Why Is Epcot's New Creations Shop So Generic?

In the world of themed entertainment, theming your shops is just as important as the attractions and can provoke additional sales if done correctly. Why then, does the new Epcot Creations Shop follow in the wake of World of Disney, opting instead for a new generic retail space that lacks theming completely? That's the topic that will be explored in this video.
Logo Background Source: / @freestuff-motiongraphics
Various Media Sources: pastebin.com/JWcjJfwh
Many of the music tracks found in my videos can be located on Epidemic Sound: www.epidemicsound.com/music/f...
As always, I recommend hitting the like button as well as subscribe with bell notifications to be alerted when new videos are released.
Follow me on 🐤 Twitter: / poseidonentmt
Follow me on ▶️Facebook: / poseidon-entertainment...
Follow me on 📷 Instagram: / poseidonentertainmentyt

[@mallon04008]

With the new Creation shop as well as the recent hotel room updates, it's completely understandable what Disney is doing: They are following industry trends in hospitality and retail design. But this is not what I expect from Disney. I expect something different, something unique to what Disney World is. I expect Disney to be setting trends not following them.

[@scataplaft]

Absolutely. They fear setting trends nowadays. They are creatively bankrupted.

[@mallon04008]

@@scataplaft Wholeheartedly agreed on the second part. On the first part, I tend to think it's more lack of vision and leadership from the top. Chapek came up through the Disney ranks on the finance side of the business not the creative side. I think it shows

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

@@mallon04008 I think you've put my thoughts into words.

[@wjfmarketing]

@Josh Harris You nailed it exactly, I agree.

[@TheSteven512]

@@mallon04008 True, but didn't this start long before Chapek?

[@jrgutknecht]

The core issue is that Disney is no longer using themed design, they are simply decorating with a Disney “scheme”. A theme is an idea or concept that recurs in or pervades a work - key word being “pervades”. What Disney is doing as seen here, in other retail spots, re-furnished hotel rooms, even their attractions, is decorating with a Disney scheme. You can’t just put up a Mickey mural and call it the theme. Back up your earlier videos, creatively bankrupt. Decorating is not theming but it’s cheaper.

[@Daddysports79]

This hit me a few years back when I started seeing the same merchandise across all 4 parks and at the Disney Store in Disney Springs as well. They homogenized the merch to increase appeal across the board and reduce costs related to park specific items. It’s becoming more and more a huge amusement park and less theme park

[@Xander1Sheridan]

@@Daddysports79 the people in charge literally have no idea why Disney is popular.

[@MegsTravelLife]

First this now the confectionery, why does Cheapek think we all hate theming. If I wanted to go get candy from target I would. If I want to go to target I will. I WANT to be immersed at all times while at Disney, that’s what set them apart!

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I think the new Confectionary is a bit of a mixed bag. There are elements that I like about it, even more so than the previous iteration of the shop with its odd steampunk sections. However, it does look far too contemporary for what should be a shop set in 1910. It's a sad state of Disney retail.

[@GAStayPosi]

God I love being able to relate to a theme park vlogger for once

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I'm not even offering a direct criticism, but I would at least like to articulate some ideas and get them out there.

[@GAStayPosi]

@@PoseidonEntertainment whatever you put out is always very insightful and entertaining. Appreciate the content!

[@madelenejones]

I have been a little tired with Disney and have a season pass. I live close so I have seen a steady decline in the things that make Disney special. My opinions are not popular with my family. I am glad to know others share my thoughts and it is not all roses and sunshine.

[@gladiatordragon9219]

It's the perfect representation of how the current Disney leadership sees the parks. A place where they can advertise and sell merchandise - and to heck with making the experience fun and/or interesting, decorations that are not mounted on walls take space that could be more merchandise. I will say, I do think Creations will ultimately fit with the current direction Epcot's going in - but I hesitate to say that's a good thing. Epcot is losing its theming coherence, and is soon to be overrun with IPs everywhere, similarly to Studios.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

The new direction that Epcot is taking is sleek and aesthetically pleasing, but obviously not really appropriate for the park. The issue with Communicore was how stuck in the 80s it was, and this new direction will just quickly date itself in just a decade.

[@memethyst]

i completely agree

[@memethyst]

@@PoseidonEntertainment disney needs to stop with the modern/"futuristic" stuff that will eventually date itself, that's why i love tomorrowland at wdw because it was specifically designed as "the future that never was" and now theyre trying to make that modern too with some of the new paint jobs and new sign

[@scataplaft]

I wish they turned the, now vacant, NBA Experience building into a new huge and properly themed World of Disney. But the way things are going nowadays they will probably turn into a big...Target.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Don't give anyone any ideas...

[@scataplaft]

@@PoseidonEntertainment 🤣🤭🤫

[@shaquillesteinback8839]

@@scataplaft nah, its definitely gonna be a new Starbucks

[@nicolelechman609]

target is even a little too fancy for disney now. I feel like it would be a walmart

[@scataplaft]

@@nicolelechman609 haha. Ouch! Or a Flagship Walgreens. Lol. Harsh times... 🤣

[@pntr92]

It honestly makes me miss the old Mouse Works store that was in Epcot. Even if it was simple, I still remember seeing the turning cogs and silhouettes of Disney characters. I can't even begin to express how mundane this new store looks.

[@createcozy251]

Yes, I loved mouse gears! At least it had personality. The rule should be: if it’s inside the parks, then the store gets themed so you aren't taken out of the immersive experience; if it’s outside or at Disney springs then it’s fine to look like a branch of H&M or something. I think it’s laziness on their part that this has happened, they just aren’t putting money into imagineering anymore. It makes me sad. And the thing about Instagram leading their merch sales is wrong. It’s Etsy sellers who are creating awesome merch, Disney-designed stuff has been generic and bland since 2017.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I'm not a fan of Mouse Gear because it was so antithetical to Epcot. The rest of the park was sleek and Mouse Gear was so industrial in contrast. I understand that it was sort of paying homage to the steampunk aesthetic of Dreamfinder, but it just didn't work for the space.

[@pntr92]

@@PoseidonEntertainment I'm not saying that Mouse Gear is the absolute best Disney store out there. But much like the aesthetic of the T-Rex restaurant you made mention of in this video, I just loved the atmosphere of the store as it gave it some sort of identity compared to the new one which feels generic and devoid of theme and atmosphere.

