The tourism economy has developed very favorably in the last years: Tour operators reported increased earnings of 3.5% in the tourism year of 2007/2008. Above-average increases in revenues were achieved in the areas of specialized and educational travel (5-7%), long-distance travel (4%) and cruises (12%).
The travel agency market achieved stable growth for the fourth consecutive year (2% increased earnings).
Only the hospitality industry showed an actual decline in earnings from January to October 2008, generating 1.9% less income than in the corresponding period of the previous year.
In general, tourism has become a significant economic factor. World-wide, tourism is booming on a similar scale. The industry sees large growth potential in emerging markets like Russia, India and China.
Tourism has repeatedly proven to be a robust industry, as well: Even after severe crises, such as acts of terror, natural catastrophes or global epidemics, tourism has always regained its strength. Traveling enjoys a lot of popularity, especially with the Germans.
Politics are playing their part in providing tourism with reasonable general conditions. For example, the cabinet passed political guidelines for tourism for the first time in December. In these guidelines, they state that the tourism industry is facing grave challenges, but also great opportunities.
Tourism relies largely on the middle class. Thus, the economic power of the industry’s many small and middle-class enterprises must be supported and freed from excessive bureaucracy.
Figures and facts
– around 2.8 million jobholders
– over 765,000 employees subject to social insurance contribution
– in addition, 467,000 jobholders in marginal employment
- more than 117,000 apprenticeship training posts in tourism in 2007
– a contribution of 57.5 billion € (3.2%) to the gross domestic product
- 250,000 establishments in hotel industry and gastronomy
– Germany world-leading location for trade fairs, number-two location for conventions and conferences (following the USA)
- more than 326 million over-night stays in 2008 (+2.5% compared to the previous year)
