocks]

Your last comment was what upset me the most. The quality of the CMs at my store has not changed in the last couple of years, if anything it has gotten better. I am so lucky and blessed to be working with such a wonderful group of people. Having worked at both the parks and the stores, I can tell you that TDS CMs are sometimes more dedicated than some park CMs.

You may not have liked it in Fantasyland, but as for me I'm not planning on leaving any time soon. And if you are ever in the great state of PA, stop in one of our stores. We'll help restore the magic that you seemed to have lost when you decided to leave Fantasyland. :thumbsup2


I grew up in that area. I've been to a lot of Disney stores, on both sides of the country, but.... That really is one of the nicest, well-kept stores. And the workers there are quite kind! I also thought that the one in the KOP mall was on about the same level.

I just went to my "local" store here in Columbus... And, ok, it wasn't great. It was about 1/2 the size but it was STUFFED with merch. And the CMs were so nice there as well.

Now, I've also been to plenty that aren't so wonderful. But I do try to get that little bit of magic...

[dis24242]

You'll find now that you'll be working for Disney .... expressing your feelings about the guests in an open forum is NOT what Disney castmembers at any level do. Please remember as a Disney Castmember you are entrusted to give guest a Disney memory. "my job guests can be slobs!!!!" What kind of memory are you giving when a guest reads this?

"So the next time, think about the way you leave an item, if it was in a good a place and provided you with a good shopping experience shouldn't the next guest have the same??? Take a second hand the item to a cast member or put it away. Then we may be able to use that time to restock the floor so no one would ever have to ask for sizes again. OOPPS again I am living in Fantasyland... Some reason I really it here....My perfect little world."


Time to stop talking now. Your a DISNEY castmember NOT a Children's Place employee.

START BEING A CASTMEMBER. Keep your mouth closed in open forums.

[remain seated please]

You'll find now that you'll be working for Disney .... expressing your feelings about the guests in an open forum is NOT what Disney castmembers at any level do. Please remember as a Disney Castmember you are entrusted to give guest a Disney memory. "my job guests can be slobs!!!!" What kind of memory are you giving when a guest reads this?

Time to stop talking now. Your a DISNEY castmember NOT a Children's Place employee.

START BEING A CASTMEMBER. Keep your mouth closed in open forums.

First off, none of the Disney Store employees are "Castmembers" yet.

Secondly, I don't see the harm in any Disney Castmembers sharing opinions even if they are the dreaded negative opinions that get flamed by so many people on these boards.

These forums are not operated by, or affiliated with The Walt Disney Company in any way. Any person here may participate however they want to so long as they are following the posting guidelines.

There are a great many Disney castmembers from all areas of the company who participate here. Especially here on the "rumors and news board".

If all Disney Castmembers kept their mouths shut at all times, there would be nothing and nobody on these forums. Just look at all of the threads that start with, "I was told by a castmember at the Magic Kingdom that..." Those people are not supposed to be spreading any rumors of any kind. But if we are to believe the posters, apparently that's all the Disney CM's do.

[dis24242]

[QUOTE=remain seated please;24792746]First off, none of the Disney Store employees are "Castmembers" yet./QUOTE]

Sounds like you'll aways be a Children Place employee NOT a Disney Castmember. You just don't get it do you?

[QUOTE=remain seated please;24792746]Secondly, I don't see the harm in any Disney Castmembers sharing opinions even if they are the dreaded negative opinions that get flamed by so many people on these boards./QUOTE]

You don't get the concept of Disney Memories

[QUOTE=remain seated please;24792746]These forums are not operated by, or affiliated with The Walt Disney Company in any way. Any person here may participate however they want to so long as they are following the posting guidelines./QUOTE]

Disney Castmembers ARE the Company. When you tell the guests they're "SLOBS" and they read it, what kind of message about the Walt Disney Company does that project? Geez, just think before you print negative thoughts about the guests.

Better yet just don't post anything if you're Children's Place and NOT Disney.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

First off, none of the Disney Store employees are "Castmembers" yet.

Secondly, I don't see the harm in any Disney Castmembers sharing opinions even if they are the dreaded negative opinions that get flamed by so many people on these boards.

These forums are not operated by, or affiliated with The Walt Disney Company in any way. Any person here may participate however they want to so long as they are following the posting guidelines.

There are a great many Disney castmembers from all areas of the company who participate here. Especially here on the "rumors and news board".

If all Disney Castmembers kept their mouths shut at all times, there would be nothing and nobody on these forums. Just look at all of the threads that start with, "I was told by a castmember at the Magic Kingdom that..." Those people are not supposed to be spreading any rumors of any kind. But if we are to believe the posters, apparently that's all the Disney CM's do.

I will always been a Disney CM regardess of what people (like you) think. The only thing that changed was who signed my paycheck. I worked for the stores long before TCP came into place and I'll be working for the stores LONG after they leave.

Although I don't usually agree with your posts, I do agree with you that CMs, regardless if they are park CMs or store CMs have every right to post what they want on the public forums. As long as they aren't naming names or slandering anybody there is nothing wrong with CMs venting.

You'll find now that you'll be working for Disney .... expressing your feelings about the guests in an open forum is NOT what Disney castmembers at any level do. Please remember as a Disney Castmember you are entrusted to give guest a Disney memory. "my job guests can be slobs!!!!" What kind of memory are you giving when a guest reads this?

"So the next time, think about the way you leave an item, if it was in a good a place and provided you with a good shopping experience shouldn't the next guest have the same??? Take a second hand the item to a cast member or put it away. Then we may be able to use that time to restock the floor so no one would ever have to ask for sizes again. OOPPS again I am living in Fantasyland... Some reason I really it here....My perfect little world."


Time to stop talking now. Your a DISNEY castmember NOT a Children's Place employee.

START BEING A CASTMEMBER. Keep your mouth closed in open forums.

Wow...thank you mom! In case you didn't know, in order to work for the stores, regardless if they are owned by Disney or TCP, you need to be 18 years old...that means that we are all adults - adults don't need a lecture from anybody.

I've worked for the stores for a long time and I've worked at WDW...I know how to provide guest services and make memories. The guests at my store will tell you that. Does that mean I don't get frustrated when the store is a mess? No! I am human (just like every Disney CM I've ever met or worked with) and I need to vent too! Since when am I being unDisney-like by venting to people who go through the exact same thing I do? Heck, you do the same thing I do (by working at TDS), you should know how it can be frustrating some days.

I hate to burst your bubble but creating a magical experience for the guests doesn't have anything to do with who owns the stores. OK...by next week, we are supposed to be back with Disney but I'm not going to change the way I treat the guests just because of who signs my paycheck. Most people who shop at my store never even knew that TCP took over and I'm very proud to be able to say that. We took such pride in our store that things never changed. Now that we are going back to Disney, the same thing is going to happen - nothing is going to change. We will still be the same store that we are this week, and a darn good store if I say so myself.

Creating magical experiences for guests can be as easy as asking if the child wants his/her own bag when they buy something, or calling a little girl a princess because she's wearing a crown. I love that part about my job. Always have, always will. Once again, I'm sure you know that since you work for a store yourself.

Please do us a favor, if you don't like what you are reading here, just don't read the thread. But don't EVER say that I (or any of us on this thread) are not Disney CMs because we talk on a public forum. To be perfectly honest with you, I think your post came across as being a lot worse and much more unDisney-like that the poster who you quoted. Yelling at fellow CMs is unfair and uncalled for.

I can tell by your low post count that you are new to the Dis - :welcome: !

Have a Disney Day!

