Though the spread of the coronavirus has caused attractions around the world to temporarily close and pause development of new attractions, Universal Beijing Resort’s president and general manager, Tom Mehrmann, sees a positive outcome on the horizon.
“We have full confidence in global tourism markets and the theme park industry. We firmly believe that only through close-knit cooperation can the whole industry fight through the hard time and emerge stronger as a result,” he says.
In January, the company announced construction would finish in 2020 and the resort would open in 2021. At the time, nearly half of overall construction had been completed with ride installation underway. Given the emerging pandemic, the company put its team members first. “Ensuring the health and safety of our team members and project-related staff has always been one of our core values,” says Mehrmann. “We have been taking immediate and comprehensive preventive measures since January, and our team members have worked together and responded positively.”
The company is still on track for a 2021 grand opening. “Construction of Universal Beijing Resort has resumed and is progressing smoothly, undergoing guidance from related government authorities and with their support,” says Mehrmann. “Our rides, shows, attractions, and other facilities are now under installation and testing.”
The resort plans to recruit for 14,000 job openings and will include seven themed lands, as well as hotels and Universal Beijing CityWalk shopping and entertainment district.
“We are creating this incredible guest experience, which remains unchanged and we are looking forward to bringing that experience to life in 2021,” says Mehrmann.
