Are we getting nickle and dimed by Disney?

[DisneyRunner]

For 2011, I think we are. Everything has gone up a few dollars, tickets, room rates and dining plan. Over the past few years, Disney has jumped on board with variable room rates. First it was a different rate for Friday and Saturday. A majority of the industry does this, so it's okay with me. Then last year, Disney added more seasons to the rack room rates. And this year they have even added seasonal dining plan rates. What do you think? Will the increased cost of a trip stop you from going?

 

[Pumbas Nakasak]

Dont moan when your paying $20 a gallon for fuel then. Oil companies have shareholders too.

 

[meganw1985]

I will continue to go to Disney until it causes me to become bankrupt. :lol: Not that I will let it make me bankrupt, but until it becomes so expensive that I would have to take out a second mortgage or something. A few dollars is a few dollars. I get a cost of living raise every year, and it's kind of the same thing. I can't imagine not going to Disney just because of a few dollar increase in things. It is the happiest place on earth, you know.

 

[KnK]

Seriosuly? Disney has an obligation to its shareholders! The market apparently will take these increases so they will continue to happen. Just because part of the population cannot afford to pay their bills and such doesn't mean Disney should not worry about its profits. Remember the shareholders, investors, employees, etc. all rely on Disney making profits. Profits are not evil they are good. If a person cannot pay thier bills the LAST thing they should be worried about is a vacation, much less a Disney vacation. --rant over--

I'm a shareholder, not a huge one only about 100 shares, but we don't see real returns from holding the shares.

My husband and I joke about it, we think of the investment in our vacation as part of our retirement return.:ROFLOL:

 

[mrbghd]

Dont moan when your paying $20 a gallon for fuel then. Oil companies have shareholders too.

Totally OT but higher gas prices would benefit society in the long run as it would force investment and advancement in alternative energy sources.

But you make an apples to oranges comparison. Nobody needs Disney vacations (as much as we all think we do)

 

[wizards8507]

Dont moan when your paying $20 a gallon for fuel then. Oil companies have shareholders too.

Wrong answer.

If gas was unaffordable, then research for alternative fuels would skyrocket, and the first company to develop a mass-marketable alternative energy vehicle would take control of the market, and this would NOT be ideal for the shareholders.

If Disney were to charge $843 for one day admission, people would seek alternatives. The fact is, their increases at this point are well within the consumers' willingness to pay.

 

[mrbghd]

Wrong answer.

If gas was unaffordable, then research for alternative fuels would skyrocket, and the first company to develop a mass-marketable alternative energy vehicle would take control of the market, and this would NOT be ideal for the shareholders.

If Disney were to charge $843 for one day admission, people would seek alternatives. The fact is, their increases at this point are well within the consumers' willingness to pay.

This kind of logic and reasoning have no place here:ROFLOL::ROFLOL::ROFLOL:

 

[wizards8507]

This kind of logic and reasoning have no place here:ROFLOL::ROFLOL::ROFLOL:

I was faced with a scenario involving $20 per gallon gasoline. I responded in kind.

 

[harveyt0206]

In the end, I don't think it is the fact that Disney increases their prices that bothers some, it has more to do with the prices reaching a point that said person can not justify spending "that kind of money" on a Disney vacation. I am very close to being that person. While I absolutely understand the principle that a vaction is not a "right", I can't help but feel saddness over the fact that a Disney vacation is slipping out my price comfort zone.

I personally have not received a cost of living raise in two years and this year doesn't look much better. On the bright side, I am still employed. But with the cost increase of so many things in my life these past few years, my dicretionary spending for a Disney vacation is not what it use to be. So, when I really think about the OP's original question the answer is no, I don't think Disney is nickel and diming me. I just think that I am falling into the financial category that no longer permits annual treks to my happy place. I am mostly frustrated by own personal financial situation, not Disney's right to charge what they think is fair for their product.

 

[wizards8507]

In the end, I don't think it is the fact that Disney increases their prices that bothers some, it has more to do with the prices reaching a point that said person can not justify spending "that kind of money" on a Disney vacation. I am very close to being that person. While I absolutely understand the principle that a vaction is not a "right", I can't help but feel saddness over the fact that a Disney vacation is slipping out my price comfort zone.

