Universal Orlando Announces More Layoffs

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Universal Orlando announced Wednesday that it will lay off more workers. This round of job loss is due to the challenging business implications brought about by the coronavirus pandemic.

Universal

Why More Layoffs?

A statement released by Universal Orlando did not include how many workers are being affected. However, we do know that hourly workers will not be impacted by this round of layoffs.

In a statement, Universal said: “We continue to manage our business through challenging times and we again have made the difficult decision to reduce our workforce as we position our business for the future. These positions are throughout our organization – but do not include our hourly workers. We continue to be aware of the impact this will have on those affected by this action and we are working to support them through this process.”

Pandemic Impact

Universal Orlando closed in March and reopened in a limited capacity this past July. The organization has previously announced several layoffs at its Orlando parks – both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure – as well as its resort hotels.

Several Universal hotels have closed for the time being. As of today, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, Universal’s Aventura Hotel, and Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites remain closed through the end of the year. Guests who would like to plan a trip may reserve a room at Hard Rock Hotel®, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, or Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites.

Not only has Universal been forced to part with staff and close hotels, but the company has had to put several projects on hold. This includes its much anticipated expansion, the Epic Universe theme park. Furthermore, Volcano Bay water park will close on November 2, 2020 for four months.

This announcement comes after Disney recently announced 28,000 workers would be laid off at its parks in Florida and California. More than 15,000 Disney employees in Florida have been affected.

Just last month, Universal Orlando announced that more than 5,300 employees would be placed on extended furlough.

Helping Out

A plethora of resources are available to those affected by theme park and other layoffs in Central Florida. In fact, the Orange County CARES Individuals and Family Assistance Program will, once again, be offering assistance to residents. Jerry Demings, mayor of Orange County, will reopen applications for those affected by area layoffs later this month.

Universal Orlando

There are also several Web sites collecting donations for families impacted by these job losses.

We will keep you updated on further developments. In the meantime, we will look to the future with optimism as we all continue to wade through the implications of COVID-19.

Are you ready to start planning your next epic adventure? Contact me today for your FREE, no obligation quote for a Universal Studios vacation! Best of all, my services are absolutely FREE! Get in touch at 646-645-6175, via email at  bedwards@letsadventuretravel.com or follow along on Facebook.