In a strategic move to tap into the rising post-pandemic desire for travel and experiences in China, Shanghai Disney Resort is set to open its Zootopia-themed attraction to the public on Wednesday. Zootopia, released in Chinese cinemas in 2016, remains one of the highest-grossing imported animated films in the country, making this Disney’s inaugural Zootopia-themed site and the eighth themed area at the Shanghai Disney Resort.
The resort, inaugurated in 2016 and expanded in 2018 with a Toy Story-themed attraction, has witnessed a rebound in domestic travel and experiences, becoming one of the notable beneficiaries as China slowly recovers from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Joe Schott, President and General Manager at Shanghai Disney Resort, highlighted the shift in consumer behavior, stating, “I think what you saw over the last year as people emerge from the virus is them getting out and experiencing life again.” Despite a gradual recovery in overall consumption in China since the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, domestic travel and experiences have rebounded more robustly.
Walt Disney, in its fourth-quarter earnings report last month, noted higher attendance at its Shanghai and Hong Kong parks as a significant factor contributing to the 31% growth in its Experiences division, encompassing theme parks.
Shanghai Disney Resort operates as a joint venture, with the Chinese state-owned Shendi Group holding a majority 57% stake. This latest attraction underscores Disney’s commitment to catering to the evolving preferences of Chinese consumers and leveraging the rebound in the entertainment and travel sector.
