Soaking Up More Cash: One-third of German Public Pools Hike Prices as Finances Falter
Every third outdoor pools increment their fees
Summer is on the horizon, and many Germans are eager to cool off in their local swimming pool. Unfortunately, a recent survey suggests that a visit to the pool might end up being a bit more costly this year.
According to the Association of Municipal Enterprises (VKU), 35% of surveyed pool operators have announced price hikes for the upcoming season. However, this move may not alleviate their financial problems, as 72% of these operators anticipate a worsening financial situation over the next five years. A sobering 16% are even considering shutting down outdoor or indoor pools in the short-term!
The main concerns for pool operators revolve around staff shortages, maintenance backlogs, and financial strains. These issues have created a climate of uncertainty, with only 4% expecting a financial improvement in the near future.
Although 66% of operators surveyed expect the same number of visitors as in 2021, 27% are hopeful for increased demand. The final count for visitors that year averaged 75,000 per pool, according to VKU statistics.
VKU CEO Ingbert Liebing referred to the survey's financial outlook as a call to action for the federal and state governments. He emphasized the need for better funding programs to preserve swimming pools, pointing to the one billion euros allocated for the modernization and renovation of sports facilities in the coalition agreement as a step in the right direction.
Liebing considers swimming pools as essential to social cohesion, calling them "places for health, fitness, and where we learn the life skill of swimming." He believes that access to these facilities should be independent of a municipality's location or financial situation.
Currently, Germany boasts over 6000 indoor and outdoor pools, with outdoor pools accounting for less than half of that total. The nation is home to roughly 2400 standalone outdoor pools and another 400 combined indoor and outdoor pools.
Insights:
- Staff Shortages: Operators cite staffing issues as a significant challenge, which can impact both the quality of service and the financial health of pools.
- Maintenance Backlogs: The growing gap between routine maintenance requirements and available resources can lead to infrastructure deterioration, increasing operating costs.
- Lack of Financial Resources: Insufficient budgets force pool operators to make difficult decisions, such as raising prices or even closing facilities.
- Rising Energy Prices: High energy costs for heating, cooling, and pumping water can eat away at pool operators' profits and force them to hike prices.
- Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to strict health and safety regulations can impose a financial burden on pool operators, who need to invest in state-of-the-art water treatment systems and safety equipment.
- Modernization: Investing in modern facilities, such as vitality pools or plunge pools, can improve visitors' experience but will require significant upfront investment and ongoing maintenance costs.
Despite these challenges, the memorable, cold dive into water remains a symbol of summer fun, as well as an opportunity for social bonding. Let's hope that proper funding and support help keep these cherished aquatic spaces alive and well for generations to come.
In light of Germany's financial challenges in managing public pools, it is crucial for community policy to address staff shortages and maintenance backlogs. Moreover, considering the employment policy implications, it is essential to provide financial support for pool operators to ensure affordable swimming opportunities, fostering business growth and social cohesion in sports facilities.
