(Universal Orlando and Walt Disney Wold plan a few layoffs.)

Florida's heavy-relied on theme park industry is showing signs they are starting to feel the impact of the economy.  Universal Orlando announced today that it is laying off 70 employees....most are management positions and administrative support.  While the number represents less than 1% of it's work force, it's a sign that they are taking steps to prepare for a roller-coaster ride this year.  Universal isn't the only theme park company taking steps to save money.  Walt Disney announced last week that it offered 'buy-outs' to 619 executives in it's domestic theme park division, of which, 313 reside in Orlando.  Disney also mentioned that if too few people take the buy-out..there will be layoffs.


(Busch Gardens planning no layoffs at this time.)

On a positive note..Busch Entertainment Group (they own Sea World in Orlando and Busch Gardens in Tampa) announced that they have no plans for layoffs.  Even though Universal is laying off a few people...they are still planning on opening two new attractions.  The Hollywood, Rip, Ride, Rocket will open later this year and the highly anticipated Wizarding Wold of Harry Potter is still on schedule for a 2010 opening.

   
(Universal's artist rendering of Hollywood, Rip, Ride, Rocket & Wizarding World of Harry Potter attractions.)