“In search of the last Santa Claus” could well be the name of a movie for this Christmas season. However, it’s a more serious matter than meets the eye. According to a study by Fixando, there is a shortage of Santa Clauses in our country!
Another of the conclusions of this app, which connects clients with specialists in all services, operating in the national market since 2017, also confirms that this year’s Christmas festivities may be in danger in some places in Portugal, presenting this situation as an unexpected challenge.
All because this year the demand for entertainment services at events and commercial spaces is very high, despite the supply market having grown by 9% compared to last year. Even so, there aren’t enough Santas.
According to this platform, around 2,000 professionals would be needed, but only half of this number is available.
Alice Nunes, Fixando’s New Business Director, points out that
demand is still much higher than supply, which reinforces the need to plan ahead and shows the great potential of this market for new professionals.”
Very lucrative job opportunity
Most of these Santas are asked to do family parties (35%), corporate events (25%), followed by visits to schools and shopping centers.
According to these figures, it is family parties that are most affected by this shortage, with 38% of requests still not being met, especially in Lisbon, Porto and Aveiro.
This is an opportunity for those who wish to enter this seasonal market. According to the head of Fixando,
Being Santa Claus is an affordable way to generate extra income during the festive season.”
However, before embarking on this challenge, experts warn that the role requires more than just wearing a red suit.
It takes essence and dynamism to interact with children and create an authentic experience,” explains a representative from RM Eventos.
The average cost of hiring a Santa Claus is now €165, €25 more than last year, with requirements such as a natural beard and an engaging posture fetching higher prices.
Here’s the website so that, if you need one too, you can join the waiting list of those looking to hire a Santa for the festivities in Lisbon.