A few years ago, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts decided to initiate a segment level structure that allowed the organization to leverage initiatives at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World. This is how Disney was able to initiate the Where Dreams Come True marketing message with the Year of a Million Dreams, open Toy Story Midway Mania at both coasts at the same time, and share entertainment like the High School Musical Pep Rally.
Disney, being faced with the hard economic times, is taking this integration to the next level. While Ed and Meg remain, Erin Wallace will now be in charge of integrating attractions; entertainment & imaging; food and beverage; merchandise; lodging; animal programs/environmental initiatives and support lines of business such as industrial engineering, operations training and labor between Disneyland and Walt Disney World. WDI will integrate its Resort and Park design branches, and Nick Franklin will manage the Global Development business. Basically, Global Development will create projects, WDI will design them, Erin Wallaces team will manage operations, and the existing Disneyland and Walt Disney World leadership will handle day-to-day management.
There was a lot of movement and big changes, especially where DCA is concerned. I cant go in to every move, but the next six weeks will be interesting as this scheme is integrated. The one thing I keep hearing from folks inside the company is that the Guest experience will not be sacrificed in any way. In fact, I hear that they are now focused on improving the experience of visiting a Disney destination. Only time will tell, if and how this will all work out, but it is certainly not all doom and gloom.
Quick Takes:
Media Networks: Disneys SoapNet is premiering a new original series, Being Erica. The show follows the life of single, funny and sexy 32-year-old Erica Strange who, during each episode, goes back in time and relives various events from her past that caused regret and attempts to fix them. While I pride myself on being versed on all aspects of The Walt Disney Company, SoapNet is definitely the hardest brand to keep my interest. This show isnt helping that fact.
Studio Entertainment: There is a YouTube contest for Race to Witch Mountain. Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/racetowitchmountain
Disney Interactive Media: The new ESPN.com has really grown on me. Cant say the same thing for the SoapNet website.
Consumer Products: Disney Consumer Products is thrilled to have a new princess coming our way. At Toy Faire, they went all out. DCP will introduce an extensive line of The Princess and The Frog-inspired toys, apparel, accessories, home dcor, consumer electronics, school supplies and personal care products arriving to retailers nationwide this fall. Disney Publishing Worldwide will launch an assortment of titles including story and activity books. In malls across North America and Canada, Disney Stores will also celebrate the debut of Princess Tiana and The Princess and the Frog with window displays and merchandising. The one-of-a-kind product assortment designed by Disney Store will offer something for everyone including Halloween costumes and role-play dresses.
Who is Celebrating: Eduardo Xol from Extreme Makeover: Home Edition is celebrating his birthday. This is not to be confused with Jay Rasulo from Extreme Makeover: Disney Parks Edition.
Video of the Day: Jeff, from Disneys Hollywood Studios, hosts a video featuring performances from “The American Idol Experience” World Premiere.
News from Around the Web:
ABC News: The Dow closed at a six-year low. But Disney, which is part of the Dow, closed up .06 points. Of course this is a small victory, since Disney hit its 52-week low yesterday.
NY Times: The New York Times thinks that the frivolity of the Oscars might be what the nation needs at this time. Since the telecast airs on ABC, I hope they are right.
USA Today: USA Today examines the Jonas Brothers phenomenon in advance of their upcoming 3D concert film. But no mention of the trashcan.
LA Times: Kirk Douglas, from Disneys 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, will perform at the Kirk Douglas Theatre. In related news, Esmerelda- The Trained Seal will be performing at the Esmerelda- The Trained Seal Theatre.
Orlando Sentinel: The Orlando Sentinel has some details of the executive shuffle at Disney Parks. See how many names you recognize.
Variety: SAG and AMPTP have resumed talks which gives hope that we might finally have a resolution to this long, drawn out process. Next thing you know, they might actually rename the Disney-MGM Studios. Oh wait, that finally happened too.