[@williambrown8249]

@@PoseidonEntertainment It definitely fit in with the Test Track aesthetic from that era though.

[@STSGuitar16]

@@williambrown8249 RIP original Test Track

[@waynesimpson4081]

Apple stores work because the architecture reflects the design language of the products. The Creation Shop looks like an already dated Kolh's packed with knockoffs. The Kate Spade like purse section seemed to work though.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I think that when Disney outsources a lot of their brand and IP to designers, it works really well. Obviously I'm not the target demographic, but it seems to be a hit with those consumers. However, I have noticed that the overall value of the merchandise to the consumer has gone pretty far downhill. Merchandise is becoming far less interesting and unique and is just thrown up wherever there's a retail space. It bothers me how the Frontier Trading Post is essentially just a pin trading store.

[@aawich]

Yes, homogenized is the perfect word to describe the new shopping spaces. I may be in the minority, but I liked the quirky that Disney had in their stores. From in the malls to the parks. Now it all looks the same from east to west. Even the Disney store in the mall with all of the characters hanging down from the ceilings and walls is gone… All in the name of merch I guess - sigh. And don’t even get me started on ShopDisney (hate it)

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

It's not even the retail space, but the merchandise as well. Current Disney merch just isn't very interesting and I'm not sure where its market comes from. If you're a once-in-a-lifetime visitor, then perhaps it might be appealing but most of it looks like cheap and disposable knick-knacks to me.

[@cameronpruette948]

I know it may allegedly be "more timeless," but I was so underwhelmed by the store.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Like all current retail, it's following a trend. Not so timeless, but cheap to replace.

[@cameronpruette948]

@@PoseidonEntertainment I will say that I'm a little optimistic about how the LEDs outside Club Cool/Creations might be utilized, perhaps in sync with the Beacons of Light.

[@toodope4words]

"Timeless" is how minimalism is sold but it'll become as dated as any other trend. It may have some heavy staying power because it's so cheap to execute and is relatively pleasing/inoffensive to a majority of people...but in time, it'll go the way of shag carpeting or 'modern' turn-of-the-millennium design (that was also supposed to be tasteful and timeless). What's 'clean and timeless' today is 'bland and boring' tomorrow. You probably are just seeing beyond the trend while it's still at its peak.

[@thedevilgoose2482]

Tribute Store is, in my eyes, the definitive theme park store. Excellent (and might I say immersive) theming and the products are still showcased. I go there whenever I travel to Universal Studios, I consider is a worthwhile destination.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I agree and they just absolutely ooze atmosphere.

[@massacmongo995]

Cause ..... It's all about the Bucks with no NEW ideas . Disney has become the best advertisement for Universal Studios

[@MrsJThornton]

Thank you for showing the old World of Disney footage. I forgot how exciting and magical the theming was; I really miss that type of shopping experience.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

It was actually less themed than I remembered, but still an attraction itself. I used to walk in there all the time, but almost never find myself going to the new store.

[@discoyetiproductions]

I know it’s profitable but I don’t like how Disney is pandering to the social media market. Avengers Campus is just one of the worst examples of sacrificing excellent theming and experiences for simple Instagramable moments. I would’ve loved a shop themed to Epcot’s past. It could’ve still had a minimalistic approach while also having an identity and basic theme

[@hpotter29]

I had a similar thought: I'd love to see representation of EPCOT's [long and winding] history! It's interesting--as mentioned n the video--Universal seems to be going for extra-themed shops now. They've just opened a major shop which is solely themed to past attractions. It's awash in blueprints and everything. I wonder how much each approach affects spending.

[@grogc6942]

There is no reason to not have enhanced theming. Disney is indeed super heavily focused on social media... and what goes great on social media? Themed and fancy places. They've gotten so focused on 'instagram walls' and minimalist drivel that they've been losing their magic touch and are essentially coasting off brand recognition. They could make wide open spaces but have themed tables, racks, ceiling hangars, or a slew of other things without clogging the area. Just look at Chester's and Hester's in Animal Kingdom as an example. But they won't. Because they've lost their creativity. Universal may want your money but Disney ONLY wants your money and it shows in the overly corporate design of everything. The Taphouse, Downtown Disney, Riviera, and on and on have all been themed on California and basic retail setups because that's all they know now. It's boring... Much like their merchandise.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I agree that social media loves theming, and we don't need to look any further than the popularity of Meow Wolf. The one area I do disagree with is Disney Springs though. While I do think Town Center is quite generic, the overall refurb from Downtown Disney was generally an improvement. It also offers so many great restaurants, and there's still a lot of theming found throughout the whole area.

[@grogc6942]

@@PoseidonEntertainment Oh yeah it does look much nicer. My main point is that it is just primarily themed off idealized California shopping plazas. It's just kind of an outlet mall not much different than the nearby prime outlets. All the in depth Disney brand theming currently is just kinda holdovers from the downtown era or by the big specialty places like T-Rex. They did an entire renovation for the place and their main idea was... California. Not even Disney-fied California just California because they based it off Hyperion. Given City Walk is similar because that's the main idea, I just would have thought Disney may have gone for something more like Port of Entry.

[@grogc6942]

@@larrybird9340 Agreed. With a gift card I got a Jenga and Battleship game... $70. But nothing else was even interesting. Also the Polite Pig is excellent. I joke it's hipster BBQ but I'd recommend it to anyone who likes meat.

[@Shag471]

Used to work at a Disney Store in Michigan back in the day. We knew that if we opened a box to find Winnie the Pooh sippy cups, there would be sippy cups for the 8 other Disney IP’s showcased at the store as well. Same for most other merchandise. It was like getting the same 20 products for each Disney IP. The smell of the pvc in those storage rooms was enough to make you high.

[@natie3322]

Showcasing the Product doesn't work if the products are mostly unnecessary, uninteresting or bland.

[@hpotter29]

Well put! I'd like to suggest that this design is well in line with Disney's increased targeting of the upper middle class. This feels exactly like the aesthetic wine moms see in Malls at the most trendy places. It's absolutely meant to be a lifestyle brand at this point and the theming can be secondary. I miss the theming, because I'm a super animation geek, but still: the store looks nice and inviting.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I didn’t want to get into stereotypes, but “suburban wine mom” is definitely a key demographic. I caught parts of that new Hulu documentary about MLM’s and I’m seeing a lot of connections within this demographic. However in the interest of keeping my cynicism in check, I try not to judge and let people like what they like.

