Eiffel Tower Reopens After Strike, but Losses Mount to Millions

The Eiffel Tower has reopened its iconic lattice structure to visitors after a six-day strike by employees, marking an end to a tumultuous period marred by demands for changes to the landmark’s business model and concerns over its maintenance. However, the strike has left a financial toll, with losses mounting to as much as 2 million dollars, according to statements from the tower’s operator.

The operator, Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel (SETE), announced that an agreement had been reached with unions to address grievances and establish ongoing monitoring of the company’s business model and investments. Despite the resolution, the strike resulted in significant financial setbacks, with revenue losses estimated between €1 and €2 million, or approximately $1.1 to $2.2 million, according to Le Figaro.

The strike, the second in three months, underscored deep-seated concerns among employees regarding the tower’s management and long-term financial sustainability. Union representatives warned of a looming crisis, pointing to what they perceive as an overestimation of future ticket revenues and underestimation of maintenance costs.

Stéphane Dieu, a representative of the CGT union, criticized SETE in an interview with The Guardian for prioritizing short-term profitability over essential maintenance and repair needs, while Denis Vavassori, another CGT member and longtime employee of the attraction, described the tower’s current state as unprecedented in his 21-year tenure: I’ve never seen it in such a state,” he said. “The more time goes by, the bigger the repairs will need to be. 

Concerns over the tower’s deteriorating condition were exacerbated by reports of widespread rust and corrosion, prompting calls for urgent action to address structural integrity and warnings that delays in maintenance could lead to more extensive and costly repairs in the future.

Despite assurances from experts that the tower remains safe, recent reports have highlighted areas of concern, particularly regarding the ongoing repainting campaign. Delays in the project, compounded by the challenges of the pandemic and lead contamination in previous coatings, have raised questions about the effectiveness of maintenance efforts.

SETE expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to visitors and pledged full refunds for affected ticket holders. The company also emphasized its commitment to addressing the concerns raised by employees and ensuring the long-term viability of one of Paris‘s most iconic landmarks.

The strike’s resolution coincides with ongoing discussions between SETE and Paris city hall regarding future investments and revenue-sharing arrangements. A proposed amendment to the contract between SETE and the city includes plans to increase entrance fees, allocate additional funds for maintenance work, and restore financial balance by 2025.

As the Eiffel Tower seeks to navigate the challenges posed by the strike and chart a path forward, stakeholders remain focused on preserving the tower’s cultural significance and ensuring its continued prominence on the Parisian skyline.