Re-Imagined World of Disney stores officially open in California and Florida
More than a year in design and development, World of Disney has reopened at the Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort and at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World.
The World of Disney makeover touched every feature and function in the store, as if the Fairy Godmother outfitted the store herself. From displays to signage to lighting and much, much more, the new World of Disney creates a shopping experience where the products are the stars and guests discover magical Disney storytelling wherever they look.
“We saw World of Disney as an opportunity to reimagine what Disney retail is today,” said Alysia Kelley, vice president of visual merchandising and location strategy for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “The new store design highlights the best of what is current and new, while also celebrating classic Disney heritage based in storytelling.”
The transformation begins with the store’s exterior, which features new marquees and window displays. When guests step inside, they discover an open, loft-style atmosphere with large visibility. The merchandise also serves as décor in the new World of Disney. In one area, a giant Mickey Mouse Club ear hat beckons guests to the new Mickey Mouse Club Collection.
Several spaces throughout the store will change regularly, showcasing the newest and hottest Disney offerings of the season. When new displays debut, their impact will leave guests feeling as if an entire section of the store was reimagined all over again.
Complementing these displays are enchanted flourishes inspired by the history of the Walt Disney Animation Studios and the “Nine Old Men,” the legendary animators who created classic films such as “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “Peter Pan” and “Fantasia.” For instance, ink jars suddenly swirl with color and animate artwork on the walls.
Out of nowhere, blank pages fill with pencil sketches as if drawn by an invisible hand. Movie posters twinkle with pixie dust before coming to life. When making purchases, eagle-eyed guests may notice the store’s sales counters are inspired by the desks and furniture used by animators of generations past.
World of Disney will regularly roll out exclusive Disney Parks merchandise. Unveiled earlier in October was a new Mickey Mouse Club Collection with apparel and accessories featuring a vintage Mickey Mouse from the original television show. Also revealed with the store’s grand reopening is the Nordic-inspired Disney Parks Holiday Collection 2018, complete with Disney-themed holiday décor, ornaments, apparel and more.
World of Disney stores at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World now offer guests the option to purchase new reusable bags, rather than use plastic bags. This program is part of The Walt Disney Company’s global commitment toward significant single-use plastic reduction by mid-2019. Featuring artwork of Disney characters, these reusable bags are offered in three sizes for a nominal fee. Traditional plastic bags are still available upon request at no charge.
World of Disney is an anchor location at both Downtown Disney District (Disneyland.com) and Disney Springs (DisneySprings.com). Take a look inside both locations in our videos below.
A look inside the Disney Springs store:
A look inside the Downtown Disney store:
