Tom Staggs took the stage yesterday to address shareholders just as he has in years past but now as President of Parks and Resorts. After reflecting on his past year as the head of Parks and Resorts Staggs proceeded to outline the capital investments that the Parks division has been making over the year and what we can expect as guests for the next few years.
Let’s take a look at some of the highlights for the resort:
-As Previously Reported the Snow White Mine Train coaster will take advantage of a newly patented ride vehicle, which twists and turns on its track.
-The new Art of Animation Resort will open sometime in 2013 (Still may be 2012, this was probably a typo) and contain 1,200 family suites and 800 value rooms
-New “tools” will allow guests to interact with the princesses in there new homes in a new immersive and highly personalized way
Perhaps the most exciting portion of Stagg’s presentation was the confirmation of what we can expect from the Next Gen Experience originally reported here on WDW News Today in December 2009:
“Further strengthening the belief that the guest experience starts from the moment guests book their trip[, they will be able to map out their entire vacation from the comfort of their home.” They will be able to use new tools to help them:
-Reserve times for Attractions, Shows and Character interactions
-Secure seats at shows and spectaculars
-Simplify the check-in process so that guests will arrive on property with their resort keys in hand getting them into the parks and resort quicker than ever before.
-Better route resources based on guest needs dynamically throughout the day helping to improve guest flow and improve the overall guest experience
While there aren’t many details available at this time this is the first time that park management has gone into any depth on the next gen initiatives. Stay tuned to WDW News Today for more developments. To read the full transcript of Tom Staggs’ presentation click here