[dis24242]

Thanks for putting me in my place. I was way out of line. Please forgive me.

[dis24242]

TheDisneyGirl02, remain seated please and fairgodmother29577.

Please accept my sincerest appology. I'm a 13yr castmember who found out yesterday my store is "offically" being liquidated. We're a "Remaing Store"
I"m hurt and sad and I lashed out at The Childrens Place folks who are joining Disney.

I'm sorry, I turned Grumpy ... this event - the store closing - hurts more than when Disney sold the stores to TCP.

Sorry again to everyone.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

TheDisneyGirl02, remain seated please and fairgodmother29577.

Please accept my sincerest appology. I'm a 13yr castmember who found out yesterday my store is "offically" being liquidated. We're a "Remaing Store"
I"m hurt and sad and I lashed out at The Childrens Place folks who are joining Disney.

I'm sorry, I turned Grumpy ... this event - the store closing - hurts more than when Disney sold the stores to TCP.

Sorry again to everyone.

I'm very sorry to hear about your store. I can't imagine how sad you and the cast from your store must be. First we hear the wonderful news that Disney wants us back and now many CMs have to lose their Disney families - it's not fair. I can imagine how hurt you must be - you put 13 years into making magic at that store.

I realize that there have been many people who have joined the stores since we went from Disney to TCP and some aren't up to Disney standards. I'm very proud to say that all of our CMs are and we are very lucky for that.

I understand why you lashed out and I'm sorry if I came across as rude or mean. :flower3:

Please know that I'll be thinking about your entire Cast and you over the next couple of weeks. :grouphug:

[Mickey&Donald]

TheDisneyGirl02, remain seated please and fairgodmother29577.

Please accept my sincerest appology. I'm a 13yr castmember who found out yesterday my store is "offically" being liquidated. We're a "Remaing Store"
I"m hurt and sad and I lashed out at The Childrens Place folks who are joining Disney.

I'm sorry, I turned Grumpy ... this event - the store closing - hurts more than when Disney sold the stores to TCP.

Sorry again to everyone.


I'm sorry for your loss. :hug: My store is also one that may end up being closed. How did you find out already about the fate of your store? No one around here seems to know anything (and I'm talking at higher management level - I'm an ASM). I don't want to assume that no news is good news.:guilty:

[dis24242]

Ok, things may have changed for us. We didn't get any papers today. We were told we would but we didn't. Oh, the suspense is so thick. Sunday we were in the clouds with the photos for Disney ID. Monday we're in the mud as we were told we're out. Today, no papers!!! We're in. Got to slow down. No rumors I'm keeping my mouth shut. Got to follow my own advice.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

Ok, things may have changed for us. We didn't get any papers today. We were told we would but we didn't. Oh, the suspense is so thick. Sunday we were in the clouds with the photos for Disney ID. Monday we're in the mud as we were told we're out. Today, no papers!!! We're in. Got to slow down. No rumors I'm keeping my mouth shut. Got to follow my own advice.

I'm curious...what kind of papers were you suppose to receive today? If you feel more comfortable, PM me.

I'm still hoping for the best for you and your store. :grouphug:

[Violet Crayon]

I heard through the grapevine that 80store received "Store Closing" signage.
And supposedly all stores did the paperwork for Disney and IDs because the payroll still has to continue even if stores will be closing.

:(

[LMCT88]

WOW, I wonder if the list of actual store closings will be out tomorrow, have a few friends who work there per.diem, and they didn't have id's done, wondering if they are just going to be doing away with the per. diems. It is so sad.

[remain seated please]

[QUOTE=remain seated please;24792746]First off, none of the Disney Store employees are "Castmembers" yet./QUOTE]

Sounds like you'll aways be a Children Place employee NOT a Disney Castmember. You just don't get it do you?

[QUOTE=remain seated please;24792746]Secondly, I don't see the harm in any Disney Castmembers sharing opinions even if they are the dreaded negative opinions that get flamed by so many people on these boards./QUOTE]

You don't get the concept of Disney Memories

[QUOTE=remain seated please;24792746]These forums are not operated by, or affiliated with The Walt Disney Company in any way. Any person here may participate however they want to so long as they are following the posting guidelines./QUOTE]

Disney Castmembers ARE the Company. When you tell the guests they're "SLOBS" and they read it, what kind of message about the Walt Disney Company does that project? Geez, just think before you print negative thoughts about the guests.

Better yet just don't post anything if you're Children's Place and NOT Disney.

In case you misunderstood, you may want to read back to the beginning of this thread, or at least to my first entry here. I AM NOT a Disney Store/TCP employee. I was a TDS Store Manager when Disney owned and operated the stores. (1999-2001).

I have never posted anything negative about Guests to Disney Stores. My comments have always been directed at the stores and/or their employees. Please understand the facts before you make assumptions and assertions.

I understand that you are frustrated that your store may be on the chopping block. I have a strong feeling that you are one of the first of many people who will suffer the same fate. My gut tells me that even after Disney takes the stores back, the majority of them will be liquidated. I know that this opinion is not popular among those of you current employees.

The economy is in the dumps. Retail across the board is hurting big time. TDS has struggled for close to a decade. Remember that ten years ago there were over 700 Disney Stores worldwide. The stores were strong for a while. Disney did not oversaturate the market with too many Disney Stores. They over licensed their product to too many big retailers (K-mart, Walmart, etc.) and that is what hurt their stores.

It used to take DCP 18 months to create new product lines for the stores. With so little time until the "take back" I'm not sure how prepared Consumer Products is to start new once again. This has all the ingredients for a massive liquidation. Of course my opinions are just speculation, but I think it's a pretty good bet that the days of The Disney Store are numbered and I'd be very surprised to see the chain in operation after the next holiday season, if it lasts that long.

[fairygodmother29577]

I am so sorry to hear about your store:sad2: This is not going to be a easy time for none of the Cm's and for some of the guest. You are right about one thing though.... We are Disney and I should not have expressed my feeling about guests. I have been in retail for a long, long time and my comment were uncalled for on a Disney forum that guests could see. The comments I made was based on years of retail not just my experiences with Disney. I have always wanted to part of Disney and even though we were operated by TCP I did not care.. It was still Disney to me. To a lot of CM's and my self included, it is more than a job.. It is a felling you get when child walks into the store and looks up and smiles, they can bearly say the name MICKEY through thier excitment.

Too bad we did not have space we could go and support each other more privately. Good luck to you and your cast. We should all know something soon. Until then we still have hopes our dreams can come true and all of the stores can go HOME and remain open!

[dis24242]

Thanks PRS ... Once again I've very sorry for my comments to you and others here. I tend to agress with you point of view concerning the fate of the stores.

Please accept my sincerest apology.

[dis24242]

Thanks Godmom
Good luck to all of us

[ranidayz]

I'm sorry for your loss. :hug: My store is also one that may end up being closed. How did you find out already about the fate of your store? No one around here seems to know anything (and I'm talking at higher management level - I'm an ASM). I don't want to assume that no news is good news.:guilty:

This is a wonderful Disney Store with wonderful cast members ---- I was just in today and asking and the mood was low and I am sooo hoping that our Gaithersburg store stays -- everyone loves going in there.

You know what I love? I love that the cast members in there know me, know my kid, AND know what we're looking for. They always point us in the right direction -- even if it's to clearance and even go so far as to always make sure my DD has the bag design she wants that day. THOSE are great memories that I hope continue!:hug:

[dis24242]

The waits over

We won't be going home.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

The waits over

We won't be going home.

