The CEO of CTS Eventim, Klaus-Peter Schulenberg, has voiced his support for subsidized tickets aimed at making cultural events more accessible to a wider audience. Addressing concerns about affordability, Schulenberg acknowledged that current ticket prices, often starting around €70, represent a significant financial investment for many potential attendees. He emphasized the importance of ensuring pop culture experiences are not limited to higher-income groups.
However, Schulenberg also underscored the intrinsic value of cultural offerings and the associated expectations regarding production quality and performance standards. He cautioned against placing undue pressure on artists, stating that it is inappropriate to expect them to perform below their market value, given their reliance on these engagements for livelihood.
The post-pandemic landscape has presented challenges for the live events sector, with personnel and production costs rising by as much as 45 percent. Re-engaging talent lost during the pandemic has proven difficult, contributing to increased operational expenses. While Schulenberg does not anticipate continued cost increases at the same scale, he noted that artist fees remain a key factor influencing ticket pricing.
Despite broader economic headwinds, CTS Eventim appears to be weathering the crisis effectively. Schulenberg highlighted the enduring appeal of live events as an outlet for individuals seeking respite from daily routines, observing a surprising increase in demand during times of economic uncertainty. The company currently operates significantly above 2019 levels and shows consistent growth, demonstrating resilience within the entertainment sector.