[@MrStGeorgeIllawarra]

"Creations Shop" is one of the most boring un-Disney like names for a store ever.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

It doesn't even make sense. I see that the idea was to go generic, but they should have just dropped creations altogether and just called it "Shop".

[@CobraKai63]

@@PoseidonEntertainment if you look at old pictures it is similar to the original Communicore. More light, less IP.

[@memethyst]

i dont even understand why it's called that, you dont create anything in there

[@juliebedard5629]

this store takes you out of the element - it's only there to sell sell sell so Disney can make more money. should still be Disney themed

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

It kind of takes you out of Epcot as well. It's such a generic retail space that it feels like you're transported into a mall.

[@madelinemckenna837]

Take me to Universal over Disney ANY day! This is coming from a former Disney fanatic! I loathe Disney now. They lack creativity & don’t care about the guests. Universal can have all my money.

[@megsrandomlife5053]

The new world of Disney reminds me of a Bass Pro Shop lol.

[@hiv]

Yea, catching glimpses on live streams, I thought it could be a grocery store.

[@GLJosh]

No, Bass Pro Shop has better themes.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

@@GLJosh That was the point I was just about to make.

[@joemazz958]

No...I LIKE bass pro shops. Lol

[@marcussheen]

Have been binging on your videos over the last week and honestly it's amongst the highest quality KZbin content out there. I love how considered and thoughtful your analysis is and the topics you cover. I've agreed with basically everything you've said from this, to Avengers Campus to Efteling.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Thanks, I’m glad that you enjoy!

[@raegangarlitz5313]

This is the store everyone's been taking about? With that name I thought it would have some pretty unique stuff, but it just looks like the same crap you can get everywhere at Disney. Boring!

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

They should have just dropped "Creations" and just called it "Shop".

[@TheGulfcoastguy]

@@PoseidonEntertainment A better and more accurate name might have been "Warehouse" or "Outlet."

[@MSflyer2005]

The whole allure of Disney is theming, so the lack of it, just feels empty.

[@joen8529]

Disney is doing what’s cheap.

[@ottot3221]

The theme of Epcot has become more and more bland so to build a shop that fits the corporate mantra (do less for less, sell more) is logical to me. Compare this to the Universal example I rather have that than a story that looks like anything everywhere.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

That's actually a criticism I have with Universal. They just opened a new Universal merch store at the Orlando City Walk and it follows this aesthetic trend as well. Its very open and bright, but also very generic.

[@memethyst]

exactly why epcot isn't my favorite park anymore

[@tonygoochafanchi578]

Its generic and boring and unimaginative in order to reflect the mindset of Disney execs and their inability to understand or care about their market target.

[@josephbrown9685]

Yep. I don’t enjoy shopping in general, and that is especially true when I’m on vacation but at least the classic WDW stores have/had an aesthetic appeal that was/is visually appealing. I personally have no reason to visit these bland spaces.

[@scataplaft]

You're right. It IS a great symbol.

[@orlandotouristtraps7410]

It looks like a generic Orlando souvenir shop. Pleasant but blah. I am glad to see this video because I am not impressed with this store. I am sure Disney studied this long and hard and this is what they believed would bring in the most cash. So here we are.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I'm not entirely convinced that Disney has a good grasp on what their consumers want. Galaxy's Edge is certainly popular, but I'm sure that the lack of attendance threw them off guard. They attempted to prepare for massive and overwhelming crowds that never came. What does that say about their analysts and their ability to cater to consumers?

[@orlandotouristtraps7410]

@@PoseidonEntertainment I think that wokeness is the prime reason for the less than expected performance of Black Spire outpost. I was there opening day and have been there perhaps 70 times and I actually admire the land but it needs more to see and do and not with an upcharge.

[@WhirlOmar]

I always thought that Disney’s business model was to focus their highly demanded products while at the same making the store magically themed.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

It certainly used to be. Those days are over it seems.

[@WhirlOmar]

@@PoseidonEntertainment Sadly. I hope it returns.

[@Strange_1907]

The only reason I ever cared about mouse gear is because of part of dreamfinders ship was there

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I agree, but it wasn't enough to make up for the atrocious aesthetic. Perhaps the shop would've been great in Disneyland's Toontown but it never fit into Epcot.

[@Strange_1907]

@@PoseidonEntertainment I’m not saying it justified it staying it’s just the only thing I remember

[@Cat-cq6hs]

Being a fashion grad I kind of already have seen this very... "sterilized" trend. It is worrying me for a few reasons but most significantly it proves that Disney is no longer focused on creativity and experiences then they are shelling out their next product or Instagramable post. I understand that you need to adjust to the times that being said I don't go to Disney parks or stores to step into a generic-looking mall setting. It further proves this dark path that Disney is going down and I would also like to mention that their products are cheaper and poorly designed than they have been in the past. They are generic and bland. I will swear up and down that Universal is the superior merchandise and a better experience overall. Disney is just a shell of its former self and they continue to propagate that image through their parks, merchandise, and their cinematic content. I don't want to see another Toy Story Movie. I want new and fresh things. Our family only really goes to Epcot and we spend our time at Universal usually doing the VIP experience. The moment you step into The Wizarding World it evokes that sense of magic and inspiration that Disney USED to have. That saddens me since I was a cast member and I still love the Golden Age of Disney. I thought Iger set a low bar but Chapek is just... ruining the love, passion, and creativity that Disney used to embody. They are seriously having an identity crisis in my opinion.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I agree with your points here, especially around the merchandise. I'm not someone who ever really cared about it, but it's certainly getting far less interesting. I went to Busch Gardens for the first time in a while last week and I realized how much more interesting their merchandise was in comparison.

[@Cat-cq6hs]

@@PoseidonEntertainment I've never actually been to Busch Gardens before so I have no frame of reference but this push to but me more homogenized is not doing Disney any favors. It's disappointing too since they have obtained so many IPs that they could put some time and effort into. Like how cool would it have been to be able to walk into Stark Tower on AVG Campus and be able to interact and build your own Iron man suit through the use of projections and things? I know that Apple's model is abundantly successful but that is also their brand, sleek, clean, modern. That does not mesh with Disney's magical, whimsical, and kid-friendly aesthetic. There is also a trend with this when it comes to logos this same trend is happening.