I am so sorry. Please know that I'm thinking about your and your Cast. :grouphug:

[Mickey&Donald]

The waits over

We won't be going home.

I'm so sorry.:sad1:

May I ask.. how was the news delivered?

[dis24242]

I'm so sorry.:sad1:

May I ask.. how was the news delivered?

We received by Fed-Ex
1. Liquidation Signage
2. Documentation.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

We received by Fed-Ex
1. Liquidation Signage
2. Documentation.


What was the documentation?

[Mickey&Donald]

God... now I'm really on pins and needles... I'm off today, so I have no idea what's going on in my store, though I'd hope I'd get a phone call if they heard anything. I'm going to call them soon. This is madness, this waiting. :headache:

[TheDisneyGirl02]

God... now I'm really on pins and needles... I'm off today, so I have no idea what's going on in my store, though I'd hope I'd get a phone call if they heard anything. I'm going to call them soon. This is madness, this waiting. :headache:

I'd call the store...that's what I did! I couldn't take it anymore and just called (even though I close tonight!) Even though I did call...I'm still nervous.

[Mickey&Donald]

As I was about to call.. my SM called me! No word on closure. We did receive the package with Letters of Offer, though. I really hope that's a good sign..

[missingcastmember]

I am a cast member of the Disney Store in Wauwatosa, Wi. We were all excited that pictures were being taken, our store was on the list to be kept and all was well. We were planning our "Welcome Home" party...Most of our cast have been there 10 years or more. We were the 47th Disney Store to open. Last night we were told that the Mall wouldn't negotiate our lease and we would be closing. Talk about being in shock! Where do you take your family of 16 years when they close the doors on you?

[Mickey&Donald]

Kathy, I'm so sorry. :( This is such a difficult time for so many right now. I'm still holding my breath about my store. Will it be possible for you to transfer to another location?

[fairygodmother29577]

We won't be going home.[/QUOTE]

I am so sorry!!! This is all so bitter sweet! I wish we were all going home!:sad2:

I am a cast member of the Disney Store in Wauwatosa, Wi. We were all excited that pictures were being taken, our store was on the list to be kept and all was well. We were planning our "Welcome Home" party...Most of our cast have been there 10 years or more. We were the 47th Disney Store to open. Last night we were told that the Mall wouldn't negotiate our lease and we would be closing. Talk about being in shock! Where do you take your family of 16 years when they close the doors on you?

I am sorry to hear about your lose also! The news is spreading and CM's and DM's are loosing their jobs. To all the closing stores I wish you all the best of luck and you are in the prayers of your fellow Disney Stores!

[boston1029]

We found out yesterday that we will be closing also. Wow, the shock of it all is so overwhelming. It was so hard to tell my managers about this. We also had been excited about the pictures and being part of Disney again. Even though we were on the dreaded remaining list, we were trying to keep the faith. Unfortunately, the boxes of hideous signs that we received today squashed that faith completely. It seems that there is no going back now. All I can do is be there to support my cast who are great and get us through this. My heart goes out to all of those who got this horrible news as we did.

[jenseib]

Any one hear anything on the Toledo store? The yare the list to stay, but haven't been over there to see. Maybe I will take a venture there tomorrow.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

I am a cast member of the Disney Store in Wauwatosa, Wi. We were all excited that pictures were being taken, our store was on the list to be kept and all was well. We were planning our "Welcome Home" party...Most of our cast have been there 10 years or more. We were the 47th Disney Store to open. Last night we were told that the Mall wouldn't negotiate our lease and we would be closing. Talk about being in shock! Where do you take your family of 16 years when they close the doors on you?

:grouphug: I am so sorry - I've only been with my Disney family for 9 years on May 9 and I can't imagine losing them. I don't know what to say, but please know that your fellow CMs from around the country are thinking about you.


We found out yesterday that we will be closing also. Wow, the shock of it all is so overwhelming. It was so hard to tell my managers about this. We also had been excited about the pictures and being part of Disney again. Even though we were on the dreaded remaining list, we were trying to keep the faith. Unfortunately, the boxes of hideous signs that we received today squashed that faith completely. It seems that there is no going back now. All I can do is be there to support my cast who are great and get us through this. My heart goes out to all of those who got this horrible news as we did.

:grouphug: Hugs to you and your cast also. We are all thinking about you.

[msmickminn]

Too bad we did not have space we could go and support each other more privately.


We do! The CM board is a private forum just for us.

[LMCT88]

Hi, now will Children's Place employees have tenure, or are they considered new where they never worked for the Disney Company and are former disney employees keeping there tenure. Meaning if you weren't employed by Disney before are you starting over.

[fairygodmother29577]

We do! The CM board is a private forum just for us.


I thought I tried to join this once before but I was told I did not qualify since were not Disney owned. It doesn't matter anymore I suppose since the transition is taking place in the morning. Thank you though!

[TheDisneyGirl02]

We do! The CM board is a private forum just for us.

I just tried to get on that forum and I couldn't. How should I go about joining it again?

[dis24242]

I"m still in shock, I'm thinkin' tomorrow things will become lots clearer because Disney can talk to the stores. The DM will be Disney and can talk to the stores as Disney and tell them what's really going on. Maybe

This whole process just doesn't make sense to me, a 13 year cast guy.

I think what hurts most is it seems like Disney is turning their back on an old store (like us) and old cast in favor of a new "outlet" store in my state with new people who don't seem to have a clue about Disney traditions and stuff like that.

Why sign Disney ID paper work?
Why liquid signage for stores on either list?
Why sign acceptance papers this week-end but have liquid signs in the store?
Why all the secrets?
Why do managers have different ideas as to what's going on?

Just hurting and holding out for a miracle. I want to go home so much.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

I"m still in shock, I'm thinkin' tomorrow things will become lots clearer because Disney can talk to the stores. The DM will be Disney and can talk to the stores as Disney and tell them what's really going on. Maybe

This whole process just doesn't make sense to me, a 13 year cast guy.

I think what hurts most is it seems like Disney is turning their back on an old store (like us) and old cast in favor of a new "outlet" store in my state with new people who don't seem to have a clue about Disney traditions and stuff like that.

Why sign Disney ID paper work?
Why liquid signage for stores on either list?
Why sign acceptance papers this week-end but have liquid signs in the store?
Why all the secrets?
Why do managers have different ideas as to what's going on?

Just hurting and holding out for a miracle. I want to go home so much.

I wish I had the answers to all of those questions...but I don't. I don't know if there was a rhyme or reason to how the stores were selected - either way, I don't know if knowing would be any easier for the closing stores. Hopefully tomorrow there will be more communication from Disney.

I closed at my store tonight and although we are safe (so far), we did talk about the stores that are closing and how terrible we feel for those CMs. We are thinking about the closing stores and I really wish there was something we could do. Please know that we are thinking about you all.

[remain seated please]

I"m still in shock, I'm thinkin' tomorrow things will become lots clearer because Disney can talk to the stores. The DM will be Disney and can talk to the stores as Disney and tell them what's really going on. Maybe

This whole process just doesn't make sense to me, a 13 year cast guy.

I think what hurts most is it seems like Disney is turning their back on an old store (like us) and old cast in favor of a new "outlet" store in my state with new people who don't seem to have a clue about Disney traditions and stuff like that.

Why sign Disney ID paper work?
Why liquid signage for stores on either list?
Why sign acceptance papers this week-end but have liquid signs in the store?
Why all the secrets?
Why do managers have different ideas as to what's going on?

Just hurting and holding out for a miracle. I want to go home so much.

Based on my own personal experience with Disney Stores and with business in general, I will try to take a stab at the questions you posed.

