During today’s 2nd quarter earnings call, Bob Chapek, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, was optimistic about the future of the theme parks.
He said research had been conducted on the “intent to visit” Walt Disney World Resort, and results have been encouraging. The levels of those with intent to visit the Florida parks are “growing and are flat with 2019,” meaning that the number of guests who want to visit Walt Disney World now is similar to pre-pandemic numbers.
Disneyland isn’t quite there yet, but Chapek assures those numbers are increasing as well. The disparity in interest between the two stateside parks doesn’t come as a surprise, considering the difference between California and Florida’s COVID-19 policies. Walt Disney World reopened to guests in July 2020, while Disneyland Resort did not reopen its gates until April 30th, 2021.
As far as the impending increase in capacity, Chapek said, “We don’t think we’re going to have any problem at all increasing our attendance to match that capacity. It’s not something that keeps any of us up at night.”
Indeed, Walt Disney World has been consistently “near or at” the mandatory capacity limits, with reservations to some or all parks unavailable until July at this time. More park availability is likely to be added soon as capacity is increased.
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No mention of when the other Resorts will open?
I’ve been reading its more of a staffing issue at this point
So what about the hotels like AKL or POR? Shouldn’t they be on the way to opening?