The world is an ever-changing landscape and, because of that, the Disney Parks are also forced to change. We saw this up close and personal when Disney adjusted to the Covid-19 pandemic, and we may be on the precipice of another massive shift in 2024 and beyond.

Change is inevitable at the Disney Parks, especially at Disney World. Walt Disney once said, “Disneyland will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world.” This would wind up to be true at every Disney resort. While this line of thinking applies to changes such as theme park expansion, it could also apply to how the theme parks operate. Disney World has recently adjusted its policies, but more changes could be forthcoming as its dining practices could ultimately be affected long-term thanks to a new medical trend.

A medical breakthrough has taken the world by storm. GLP-1, also known as Ozempic, is changing the way people diet. As its popularity increases, theme park destinations like Disney World may have to adjust the way they look at food in terms of profit.

Ozempic was originally designed as a diabetes medication that affects the body’s regulation of insulin and gastric emptying. The effects of this drug, when broken down in the simplest of terms, make users feel fuller for a longer period of time. Of course, the public (both diabetic and nondiabetic) has reacted to this effect with intense curiosity.

According to travel market research firm Skift, Ozempic prescriptions rose 300% between 2020 and 2022, and the market is projected to reach $100 billion in value by 2030. It’s safe to deduce that this drug isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, and that it will only continue to get bigger. So how does this affect Disney World? Well, it affects the whole travel industry, and Disney World is considered by many to be the crown jewel of that industry.

Per Skift, “Industry winners will be businesses where food and beverage constitute a cost rather than a revenue generator – airlines, all-inclusive resorts, cruises, experience providers, and tour operators stand to benefit, capitalizing on a leaner clientele. Theme parks, hotels, movie theaters, and entertainment venues relying on food and beverage revenue may face challenges.”

This year, the travel industry is preparing for a new weight loss boom. Skift found that 2023 data revealed, “a surge in bookings for physically demanding activities. Nature walks, bike tours, and hiking trips saw significant increases, reflecting a shift towards more active and health-conscious travel experiences.”

Where Disney World fits into all of this is that it relies on food purchasing and licensing for a significant portion of its revenue. If demand decreases, the profits — or lack thereof — will follow. With Ozempic’s ability to quell appetite, Disney World would clearly be at a disadvantage if the drug continues to become more mainstream.

It’s unlikely that any tangible change at Disney World or any business inside the travel sector will begin immediately. With that said, like all businesses, the travel industry will monitor consumer behavior and we could see subtle changes that mark the beginning of massive overhauls. We’ve already seen something like this transpire at the Disney Parks after the push for gluten-free diets became more widespread and relevant.

Projections, such as Goldman Sachs’ prediction, insist this drug could become the most successful pharmaceutical ever. Not just limited to weight loss, GLP-1 could lead to breaking other bad habits such as smoking or over-shopping. If projections are correct, Disney will be forced to adapt to smaller appetites, less desire to indulge in vices, and more frugality from the consumer. If they can’t adapt, they will certainly see profits plummet.

Ozempic can only be obtained with a prescription from your doctor. Research is also still being conducted to study the long-lasting effects of consistent usage. So far, common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation. Pancreatitis has also been reported in some rare cases.

Most insurances also do not cover Ozempic and costs can get around to $1,000 each month. Demand has also led to drug shortages and complications in acquiring Ozempic, especially for diabetics who rely on the drug.

Consult with your doctor to see if Ozempic and other brands of this diabetes treatment/weight loss drug are right for you.

Where Disney World and the rest of the travel industry go during this Ozempic trend is fascinating and a story worth watching. We’ll be sure to bring you updates as they develop as well as all the latest Disney World news, so stay tuned here at DFB to stay in the know!

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How do you think Disney World should adjust to the Ozempic craze? Do you think they’ll even need to adjust? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

The post Will the Ozempic Trend Decimate Disney World’s Profits? first appeared on the disney food blog.