business
local
speculation

Disney closes popular Character Warehouse store amid reseller controversy

Feb 18, 2026, 7:03 PM10
(Update: Feb 18, 2026, 7:03 PM)
American multinational mass media company
state in the United States of America
city in and county seat of Orange County, Florida, United States

Disney closes popular Character Warehouse store amid reseller controversy

  • Disney’s Character Warehouse store at Sawgrass Mills Mall will close on April 15, 2026.
  • The closure is attributed to low revenues and challenges from resellers and live shoppers.
  • The decision has upset loyal customers and questions remain about the future of two other outlets.
Share your opinion
1

Story

In a recent announcement, the Disney Character Warehouse store located in Sawgrass Mills Outlet Mall in Sunrise, Florida, is slated to close its doors on April 15, 2026. This store has played a significant role in serving both local shoppers and visitors from various regions, including those arriving by cruise through Port Everglades. The decision to shut down the store comes after the company chose not to renew its rental lease due to disappointing revenues. Cast Members from the store indicated that issues such as resellers buying merchandise in bulk, a three-hour distance to Disney World, and the challenges posed by live shoppers streaming their purchases have contributed to the store's closure. The Character Warehouse has been a popular destination for bargain hunters seeking to find discounted Disney merchandise, with prices often ranging from 30% to 70% off the retail value. Sadly, this opportunity to snag rare and limited items at a fraction of their normal cost has been increasingly compromised by the growing presence of resellers. Many regular customers report that these individuals wipe out inventory only to resell the items online at marked-up prices, causing frustration and disappointment among loyal patrons. As of February 1, 2026, the store implemented a final sale policy whereby all sales are final, with no returns or exchanges allowed. This decision aimed to deter resellers but has left dedicated customers feeling neglected. Many community members vented their frustration on social media and in a Facebook group dedicated to the Sawgrass Mills Character Warehouse, blaming these resellers for ruining a beloved shopping experience that they have cherished for years. Though the Sawgrass location is closing, it remains unclear if Disney plans to keep its two other Character Warehouse outlets open in the Orlando area. These stores are located at Orlando International Premium Outlets and Vineland Premium Outlets, both situated near Walt Disney World. Since Disney has not provided clarity on the future of these outlets, many fans remain uncertain about their options for affordable Disney merchandise in the near future. The closure of this particular outlet marks a significant change in the shopping landscape for Disney fans in the region, leaving many distraught as they reflect on both the bargains lost and the fond memories created over the years.

2026 All rights reserved