Like most businesses in transition, Disney needs to give the impression of "business as usual" while it decides what to do with the stores. Of course it is very possible (in fact quite probable) that they have already decided the fate of all of the stores. Having you sign ID paperwork, acceptance papers, etc. are all necessary from a human relations standpoint. It has nothing to do with the future of the stores.

There are no secrets. Just confidential information that does not need to be revealed at this point. Very few people probably know what is really going on.

If and when managers are clued in on what is happening, they are often given gag orders from their bosses, which often force them to lie to their employees. Disney is legendary for doing this. There are some managers who are too close to their own employees and cannot remain quiet about things like this. This often leads to turmoil and low morale in the stores because once the word gets out, it puts everyone in a difficult position.

I was one of two assistant managers at my store when the store manager left the company. The other assistant felt an entitlement to the store manager job. She had over five years with the company. But I had more management experience and was the better candidate. I accepted the offer a few days before my DM was to go on vacation. She said that she wanted to wait until after she returned before making the announcement. I had to agree to continue working with the other assistant for an entire week. During that time, the other assistant acted as if she already had the job, barking orders to everyone, including me. Imagine her shock when the DM returned from vacation.

I only shared that story because when you speak of confusion and thinking that Disney has turned their back or doesn't care about people, you are right. It is a controlled confusion. I have said before that Disney could care less about you, the "castmember". There are thousands of CM's who are hired and fired by Disney every year. The company's HR department is huge and they have a plan for every single business scenario imaginable.

Unfortunately, the only ones invested here are people like you. Five, ten and thirteen year employees who have been bounced back and forth from one company to the next. It is sad that you are all going through this, but you honestly can't say you didn't expect it. If so, you have been played the fools. And for those who are still clinging on to hope, it's time to leave "Fantasyland" behind and come back to the real world.

Finally, for those of you who "want to go home" so badly. You have homes and you have families. Your loyalties and priorities are a bit lost, and you are in for some major pain if you don't pull your heads out of the pixie dust. Trust me. I can offer this tough love because I have experienced the absolute worst treatment that a Disney Castmember could ever experience. I lived through it. I overcame the pain and the anger. I bounced back from feeling worthless and betrayed. And I was able to find closure, peace and happiness in my life when I realized that believe it or not, there actually is life after the mouse. The real world is much better than "Fantasyland".

It's been 7 years since I found my life A.D. (After Disney) and I am a much better person today than the person I was when Disney ruled my life.

I hope this message motivates some of you to move on.

[dis24242]

Finally, for those of you who "want to go home" so badly. You have homes and you have families. Your loyalties and priorities are a bit lost, and you are in for some major pain if you don't pull your heads out of the pixie dust. Trust me. I can offer this tough love because I have experienced the absolute worst treatment that a Disney Castmember could ever experience. I lived through it. I overcame the pain and the anger. I bounced back from feeling worthless and betrayed. And I was able to find closure, peace and happiness in my life when I realized that believe it or not, there actually is life after the mouse. The real world is much better than "Fantasyland".

It's been 7 years since I found my life A.D. (After Disney) and I am a much better person today than the person I was when Disney ruled my life.

I hope this message motivates some of you to move on.


What a GREAT response ....
So with that it's time to look forward to retirement from my full time job.
My wife and I have been getting ready for the move - part time anyway - to Florida.
Disney is part of me now and leaving it all behind is not what I can do. But moving away from TDS and maybe working and having fun at WDW is what is next. After over 50 trips I know there are so many different things I'd like to do in the park. :wizard:

Time to move on ....

What a GREAT Response .... thanks for the emotional help !! :worship:

[dogodisney]

This is from the Disney website....

https://licensing.disney.com/Home/display.jsp?contentId=449718&forPrint=false&language=en&preview=false&imageShow=0&pressRoom=US&translationOf=null&region=0&ccPK=null


The Walt Disney Company Takes Control of Disney Stores in North America



Burbank, CA— May 1, 2008—The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS) today announced that it has acquired the Disney Store chain in North America from subsidiaries of The Children's Place Retail Stores, Inc. As a result of the transaction, which consisted of an asset purchase by Disney's subsidiaries through the bankruptcy and insolvency proceedings of Hoop Retail Stores, LLC in Delaware and Hoop Canada, Inc. in Canada, Disney acquired approximately 220 Disney Stores in the United States and Disney Stores in Canada, with actual number of acquired stores dependent upon the outcome of negotiations with landlords. Disney also obtained the right to conduct an orderly wind-down and closure of approximately 98 Disney Stores in the United States and two Disney Stores in Canada, but without assuming the leases for such stores.

"From Cars to High School Musical to Disney Fairies, Disney's entertainment engines are producing multiple popular franchises," said Andy Mooney, chairman of Disney Consumer Products. "The Disney Stores can play a vital role in touching the millions who cross their thresholds. With the reach of a global retail chain, we will be better able to take advantage of our franchises."

Mr. Mooney announced that retail and Disney veteran James D. Fielding has accepted the position of President, Disney Stores Worldwide. Mr. Fielding will oversee merchandising and all other operations of the Disney Stores in North America and the 107 existing Disney Stores in Europe, as well as manage the relationship with Oriental Land Company, which operates the Disney Stores in Japan under a license arrangement. (Mr. Fielding's biography can be found at www.disneyconsumerproducts.com).

About The Walt Disney Company
The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise with four business segments: media networks, parks and resorts, studio entertainment, and consumer products. Disney is a Dow 30 company, had annual revenues of over $35.5 billion in its most recent fiscal year, and a market capitalization of $61 billion as of April 30, 2008.


I hope my local store isn't affected. :sad1:

[Violet Crayon]

I am a cast member of the Disney Store in Wauwatosa, Wi. We were all excited that pictures were being taken, our store was on the list to be kept and all was well. We were planning our "Welcome Home" party...Most of our cast have been there 10 years or more. We were the 47th Disney Store to open. Last night we were told that the Mall wouldn't negotiate our lease and we would be closing. Talk about being in shock! Where do you take your family of 16 years when they close the doors on you?

Oh no, I am in shock too, and in tears. I know you guys as voices on the phone and I thought both of us were safe. This whole situation has been awful.

[missingcastmember]

You know, after reading the previous postings...I don't have my head in the pixie dust....and I am well aware of how Disney can treat their cast, but what really hurts is having to say goodbye to all the cast. We have all worked together for more than 10 years. It hurts...we were the 47th store and now there are stores still around and we aren't. Our cast member retention is in the top 10 percent of the stores..we are proud of this and now all we can think of is singing the words we all used to sing..about four years ago..."Now it's time to say good-bye..." Hey, if I could get to work in a place where we could all go, this wouldn't be a problem. Yes, we will all move on..but wouldn't it have been nicer to do it on our own and not be LIQUIDATED!

[Mickey&Donald]

Well. I just got the call. We're done.

:sad:

[missingcastmember]

I'm so sorry-I know exactly how you are feeling...It SUCKS!

[TheDisneyGirl02]

I was one of two assistant managers at my store when the store manager left the company. The other assistant felt an entitlement to the store manager job. She had over five years with the company. But I had more management experience and was the better candidate. I accepted the offer a few days before my DM was to go on vacation. She said that she wanted to wait until after she returned before making the announcement. I had to agree to continue working with the other assistant for an entire week. During that time, the other assistant acted as if she already had the job, barking orders to everyone, including me. Imagine her shock when the DM returned from vacation.

