Walt Disney World Corporation is a well-known entertainment company that operates several theme parks and resorts around the world, including the popular Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. One of the key strategies that has contributed to the success of the Walt Disney World Corporation is vertical integration.
Vertical integration is a business strategy that involves a company owning and controlling multiple levels of the supply chain for a particular product or service. This allows a company to have more control over the quality and cost of its products and services, as well as the distribution channels through which they are sold.
The Walt Disney World Corporation has a long history of vertical integration, starting with the creation of its own animation studio in 1923. This allowed the company to produce its own animated films, which were then distributed through its own distribution channels.
In the 1950s, the company expanded its vertical integration strategy to include theme parks, with the opening of Disneyland in California. By owning and operating its own theme parks, the company was able to control the entire experience of visiting a Disney theme park, from the rides and attractions to the food and merchandise.
The Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, which opened in 1971, represents the pinnacle of the company's vertical integration strategy. The resort includes four theme parks, two water parks, 27 themed hotels, and numerous dining and entertainment options. All of these are owned and operated by the Walt Disney World Corporation, allowing the company to have complete control over every aspect of the visitor experience.
In addition to the theme parks and resorts, the Walt Disney World Corporation also owns and operates its own television and film studios, as well as a number of retail stores and online platforms. This allows the company to produce and distribute its own content, as well as sell its own products and merchandise.
Overall, the Walt Disney World Corporation's vertical integration strategy has been a key factor in its success. By owning and controlling multiple levels of the supply chain, the company has been able to ensure the quality and consistency of its products and services, while also maximizing profits. As a result, the Walt Disney World Resort has become one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world.