Critical Thinking

1. A. Question: what barriers did the The Walt Disney Company face when planning and
operating Disneyland Paris?

B. answers: bridging cultures was a major goal when the Walt Disney Company
developed Euro Disneyland in France. While planning the theme park, which is now
called Disneyland Paris, Disney learned that not everyone was happy about the project.
Some people though that having an icon of American culture in their country would
threaten French culture. There are a few explanations for the lack of success the
park had in its early years. The debut on April 12, 1992 was far from perfect, for one
thing. Based on reports of expected attendance, the government was worried that the
roads would be chaotic, so the French radio warned of traffic.

2. A. Question: why do you think Disney emphasized the original form of the Disney family
name?

B. answers: Walt Disney Company pointed out that its founder was of French descent
and the family name was originally D’Lsigny. The company chose to use French as the
primary language for signs and designed new attractions with French and Europeans
theme. the dress code for employees, also known as cast members, was tailored to reflect
the local culture.

3. A. Question: Go to the websites for the The Walt Disney Company and the theme parks
to obtain additional information about the international operations of the company.
Prepare a report of your findings.

B. answers:
BURBANK, Calif., March 14, 2018—To capitalize on today’s rapidly changing media
landscape and more closely align with the Company’s priorities for future growth–
including creating high-quality content, technological innovation, global expansion and
direct-to-consumer distribution–The Walt Disney Company today announced a strategic
reorganization of its businesses into four segments: the newly-formed Direct-to-
Consumer and International; the combined Parks, Experiences and Consumer Products;
Media Networks; and Studio Entertainment. The reorganization is effective immediately.

Bob Chapek, Chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, will assume additional
responsibility for all of Disney’s consumer products operations globally, including
licensing and Disney stores, as Chairman of the new Parks, Experiences and Consumer
Products business segment. “Bob comes to this new role with an impressive record of
success at both Parks and Resorts and Consumer Products, and he is the perfect leader to
run these combined teams,” Mr. Iger said. Mr. Chapek will continue to report directly to
Mr. Iger.