Is attendance really down at WDW this or…

[TheMaxRebo]

Slow is one reason to offer deals. Another is you want to promote growth, especially when your competition is displaying weakness. If their research indicates price is a key factor in people avoiding WDW, then being super cheap may be attractive to that type of person. Figuring once you get them in the door, they will like the Universal experience and you can charge them full price when Epic opens.

I'm not saying Universal isn't slow, but marketing is a lot more faceted than "sales are down."

Don't disagree but why is it when Disney has specials it's they're desperate but when universal does it's they're wavy?

 

[celluloid]

Don't disagree but why is it when Disney has specials it's they're desperate but when universal does it's they're wavy?

Many variables.
Let's break this down to the biggest one:
Did Universal just open two E Tickets in the last two summers?

Or are they getting people to the second to last shoulder season with many limitations and ancillary opportunities before their biggest project since IOA and Citywalk?

 

[Jrb1979]

The most shocking thing is how locals are opting for SeaWorld and Busch Gardens instead of Disney. It's definitely not a good sign when locals are going away.

 

[hopemax]

Don't disagree but why is it when Disney has specials it's they're desperate but when universal does it's they're wavy?

If you can't see the difference between where the two companies are in their business cycles, I can't help you. Disney is trying to crack the streaming market, so specials for Disney+ wouldn't necessary read as "desperate," as it is actively working on increasing market share. However, their theme park business is a different kettle of fish. As has been pointed out, there is a thriving vacation economy out there and the leader in that line of business for almost 70 years is experiencing declines. The other is trying to transform itself from a day trip / short visit, to a legitimate week long vacation opportunity.

 

[Lilofan]

The most shocking thing is how locals are opting for SeaWorld and Busch Gardens instead of Disney. It's definitely not a good sign when locals are going away.

Busch Gardens Tampa is a ghetto park that actually is very near to a residential one. Went to BGT 1x with my girlfriend and never went back. Between the unprofessional staff, dirty park and average at best customer service it wasn't worth the visit.