Credit: DisneyDisney store, the international chain of brick and mortar specialty stores including Disney store, Disney Outlet, and World of Disney is officially getting ready for their phased reopenings. Here is a look at Disney’s plans to bring guests back into these magical retail centers safely.
shopDisney released these new precautions today on its official website. The measures can be seen below and will be found at Disney store, Disney Outlet and World of Disney locations. The precautions come from the guidance of health authorities such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other appropriate government agencies.
In accordance with guidance from health authorities, we’re implementing the following health and safety measures:
- Implementing a phased reopening approach to determine when it is appropriate to reopen each Disney store location
- Reducing store hours and Disney store capacities to help facilitate physical distancing
- Relocating fixtures, furniture and products to make navigating the store easier.
- Implementing a requirement that face coverings be worn by Guests ages 2 and up and Cast Members while in the Disney store
- Ensuring easy access to hand sanitizers for Guests and Cast Members
- Temporarily pausing Opening Ceremony and in-store events
- Enhancing our cleaning procedures throughout the day
- Deploying new training and health screening protocols for Cast Members
In addition to the list of the new health precautions, the website also offers a warning to all guests explaining the potential dangers of visiting these stores and contracting the current pandemic. In the warning, Disney writes:
We have taken enhanced health and safety measures–for you, our other guests, and cast members. You must follow all posted instructions while visiting Disney store.Â
An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. COVID-19 is an extremely dangerous disease that can lead to severe illness and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, senior citizens and guests with underly medical conditions are especially vulnerable. By visiting Disney store, you voluntarily assume all risks related to COVID-19.Â
Help keep each other healthy and safe.
Additionally, the shopDisney website also goes on to list a series of FAQs related to the stores reopening, listed here:
How can I find out if my local Disney store is open?
Please refer to the Store Locator page for the latest information about your local Disney store
Are all Disney stores reopening?
We are carefully monitoring the situation in all areas where we have stores. We will continue to make adjustments to our operations as appropriate and look forward to welcoming Guests back as soon as it is advisable.
What will Disney stores do to facilitate physical distancing?
Yes, Disney stores will follow health officials’ recommendations for physical distancing. Physical distancing measures include limited capacity in stores with greeters at storefront, in-store signage about physical distance requirements, as well as contactless payment options, and the installation and use of plexiglass shields at cash registers.
Will Guests be required to wear masks or face coverings to enter the store?
Yes, the use of appropriate face coverings is required for Guests ages 2 and up during visits to the Disney store.
Guests must provide their own disposable or reusable face covering. The wearing of face masks does not replace physical distancing, which should be practiced at all times.
Will there be events at Disney stores that could draw large crowds?
In-store events and the daily Opening Ceremony have been paused at this time.
How is Disney screening its Cast Members?
Cast Members will be required to complete a health screening checklist and temperature check at home, prior to coming to work. Depending on a Cast Member’s responses to the checklist, they may be directed not to come into work.
Can Guests expect a wait time before entering the Disney store?
We will have limited capacity in stores and at times you may need to wait to go in.
Are there any products that will not be available in store that were available before COVID-19?
Limited Edition and Limited Release products, including Disney store keys, will not be available in store at this time, but you can shop with us online at shopDisney.com for these items and more.
Will face coverings be available for purchase in Disney stores at this time?
Disney’s cloth face coverings are currently available for purchase at shopDisney.com/face-masks and will be available in-store in the future.
Has Disney store changed its return policy?
For purchases made in-store on or after February 15, 2020, we will extend the returns window for 30 days after the store re-opens. Our return policy is the same in all other respects.
If you have inquiries concerning WDW and DLR park passports, please contact the following:
- Disneyland Guest Services: (714) 781-4636
- Walt Disney World: (407) 939-4251
Can I redeem my in-store coupon that I was unable to redeem while stores were closed?
Yes, coupons that expired for redemption while stores were closed, will be available for redemption in open stores now through December 31, 2020.
What are your thoughts of these new preventative health safety measures to be found at Disney retail locations upon their reopening? Let us know in the comments!Â