I only shared that story because when you speak of confusion and thinking that Disney has turned their back or doesn't care about people, you are right. It is a controlled confusion. I have said before that Disney could care less about you, the "castmember". There are thousands of CM's who are hired and fired by Disney every year. The company's HR department is huge and they have a plan for every single business scenario imaginable.

Unfortunately, the only ones invested here are people like you. Five, ten and thirteen year employees who have been bounced back and forth from one company to the next. It is sad that you are all going through this, but you honestly can't say you didn't expect it. If so, you have been played the fools. And for those who are still clinging on to hope, it's time to leave "Fantasyland" behind and come back to the real world.

Finally, for those of you who "want to go home" so badly. You have homes and you have families. Your loyalties and priorities are a bit lost, and you are in for some major pain if you don't pull your heads out of the pixie dust. Trust me. I can offer this tough love because I have experienced the absolute worst treatment that a Disney Castmember could ever experience. I lived through it. I overcame the pain and the anger. I bounced back from feeling worthless and betrayed. And I was able to find closure, peace and happiness in my life when I realized that believe it or not, there actually is life after the mouse. The real world is much better than "Fantasyland".

It's been 7 years since I found my life A.D. (After Disney) and I am a much better person today than the person I was when Disney ruled my life.

I hope this message motivates some of you to move on.

I am glad you found your life after Disney, but some people don't care to nor do they want to. Even though you say you have worked through the issues from when TDS hurt you, you obviously are not over them yet - if you were, you wouldn't continue posting long posts about how we should 'get our heads out of the pixie dust' and how we're living in a Fantasyland. I like it here in Fantasyland and I'm not leaving - regardless of what any ex-Cast Member says. You didn't like it, so you left - good for you. I love it and I'm staying.

I have my priorities in order - I have many families. I have my family that I live with and love with all of my heart, I have my dancing school family - where I have belonged for 25 years now and I have my Disney family. I don't want to give any of them up. They are all different and unique and I can't imagine life without them. Yes, just like 'regular' families, sometimes there are rough times and patches, but I wouldn't jump ship just because of one incident. I stick it out and think of the good times and not the bad times.

You hope your message 'motivates' people to move on...what are you, an anti-Disney spokesperson? If anything, your message makes me want to stay with Disney and with my Disney family so I don't become bitter like you obviously have become. Instead of trying to point people in your direction, why not offer some sympathy for those who are losing their jobs?

I guess I'll just never understand...:confused3

[TheDisneyGirl02]

You know, after reading the previous postings...I don't have my head in the pixie dust....and I am well aware of how Disney can treat their cast, but what really hurts is having to say goodbye to all the cast. We have all worked together for more than 10 years. It hurts...we were the 47th store and now there are stores still around and we aren't. Our cast member retention is in the top 10 percent of the stores..we are proud of this and now all we can think of is singing the words we all used to sing..about four years ago..."Now it's time to say good-bye..." Hey, if I could get to work in a place where we could all go, this wouldn't be a problem. Yes, we will all move on..but wouldn't it have been nicer to do it on our own and not be LIQUIDATED!
:grouphug: Please know that I'm thinking about you and your Cast right now.

[WI WDWGIRL]

I have been a CM for almost 10 years and it is truely diheartening to know that our "home" is being closed. And that last inventory was surreal. The lead inventory person asked me why our cast was "so salty." I had to tell a stranger about our "family." After a 10 minute discussion, her final words were..."boy, that's just not the Disney way..."

[remain seated please]

What a GREAT response ....
So with that it's time to look forward to retirement from my full time job.
My wife and I have been getting ready for the move - part time anyway - to Florida.
Disney is part of me now and leaving it all behind is not what I can do. But moving away from TDS and maybe working and having fun at WDW is what is next. After over 50 trips I know there are so many different things I'd like to do in the park. :wizard:

Time to move on ....

What a GREAT Response .... thanks for the emotional help !! :worship:


Glad to help. Good luck and thanks for reading these posts with an open mind.

However...

I am glad you found your life after Disney, but some people don't care to nor do they want to. Even though you say you have worked through the issues from when TDS hurt you, you obviously are not over them yet - if you were, you wouldn't continue posting long posts about how we should 'get our heads out of the pixie dust' and how we're living in a Fantasyland. I like it here in Fantasyland and I'm not leaving - regardless of what any ex-Cast Member says. You didn't like it, so you left - good for you. I love it and I'm staying.

You hope your message 'motivates' people to move on...what are you, an anti-Disney spokesperson? If anything, your message makes me want to stay with Disney and with my Disney family so I don't become bitter like you obviously have become. Instead of trying to point people in your direction, why not offer some sympathy for those who are losing their jobs?

I guess I'll just never understand...:confused3

Where do I begin?
Actually, your last line says it all. :sad2:

[TheDisneyGirl02]

I have been a CM for almost 10 years and it is truely diheartening to know that our "home" is being closed. And that last inventory was surreal. The lead inventory person asked me why our cast was "so salty." I had to tell a stranger about our "family." After a 10 minute discussion, her final words were..."boy, that's just not the Disney way..."

Please know that I am thinking about your Cast. I'm in like shellshock that so many stores are closing. Please know that I'm thinking about you! :grouphug:

[WI WDWGIRL]

Please know that I am thinking about your Cast. I'm in like shellshock that so many stores are closing. Please know that I'm thinking about you! :grouphug:

Thank you. While we are waiting for more answers to come, like when, unfortuneately, we will never know the why. I tried calling the landlord, but he directed me to call THE DISNEY COMPANY. Anybody out there have a phone number?

[mapmakerj]

Are you at the Mayfair Mall Store? I was just there a week ago. I live up in Oshkosh and that store is the closest to us at a little over an hour drive. I am sorry to hear about the closings. First we lost the closest store up in Appleton after the CP takeover, then we lost the next closest very recently in Madison, and now this. I think we will only have one DS and one DOutlet in the state left.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

Glad to help. Good luck and thanks for reading these posts with an open mind.

However...



Where do I begin?
Actually, your last line says it all. :sad2:

I'm not bitter and I don't hold grudges...I guess that's why I don't understand. If you're past it, why keep posting about it?

Obviously you are coming from one direction that you feel very strongly about and I'm coming from a completely different direction that I feel very strongly about. It's just the way the world goes.

Although you may have had a rocky relationship with Disney, I do hope that you at least have some happy memories from your years at the store and that you do treasure them.

[WI WDWGIRL]

Yes, the Mayfair Mall location is closing. The Southridge Mall location is staying open. Thank you for your guest dedication. Please make your complaint known to the Disney Company. It has been an extreme pleasure to have been at your service for the last 10 years, and Mayfair 18 years.

[msmickminn]

just tried to get on that forum and I couldn't. How should I go about joining it again

I believe you need to email the webmaster with ID info. All though I joined when I first signed on with the DIS, I'm sure the process is the same.


:grouphug: To my fellow CM's who are going through this rough time.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

I believe you need to email the webmaster with ID info. All though I joined when I first signed on with the DIS, I'm sure the process is the same.


:grouphug: To my fellow CM's who are going through this rough time.

I'll have to see if I can do that...but since we don't have IDs right now...not sure what I would give them. Did you give them store number and the origin at the time? Just wondering! :)

[fairygodmother29577]

I'll have to see if I can do that...but since we don't have IDs right now...not sure what I would give them. Did you give them store number and the origin at the time? Just wondering! :)

I wonder if our new PERNR #'s will work? I am going to email and see what happens! I will let you know.

