Disney hails ‘phenomenal’ trade response to relaunched dining offer

Disney Destinations International has hailed a “phenomenal” trade response to its recent Florida dining offer as it said it remained committed to helping agents showcase value messages to secure bookings.

Torey Kings-Hodkin, director of sales and trade marketing for the UK and EMEA, said the decision to relaunch the free dining and drinks offer for Walt Disney World Resort at the end of April had been taken following trade partner feedback.

“The response in the UK has been phenomenal and the preparation that our partners put into the launch really was incredible,” she said.

“We know that value for money is really important to customers and we know it is a big purchase so we are really focused on giving partners the tools they need to bring the value to life and secure the sale.”

Kings-Hodkin said there was “a lot to be excited about” for Walt Disney World Resort this year, with partners able to showcase two new stage shows, the reopening of the Test Track attraction in July and the first night-time parade in Magic Kingdom for 10 years.

She also highlighted opportunities for agents to sell Disney Cruise Line, with a focus on short itineraries from Southampton on Disney Fantasy this year and Disney Dream in 2026, and Disneyland Paris, which is currently undergoing the largest investment in its history.

“Disney Cruise Line is one of the highest rating Disney products and I think customers respond really well to it as a unique way to get the Disney experience,” she said.

“All agents with a good Disney database, whether for Paris or Walt Disney World, should be looking at how they can sell a Disney cruise.

“At Disneyland Paris we are seeing the rebrand of the Studios Park as Disney Adventure World and the opening of World of Frozen in 2026, so I think there is going to be huge interest there as well.”