[@DannyHG33]

I've been watching a couple of your videos and I cannot disagree with you! I've been an AP at Disneyland and DCA and the lack of new innovation just seems the same thing over and over and tons of merchandise in their parks. I also have a season pass at Knotts Berry Farm ( a theme park not to far from the Disneyland resort) and I've been enjoying that park more lately then Disney.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I've been to Knotts once and I enjoyed it. I know there's a lot of criticism with how Cedar Fair has handled development there, but I enjoyed many of the classic attractions. The Calico Mine Ride and Timber Mountain stand out to me as highlights.

[@RavenStation711]

I feel you, I've been enjoying my platinum pass for the Cedar Fair parks so much more lately noticing the decline in Disney. It's so worth the money compared to what Disney has to offer, and for a much lower price. I know Cedar Fair parks aren't for everyone but boy do they deliver when it comes to thrills and they really are stepping their game up when it comes to themed areas. Orion and the surrounding Area 72 area at Kings Island are like what Test Track 2.0 and Mission: SPACE want to be but fell short in their cheap, unimaginative re-themings.

[@DannyHG33]

@@PoseidonEntertainment 2 of my favorite rides as well. They been doing some changes at knotts lately with the refurbishment of Ghost Rider and the retheming of Bigfoot rapids now called Calico River Ripids and they brought back a classic called Bear-y Tales that replace voyage of the iron reef. The new thrill ride called Hang Time. And the festivals that they do during the seasons is awesome like their boysenberry festival, Ghost Town Alive, Knotts Scary Farm and Knott Merry Farm. All at a affordable price unlike Disney.

[@DannyHG33]

@@RavenStation711 cedar park has always been affordable and not just money grabbing. That's why I've been able to enjoy Knotts Berry Farm. I've never been to other cedar parks but I would like to visit their other parks when I can to see what they are really about.

[@godofzombi]

It shows chapeks vision for Disney: one giant shopping centre with some IP based attractions sprinkled in.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I think that's the overall direction that Future World is taking. "Outdoor Shopping Mall" appears to be the new theme.

[@kandikidzora]

@@PoseidonEntertainment thanks. I hate it…

[@RealWaltDisney]

You really should do a video on the Disney Board of Directors. Going after the CEO and other executives is not addressing the problem. It’s like pulling the stem of the weed without grasping the roots. It starts at the board.

[@beckajanse754]

YES this! Folks placing the blame solely on Chapek clearly have no idea how these things actually work. Chapek may be the hatchet guy, but he's not the one pulling the strings.

[@RealWaltDisney]

@@beckajanse754 exactly right. It’s like blaming the President for drafting a bad law, but giving Congress a pass, even though Congress are the drafters of the law, the president is just the enforcer. Not a political statement, but it’s about as good as an analogy as I can come up with.

[@Lindsay39]

I WANT theming in WDW! If I want bland, I'll go to Target.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I mean, I like Target but that's what I expect from Target.

[@inspiredfigmentsarchives]

Well.. I mean, you remember the last D23 Expo panel Chapek was a part of? Lol Yeah.. it’s sad

[@igelkott255]

I don't like Apple stores at all. I went into one out of curiosity and immediately felt very uncomfortable and had to leave. I've seen clothing stores like that also.... yuck. I prefer much more cozy surroundings or theming that engages my interest. I've never eaten at the dino place but I've occasionally gone in to look around because of the fun theming. It looks like the new Creation shop would be a turnoff for me.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I’ve never been a fan of the Apple store aesthetic either. They’ve also gone downhill so quickly and have stopped innovating. It’s such a highly over-rated company, at least in my opinion.

[@memethyst]

i'll take giant animatronic dinosaurs over a generic "modern" gift shop any day, maybe the creations shop would be better recieved if they stuck some animatronic dinosaurs in there........

[@klobiforpresident2254]

I personally do not like the Apple stores (or the one I've been in, they ain't common here). At least those work together with the product they sell. An Apple product is exactly what the packaging of the store promises.

[@siennac3404]

This gives me the exact same feeling as the new Tomorrowland sign. Even if it was dated, the quirky retrofuturism is what made it unique and it's a shame that Disney will end up dating themselves even worse trying to chase a trend. Companies like Apple now have a monopoly on the "future" aesthetic to the point where apparently no one can imagine a future that isn't sterile, white, and cold. Club Cool's remodel is even worse considering what it used to be and what purpose the space is supposed to serve. You would think a park oriented towards children and families would be more fun, creative, and not afraid to dream a little bigger, but I guess Epcot has been headed down this path for a very long time. Compare Spaceship Earth now with the pre-2008 refurb Jeremy Irons version. It was such a vivid and hopeful vision of the future that honestly still holds up today, even though the tech shown is commonplace now. None of the wonder over technology that was the whole point of the park in the first place is there anymore.

[@memethyst]

EXACTLY!! tomorrowland was themed to be the "future that never was" and that generic modern sign doesnt fit at all with the rest of the themeing... it just looks like a giant cup holder 😭

[@Internatube]

Your next video should be "does the theming of EPCOT even work at all anymore?" Because for a community that was meant to highlight the future progress and development of innovation, it either has a tendency to date itself and become boringly generic or not make sense at all

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I think I might roll this idea into a different video about the “outdated Epcot myth”. I have some ideas I’m working on for October, but after that I’ll probably produce it sometime in November.

[@RoseKat]

J C Penneys has come to Disney.

[@RealWaltDisney]

Woah!!!! Shots fired, JC Penny is way more legit than the current WDW management.

[@efrainflores3902]

Thank you for making me laugh today. I actually needed it.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I believe the new direction for Future World is "outdoor mall".

[@marcelaeckels7988]

I look forward to these videos each time. You’re always so thorough 👏🏽

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Thanks, I'm glad that you enjoy!

[@Slaughterizer]

I was shocked by the lack of unique merch in general. Just a bunch of screenprinted t-shirts. Reminded me of surf shops. There was a lack of high-end collectible items, like all stores in Galaxies Edge only carrying one lightsaber, Kylo's. No helmets of any characters at any store in any park, besides 1 in Epcot in Mexico, carrying 3 old stock Endgame Spiderman Masks. Anything that said 50th Anniversary was 10x the price of their normal counterparts, like a small bag for $350, or a cup for $50. They were insultingly higher. There was barely anything for adult males, and nearly every shop across all parks, and at ride exits, carried identical items. There was almost no point in going to a shop at Disney Springs, because it carried the same generic home decor and shirts as Magic Kingdom, and as Hollywood Studios. All of the merch I saw was so generic, you'd be better off buying it at a local Kohls or Wal-Mart and no one would tell the difference. Sadly, you were correct with the homogenization of the experience. It felt very different than what I remembered, and it was honestly pathetic.