Oh how bitter sweet we are moving on, I want to be so happy, although I am so sad to leave so many of our Cas Members behind. There are so many changes still to come, I am just sorry that everyone can be here share in them.:rotfl2:

[fairygodmother29577]

[QUOTE=msmickminn;24852478]I believe you need to email the webmaster with ID info. All though I joined when I first signed on with the DIS, I'm sure the process is the same.

Well here is what happened when I tried to email him. It came back to me with a message permant failure. Could have just been my server. If you get through let me know please. Thanks

[mickeymark34]

Let me begin by saying this: To the Cast Members of those stores that are closing, I feel for you. My store was also on the Remaining Store list, but miraculously, we were told that we would be staying open. It may be because of our good lease history, or the fact that our store is the only one accessible by I-5 in our area (one of my fellow Cast Members thought of this reason, and it makes sense). I hope that this transition will go good, without too much heartache, for you Cast Members that are going through this mess.

Next, there were alot of posts on this board that helped me get through this time of uncertainty and I want to thank all of you current Cast Members from the bottom of my heart, because if it weren't for your input on this matter, I would have went through this practically clueless.

I am very glad to be part of the Disney family, once again.

[hildarumpole]

[QUOTE=WI WDWGIRL;24851285]Yes, the Mayfair Mall location is closing. The Southridge Mall location is staying open. Thank you for your guest dedication. Please make your complaint known to the Disney Company. It has been an extreme pleasure to have been at your service for the last 10 years, and Mayfair 18 years.[/QUOTE

:sad: Well, that just bites. We live between Milwaukee and Madison and have shopped at the Mayfair location for as long as it's been there. The Madison one was great and we were sad when it closed, but took consolation in knowing we could always go to Mayfair. Guess we'll have to take a trip to the Dells outlet or Southridge. I'm really sorry for all the CMs who will be losing their jobs. :hug:

[ranidayz]

Hi Everyone,

I am very devestated for everyone. I feel for those losing their jobs and passion in the store. I also feel for those dedicated families who love to visit the stores as a Disney Fix.

I think there are a lot of those families who are on the main board who don't know that stores are closing at all, much less whether their stores are closing. I am not a CM and would not feel comfortable doing so, but perhaps a CM would start a thread on the main page just listing stores that are closing so people who are regulars there could come in and say farewell to the CMs and the store......

Just my humble opinion,

Ranidayz

[TheDisneyGirl02]

Hi Everyone,

I am very devestated for everyone. I feel for those losing their jobs and passion in the store. I also feel for those dedicated families who love to visit the stores as a Disney Fix.

I think there are a lot of those families who are on the main board who don't know that stores are closing at all, much less whether their stores are closing. I am not a CM and would not feel comfortable doing so, but perhaps a CM would start a thread on the main page just listing stores that are closing so people who are regulars there could come in and say farewell to the CMs and the store......

Just my humble opinion,

Ranidayz
That is a good idea...you should start the thread...I like how you said so that guests could say farewell to their CMs and their store.

Part of the problem is, (at least I think) is that not all stores know for sure if they are staying open. So far so good at my store but we haven't been told for sure.

[CAP56]

I am a Real Estate developer and I just recieved this list of Stores that are for sure closing as they wanted to know if I was interrested in buying any of the leases. The store number is the first number. I am truly sorry for everyone who will loose their job. :sad1:


6767 Northwest Arkansas Mall Fayetteville AR
6480 Paradise Valley Mall Phoenix AZ
6471 Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza Baldwin Hills CA
6579 Capitola Mall Capitola CA
6592 Post Street San Francisco CA
6504 The Oaks Thousand Oaks CA
7006 Danbury Fair Mall Danbury CT
6366 The Pavilions At Buckland Manchester CT
6574 Westfield Meriden Meriden CT
6536 Westfield Trumbull Trumbull CT
6549 Regency Square Mall Jacksonville FL
6602 Coastland Center Naples FL
6487 Tyrone Square St Petersburg FL
6441 Gwinnett Place Duluth GA
6531 Northpark Mall Davenport IA
6508 Stratford Square Mall Bloomingdale IL
6621 Circle Centre Mall Indianapolis IN
6509 Towne East Square Wichita KS
6469 Holyoke Mall At Ingleside Holyoke MA
6561 Lakeforest Mall Gaithersburg MD
6523 St. Charles Towne Center Waldorf MD
6372 The Maine Mall South Portland ME
6507 Genesee Valley Center Flint MI
6338 Twelve Oaks Mall Novi MI
6694 Somerset Collection Troy MI
6320 Chesterfield Towne Center Chesterfield MO
7031 Zona Rosa Kansas City MO
6782 St Louis Galleria St Louis MO
6810 Mid Rivers St Peters MO
6440 Four Seasons Town Center Greensboro NC
6631 Valley Hills Mall Hickory NC
6444 Quaker Bridge Mall Lawrenceville NJ
6596 Crossgates Mall Albany NY
6595 Boulevard Mall Amherst NY
6360 Walden Galleria Buffalo NY
6474 Galleria At Crystal Run Middletown NY
6569 Sangertown Square New Hartford NY
6537 Poughkeepsie Galleria Poughkeepsie NY
6618 Greece Ridge Center Rochester NY
6547 Jefferson Valley Mall Yorktown Heights NY
6373 Tri-County Mall Cincinnati OH
6514 The Mall At Fairfield Commons Dayton OH
6747 Logan Valley Mall Altoona PA
6603 Capital City Mall Camp Hill PA
6886 Exton Square Mall Exton PA
6559 Westmoreland Mall Greensburg PA
6583 Harrisburg Mall Harrisburg PA
6473 Park City Center Lancaster PA
7041 The Mall At Robinson Pittsburgh PA
6588 Ross Park Mall Pittsburgh PA
6511 The Mall At Steamtown Scranton PA
6481 Wyoming Valley Mall Wilkes-Barre PA
6426 Willow Grove Park Willow Grove PA
6470 Town East Mall Mesquite TX
6609 Chesapeake Square Chesapeake VA
6604 Virginia Center Commons Glen Allen VA
6347 Mayfair Mall Wauwatosa WI

[boston1029]

We've decided that our last 6-8 weeks are going to be all about us. We're going to take pictures of the store as it is now before the hideous signs and hang them backstage and include pictures of all of us. We've got Halloween and Christmas shipment nightmare pictures. I think that it will be good for us to be able to have fun and remember the good times before the craziness begins.

[EpcotMatt2]

[QUOTE=CAP56;24862338]I am a Real Estate developer and I just recieved this list of Stores that are for sure closing as they wanted to know if I was interrested in buying any of the leases. The store number is the first number. I am truly sorry for everyone who will loose their job. :sad1:

Just curious, as a real estate developer, how can you profit off of closing stores leases? How does that work?

[TheDisneyGirl02]

We've decided that our last 6-8 weeks are going to be all about us. We're going to take pictures of the store as it is now before the hideous signs and hang them backstage and include pictures of all of us. We've got Halloween and Christmas shipment nightmare pictures. I think that it will be good for us to be able to have fun and remember the good times before the craziness begins.

:grouphug: The store itself maybe closing, but you have made memories that will last a lifetime. Remember the good times and enjoy the time that's left. :grouphug:

[CAP56]

[QUOTE=CAP56;24862338]I am a Real Estate developer and I just recieved this list of Stores that are for sure closing as they wanted to know if I was interrested in buying any of the leases. The store number is the first number. I am truly sorry for everyone who will loose their job. :sad1:

Just curious, as a real estate developer, how can you profit off of closing stores leases? How does that work?

