As construction continues on the Shanghai Disney Resort, the first corporate alliance partner for the resort has been announced.
The alliance partner is the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), which is one of the most respected companies in China. The agreement between the park and the ICBC will result in a strong branded presence at the resort for the ICBC.
“Since the opening of Disneyland in Anaheim nearly 60 years ago, we have sought to establish strong partnerships with businesses that are well-respected leaders in their industries and the communities in which they operate. We are continuing that legacy with this agreement and we are thrilled that our first major alliance partnership for the Shanghai Disney Resort is with such an esteemed partner as ICBC,” said Tom Staggs, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.
The partnership includes sponsorship by ICBC of a key component of the Gardens of Imagination which forms the central hub of the park in front of the castle. The ICBC’s sponsored component is the ‘Garden of the Twelve Friends’ which celebrate the 12 Chinese Zodiac characters.
The 12 Chinese Zodiac signs will be represented by a Disney or Pixar character, with Remy from Ratatouille representing the Chinese Zodiac Year of the Rat. In addition to the mosaic tiles, the garden will include a peach tree grove, and give guests a magical view of the Enchanted Storybook Castle.
Shanghai Disney is scheduled to open at the end of 2015.
