Overview of the Economic Impact and Job Creation
In Puebla, the graduation season has generated a significant economic impact, with event venues reporting a total of 160 million pesos in revenue. This represents a 20% increase compared to the previous year, along with the creation of 25,000 jobs. The positive outcome is attributed to Daniel Pérez Varela, the president of the Asociación Poblana de Salones Sociales y Jardines para Eventos (Apsaje).
Background on Apsaje and its Members
Apsaje is an organization comprising over 1,500 businesses, including 200 that have recently reopened after being closed for more than two years due to the pandemic. These businesses had to invest heavily in improvements and upgrades to attract clients, particularly for graduation events held between June and July.
Season Timeline and Event Details
- Bookings for graduation events began in February, as student committees paid in installments.
- Apsaje-affiliated venues hosted various events, leading to the rehiring of staff such as cooks, security personnel, administrative personnel, and indirect service providers like party organizers, food and beverage producers, music groups, makeup artists, florists, and rental services.
- Costs were adjusted based on inflation, although utility expenses for water and electricity remained high.
- On average, each venue hosted five graduation events, ranging from breakfasts to full-course dinners. University graduations were the most expensive due to multi-course menus.
- During the pandemic, the sector suffered significantly due to prolonged closures, despite offering services similar to restaurants but with a limited event schedule (only Friday to Sunday).
Market Competition and Future Investments
Pérez Varela mentioned that there have been no new investments in Puebla or its surrounding areas due to the highly competitive market, with most venues offering similar pricing for graduation events.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Daniel Pérez Varela? He is the president of Apsaje, an association representing over 1,500 event venue businesses in Puebla.
- What is the economic impact of graduation season in Puebla? The graduation season has generated 160 million pesos in revenue, a 20% increase compared to the previous year.
- How many jobs were created during this period? Approximately 25,000 jobs were generated as a result of the increased activity in event venues.
- What challenges did event venues face during the pandemic? Venues were forced to close for more than two years, leading to significant financial losses. When they reopened, businesses had to invest heavily in upgrades to attract clients.
- Is there new investment in Puebla’s event venue market? No, the market remains highly competitive with no new investments, as most venues offer similar pricing for graduation events.