Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) achieved record high per capita spending at the park and its second highest number of international guests in FY2016, but continues to net a loss for the year.
HKDL reported that it welcomed 6.1 million guests in FY2016, contributing to a total guest count of 64 million since it opened in 2005. Local visitors accounted for 39 per cent of total attendance, while mainland and international visitation made up 36 per cent and 25 per cent respectively.
Hotel occupancy was similar to last year’s at close to 80 per cent.
Meanwhile, the resort generated revenues of HK$4.8 billion (US$618.5 million) with a net loss of HK$171 million, after being impacted by “a slower Hong Kong tourism market and an unfavorable comparison against fiscal 2015, which benefited from an additional week of operations”, according to HKDL.
A year-over-year decline in attendance was also observed both halves of the year, but this eased in 2H2016. HKDL stated that park attendance benefited from the launch of the Star Wars: Tomorrowland Takeover attraction and marketing and sales initiatives.
The resort’s improved performance continued into FY2017, with first quarter financial results above the prior-year period.
In 2Q2017, the resort opened Iron Man Experience, which helped boost Chinese New Year Holiday attendance 13 per cent above the prior-year period – with growth in local, Guangdong and international guests – and occupancy 97 per cent.
The 750-room Disney Explorers Lodge will open on April 30.
