Just read the latest post on Progress City USA, TEN WISHES FOR THE NEW YEAR #8: OVERHAUL PARK MERCHANDISE. I completely agree with the points raised about the depressing increase in homogenization of merchandise available throughout the Disney parks.
I too, remember a time when the Orange Bird was found at the Tiki Room, and where land-specific merchandise was available. A time when Main Street, USA’s Emporium shop didn’t run the full length of the street (when Center Street was an actual street separating the two show buildings instead of what we have today).
I want to buy a “Walt Disney World” sweatshirt, not a “Disney Parks” sweatshirt.
I have found myself visiting both Disneyland and Walt Disney World on numerous shopping missions over the years, only to walk away empty-handed and with a full wallet. There is no doubt that there are plenty of things to buy at the Disney parks, especially if you are a once-in-a-lifetime visitor — but there is often nothing new of interest to the Disney Fan to buy beyond pins. (Pin collecting and trading is a wonderful hobby, but it does not appeal to everybody.) And really, how many Duck Butt hats does one family need?