Tourism in Schleiden: The consequences of floods are drastically slowing down the recovery!

Tourism in Schleiden: The consequences of floods are drastically slowing down the recovery!

There is currently a lot to discuss in beautiful Schleiden. Local tourism is facing major challenges following the devastating flood damage. The industry is particularly affected by the lack of hotels, cafés and leisure activities. The Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger reports that numerous private owners have still not found a way to get their businesses up and running again after the flood. The result is clear: the tourism infrastructure is suffering and larger hotels are currently not in operation, leading to shortages in overnight accommodation.

But there are also bright spots. The number of visitors to the tourist information office has actually reached pre-Corona levels, with an increase of 15 percent compared to the previous year. Bianka Renn, the managing director of the Society for Business, Tourism and Events, highlights the support for companies and emphasizes the pilot activities that are intended to help get the local economy back on its feet. The city positions itself with themes such as slowing down, experiencing nature and authentic time out.

Challenges in the labor market

Another major issue is the shortage of skilled workers, which is severely affecting the economy in Schleiden. According to the skilled workers monitoring of the Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, the challenges are complex. Demographic change and the outflow of empirical knowledge due to the retirement age of the baby boomer generation are compounding the problem. Although the economy needs new talent, the lack of productive immigration and the decline in the workforce cannot close the gaps.

However, the industry could benefit from cooperation with the city's secondary school to promote the transition to local businesses. Initiatives to integrate digitalization and artificial intelligence into corporate structures also have a supportive effect, supported by partnerships such as those with Digital Sicher NRW and the Eifel service cooperative. Even if the city currently has no municipal properties available, there is hope for improvements: the planned Kall-Schleiden intermunicipal industrial park could provide a positive impulse.

Growth through culture and events

One aspect that could boost tourism is strengthening cultural offerings. Weekly spa concerts attract between 70 and 100 visitors and are highly valued by culture lovers. Events like the Eifel Serenade also offer an incentive for culture-interested groups with high purchasing power. The cooperation with seven cafés in the city, carried by the slogan “just breathe”, shows that the catering industry also relies on a sustainable experience.

The city has shown a good knack for strengthening the tourism positioning in the region. The focus on sustainability and educational leave offers sets Schleiden apart from many other places. In this way, Schleiden is being prepared as a destination for interesting experiences and relaxation - but the challenge remains of resolving the infrastructural deficiencies and keeping the business location attractive.

Overall, it can be said that, despite the adversities, Schleiden has potential that can be awakened by working together and making smart strategic decisions. Time will tell whether the city emerges stronger from these challenges.