The ball season is a very important source of income for many industries and the Austrians are generous this year.
Many Austrians are now dancing on balls again. There is a lot to catch up on, because due to Corona, many had to do without the pleasure of spending relaxing time with friends or partners for a long time.
After the forced break of two years, the Viennese businessmen expect a “brilliant comeback”. “Income of up to 170 million euros for the economy is possible,” explains Markus Grießler, President of the Vienna Chamber of the Department of Tourism and Leisure. More than 300 € must be calculated per ball visit, in the federal states it is slightly cheaper. But there too the cash registers are ringing at ball organizers, hairdressers, cosmetic studios, fashion chains, taxis & Co.
Despite inflation and high energy costs, many consumers want to spoil themselves. A clear revival is noticeable, because the fun in events is very high again,” reports Johanna Hauer from Kastner & Öhler.
“People tend to spend more, actually the look, fit and ‘princess feel’ determine a ball gown,” says Peek & Cloppenburg. Most other chains are also very satisfied with the sales. The company is also stimulated with discounts. Great clothes are already available for € 100; for men it is a bit more expensive with a tuxedo or tailcoat.
“The balls fill our gap in January and February,” explains Wolfgang Eder, spokesperson for the hairdressers. Without dance events, the industry’s turnover is not so good at the beginning of the year. It is especially gratifying that young people are returning to the hairdresser, who are offering more and more make-up. Vanessa Steinmetz-Bundy of the eponymous noble salon adds: “A ball make-up costs € 104 with us.”
People in the dance schools are also extremely satisfied. “It’s about the same as before,” says a beaming Thomas Schäfer-Elmayer. Only older couples are still a bit hesitant. Industry spokesman Andy Wankmüller adds: “Customers are now paying even more attention to quality.”
Sparkling wine is the favorite drink of the visitors at bals. At large events, up to 10,000 glasses are served. “The ball season is an important economic factor for us,” assures Schlumberger boss Benedikt Zacherl.
I often take a taxi home. “There is now a lot of demand for it,” explains Eveline Hruza of CC Taxicenter (40100).
Source: Krone
I’m Ben Stock, a journalist and author at Today Times Live. I specialize in economic news and have been working in the news industry for over five years. My experience spans from local journalism to international business reporting. In my career I’ve had the opportunity to interview some of the world’s leading economists and financial experts, giving me an insight into global trends that is unique among journalists.
