Eiffel Tower operator reports 8.5 million euro loss

Eiffel Tower SETE financial loss mismanagement Paris

The operator of the Eiffel Tower, the state-owned company SETE (Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel), reported a net loss of 8.5 million euros in 2024, despite generating 140.1 million euros in revenue. The monument attracts approximately six million visitors annually, with adult lift tickets priced at 36.70 euros.

An investigation by Le Monde suggests the deficit is driven by a rapid increase in labor costs, which rose from 18.9 million to 32.4 million euros over twelve years. While the workforce grew by 25 percent to 402 employees, critics note that digital ticketing should have reduced the need for manual cashiers. The report also highlights concerns regarding high executive salaries and mismanagement.

Additional controversies have surfaced regarding the tower's administration, including a decision to allow a private religious celebration that reportedly excluded female employees. These issues have led to public criticism regarding the economic and operational management of the landmark.

Entities

Eiffel Tower · Le Monde · Patrick Branco Ruivo · Sete

Sources

Paris: Ärger um Kosten und Sicherheit am Eiffelturm – „Wunder, dass er noch steht“ [www.nrz.de]

8 days ago

Paris: Ärger um Kosten und Sicherheit am Eiffelturm – „Wunder, dass er noch steht“ [www.tlz.de]

8 days ago

Paris: Ärger um Kosten und Sicherheit am Eiffelturm – „Wunder, dass er noch steht“ [www.braunschweiger-zeitung.de]

8 days ago

Kosten, Sicherheit und Co. : „Ein Wunder, dass der Eiffelturm noch steht!“ [www.morgenpost.de]

8 days ago