New Epcot World Showcase Merchandise Previewed

Disney have recently shared some images some of the merchandise that is available in shops dotted around the World Showcase in Epcot.

The Disney Park Blog’s Steven Miller recently spoke with Jennifer Furbee and Sylvie Brumbaugh, two Disney Parks Merchandise Cast Members who have the fun assignment of selecting merchandise for World Showcase shop, who gave a behind-the-scenes look at how they create tangible memories for this immersive shopping destination at Walt Disney World Resort.

“There’s always something new to discover,” explained Jennifer who has supported Mexico, Canada, and The American Adventure pavilions for three years. “For some guests, [World Showcase] may be the only time they visit a particular country. We want them to feel like they are actually visiting the country through the products we offer.”

Disney take months to develop new World Showcase merchandise, where the product developers are researching popular trends, traveling to domestic and international destinations for inspiration, creating product assortments that support stories in each pavilion, and finalizing product samples to ensure they are ready for shops. They also try to create an authentic shopping experience for guests.

Here is a look at some of the new merchandise that can be found in Epcot shops, including traditional German lederhosen and dirndl dresses, Mexican color figurines, decorative teapots from United Kingdom.

They also create new merchandise featuring Disney character such as Goofy, Mickey Mouse, Chip and Dale, such as the new arrivals in Canada and Norway pavilions.

“To bring these product stories to life, we work with tremendous partners including artists at Disney Creative Group, merchandise operations, location planning, merchandise presentation, and Walt Disney Imagineering,” said Sylvie. “We also periodically hold roundtable discussions with Cultural Representatives to get feedback about the merchandise we carry.”

“It’s an incredible feeling developing products for the place where I started my career,” said Sylvie. “I have a wonderful sense of pride with every visit to World Showcase. I’m thankful to play a part in creating lasting memories for guests through merchandise.”

What do you think of this new merchandise?