Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Walt Disney World Resort (WDW), a destination known for its seamless guest experience, is undergoing a significant operational change in its valet parking services.
Credit: Disney
Where Valet Services Are Offered at Disney World
Valet parking is a popular option for guests staying at Disney’s higher-tier accommodations. Services are available at Disney Deluxe Resorts, Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts, and Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. Additionally, valet parking is provided at the Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve hotels.
For guests considering valet parking during their stay, the current rates are as follows:
- Disney-operated resorts: $42 per night plus tax
- WDW Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve: $44 per night
Guests are encouraged to check with their resort’s Security Host for the latest parking options upon arrival.
Credit: Ed Aguila, Inside the Magic
Who Is Bags, Inc.?
Bags, Inc. is a subsidiary of Metropolis Technologies Inc., a company specializing in parking and mobility solutions. For years, Bags, Inc. has been a reliable partner for Disney’s valet operations, contributing to the resort’s reputation for excellent guest service. However, as the contract nears its end, the company will part ways with Disney, leaving hundreds of employees facing an uncertain future.
The WARN Act filing underscores the scale of this change, highlighting the impact on the local workforce. It remains unclear whether Towne Park will absorb any of the displaced employees as part of its onboarding process.
Credit: Paul Beattie, Flickr
Why Did Disney World Suddenly Cut Ties With Nearly 250 Employees? What Guests Need To Know
Bags, Inc., a company that has managed valet services across several WDW hotels for years, will be cutting 246 jobs when their contract with Disney ends next month. This shift, which was announced in a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) letter filed with the state of Florida, comes as Disney transitions its valet operations to a new provider.
Transition from Bags, Inc. to Towne Park
Starting January 20, 2025, Towne Park will take over valet parking services at Walt Disney World Resort. This marks the end of Bags, Inc.’s long-standing relationship with WDW, a partnership that spanned multiple Disney hotels and provided convenience for countless guests over the years. The 246 job cuts are expected to affect employees working at more than 10 Disney Resort hotels, signaling a major shift in operations for both staff and guests.
Towne Park, a company with extensive experience in parking and hospitality services, is set to assume the reins. However, the transition raises questions about job opportunities for the affected employees, as well as the potential changes in service quality and guest experience.
Credit: Frank Phillips, Flickr
What Does This Mean for Guests?
For guests planning their visits to Walt Disney World Resort, the change in valet service providers is unlikely to disrupt their experience. Disney’s commitment to providing top-notch guest services suggests a seamless transition between Bags, Inc. and Towne Park. However, with any operational change, there may be minor adjustments as the new provider settles in.
Guests opting for valet services should remain informed about parking rates and procedures by consulting their resort’s front desk or Security Host. WDW has not announced any changes to valet pricing or service availability following the transition.
Implications for Disney Employees and Operations
While the transition may appear smooth for guests, the story is different for the 246 employees affected by Bags, Inc.’s job cuts. The timing of this announcement, coming just weeks before the contract’s end, adds pressure on workers to find alternative employment. Towne Park’s plans regarding potential hires from Bags, Inc.’s workforce remain undisclosed, leaving employees and their families in a state of uncertainty.
Credit: Foxbert, Flickr
Final Thoughts for Disney World Guests
Disney’s decision to switch valet service providers reflects the company’s ongoing efforts to optimize its operations. However, it also highlights the broader challenges of outsourcing and the ripple effects such decisions can have on workers and local communities.
As WDW transitions its valet operations from Bags, Inc. to Towne Park, the focus remains on maintaining a magical guest experience. For affected employees, this marks a challenging chapter, while for Disney, it represents an opportunity to refine its services through a new partnership. Guests visiting in the coming months should experience little to no disruption, ensuring their Disney vacation continues to be as memorable and hassle-free as ever.
