Switzerland Tourism hopes for 12 million francs from Bern
The Swiss tourism industry is feeling the strong franc. Because a decline in hotel overnight stays is expected for the summer, the organization Switzerland Tourism is hoping for a cash injection from Bern.
Switzerland Tourism spokeswoman Daniela Bär confirmed to the news agency SDA a corresponding report in the newspaper Südostschweiz. The organization is hoping for an amount in the region of 12 million francs. The federal government had already supported Switzerland Tourism with this sum in the crisis year 2009.
For a grant to be used to boost summer business, the money would have to flow soon. However, Daniela Bär does not expect a possible grant until the summer session. But because the franc is likely to remain expensive, the federal funds would still be welcome then. "It would be too late for the summer campaign, but the strong franc will keep us busy for longer," Bär said.
Baer also confirmed the news that the Switzerland Tourism board had approved a special budget of 2.5 million francs for marketing activities this week. "We are looking for partners so that in the end it will be 3.2 million francs." (SDA)
