Tourism in MV: Drop in temperature and mood – what’s behind it?

Tourism in MV: Drop in temperature and mood – what’s behind it?

There has been no reason to be happy in the northern German tourism industry in the last few months. The mood has deteriorated significantly after an overall good summer season. Lars Schwarz, President of the German Hotel and Restaurant Association in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, speaks of serious consumer reluctance. This is also confirmed by the latest tourism business survey, which was carried out by the Chambers of Commerce and Industry (IHKs) from several federal states and in which around 600 companies from the tourism industry took part. Northern Courier reports that the investigation reveals a worrying development.

The business climate index for the hospitality industry remains roughly constant at 89 points, while the index for the travel industry fell from 111 to 107 points. These values ​​may seem stable at first glance, but the underlying problems are serious. Overall, 70 percent of the companies surveyed rate their situation as good or satisfactory, although this does not ignore concerns about high costs and a lack of staff.

Difficult conditions

We hear again and again about a tense environment: high labor costs, rising prices for energy, food and raw materials are putting pressure on companies. At least 84 percent of companies see labor costs as the greatest risk to their economic development. In the hospitality industry in particular, the lack of staff and the uncertain conditions mean that the wind is coming. 56 percent of survey participants expressed concern about economic policy conditions that they perceive as a major threat.

In the hospitality industry, it can be seen that the business climate index tended to stagnate in spring 2024. It stands at 89 points, while the travel industry has recorded a slight decline. Anyone who looks closely will see a worrying development, as 33 percent of the companies surveyed expect their business situation to develop less favorably. Tourism MV confirms this negative assessment.

The survey also shows that the majority of tourism companies are not only critical of their own situation, but also that their future expectations are cautious. 24 percent of companies even expect the business situation to worsen, while 14 percent hope for a possible improvement. Companies are therefore required to design flexible working time models and rethink their tax structure in order to overcome the challenges.

Conclusion: A look into the future

Recent developments in tourism and hospitality make it clear that there is a lot at stake in the coming months. In discussions with experts and those affected, it quickly becomes clear: the uncertainties regarding the geopolitical situation, the ongoing crises and the decline in domestic demand are causing companies to be on their guard. On the other hand, the will to grow and adapt remains strong. What remains is the hope that the business situation can be planned, for which not only good but also more comprehensive economic stability is necessary.

With the right perspective and a good hand, the local companies will continue to do their best to do good business even in the tense situation. It will be exciting to see how tourism in the Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania region will develop in the coming months.