[@daticecold9148]

Thank you for the video. You are quickly becoming one of my favorite KZbinrs on this app. The creation shop seems bland. Mickey Mouse is an unusual character to pick for a “theme” in my mind, as he is not at all involved with Epcot, which seems to be turning into a dumping ground for excess Disney IP that may need land/ doesn’t fit into other parks. I really don’t like the new very corporate style Epcot seems to be going to. Epcot is futuristic, but not necessarily minimalist. Minimalism is fine with iPhone stores and corporate logos but inside an entire theme park just feels cheap. I want a super ridiculous overly elaborate dining or shopping area, because why the hell else did I spend $130 on a ticket?

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I agree with you

[@ashleighnichole8197]

I got to go to my first Horror Nights this year....it's literally been a lifelong dream, and the tribute store was a must do for me. For all the reasons you mentioned!! AND I spent a ton of money in there that I hadn't spent at any other gift shop that night. I think Disney leaning heavily into the Instagram branding is smart but also, heavily themed merchandise locations are also needed at Disney. It seems like new leadership has no idea what balance is or what Disney fans even want....honestly, I don't think he cares at all. I would love to see a HHN dedicated video from you 😍

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Perhaps next year, but I would be interested in doing one eventually.

[@theimperialowl1011]

So I think that the LEGO stores I have been to actually strike a pretty good balance between theming and open minimalism. The stores are fairly open, with sets stocked all along the walls divided into themes. It's easy to browse through or to quickly find what you're after. However, the stores also feature a large back wall with small circular containers for their "pick-a-brick" thing, which are designed so the back wall looks like the top of a LEGO piece. This extends all the way up even though the upper sections have no bricks since no one could reach them. They also feature displays of various sets both official and made by store employees, as well as usually a large statue or something with statistics about how long it took to make and how many bricks were incorporated toward the front of the shop.

[@astroguster5522]

I got to play drumset on the Sunny Eclipse stage. It was for the magic music days in high school and I got to play the drums while the stage rose up from the utilidors to the dining room. One of my fav Disney experiences.

[@msherd130]

I think Disney should have at least attempted to theme it.. from what I've seen it looks and feels almost identical to world of Disney, so I can't imagine I'd ever feel the need now to visit both stores. Had each store been themed something interesting and unique, I probably would have made the visit to both.

[@alexandramcginnis8872]

You know, when I heard “creation” and saw the mural, I thought the shop with have this great artist work! Like have swirls of colors painted by a brush move up the white pillars! It’s the bare minimum, but it would of added so much to this shop! I’m the type of person who buy critically. When the merchandise is in my face, I’m so much less likely to buy! Especially when a lot of the merch is so homogeneous and just not unique! If you put me in an immersive experience, I might actually buy those products! But at the moment I’m more likely a lot sale

[@alexandramcginnis8872]

Or even better! Make it a store that show all the different forms of creations! We can have an area based on painting, and then a section about drawing! And another one about sculptures! And maybe even one about digital art! There so many directions, but they choose apple store

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Granted, this particular retail space has always sold the “generic Disney merch”, but I agree that I at least would be far more interested in more unique items and theming.

[@yousaysilver]

I love how you always go over things like shops, hotels, etc. because a lot of people tend to forget that rides aren't the only part of the Disney experience

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I’ve loved how Disney has traditionally expanded its theming and commitment to exceptional experiences to its hotels and retail. Disney of the 1970s didn’t need to construct The Contemporary, but it’s a building that still impresses to this day. To be Disney is to go beyond just the rides themselves, and I think that’s a huge mistake that current leadership doesn’t register.

[@yousaysilver]

@@PoseidonEntertainment Yeah definitely!

[@CaptureTheMagicc]

Just started in this Disney KZbinr space and honestly you’re the only one I watch 😂these videos are gold.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Thanks, I appreciate the support!

[@RocketboyX]

Disney : Closes generic Disney Stores in malls. Also Disney : Opens generic Disney Store in Theme Park.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I see your criticism but I think the decision makes sense. Malls are dying and much of the Disney merch can be found online. However, Disney has a captive audience after already entering the parks.

[@robertforster8984]

I don’t want to feel like I am being teleported to a mall in the middle of Disney World.

[@TheGulfcoastguy]

This store is awful. Doesn't WDW know people go to WDW for....well Disney? That includes theming in the stores. Without theming, they are just another store, although with Disney products. This is another example of Disney seeking to pander to the lowest common denominator, and to take the cheapest way out to offer new "experiences" for a money-grab. If we wanted to order Disney products online, we would order Disney products online, not travel across the country and spend thousands of dollars for an online experience. Very disappointing.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I think that summarizes how I feel about a lot of the merchandise itself. Much of it feels generic enough that it seems intended for online shopping and none of it feels unique to the Disney parks experience. As many have noted, Disney merchandise has become quite lackluster over the last few years or so.

[@zacg_]

If the Pirates of the Caribbean queue at MK was a series of white office style hallways with a painting of a pirate ship at every turn I wouldn't call that a "pirate theme."

[@joemazz958]

I'm not a merchandise person. But I Would walk thru World of Disney BECAUSE of the theming. And while there, something usually would attract me to buy it. Now, I won't go in, so they just lost an impulse buyer. Like they care.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I wonder how impulse buyers affect their bottom line. I'm not someone who comes seeking merchandise either, but if they produced more interesting products and stores, they would certainly entice me in.

[@patc2316]

I commented a while ago that it looks like a glorified Primark. Or Walmart. It was so magical once upon a time to walk in to a Disney store and see all the things around like the trains running around the ceiling and the films and music playing. Disney goods are cheaper in Walmart, Primark and Asda folks

[@AkiDave]

I went in July and I got to see this and the Universal Legacy store and I honestly like the legacy store more because of the cool props and they even show things like “Universal Studios Escape” despite that being a marketing failure they still show it and celebrate it . That’s pretty cool

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I like the legacy store, but someone suggested to me that it should become the new location for the various Tribute stores. Like Creations, I’ve noticed that the new Universal Store also embraces that minimalist aesthetic. It’s nice, but also lacks any compelling reason to get me to visit.

