Erfurt (dpa/th) - Against the background of inflation and the energy crisis, the showman industry in Thuringia is reporting good business. Despite rising prices, the influx of people is "completely contrary to expectations," said René Otto, chairman of the Thuringian Showmen's Association. People are currently “like to come and plenty of it”. He is currently noticing this in Gera, for example at the traditional autumn festival with 28 stands. All of his 55 colleagues who are active in the club also reported this.
Even at the Erfurt Oktoberfest there was no sign of saving, according to several of the almost 50 showmen and women. "On the contrary - people really spend money," said showman Jens Koppitz, who regularly drives from Lutherstadt Eisleben in Saxony-Anhalt with his ball-throwing booth. From the chip shop to the Ferris wheel and the sweets stand: "People treat themselves," said one showwoman casually. "Personally, I would think twice about it at the moment," but of course it's good for business, she said.
Prices have almost always risen by 50 cents. This was necessary due to increased demurrage, expensive goods and increased electricity costs, it was said everywhere. But the business people also know: "A certain price level must not be exceeded, otherwise nobody will come," said Otto.