You say that, and maybe YOU are sincere in that. But, even on these very forums, there are people who hold yard sales, rent out rooms, and go into piles and piles of debt to finance their deluxe resort WDW vacations. When Disney DOES reach "that point," then it would be bad business to increase prices further and they know that. They're not dumb. But they also realize that most people will continue to shell out the cash.

 

[harveyt0206]

You say that, and maybe YOU are sincere in that. But, even on these very forums, there are people who hold yard sales, rent out rooms, and go into piles and piles of debt to finance their deluxe resort WDW vacations. When Disney DOES reach "that point," then it would be bad business to increase prices further and they know that. They're not dumb. But they also realize that most people will continue to shell out the cash.

I absolutely agree that most people will continue to shell out the cash. And I'm certainly not saying that I won't ever go to Disney because I know that that would be disingenuous of me. BUT, I don't know that I will be able to go annually. That's not to say that I won't continue to price a trip and try to find a way to make it happen. For example, my mom and I are suppose to go in March and were planning on staying at the Wilderness Lodge. As it stands right now and without any discounts, that particular package just is too much. So, we have moved down to a value resort (which I don't mind one single bit) and are looking at other cost cutting options. Will we officially book the trip and go?? That remains to be seen as we are both concerned about finances and my position at this particular moment is that I have too many other financial responsibilities to rationalize it. But, as I said in another thread, I will miss Disney more than they will miss me because they have plenty of folks more than willing to pay what they are charging.

 

[Uncle Lupe]

I posted this pic in another thread

It's not the nickel and diming, just simple price gouging! $8.00 hot dog

 

[Pumbas Nakasak]

I was faced with a scenario involving $20 per gallon gasoline. I responded in kind.

Have a word with yourself. School kid economics while a useful patronising tool dont really add up in as a counter argument. you are simply an apologist who willingly accepts any price changes offered buy Disney unquestioningly. And for reason of brand loyalty trot out some garbage about fruit when challenged on your half baked theory. But no doubt you will claim this is the market way.

Id imagine that the reports of drops in park attendance would indicate that some people are finding the financial implications of a Disney break too much, oddly something that is not being experienced by Universal. And as far as I am aware running a car was a life style choice too. Or is this a vegetable?

 

[zurgandfriend]

I posted this pic in another thread

It's not the nickel and diming, just simple price gouging! $8.00 hot dog

Disney is just doing what everyone else is doing. In the words of Irving Berlin “everything the traffic will allow.”
Been to a movie lately? I took my family to see a movie this past weekend. I spent $50.00, 3 ticket, 3 small drinks and 1 popcorn. The movie was so bad we walked out.
How about a sporting event? It cost $600.00 for a family of 4 to see an NFL game in New England, $750.00 in Dallas. These were last year’s prices I’m not sure if there have been price increases this year or not.
I am asked all the time how can you afford to go to Disney? I usually reply with a question tailored to the person asking.
What does a round of golf cost you? How much is the membership to your country club?
What does it cost you to see a Celtics, Bruins, Red Sox, Patriots game? How much is your season ticket?
How much does your motorcycle, boat, sports car, snow mobile, or other “big boy toy” cost to purchase, register, operate and maintain?
Whenever Disney raises its ticket prices, Universal runs commercials here in New England announcing the fact that they are cheaper than Disney! A week or two later the commercials stop and Universal quietly raises their prices as well.
You spend your recreational money where you wish. I have been to Universal, Sea World, etc and was underwhelmed. I spent 30+ years in the service of my country and traveled the world, most of that was underwhelming as well. Sleeping in a hole in the ground, bad chow, getting up early and marching while weighted down like a pack mule, but I digress. For me right now, it’s Disney that gets my vote and my recreational dollars, maybe that will change in the future, only time will tell.
Steps down from soap box

 

[Disneykidder]

I posted this pic in another thread

It's not the nickel and diming, just simple price gouging! $8.00 hot dog

While I agree that it is a bit steep for a hot dog, it is competitive pricing.
Disney goes with the times and the times are getting expensive. Every theme park/hotel/eatery is raising their prices. Simple...if you can't afford it or don't want to spend the money for it than don't. Skip a year, save for it...whatever. Disney is a bit pricey but that is also why they have different hotel categories. You're paying for the name...Disney. If you don't want to, than don't. I don't understand the issue. Complaining about it will not make the price go down. While I agree $82 is too much for a one day ticket, I will never spend that because I go for a week. The price increase at that point is minimal.