[@AkiDave]

@@PoseidonEntertainment the new Universal store is like world of Disney and creations , it’s kind of a weird mixed bag. I wish they had more interesting and cool merch. But I enjoy the aesthetic of the legacy store more due to its priority being a cool museum.

[@camilletorres-kelly628]

The direction that Disney stores have gone in reminds me of that meme about the evolution of McDonalds asking, “Why did McDonalds go from a happy child to a depressed middle-aged adult?”

[@gracelikerain87]

I think it reflects the times.

[@florianplack2973]

More Poseidon entertaining is always a plus in my book! Thanks for the great video 😄 did you buy anything on your shop visit?

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I’m not a fan of Disney merchandise and rarely find myself buying anything. I usually only purchase Disney art from a select few artists.

[@Professor_Scott]

I appreciate your videos, and your critical look at what Disney has been doing, or lack thereof in recent years. I believe the look of the new store has to do with the lack of creative vision from Disney when it comes to the retheming of Epcot. It's no longer about what story we can tell with this area, but what can we call this area so we can shove in IP. Creating stores that are blank slates allows them to shove in whatever IP and merch they happen to be selling at the moment versus telling a real story.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I would agree if not for how I feel that Centorium and Mouse Gear were also poor retail spaces in relation to Epcot and it’s themes. I agree overall though, that current leadership has lacked creative vision in every other regard.

[@Professor_Scott]

@@PoseidonEntertainment Oh, I agree. I always thought MouseGear didn't make much sense in Epcot, but I at least felt like was trying to tell a story, even if the story didn't fit in Epcot. This new shop doesn't even seem to be making the attempt.

[@AdamSmith-gs2dv]

Nothing can have soul or character anymore, Karen can sue your business if you dare offend her

[@adysmith3138]

This is another example of Disney moving away from the thing that made it so special, the imaginearing. Hope I spelled that right🤔. Of course if your only interested in profit then this might be acceptable. But if I've paid a huge admission fee to walk in to that park I want all I see and experience to reflect that admission price. At epcot you've got a generic shopping mall shop that looks completely out of place on Disney property. The themeing may have been old and incoherent, so update it. At this point they appear to be more and more creatively bankrupt.

[@AFoxGuy]

It’s imagineering, hope that helps!

[@legend_oflouis9813]

See I have a soft spot for Mouse Gear and it’s all driven from Nostalgia, even though it wasn’t a perfect thematic fit with the park, it just had a cosy early 2000s feel. Gave me House of Mouse, Mickey Mouse Works vibes within its wacky futuristic theming, so it’s something I personally never found dated, but again it is all dictated by Nostalgia. I remember repeat watching this Disney Planning DVD, before my first trip in 2008 and there was this segment where they went to Mouse Gear and I still remember the excitement of seeing all these things in person after seeing them on TV, back then we didn’t have all these vloggers.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I definitely take the point that you’re making. A lot of nostalgia influences how we feel about park additions and I’m certainly not immune. As much as I think it’s a poor attraction, I still feel a sense of nostalgia towards the current iteration of Journey Into Imagination. It’s not great, but I have a soft spot for it.

[@Th8rgoddess]

Highly themed shops are wonderful and have there place. However, a well designed, but plain retail space in the middle of a Disney park is a really good idea. It allows your eyes/brain to rest, reset and actually see the merchandise. There is a phenomenon called visual fatigue where when you see too much of something, or are over stimulated, you stop processing the things you're seeing properly. Because there is so much to see at the parks you will eventually stop processing everything. When you're in the middle of a store that's crowded with items you won't perceive all they have to offer. For example, the last time I was at Disney I didn't buy any souvenirs because I didn't see anything I like, but ended up buying an item that was on sale in the shop for a markup (plus shipping) off of Ebay. I just didn't notice anything I wanted even though I wandered around the store several times. The store just looked too much like everything else that was going on. Because the new spaces are so different than everything else around them the brain starts paying attention again and can get the attention it needs to sell properly. Should all shops be un-themed going forward? No. That's lazy and a waste. But one store per park could be a good idea.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

That’s an interesting input on things. I felt that the large retail space in the middle of Epcot had always been rather generic and so I don’t see Creations as anything different. I think the shop itself could relate a bit more to Epcot, but I think you’re right in that it has to be enough of a palette cleanser to give you a refresh from the experiences of the different pavilions.

[@susanzahn4922]

I actually will miss the theming. I'm paying to BE there, so I like reminders that I'm actually in a theme park as opposed to the local Target down my street. If I can no longer tell the difference, then what's the point? At least my local Target is less crowded and the parking is free. :P

[@florentl9288]

I know it’s a little bit cultural since in the part of Europe I am from we never spend money on cheaply made merch even if there is a cool brand on it, but sometimes marketing managed to work on me (Harry Potter world stores, Butterbeer, galaxy’s edge stores, ronto wrap…) but what I see here in this new store is a big Nope for me. I will stay away and keep enjoying World Showcase. Note for Bob : if you extend this trend to Europe it will fail for sure again.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I know nothing about Disney merchandise at the parks near Paris. How different is the merchandise there?

[@florentl9288]

@@PoseidonEntertainment not different at all, you can even notice both language on some merch in Disneyworld (english and french) because they sell the same stuff in Paris. My point was just that they already struggle because the average basket per visitor is so low in Europe but if they expand a non theming concept it might be worst.

[@Jakejohnbirch]

id be realley interested to hear who youd improve disney if you were in charge of the parks

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Perhaps I’ll eventually do a series on how I would improve the Epcot experience. I’ve had a few other people request that I do this as well.

[@Universal15862]

I am loving these videos, finally someone calling Disney out!

[@fireisfire95]

This is a trend that's becoming common all throughout Disney properties, it all just feels so sterile and genuinely not a fun place to be.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I mean... I like going to Target. Just not at a Disney park.

[@JustaGuy_Gaming]

If it's in a theme park, a shop should be themed. Otherwise it takes you out of the immersion of the park itself imo. It's putting a Walmart inside Disneyland. Though I think the Disney brand has devalued itself heavily. As there is quite often very little difference between what is in the parks, and what is in Disney Stores and online sales.