EpcotMatt:

I would buy the rights to the lease for a dollar amount and agree to pay Disney or Childrens Place, whoever is the tenant, lower rent than they are paying the Mall owner or landlord. I would then put another tenant in that space and charge more than I am paying. Companies like Disney or Childrens Place do this all the time because if they are paying $50 per square foot in rent and they are obligated to pay for the next ten years then they are happy to cut their loss by selling me their lease rights and getting $30 per square foot from me. I in turn rent to the new tenant for $40 per square foot and make a profit. The landlord is happy because they do not have a dark store in the mall and they still have the corporate guarantee of a company as big as Disney that they will get the $50 per square foot for the next ten years. The new tenant is happy because they are paying less than "market rent" and I am happy with a $10 per square foot profit for 4000 square feet for the next ten years.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

OK...I think I have this right...basically another store, not a Disney Store would go into the space. Am I correct in my thinking?

[QUOTE=EpcotMatt2;24862900]

EpcotMatt:

I would buy the rights to the lease for a dollar amount and agree to pay Disney or Childrens Place, whoever is the tenant, lower rent than they are paying the Mall owner or landlord. I would then put another tenant in that space and charge more than I am paying. Companies like Disney or Childrens Place do this all the time because if they are paying $50 per square foot in rent and they are obligated to pay for the next ten years then they are happy to cut their loss by selling me their lease rights and getting $30 per square foot from me. I in turn rent to the new tenant for $40 per square foot and make a profit. The landlord is happy because they do not have a dark store in the mall and they still have the corporate guarantee of a company as big as Disney that they will get the $50 per square foot for the next ten years. The new tenant is happy because they are paying less than "market rent" and I am happy with a $10 per square foot profit for 4000 square feet for the next ten years.

[llfowl]

Your list isn't complete. We are closing too. Store 634 Crestwood Court, St. Louis, MO.

So, Disney is closing every store in our discrict except one in Kansas. This makes no sense at all!!!

I am just upset beyond words.

[mickeymark34]

I wonder what made them change the lists around. There was a store in this area that was on the "Aquired List", but I just got news tonight that it will indeed be closed. I guess they were scheduled to have a remodel, but now they are closing.

[Mickey&Donald]

The list is also missing store 833 Valley Mall in Hagerstown, MD. :(

[TheDisneyGirl02]

Your list isn't complete. We are closing too. Store 634 Crestwood Court, St. Louis, MO.

So, Disney is closing every store in our discrict except one in Kansas. This makes no sense at all!!!

I am just upset beyond words.

The list is also missing store 833 Valley Mall in Hagerstown, MD. :(

:grouphug:

I wonder if the list is just the malls owned by a certain company, like Simon or something like that? I don't know, but it was just a thought.

[Mickey&Donald]

That could be... my store (561 Lakeforest) is on the list and it is a Simon Mall. :confused3

[MICKEY'SWORLD]

Your list isn't complete. We are closing too. Store 634 Crestwood Court, St. Louis, MO.

So, Disney is closing every store in our discrict except one in Kansas. This makes no sense at all!!!

I am just upset beyond words.



Lori, my fellow cast member( its davenport) yesterday was a awful awful day, we had our "new" Supervisor come in and start checking it all out. we put up the ugly window sign and cast members were bawling all over the place! WE WANT CLAUDIA BACK.....LOL we are going to make the very best of out short time together. the true Disney guest have been so supportive to us...even cried with us. we will remember the fun and experience more than ever. the bad part will only last a short time ( well...6 weeks)

[fairygodmother29577]

About joining the Cm forum my response was once Disney regains the stores they are lilkely to change their policy and allow Disney Store CMs back into the forum. They will need a chance to consider a new policy.

I emailed him back with the website to the article posted yesterday on Disney Consumer Products and informed him that as of May 1st Disney regained ownership. I suggest waiting a week and then trying. If I hear anything back in the mean I will post it.

I feel awfull even talking about this... Too many are left behind. I was just introduced to our new DM yesterday. Going forward is exciting and sad. I truely wish everyone the best of luck. Memories are one thing that can not be taken away. As I am reading here there are a lot of magical memories.. We have all been there.. wall to wall boxes and thinking you will never see the end... The smiles on the children faces, heck the smiles on the adults faces when they find their favorite characters.. Hopefully better things are yet to come for all of us.

[Donald's Shrink]

The above-posted list is far from complete. By my count there are only 57 stores on that list, while Disney said that they will be closing about 98 stores. Therefore, this list is about 41 stores short.

[WI WDWGIRL]

Our store #6347 Mayfair MAll is on the list, but it is owned by General Growth Properties.

[dis24242]

Well, I'm here to tell ya ....

Tomorrow is gonna be a GREAT day at the Disney Store. It's gonna be crazy hat day, we'll let guest sign our shirts, take lots of pictures, play the music LOAD (not that video but real Disney music). Act silly, sing songs, play games and HAVE LOTS OF FUN with the guest!!!

Monday we start to dim.

But this week end ---- to heck with the liquid signs .... WE"RE THE DISNEY STORE !!!
and WE ARE GREAT !!! No sad songs for us this week-end.

Monday will come soon enough

[autumnsmommy]

Darn, Virginia Center Commons closing???? Shawn the store manager is an AWESOME CM with lots of Disney spirit and knowledge. And I drive 1 1/2 hours from the valley to get there... He is always personable and helpful, sad to see a great CM lose their store :(

[Disneycrazymom]

To all the St Louis store CM's may I say I will miss you! I cannot believe they are closing all the area stores! I expected some as they really are fairly close together but not all.:sad1: I hope you all can find a new job quickly I will miss the Disney fix. Not much reason to go to the mall anymore. That will save me money I guess!

[castmember604]

Autumnsmommy,

This is Shaun from the Virginia Center Commons mall store, and I just want to thank you for such a wonderful comment. Unfortunatley it is true VCC will be closing. We were told on Tuesday and then yesterday our Hilco representative met with us (liquidation company). The liquidation sale will start Monday and then we have 6 to 7 weeks left. It is very sad to see our store close, however that is not the worst part. The worst part is going to be the loss of such a close family that we have all become over the years. I know I have watched many children grow from being babies to walking and now being in school over the 7 years that I have been there. I am just thankful that I was able to meet such great people who not only work there but also shopped at the store.

Shaun

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

Hmm. The Mesquite, TX store on the list from the developer is one that I understood was staying OPEN! Guess I am missing some info! The 2 other local stores that I knew were closing are not on that list.

[TheDisneyGirl02]

Well, I'm here to tell ya ....

Tomorrow is gonna be a GREAT day at the Disney Store. It's gonna be crazy hat day, we'll let guest sign our shirts, take lots of pictures, play the music LOAD (not that video but real Disney music). Act silly, sing songs, play games and HAVE LOTS OF FUN with the guest!!!

Monday we start to dim.

But this week end ---- to heck with the liquid signs .... WE"RE THE DISNEY STORE !!!
and WE ARE GREAT !!! No sad songs for us this week-end.

Monday will come soon enough

Have a wonderful day and make it magical for the CMs and the guests! :thumbsup2

[fairygodmother29577]

Well, I'm here to tell ya ....

Tomorrow is gonna be a GREAT day at the Disney Store. It's gonna be crazy hat day, we'll let guest sign our shirts, take lots of pictures, play the music LOAD (not that video but real Disney music). Act silly, sing songs, play games and HAVE LOTS OF FUN with the guest!!!

Monday we start to dim.

But this week end ---- to heck with the liquid signs .... WE"RE THE DISNEY STORE !!!
and WE ARE GREAT !!! No sad songs for us this week-end.



Monday will come soon enough

Make it a day to remeber!!!! :cool1: We will thinking of you!

