Disney to Offer Amazon Prime Alternative

Entertainment

Disney has confirmed reports that it’s working on a premium membership plan, not unlike Amazon Prime. Such a service would boost subscriptions to Disney’s streaming services, sales of Disney merchandise, and even visits to their theme parks. However, a source within the company has differentiated it from Prime, noting that Amazon’s package mostly focuses on free shipping. Check out a statement from Kristina Schake, Disney’s chief communications officer:

“Technology is giving us new ways to customize and personalize the consumer experience so that we are delivering entertainment, experiences and products that are most relevant to each of our guests. Disney is more than a brand to our consumers, it’s a lifestyle, and we are exploring how to better serve them across our many touchpoints. A membership program is just one of the exciting ideas that is being explored as we consider ways to marry the physical and digital worlds to create the next generation of great Disney storytelling and experiences.”

The service is still in the development phase, and a launch date isn’t known. Work is also underway to link to Shop Disney (formerly the Disney Store) from links on Disney+. I don’t feel strongly one way or the other about these developments. Disney is a corporation, and this is what corporations do. I won’t be subscribing, whereas I might have a few years ago. I love a lot of the entertainment that Disney and its subsidiaries have produced, but I’ve grown disgusted by their corporate tactics and treatment of employees during the pandemic in particular.

But what do you think? Do you want to sign up for “Disney Prime”? Talk to us in the comments!