First Look At The Downtown Disney District World of Disney
After more than a year in design and development, The World of Disney store in the Downtown Disney District has unveiled a complete transformation in 2018 that makes shopping easier and more fun. This dynamic retail experience is an ideal shopping destination for Disney fans and guests seeking treasured mementos from their Disneyland Resort vacations. Of course this all includes a little dash of pixie dust on top.
World of Disney Makeover
This grand World of Disney makeover touched every feature and function in the store, as if the Fairy Godmother outfitted the store herself. From displays to signage to lighting and much, much more, the new World of Disney creates an exciting shopping experience where the products are the stars and guests discover magical Disney storytelling wherever they look.
“We saw World of Disney as an opportunity to reimagine what Disney retail is today,” said Alysia Kelley, vice president of visual merchandising and location strategy for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “The new store design highlights the best of what is current and new, while also celebrating classic Disney heritage based in storytelling.”
The transformation begins with the store’s exterior, which features new marquees and magical window displays. When guests step inside, they discover an open, loft-style atmosphere. This style gives a great visibility they may even fall in love with an item from across the room.
World of Disney Merchandise
The merchandise also serves as décor in the new World of Disney. In one area, a giant Mickey Mouse Club ear hat beckons guests to the new Mickey Mouse Club Collection. Several feature spaces throughout the store will change regularly, showcasing the newest and hottest Disney offerings of the season. When new displays debut, their stunning impact will leave guests feeling as if an entire section of the store was reimagined all over again.
World of Disney will regularly roll out exclusive Disney Parks merchandise. This only reinforces its reputation as a must-visit shopping destination for devoted Disney fans. Unveiled in October 2018 was a new Mickey Mouse Club Collection with apparel and accessories featuring a vintage Mickey Mouse from the original television show. Also revealed with the store’s grand reopening was the Nordic-inspired Disney Parks Holiday Collection 2018. This collection is complete with Disney-themed holiday décor, ornaments, apparel and more.
World of Disney Pixie Dust
Complementing these displays are enchanted flourishes inspired by the history of the Walt Disney Animation Studios. Also serving as inspiration are the “Nine Old Men”. They are the legendary animators who created classic films such as “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “Peter Pan” and “Fantasia.” For instance, ink jars suddenly swirl with color and animate artwork on the walls.
Out of nowhere, blank pages fill with pencil sketches as if drawn by an invisible hand. Magical movie posters twinkle with pixie dust before coming to life. When making purchases, eagle-eyed guests may notice the store’s special sales counters. The desks and furniture used by animators of generations past are the inspiration for the designs.
Beyond delivering exceptional service to guests, Disney cast members play a role in this storytelling as well; cast members help guests discover the magical elements in the store and share insights into its pixie-dusted artwork. This commitment to placemaking makes the new World of Disney more than a retail experience – it’s truly a Disney experience.
The World of Disney store offers guests the option to purchase new reusable bags, rather than use plastic bags. This program is part of The Walt Disney Company’s global commitment toward significant single-use plastic reduction by mid-2019. Featuring artwork of beloved Disney characters, these reusable bags are made of 100 percent recycled materials and are offered in three sizes for a nominal fee. Traditional plastic bags are still available upon request at no charge.
World of Disney is an anchor location at the Downtown Disney District (Disneyland.com). Shoppers do not need theme park admission to visit. Visit ShopDisney.com to explore select products there too.
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