 

[wendysue]

In the end, I don't think it is the fact that Disney increases their prices that bothers some, it has more to do with the prices reaching a point that said person can not justify spending "that kind of money" on a Disney vacation. I am very close to being that person. While I absolutely understand the principle that a vaction is not a "right", I can't help but feel saddness over the fact that a Disney vacation is slipping out my price comfort zone.

I personally have not received a cost of living raise in two years and this year doesn't look much better. On the bright side, I am still employed. But with the cost increase of so many things in my life these past few years, my dicretionary spending for a Disney vacation is not what it use to be. So, when I really think about the OP's original question the answer is no, I don't think Disney is nickel and diming me. I just think that I am falling into the financial category that no longer permits annual treks to my happy place. I am mostly frustrated by own personal financial situation, not Disney's right to charge what they think is fair for their product.

DITTO.....my thoughts exactly. Unfortunately, this will probably be our last one. At some point, many others will come to this conclusion, and then Disney will have low numbers and will cut back like most of the NFL, NBA, Nascar and other sports have found out. They priced themselves right out of the market for alot of fans.

 

[mrbghd]

Have a word with yourself. School kid economics while a useful patronising tool dont really add up in as a counter argument. you are simply an apologist who willingly accepts any price changes offered buy Disney unquestioningly. And for reason of brand loyalty trot out some garbage about fruit when challenged on your half baked theory. But no doubt you will claim this is the market way.

Id imagine that the reports of drops in park attendance would indicate that some people are finding the financial implications of a Disney break too much, oddly something that is not being experienced by Universal. And as far as I am aware running a car was a life style choice too. Or is this a vegetable?

Educated, thoughtful, and coirrect analysis always add up as a counter argument. I do not know your education or background but this type of ignorant comment is problematic. Education is the silver bullet to most of America's problems. Insulting a person because they are educated and can present educated analysis is a sign of lack of intelligence.

As for your second part, Disney is okay with attendance dropping.The concern is with profit, not attendance. Those who cannot afford to go due to the economy are not going but those who can, have not altered their spending habits. In fact, many are spending more in the parks than before.

Lastly, transportation IS a requirement in American society. Try to get a job without it. Meanwhile a trip to Disney is a luxury.

 

[minniemickeyfan]

Anyone else remember paying about $350 for a 7 night Ultimate Park Hopper Ticket when staying on property in 2003?
Today a 7 day ticket w/park hopping and water parks is only $378 with taxes
I think that's pretty good

 

[Pumbas Nakasak]

Educated, thoughtful, and coirrect analysis always add up as a counter argument. .

I dont disagree, unfortunately they appear to be missing from the points made. As for insulting intelligence it appears that you are the one who wishes to turn this into a ing contest about academic qualifications, I was simply pointing out that in the rush to point score the foundations of the arguments were somewhat naive.

I am also at odds to see where you can extrapolate Disneys satisfaction with reduced attendance. I have said you cant read too much into one quarter but do discounts indicate on going softening of the figures. I did read on here that merchandise discounting was being offered to diners.

And what you really mean is that in your opinion a car is an essential. No its a lifes style choice, just one you place high importance on.

 

[scottnj1966]

Increases happen everywhere. Inflation. Our dollar is not doing well.
The problem I have though is Disney should not be doing all this at once while our economy is failing. It is the wrong thing to do right now.

 

[Funfy]

I hope Disney doesn't go overboard on prices. The entire USA is in one form of another finiacial trouble(Bills not getting paid,people can't make mortage payments,etc.) Disney needs to think on this one and keep people comming to the Magiacal place on Earth.

These two things should not be coinciding. If one is having those issues, the last thing one should be planning is a Disney vacation. Bottom line, if you object-don't go. If enough object, it will be reflected in prices. If everyone still shows up-it was what the market would bear.

Nowhere in the constitution does it guarantee everyone the right to a Disney vacation.