[@Klaatubaradanerdity]

Feels like I’m in a generic shopping mall, used to just go hangout for the sake of hanging out but I wouldn’t dedicate much time to Disney Springs anymore

[@artanisknarf]

But…but…but…when I read the comments on other vloggers tours of this store, everyone can’t wait to shop there.🤦‍♂️

[@CinnamonGrrlErin1]

Ebay reselling is a very lucrative business.

[@artanisknarf]

I guess they just want to go after that new money now. As a lifelong Disney (and Star Wars) fan, I’m pretty much tossed to the side now. Now that I’m an adult with a family, instead of those annual Disney trips I always thought I’d have when I was older, we’re going elsewhere on vacations.

[@williamdouglas1977]

I miss the Disney from my childhood... I’m slowly losing interest.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I miss the colorful purples, greens and yellows that defined WDW with the Fab 5 thrown in. Perhaps that itself is perceived as dated, but it very much became a defining Disney aesthetic.

[@Ash_Red_151]

New stores, themes, food, park music are all generic now Disney knows people will visit just because of the Disney name so they got lazy Would love to see someone take over who cares enough into put in the effort to make Disney look and feel like it did in the 90s You could tell there was care put into everything they did

[@EyesWillRule]

1. Creations is a bad name. Customers aren't creating anything. It's false advertisement for me. 2. I do prefer how the store is brighter now, but it still feels a bit cramped overall. I wonder if the small islands of shelves is preferable to longer aisles. The islands allow more merchandise to be displayed and allow for freer movement, but I don't know if the freedom of movement ends up disrupting customer movement and slowing down traffic overall. 3. Mickey is a theme, but it's a lousy theme. It's generic, but I suppose that's okay because it's the largest store in Epcot with a diverse, generic pool of merchandise. 4. I don't think Apple's retail experience translates well for Disney. Apple has a limited number of products they want to showcase through hands-on interaction and demos. Disney has a lot of merchandise so it never quite features just one item like Apple would. 5. I hate Instagram culture. Disney has become so focused on Twitter and Instagram. You know why they suck? They lack depth and nuance. Disney is taking too many cues from them.

[@Shag471]

A cheap-looking mall store isn’t what we expect a Disney theme park undergoing park-wide upgrades to better reflect the future. Corners and budgets were cut to bits on this. But the malls food court will open across the breezeway to match it.

[@DisneyParksMusic.]

Just from the videos that’s showcasing the inside of the Creation Shop I am loving that new interior design!!! That mall architecture like shopping store design looks so nice and I agree with that theming is not all up in ur face but has a little bit of the Disney Touch!!! The store looks very inviting and beautiful I’m all for the new trend Disney is going for just as long as the stores, restaurants, and attractions don’t loose the Disney Charm & Magic, thx for this video I love it!!! ❤️✨❤️

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

In a sea of people who disagree with you in this comments section, I applaud that you let your opinion be heard.

[@JasonRBeing]

THANK YOU! I been saying "Creation" actually fits/works because its the shop for the true 21st Century, not EPCOT's original 'futuristic' 21st Century, from the 80s BUT I couldn't even explain what I was feeling to myself, your video put words to my feelings and thoughts.

[@MichelleAlexandria-EM]

you should do one on the Apple Store. It’s so bland, but it also weirdly works. All the theming in Apple Stores is on he outside. Like the NYC Cube is weirdly fabulous in its simplicity.

[@ThornwoodDrive]

This video is three months old so I doubt my comment will be seen: but I think the difference between why universal uses the intense theming and why Disney currently isn’t can he seen in the example you gave in what you bought. In Universal, you bought the egg because it fit the theming. That is an impulse purchase you get because of maximizing your life in the moment. Disney, and I am not spinning this as positive or negative, seems to be going in on the lifestyle brand. For example, we went- for the last time, I might add, due to recent changes- to Disney pretty recently. The only murchandise I got there was one of those small backpacks from the Japan pavilion. Ironically it’s animal crossing/Nintendo. And I think the fact I did not buy any Disney murchandise during our Disney trip, but use the thing I bought literally every day shows the purpose. Let’s be honest. In universal, when you buy a wand, it goes home. Maybe you put it on a wall. Maybe it goes in a drawer for next time. Maybe you lose it. If you’re a cosplayer, perhaps you use it for cosplay and then it goes right back. You eat the egg, you okay with the dinosaur toy for a couple hours at most, ect. So of course they make it hyper themed. That item is meant to be used in a context where you can enjoy the theming. As a 21 year old woman, I can wear this backpack out and it’s a cute, slightly teenagery but acceptable thing. It’s much harder to use a a universal wand every day. I even think that’s where they’re going with those ears. I genuinely think they’re playing a 4D chess of making them normalized accessories. I admit, I bought into it. Not through them, but I had a Minnie Mouse scrunchy that had the little ears, and I own some ears from comic con I have worn out of the house to parties and such. But living in Florida- not the Orlando area- and working at a non-Disney hotel, literally across the state, I see one or two people a day wearing them. It’s just a fashion thing to them. In general, I think Disney is pushing to normalize the Disney brand as everyday wear. Hence the retail space becoming bland. It’s not meant to enhance your time in the parks, or serve as memories after. It’s meant to be no different than buying a really nice pair of jeans. Meanwhile universal has built their retail space around the theme park expirience. They are much less concerned on if you’ll use the item when you leave. Tldr: Disney wants you to wear those pink ears around town so more people think it’s normal to wear pink ears so they can sell more pink ears. Because they don’t want people thinking ears for the park, they sell them in the least theme-park way they can get away with. This extends to other murchandise as well. Universal due to its focus on the actual expirience of the guests inside their gates features heavily themed items and stores because it is meant to enhance your time in the moment.

[@madelenejones]

It reminds me of Walmart. Labeled isles, generic products, High industrial ceiling, nothing to make it special to shop there. It feels so bland. Disney is really struggling with it's identity right now and it is sad to see.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I've noticed that theme parks have jumped on the "edgy T-shirt" trend that was quite literally introduced by Walmart itself back in the mid-2000s and is even presented in the same exact way.

[@madelenejones]

@@PoseidonEntertainment The introduction of "Hipster" Mickey was a bad start. Now the poor mouse looks like a bit like a heroin addict. Lose cloths, odd body and stick man thin. It's not a great look.

