Disneyland Cuts Cast Member Hours While Raising Prices for Guests

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Disneyland employees are facing reduced work hours, while visitors will soon be paying significantly more for tickets.

Disneyland employees are facing another challenging week, and the situation is starting to create some negative publicity for Disney.

A source told That Park Place that Dennis Sotelo, a union representative for UFCW 324 & BCTGM 83, announced to Disneyland cast members that both Disneyland Resort and Disney California Adventure will be cutting employee work hours beginning the week of October 25th.

Sotelo announced to union leaders this week that the company will be adjusting weekly work hours. This could mean employees experience reduced hours, lost shifts or jobs, or changes to the store’s operating hours.

This decision comes at a really bad time for Disney’s public image. They just raised prices at their Southern California parks – for tickets, parking, and even faster access to rides. Now, they’re also reducing staff, essentially asking guests to pay more for a potentially less enjoyable experience.

This news follows a major legal defeat for Disney. In September 2025, a California judge finalized a record-breaking wage-theft settlement – the largest in state history – requiring Disney to pay $233 million to approximately 50,000 current and former Disneyland workers. The settlement resolves violations of Anaheim’s minimum wage law, overtime rules, and other related claims.

The ruling highlights a growing conflict between how Disney treats its workers and the positive image the company tries to project. Reducing employee hours so soon after being found legally responsible for wage violations makes this issue even more prominent.

A Season of Reductions

A post from Sotelo’s union explains how Disneyland employees’ work schedules will change.

Sotelo announced this week that the resort may start reducing work hours as soon as the week of October 25th. This could mean fewer hours for some employees, the elimination of shifts or jobs, or changes to the store’s operating hours.

Sotelo stated the company explained the cuts were due to shifts in how guests behave and what they buy. They didn’t offer any specific details or data to support this explanation.

The union disagrees with Disney’s justification, but acknowledges the company can make changes to how things operate as long as it follows the existing union contract. Full-time employees are still guaranteed at least 30 hours of work each week. However, part-time employees don’t have that same guarantee, creating worry for many as work hours are reduced leading up to the holidays.

The union rep did not return our call seeking comment as of press time.

“Changes in Guest Patterns” or Declining Attendance?

Disney’s unclear statements about how guests are behaving are bringing up old concerns. For several months, websites like *That Park Place* have been noticing fewer people visiting both Disneyland and Walt Disney World. While Disney is trying to keep spending per visitor high, reports from experts and social media personalities suggest attendance has dropped significantly since the beginning of summer.

Even Fox News has pointed out that Disney is struggling to attract visitors. With the Halloween and holiday season beginning – usually a busy time for Disney’s U.S. parks – cuts to staffing levels suggest the company is preparing for lower attendance than anticipated this fall.

Guests Paying More, Getting Less

While Cast Members prepare for fewer hours, guests are being greeted with higher prices.

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Disneyland recently increased prices on almost everything, starting this week. Here’s what’s more expensive:

  • Tier 6 single-day ticket: $224 (up from $206, +8.3%)
  • Lightning Lane Multi-Pass: $40 (up from $36, +10.5%)
  • Standard parking: $40 (up from $35, +13.3%)
  • Preferred parking: $60 (up from $55, +8.7%)
  • Inspire Magic Key: $1,899 (up from $1,749, +8.2%)

Disney’s justification for these hikes was limited to a brief statement:

Disney Parks aim to provide a complete and magical experience for every guest, with options for tickets, accommodations, and dining to fit different preferences and budgets. Creating unforgettable memories for everyone is, and always will be, our top priority.

It’s tough for families who are already finding it hard to afford a trip to Disneyland to see the park raising prices to record highs while also reducing staff. This combination leads to longer wait times, shorter store hours, and an overall less enjoyable experience for visitors.

The Union Response

The unions representing workers at the resort – UFCW 324 and BCTGM 83 – said they will be carefully watching how the situation unfolds. Union representative Sotelo explained that they disagree with the reasons given for the cutbacks, but will ensure the company follows the terms of their contract.

He asked Cast Members to keep their availability updated in the Workforce Management system so the company could maintain as many work hours as possible. He also requested patience while the union observed the current reduction in hours.

A Costly Balancing Act

Disney is currently trying to improve profits by increasing prices and cutting costs. While this might help in the short run, it could upset both employees and visitors. Fewer staff members often mean slower lines, fewer open checkout lanes, and less friendly service, which many guests feel is what makes Disneyland special compared to other theme parks.

These reductions in work hours are a stark reminder to Disneyland employees – the people who create the park’s magical experience – that even at a place known for happiness, the company’s focus can shift quickly.

That Park Place will keep you informed about what the unions and Disney employees are saying as Disney makes cuts. It also notes that guests are paying more, and the park experience might not feel as special as it used to.

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2025-10-10 14:58