So here is my one argument on the FOR side. If anyone's been reading, you'll see up to now I have been arguing that Disney bears no RESPONSIBILITY to do anything other than issue a credit. In my mind, there is no stake for Disney to be AT FAULT. That's the legal side.
Where I draw a different bead on this conversation is what Disney is legally obligated to do and what they may feel like doing in some cases. My whole problem here is the belligerent attitude of expectation.
I think there is a lot of PR value in Disney handing out compensation at times. However, PERSONALLY, I am more inclined (when it's within my power) to compensate someone who I feel has been wrongly affected by something (in or out of my control) when they are not asking for it. I.E. if they don't have a demand or expectation of compensation and are more informing or asking for help fixing a problem are the ones I am more likely to help.
Many, Many years ago I was staying at Contemporary. I was travelling alone, and on my day back I was horribly sick. I felt like I couldn't breath. I had a sore throat like you couldn't imagine. I had been at Blizzard Beach earlier the trip and personally I believed I caught it there. When checking out, I asked the person at the counter if they had anything they could give me since I wouldn't have any time at the airport and it was too early for the shops at the hotel to open. Note I never blamed, demanded or asked for anything. I didn't tell them I thought I got sick there. I just asked if they had something to help me get home. They were very apologetic and said they didn't. However, the manager asked me to wait a moment. He went in back and came back with keys. The manager walked me up to the shops (which were closed), opened the door and asked me what I would like. I picked out two medications and went to give him money. He waved his hand and told me I didn't need to give them anything - just get better.
Now that DID cost Disney money. Maybe a good $10 worth of cost. However, I have told that story dozens of times and have sung the songs of praise about that manager and that night and how I love Disney since. I joined DVC and I am a shareholder. Is this ONE THING what did all that? No... I was a fan before. But it sure didn't hurt, and it has given me tales to regale people that has helped make me into an ambassador. All for $10. I would say it was a bargain.
Do you do that every time? Of course not. You would be out of business. Heck, I'm not even sure the managers have the keys to the store anymore. That was years ago. Would he have done it if I stormed up to the desk, stated loudly that DISNEY MADE ME SICK, AND I DEMAND COMPENSATION? I doubt it.
Anyway... just my 2 cents on the main topic.
