According to the Chamber of Commerce, the Viennese hotel industry has returned to profitability. April 2022 would have been extremely strong and even in May 2022, the accommodation establishments are still recording high numbers of overnight stays.

However, the room prices have risen, which the Chamber of Commerce blames on the lockdowns and the increased energy prices. Capacity utilization across the city is currently said to be around 70 percent, which is why the break-even point has been reached despite the unfavorable cost situation.

Dominic Schmid, chairman of the hotel industry group in the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, is convinced that “we have passed the low point”. After more than one million overnight stays were recorded in Vienna in April, further strong months should now follow: "In May, things are going extremely well with 74 percent occupancy, and the booking situation is also very good again for the following months, we are above the for 70 percent that is so important to us," says the hotel industry chairman. The fact that the last entry restrictions have now been lifted has brought a further boost: "The guests react very quickly. If they are allowed to travel again without restrictions, then they will come too.”

The fact that prices are also rising in the hotel industry due to the current energy price crisis is a necessary step for Schmid, which also has positive consequences for the employees: "The hoteliers not only pay more for gas and electricity, they have recently also increased their salaries. New contracts are endowed with around 10 percent salary increase. And guests also accept and understand the higher room rates.”