More than 100 exhibitors from seven countries took part in the recent InterSchau Trade Fair at the Congress Center Hamburg (CCH), marking its first occurrence in the city after over 20 years. The event showcased the latest trends in amusement rides, gaming devices, sound and lighting technology, and festive products. The trade fair was open to the public for €20, allowing enthusiasts to glimpse the world of folk festivals.
The occasion coincided with the Delegated Day of the German Showmen's Association (DSB), celebrating its 75th anniversary. Notable figures at the event included German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who addressed attendees on improving safety for public festivities, especially following the recent tragic incident at the Magdeburg Christmas market, which left six dead and nearly 300 injured. "We will do everything we can to increase the safety on streets, squares, and folk festivals in our country," stated Chancellor Scholz.
Concerns persist within the showmen's community, particularly related to rising security costs, which could render folk festivals and Christmas markets unprofitable. DSB President Albert Ritter articulated apprehensions about how increased expenses could impact viability, stating, "Six cents for the kilowatt hour would be great! Then rides could become cheaper for everyone." Currently, showmen pay about 60 cents per kilowatt hour, making energy pricing relief particularly desirable.
During the DSB's Delegated Day, it was announced the industry has enjoyed record visitor numbers, with approximately 200 million attendees at folk festivals across Germany last year. And the industry currently supports over 5,000 showman operations, providing jobs for more than 31,000 individuals. This demonstrates the sector's resilience and popularity, even as it navigates new challenges.
Hamburg's Interior Senator Andy Grote emphasized the commitment to enforce national weapon bans strictly, ensuring safety at events like the iconic Hamburger Dom. Implementing stringent checks will be part of their efforts to safeguard attendees and restore public confidence.
While the DSB takes pride in these numbers, there remains uncertainty about the future. The showmen are hopeful for energy cost relief, which Scholz indicated may be forthcoming before the February election. The community's optimism is mixed, with the recognition of significant financial burdens as they strive to keep the festive spirit alive.
The InterSchau Trade Fair not only serves as a platform for showcasing new innovations within the amusement sector but also as a reflection of the broader social dynamics at play. Serious discussions about safety, rising costs, and operational sustainability permeate the two-day event, reinforcing its integral role within the fabric of German culture.
Going forward, the DSB and the government face the challenge of balancing enhanced security measures without imposing undue financial hardship on the showmen. The outcome of these discussions holds significant weight as the industry looks to recover from the pandemic's impact and meet the expectations of thousands of eager festival-goers. The InterSchau Trade Fair can be seen as not just a venue for commerce but also as the start of important industry dialogues necessary for future growth.