Chapek: Current WDW Booking Rate At 2019 Levels
Disney CEO describes fans craving magical experiences…
Based on a first read of the Q2 financials from The Walt Disney Company, after-hours DIS trading saw the stock fall to 170.03, nearly 33.00 down from its 52-week high of 203.02.
But, if you read between the lines (and ignore the mighty bags under his eyes), CEO Bob Chapek sounded much more optimistic than the would-be stock drop belied.
Image: Google
“We are really encouraged by what we’re seeing terms of, not only current attendance but forward bookings,” said Chapek, pivoting away from what some considered a below-level report on Disney+.
Today, with the CDC guidance in terms of the relaxation of the mask requirement, we think it’s going to be a big catalyst for growth and actually being able to put the number of people in our parks that we’re more accustomed to.”
“So it’s very, very positive.”
Image: Matt Stroshane
WDW Is Again A Hot Ticket
Also encouraging was a stat specifically about Walt Disney World reservations.
“Our future bookings are looking really great,” said Disney’s former theme park boss.
Walt Disney World, in fact, they’re already back to fiscal year ’19 levels, which is, of course, pre-pandemic… And that would be the greatest barometer of all, at least in terms of the assurance that Disney’s built up with their guests – that we’re going to be able to operate responsibly and provide those magical experiences.”
Image: Disney
As many of stated previously, there is a large, pent-up demand for the Disney experience.
“They’re thrilled to come back,” added Chapek, speaking to the Disney fanbase.
Guests take in the sights and sounds of Main Street, U.S.A. as Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California, reopens on Friday, April 30, 2021. Disneyland Resort welcomes guests back to this Happiest Place on Earth, reopening Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)
There’s a craving – I saw this on Main Street at Disneyland, where we just recently opened up… not only for our guests but for our Cast to come back and be part of this social experience; to experience that magic with your friends and family.”
“And so we’re just glad to be able to bring people back to work and please our guests at the same time.”
VIDEO: Chapek on Bloomberg
Watch the entire interview below:
Speaking of traveling to Disney this summer: Are you making plans? For Disney World or Disneyland? Let us know in the comments below!
Feature Image: KTLA
