Fewer Disney employees whistle while they work
http://www.cnn.com/2009/LIVING/worklife/04/09/disney.layoffs/index.htmlStory HighlightsOne Disney employee recognized for decades of service, is laid off next day
Laid-off employees reluctant to talk for fear of jeopardizing severance packages
Orlando area hotels also hit hard by dropoff in business
Disney spokesman says company downsizing like many other U.S. firms
By John Couwels
CNN
ORLANDO, Florida (CNN) --
Disney World has not been the happiest place on Earth for employees this year.
Imagine one day receiving recognition for decades of service from your employer only to be laid off the next day. That is what happened to one Walt Disney Parks and Resorts employee who asked not be identified.Disney has eliminated 1,900 U.S.-based positions since mid-February. Some 900 salaried employees working at Disney's theme parks in Florida were laid off, and 700 open positions were eliminated, said communications Vice President Mike Griffin. In California, 200 workers were laid off and 100 open positions were cut.
Disneyland in California and Disney World are having their behind-the-scenes operations combined in a restructuring, said Griffin. Disney officials say theme parks, the Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club and off-property resorts have seen some people with decades of experience laid off during the restructuring.
The former employee let go after decades of service is still hoping to return once the economy improves. Several other employees said they did not want speak to CNN in fear of jeopardizing the generous severance packages offered by Disney.
Employees let go will receive pay for 60 days; extended medical coverage; and severance packages that vary according to their years of service, said a Disney source. Disney's Griffin said: "These decisions were not made lightly, but are essential to maintaining our leadership in family tourism and reflect today's economic realities."