[cjs123123]

this makes me so sad... although I will still have one disney store to still go to in my area, I love disney but I feel so bad for all the jobs lost. I have great memories at the store closing in my area. it is a great lose

[Mickey&Donald]

I'm bringing in my camera today, so we can be crazy and take cute pictures before those hideous signs go up. I need a picture with our Sorcerer Mickey statue before.. gulp.. I don't even wanna think about it.:scared:

Our liquidation guy is supposed to come see us today. I'm nervous for some reason... I guess because I'm not really sure what's going to happen. The unknown tends to be scary. I am just grateful that the other closing stores in our district and even the remaining stores are all being sooooo supportive. Each store is like a family, but in this time of crisis, all 8 of our stores have really banded together. :grouphug:

Hi to Shaun from VCC -- not too very long ago, your store was part of my District! I'm sorry to hear that you are closing, too. :(

Have any closing CMs here talked to anyone about transferring to another store? It would be great if most people can be placed in a neighboring store, but I know that won't be the case for many. This is a terrible time. I just hope that the liquidation sale will be decent... I want a lot of pins. :rolleyes1 That's the only bright spot in this whole situation. :laughing:

[goofydebi]

Does anyone know if the store in Mobile, AL is closing?
I went to the Disney Character Warehouse in Destin FL 2 weeks ago and it had closed the night before, and I called the Outlet mall in Foley AL yesterday because the Disney Outlet there was suppose to re-open May 1st and they said they didn't think they were ever going to be there again because of the Children's Palace deal. All of these are about an hour drive for me and now am wondering about the one Mobile. Guess it online shopping for me or an 8 hours drive to WDW. I feel for all the people losing their wonderful jobs. I hate that.

[WI WDWGIRL]

I am a CM at Mayfair Mall in Wisconsin. We were on all lists that we were to stay open. Now we are are closing. We were informed by our DM that the other Disney Store in our area that is staying open is not currently hiring any new cast members, but they would see what they could do for the 20+ CMs that want to transfer.:mad:

[bevgray]

I have been a staunch guest of the Indianapolis stores ever since the first one opened at Castleton way back when. I was heartbroken that my favorite one, Circle Center, is indeed closing. On the hopeful side, the Castleton and Greenwood stores, which were on that preliminary closing list, just found out today that they are being acquired by Disney and will remain open. the Castleton Assistant Manager said that he was told the remodel would begin immediately. While I will miss the Circle Center team very much, at least we are not losing all three stores as was first indicated. Just have to take my pixie dust in fewer doses now since I work downtown and don't live near either of the remaining stores.

To all the cast members who worked through the transition to Children's Place, as well as the newer ones who hired after, all my good wishes and thanks go out to you. I hope that those losing their "homes", find new ones very quickly as transfers to other Disney stores or another home where you will be happy. Thanks again for all the excellent professionalism and courtesy you have extended to your guests throughout the years.

[MFfan310]

I have been a staunch guest of the Indianapolis stores ever since the first one opened at Castleton way back when. I was heartbroken that my favorite one, Circle Center, is indeed closing. On the hopeful side, the Castleton and Greenwood stores, which were on that preliminary closing list, just found out today that they are being acquired by Disney and will remain open. the Castleton Assistant Manager said that he was told the remodel would begin immediately. While I will miss the Circle Center team very much, at least we are not losing all three stores as was first indicated. Just have to take my pixie dust in fewer doses now since I work downtown and don't live near either of the remaining stores.


Speaking of the Indiana Disney Stores, what about the stores at Glenbrook Square in Fort Wayne (my local Disney store), University Park in Mishawaka, Westfield Southlake in Merrillville, and Tippecanoe Mall in Lafayette? I haven't read anything... Originally, only Glenbrook and Southlake were on the acquired store list. At the same time, the Glenbrook store is overdue for a remodel (it's one of the original pink and teal stores that's been in the same spot since 1992), and General Growth Properties (who owns the mall) is aggressively pushing for stores at Glenbrook to renovate or relocate.

Still, I'm looking forward to seeing the changes Disney has in "store" (pun intended) for the chain. Hopefully, this means more adult merchandise and better merchandise overall than the TCP days!

[lmroyea]

To everyone at Mayfair,
I heard the news yesterday, and just got it confirmed by Colleen today. I'm so sorry for everyone. I had to come here and check out if anyone had posted. I did see Heather and Kathy, and not sure who WI WDWGirl is, but please pass along my sympathy to all the CMs at Mayfair. Believe me, I know what it's like to lose your "family". I miss all of you very much. I'm sure you'll all move on and be fine, but it's very emotional. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.:grouphug:
Lisa

[bevgray]

MFfan, I don't know for certain but I think he said the Tippe store was also on the "keepers" list. He was busy with guests so I didn't want to tie him up too long. No idea how the others have fared. Good luck that your stores are safe too.

[castmember604]

Mickey&Donald

What store were you at?

Shaun

[starwatcher]

I am one of the original cast members from the vista ridge store in texas. I
was there opening day. I had to leave cause of health issues but i am wondering if the valley view and vista ridge stores are closing or staying open?? Cause the only other store close to me i know is the stonebriar mall one i have no idea if that was staying or leaving either.

[kaysmommie]

Does anyone know if the Knoxville TN West Town Mall location is closing?

[missingcastmember]

well, our signs go out tomorrow night...Right now we have a small sign saying our location will be closing, and you can get your Disney Magic by logging on to the Disneystore.com. VERY TACKY...Our guests can not believe this...They are coming in crying and hugging us and it is so surreal...Lisa, we miss you too....you know what a family we all are....as for wdwgirl...a hint..she married a KING.....Thank you to all our guest out there who are helping us get through this....We are all still in shock.

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

I am one of the original cast members from the vista ridge store in texas. I
was there opening day. I had to leave cause of health issues but i am wondering if the valley view and vista ridge stores are closing or staying open?? Cause the only other store close to me i know is the stonebriar mall one i have no idea if that was staying or leaving either.

Valley View and Vista Ridge are closing. Collin Creek and Stonebriar are staying open. I believe Grapvine Mills is staying open. I initially heard Town East was staying open but I have heard at least one rumor that it is closing. I am not sure about the Ft. Worth/Arlington locations.

[CharacterFan]

Intersting to see only 1 of the GA stores on the list, but the news article on the 2nd said 90+ stores were closing, but only 70 or so are listed here.

[Mickey&Donald]

Mickey&Donald

What store were you at?

Shaun

I'm at 561 Lakeforest Mall in Gaithersburg, MD. I was sad to see your store as well as Spotsylvania on the official list. :(


Intersting to see only 1 of the GA stores on the list, but the news article on the 2nd said 90+ stores were closing, but only 70 or so are listed here.

The final number of closing stores is 89. Originally, it was expected to be 100 or so. Some got lucky. :guilty:

[msmickminn]

About joining the Cm forum my response was once Disney regains the stores they are lilkely to change their policy and allow Disney Store CMs back into the forum.


Yes that's probably true. As I mentioned before I joined the CM board yrs. ago (pre HOOP). All I had to do was email my store # and location.


:hug: to all fellow CM's with closing stores.
Remember that it's YOU who make the magic. You are and always will be CM's.
:grouphug:

[NMW]

Does anyone know if the King of Prussia Mall, King of Prussia PA and Lehigh Valley Mall, Allentown PA stores are staying open? Thanks!!

[Greenepona]

From what I understand the KoP store will stay open, but the Exton one will close. I am going to check out the exton one Tuesday to see... I worked there over x mas.