Disney says electronic wristbands are a hit

7/13/2013

Electronic wristbands tested at Walt Disney Co.’s Florida resort succeeded in boosting spending by guests, parks division Chairman Thomas Staggs said.

The bands serve as admission tickets, hotel room keys, and credit cards.

They were tested by 1,000 people at Walt Disney World in Florida, Mr. Staggs said in an interview at Allen & Co.’s annual conference in Sun Valley, Idaho, without offering details. Guests spent more on average in part because they had fun with the technology, he said.

The wristbands help with crowd control, reducing the time guest spend in lines by allowing them to book rides and restaurants in advance. They can also schedule special meet-and-greets with characters like Goofy.