In what seems like a recent trend for Disney merchandising, Disney has looked to fan creations for the… “inspiration” behind their latest line of merchandise: fan-inspired Disney Attraction Buttons.
We found them at World of Disney in Disney Springs. The sets cost $9.99 each and are based off a number of attractions, like The Haunted Mansion, Jungle Cruise, the PeopleMover, and even some on-trend, non-attractions like the Purple Wall. Check out the sets that are currently available now:
Haunted Mansion | Jungle Cruise Buttons – $9.99
Tomorrowland PeopleMover | Purple Wall Buttons – $9.99
Disney Attractions | Character Autograph Buttons – $9.99
Little Mermaid | Rose Gold Buttons – $9.99

All in all, there’s something convoluted (yet somewhat comical) about Disney starting off with giving free “Celebration” buttons, then fans profiting off of custom-designed buttons (featuring Disney IPs), and now Disney going full circle, ripping the idea from the fans, and selling their own versions of these fan-made buttons. You could say they’ve… gone full circle.
What do you think about this recent trend? Is the appropriation of fan-made merchandise a step in the wrong direction, or merely a lack of creativity on behalf of Disney? Sound off in the comments!