Disney revamps stores, adds magic mirrors

Walt Disney, Co. has a six-year plan to revamp its 350 stores worldwide. To provide a more entertaining experience for shoppers, Disney plans to launch a movie theater with a 12-foot screen and magic mirrors. Customers can even build characters from the Disney Pixar movie Cars.

The first redesigned store opened yesterday in Montebello, Calif. Disney plans to modernize 20 locations in the U.S. and Europe beginning in November, in time for the start of the holiday shopping season. The new strategy is to differentiate Disney from other retail stores. Instead of focusing on luring in shoppers with low prices, Disney will brand its stores on a spectacular experience.

Jim Fielding, president of Disney Stores Worldwide stated that the goal of Disney stores is to keep shoppers entertained for 30 minutes. If you've ever been inside a Disney store, especially with small children, you know this won't be hard.

Disney owns theme parks, movie studios, and ABC and ESPN television networks. Fans can purchase memorabilia, branded apparel, toys, and gifts online or at Disney stores throughout the world.