The 57-Second Rule: How Disney Makes You Spend More After Every Ride (Ep. 38)

In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive into the secrets behind Disney’s gift shops and why you’re always tempted to buy merch after every ride. From Mattel’s influence in the 1990s to the psychological tricks Imagineers use to boost sales, you’ll never look at a Disney gift shop the same way again.

• The 57-Second Rule – How Disney learned that you need to see merch within 57 seconds of exiting a ride for the best chance of making a sale.

• The Origins of Post-Ride Gift Shops – How Mattel’s push for in-park sales changed Disney’s approach to retail.

• The Tower of Terror Drama – Why Tower Hotel Gifts was doomed to fail and how Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster fixed Disney’s merch strategy.

• Springtime Traditions at Disney – Lauren previews the Egg-stravaganza scavenger hunt and new pastel plush collections.

• Disney Adults and Expensive Vacations – Why Disney is marketing more to adult fans and the rising costs of theme park trips.

Whether you’re a Disney merch collector or love uncovering theme park secrets, this episode is packed with fascinating stories and insider info. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!

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