On 1 July 2015, VAT on sauna admissions will rise from seven to 19 percent. As a result, Stadtwerke Gießen will also have to adjust its prices at the Ringallee bathing centre. With a new tariff system, SWG wants to mitigate this increase, especially for short visitors.
The German Sauna Association and the German Bathing Society fought for a long time to ensure that the VAT rate for sauna treatments would remain at seven per cent. "In vain", regrets Uwe Volbrecht from the pool administration department of Stadtwerke Gießen (SWG). From 1 July, the tax rate will rise to 19 per cent. This was decided by the Federal Ministry of Finance (BMF) at the end of 2014. Even an extremely successful signature campaign, in which more than 126,000 people took part, was unable to change the BMF's mind.
In future, SWG will also have to pay higher VAT for the sauna area in the Ringallee bathing centre. This means that the VAT rate on the admission price will rise from the current 7 per cent to 19 per cent. "A significant increase that we unfortunately cannot cushion. We have therefore given a lot of thought to alternative solutions," explains Uwe Volbrecht. However, one thing was clear from the outset: SWG does not want to cut back on service or performance. They will continue to offer five to eight guided infusions, for example, depending on the day of the week.
New sauna tariffs from July
From 1 July, sauna guests will benefit from a new tariff system with an attractive time scale and new discounts. Visitors to the Ringallee bathing centre currently pay a minimum of €13.50 for a four-hour stay. The new tariff system now also includes a two-hour tariff for 9 euros. "This is a particular advantage for all those who prefer shorter sauna sessions," emphasises Uwe Volbrecht. The third and fourth hours cost 3.50 euros each. From the fifth hour, the daily rate of 19 euros applies. Also new: from 1 July, SWG will be offering five-person tickets for 67.50 euros and 20-person tickets for 270 euros instead of the previous ten-person tickets. With both multiple tickets, each visit is valid for four hours in the sauna.
Reduced prices for the family sauna at the weekend continue to apply. Adults pay 16 euros and children 9 euros. Admission on Lady Wellbeing Day will be 21.50 euros in future - an increase of 1.60 euros.
In addition, SWG will be introducing a special time bonus from the end of August. Anyone who consumes goods worth 5 euros or more in the Aquabistro will receive a time credit of 20 minutes. The same applies when guests book a massage.
Stadtwerke Gießen can provide information on the respective prices for various treatments, sports offers as well as the new tariffs, opening times and everything else on the service telephone number 0641 708-1411 or on their website www.stadtwerke-giessen.de in the "Pools" section.
18.06.2015