Rainy Summer Ruined Outdoor Pool Season in Lower Austria

With a rather sober summer balance, around 140 pool operators in Lower Austria prepared themselves on Thursday. "The season was mixed, there were monthly ups and downs," emphasized Harald Gölles, industry spokesperson in the Lower Austrian Chamber of Commerce (WKNÖ), in a statement. A decline in visitors and revenue of an average of 20 percent was recorded. There is hardly any time to catch up, as the majority of businesses close with the start of the school year.

Weather as the main factor for declines

"The start of the season was still satisfactory, but the rainy weather in May and July caused visitor numbers to plummet," summarized Gölles. In some pools, the number of guests dropped by up to 44 percent. Through price adjustments of five to 25 percent, the operators tried to at least partially compensate for the losses. "Adjustments are also necessary for the coming season to stabilize the earnings situation," announced Gölles. "We are talking about increases in the cent or low euro range."

Hope for late summer

Predominantly, the gates of the outdoor pools will be closed with the start of the school year next Monday. However, in some operations, the season lasts until mid or late September, which could be a glimmer of hope. "Here, there is hope that a beautiful autumn can still boost the balance somewhat." In general, given the high energy and personnel costs, creative concepts are needed to maintain the pools.

(APA/Red)

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