Walt Disney World has introduced a restriction on potato chip sales due to the impending impact of Hurricane Milton.
Guests were then limited to purchasing a maximum of two bags of chips each.
This measure aimed to prevent reselling during the hurricane, should supplies run low. The decision comes amid concerns about meeting the demand for snacks, as the hurricane’s approach heightens stress levels among visitors.
The limit on chip sales is uncommon for Disney, generally associated with retail rather than consumables.
This limitation appears to stem from logistical concerns regarding supply levels and potential shortages during the storm, prompting Disney to take precautionary steps to ensure that all guests have access to essential snacks.
Hurricane Milton Causes Park Closure
The arrival of Hurricane Milton has resulted in an unprecedented closure of Disney World, a move that is rarely seen in the park’s history. As Milton approached the region, the park announced the closure just before the storm made landfall.
Disney World closed its parks at 2 p.m. on October 9, the day the hurricane hit. The state of emergency declared by Florida officials influenced Disney’s decision, putting guest safety at the forefront of considerations as winds picked up significantly in the area.
It is the park’s 11th shutdown for a hurricane event in its 53-year history.
Mixed Reactions to Pricing During Emergency
While safety measures are being implemented, Disney World has faced backlash regarding food pricing during this crucial time.
Reports emerged of $10 peanut butter and jelly sandwich kits available to stranded guests. This pricing drew significant criticism on social media, with many users expressing discomfort over the perceived exploitation of vulnerable guests during the emergency.
Alyssa K Sprake shared a video of the $10 sandwhiches which left the internet in an uproar, as Disney was finding another way to profit amid a horrible storm.
@alyssaksprake Such a good idea and they discounted board games #creatorsearchinsights #hurricane #disney #disneyworld #disneyresort #portorleansriverside #sandwich #preparation #hurricaneprep #groceries #hotel #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #florida #orlando #milton #storm ♬ Mary Poppins Winds In The East – The_Delirious_DM
Guests have compared prices at Disney to typical food costs in the region, leading to accusations of greed.
While some saw the offering as a considerate gesture, many others condemned the high price tag, arguing that essential food items should be provided more affordably or even for free in times of crisis. The viral reaction highlighted guests’ discomfort with both the pricing strategy and the situation they found themselves in.
Cast Members Face Safety Concerns
In addition to guest safety, significant concerns have emerged regarding Disney cast members. Reports surfaced indicating that many employees were required to stay on site despite the worsening conditions as Hurricane Milton approached. Employees expressed frustration over not being allowed to leave early to protect themselves and their homes.
This has led to criticism of Disney’s management and its ability to ensure the safety of its staff. Some cast members described being compelled to work in precarious conditions during the storm, raising questions about the company’s safety protocols and commitment to employee welfare. The narrative states that while the parks prioritized guest safety by closing, they did not extend the same consideration to cast members, who were kept on duty as the storm escalated.
As the impact of Hurricane Milton continues to unfold, the response of Walt Disney World has garnered mixed reactions. While the implementation of potato chip limits aims to ensure fair access to supplies, the pricing of basic necessities and the treatment of cast members have prompted broader discussions about corporate responsibility during natural disasters.
Do you think that Disney should be limiting how much food a guest can purchase?
