Disney World Painters Laid Off in Midst of Cost Control
It has been reported that 100 Disney World Painters have been laid off recently according to the union that represents them.
This comes after the news of recent budget cuts at the domestic Disney parks due to shanghai being over budget and behind schedule. However according to Disney , hours fluctuate like this and are not addressing the concerns regarding Shanghai.
The painters were employed through the “Buena Vista Constructions Co.” which is part of the Walt Disney Company. However the receive benefits through their union and aren’t considered “Cast Members.” Apparently Disney noticed Buena Vista’s numbers were above normal and made these reductions based on project schedules.
Other changes have been noticed quickly by guests and cast members alike. A few character meet-and-greets have had slightly shortened hours. Many people had worked a lot of overtime during recent busy periods, she said, and management is “hoping that with adjusting the staffing levels and some of these venue adjustments, so to speak, it will even things out a little bit better.” said Donna-Lynne Dalton, a business agent who represents performers. Disney pointed out it has added other character meet-and-greets, such as one announced Tuesday at Hollywood Studios featuring Olaf, Mickey and Minnie.
I also reported before that curbside greeters are being cut at resorts, and all front-desk and concierge cast members will only be offered up to 32 hours a week. When asked about that, Disney said it has been testing some new processes that have resulted in adjusted schedules that will probably be changed further.
Any cuts would likely have to be subtle, given that the theme parks are attracting visitors in droves and are heading into the busy spring break period, said Bob Boyd, an analyst with Pacific Asset management. Regarding overseas parks’ troubles or ESPN’s, analysts have “seen historically all parts of the company expected to do ‘their share’ to improve results,” he said in an email.
Some EPCOT attractions are closing earlier than the rest of the park, and Disney World’s website shows the Main Street Electrical Parade will only run once a night during March, typically one of the Magic Kingdom’s busiest times.
The timing is a little surprising, said Duncan Dickson, a former Disney executive. “Right now it’s not a normal thing to do,” he said, “but they’re looking at things they can cut that won’t affect the guest experience.”
How do the cuts in these experiences affect your Disney vacation?
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