ESU Calls for Support for the Fairground Industry

(eap) The European Showmen’s Union (ESU) has renewed its demands to the newly elected European Parliament and the European Commission following the 2024 European elections. Small and medium-sized businesses in the sector – especially showmen and fairgrounds – continue to face significant bureaucratic hurdles that make the operation and prospects of folk festivals more difficult.

ESU President Albert Ritter announced increased lobbying in order to drive forward the urgently needed reforms in the area of bureaucracy reduction. “Fairgrounds are an essential part of the cultural heritage in many European countries. They not only provide entertainment and leisure activities, but are also important economic factors for the regions. Every year they attract millions of visitors and create jobs. In order to preserve these traditions, it is essential to improve the framework conditions for fairground companies.”

The ESU’s demands include the simplification of approval procedures, a general reduction in bureaucracy as well as financial support and funding programs, particularly for small and medium-sized fairground companies, in order to be able to make investments and protect themselves against economic fluctuations. In terms of reducing bureaucracy, the main aim is to simplify administrative processes and reduce reporting obligations and documentation requirements, which, according to the ESU, currently represent a considerable burden for showmen.

“The dialogue with the decision-makers will be intensified in the coming months in order to effectively represent the interests of the sector and achieve sustainable improvements. The Presidium of the European Showmen’s Union and its national associations are determined to ensure that the showmen’s concerns are heard and implemented in the political decision-making processes.” ■