Disneyland’s Struggle with Capacity
It’s no secret that Disneyland has been struggling to keep its park more spread out and maintain a low capacity. The number one complaint people have about Disney is the attractions. Because of this, more space was created and new attractions 
were added, such as Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, but the number of people remained overwhelming. Lines were still hours and hours long, and getting anything done without a hassle was nearly impossible. For a simple snack, it was still almost 20 minutes’ wait. Disney concluded that it needed to raise admission prices to maintain low capacity and offer a better experience at a higher price.
How They Measure an Increase in Prices
Disney has measured their days and pricing into tiers. Days of high demand, also known as tier 6 days (usually holidays, weekends, and school breaks), have increased by around 9% in the past month. This is only about single-day passes; multi-day tickets have increased by almost $ 100, and annual passes have increased by nearly 15%. Many speculate that capacity is not the only reason for this issue.
The Hidden Variables at Play
The recent inflation and rising operational costs are often discussed in the context of this theme park’s finances. Disney employs thousands of people, and the minimum wage continues to increase, especially in California. The minimum wage increased to $20 an hour last year for fast food workers, which could be one reason prices are rising so significantly. It’s also noteworthy that Supply costs have increased by 5-10%, which is a big part of Disney’s costs. Disneyland is renowned for its impressive attractions, but the food and merchandise are also key aspects of the environment it creates. Not to mention that the increased cost of utilities and fuel is a considerable issue statewide. There are around 50 total attractions at that theme park, and each 
one needs to run on fuel or electricity. Attractions like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean require extensive maintenance and frequent repairs. This can take a toll on the amusement park’s refurbishment budget. The technological aspect should also be taken into account since they now include ‘lightning lane’, which requires servers, development, and ongoing technology support. Disneyland is also known for its extravagant shows, and to maintain them, a lot of energy and utilities are used. Environmental safety means rides and facilities to meet those standards.
What Does This Say About the Corporation Itself?
By raising its prices, Disneyland can continue to provide its customers and guests with the magical experience they are promised, while also being one of the most profitable business units in California. The Walt Disney Company said, “Our commitment to creating magical experiences for everyone remains at the heart of what we do, and that will never change.” Overall, Disney’s price increases are more a reflection of broader economic realities and a desire to keep people happy than a prioritization of money and greed. Although many people may think the prices are ridiculous, the immersive, high-quality experience makes them worthwhile.