[@nicolelechman609]

if this is what disney property shops are going to look like... ill just stock up at the dollar store before i get there

[@DZstudios.]

I definitely think it is a Trend in Design as I. The 90’s Post Modernism was on The rise, putting attention on ornamentation. Now we are on the Minimalist era…

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I'm not familiar with architectural trends, but the Disney of the 90s didn't seem to follow in Post Modernism as far as I can tell. If you know more, I'd certainly be interested in hearing your points on it, but it appears that over-the-top and in-your-face theming was just a very 90s and early 2000s thing to do.

[@Lochnessmonstor727]

Unrelated to the video, but the music @6:02 is papillon (on the wings of a butterfly) by David arkenstone, which was also used in the original Epcot pavilion music. Was that intentional??

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

It was, but I was completely unaware that it was a track independent from Disney. I assumed that the Innoventions loop was original to the park and I'm now completely surprised to find out that it's not.

[@scataplaft]

To use the "Apple approach" is not only an arrogant rookie and "Cali-minded" mistake but also a display of how disconnected to reality they are at this moment: • There's no need to linger and browse in an Apple shop. • The variety of products is MUCH inferior. • The product they sell is clean in design by its nature. • You spend time with a vendor showing you how their product affects your life. • You're not on holidays in a theme park. • Apple is selling technology, not fantasy. • They don't have to have small children in mind in their design. The list is so vast... I mean, it's so off and obviously the experience for the customer is SO DIFFERENT in context that it makes me wonder: are the current people in the administration even SOBER? I mean, seriously.

[@dansaber8435]

It's amazing how they profit off your good nature and expectations.

[@MatecaCorp]

Ironically, forcibly pushing sales in the parks is one of the things Walt specifically aimed to avoid with Disneyland. A store in a Disney park should be a themed space that just happens to have merchandise and cash registers. It’s funny that the park that was meant to demonstrate and inspire the future is just following cynical present day trends. Also, I will never forgive The Bob for killing the amazing vibes of the World of Disney stores. They’re absolutely ruined now.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I know it isn't the mega merch machine that current Mainstreet is today, but I'd be highly interested in experiencing it as originally intended. I like the idea of each individual shop selling merchandise that was appropriate to the façade.

[@CiceroTheSage]

I think Poseidon, you hit my biggest pet peeve when I visited Disneyland, for the first time, in November It was all homogenized. I was appalled how similar Disney World merchandise items at Disney World. I was trying to find things that were specifically Disneyland and I had such trouble. (Especially trying to find ornament). I will confess that I was trying to find very specific things, but it was such a disappointment with the selection.

[@SLisheron1]

Great vid as always. That retail space is so bland I have zero interest in going in. I’m a shopper who prefers an interesting interior, not a charmless mall store.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Thanks, I'm glad that you enjoyed!

[@QuincyDisneyVegan]

PLEASE do a video on Space 220. It's a crying shame that it's so expensive.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I can't judge without going there myself. I'm sure that I'll eat there eventually.

[@Acidonia150reborn]

So you call a shop creations yet all the wall are just white so the opposite of creative. The one of of a Kind Statues and Art on the walls of these stores makes them different from other stores even if you purchase nothing there you remember what the store looks likes Making them just boring white does the oposite. This whole Minimalistic and Over simplification trend just needs to end.

[@barbhawkinson659]

I'm not at all impressed with the new minimalist shops and refurbished hotel rooms. I much prefer entering and being immersed in a themed atmosphere at Disney. That is called pixie dust and it's now lacking in so many areas.

[@alexisbase9977]

Maybe some videos on Busch Gardens and their attempt at theming with cobras curse?

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I was thinking of bringing in more Busch and SeaWorld into the mix. Not sure how or when that'll happen though.

[@HelloListenGoodbye]

It definitely doesn’t have that disney “magic” factor to it. What a shame

[@finandpol]

I actually really like Creations Shop. Sure, it’s pretty simple and boring architecturally, but it’s nice and it helps the product pop. If the shop was too colorful, product wouldn’t stand out. I also find super busy stores design-wise to be too overstimulating and chaotic. I don’t know, I checked it out opening day and I really liked it.

[@eatatjoes6751]

As an autistic kid, themed stores always fascinated and annoyed me because I couldn't settle on just one thing to look at but I'd have to pretend I'm not being overwhelmed. As an autistic adult, goddamn did Disney just back up and scream, *"WE NEED TO MAKE IT BLANDER!"* and that just sucks big time because it happened to Hot Topic, Limited Too, and like, 500 other stores - it feels insulting. Disney, it's not like I hate themed design! Stop it!

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I think that the Tribute Stores are a testament to the power of theming. Why remove this? I have no idea.

[@eatatjoes6751]

@@PoseidonEntertainment Exactly! It's not sensory overload, but it's not *bland as hell.*

[@hmcglone4325]

love the atmosphere ..well said!

[@KeepCalmContemplateYourChoices]

I think the aesthetic of the shop is nice enough, but there's too much white. If they really wanted to theme it to Mickey, there should be some gold, black and red, like the Disney cruise ships!

[@SkyeID]

If my family and I are spending $5000 on our Disney World vacation, I want THEMES! I want Figment in a spaceship flying over my head. I want animatronic dinosaurs. I want BB8 rolling past my feet. This looks like a store in the mall! It just shows that Disney really doesn't care about their guests: they don't care if people have a good time, they don't care if the quality of the attractions are crap, they insult the intelligence of their guests, and they assume that people will keep coming to Disney parks no matter what they do.

[@FernandoHernandez-vo3oo]

I'm surprised you didn't mentioned themed stores like Memento Mori. Honestly I still feel Memento Mori is the best shop at MK.

[@corvidaegudmund1186]

Too bad, an opportunity for a cool futuristic and world showcase themed store wasted. It’s also strange that the store doesn’t really have Epcot specific merchandise. Do any of the parks have unique merchandise anymore, other than maybe a few pieces?

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I mean, they kind of have Epcot specific merchandise in that the geodesic design all over everything. That was their "big sell".

[@corvidaegudmund1186]

@@PoseidonEntertainment I kind of consider the geodestic design one “item”, even if it is on several things. I guess I count by design, rather than individual pieces. Even if you count each as an individual, it still kind of feels like if Magic Kingdom only had Cinderella’s Castle on everything, and ignored things like Haunted Mansion, the Princesses, ect.