Staff shortages and Gema keep Christmas markets busy
Christmas markets in Thuringia are facing more and more challenges. "The lack of staff is a big problem," said Franziska Mühlhause from the Nordhausen city administration. "Craft stalls in particular, and therefore handmade products, are becoming increasingly rare because there is no staff capacity." In general, it is becoming more difficult to find employees in many areas - from running the huts to cleaning the market areas.
In Sonneberg and Weimar, traders have already had to cancel their participation due to staff shortages, the spokespeople said. In Jena, too, it is becoming more difficult to find enough staff for the four-week market. However, there have been no cancellations so far. A spokesperson said that staff shortages have not yet been a problem at the Erfurt market, which has a high turnover.
In addition to increased costs for electricity and wages, for example, some local authorities see the sharp rise in Gema fees as a problem. Despite the many challenges, visitor numbers are expected to be similar to those before the coronavirus crisis.
Municipalities are actively seeking solutions to address staff shortages at Christmas markets, as it's becoming increasingly difficult to find workers for various tasks, including managing stalls and maintaining market areas. During their leisure time, some local authorities participate in customs and traditions by organizing festive events, such as Christmas markets, which contribute to the spirit of the season.
Source: www.dpa.com
