Oberwiesenthal Approves Sale of Historic Fichtelberg Schwebebahn to Private Investor

The decision aims to address urgent modernization needs but raises concerns about local influence over the ski area's future.

The Oberwiesenthal city council voted to sell the Fichtelberg Schwebebahn and its ski lifts to the Gläß family, bypassing a costly and lengthy European tender process.
The sale is driven by the need for significant investment in the ski area's infrastructure, which the municipality cannot afford, including a new lift estimated to cost €21 million.
Concerns were raised about the lack of conditions on the sale that would allow the city to influence future developments in the ski area.
The Gläß family, known for their success in software, already operates a chairlift and leases the Fichtelberghaus, positioning them as the preferred buyer.
The final sale decision is expected in three to four months, with the company's value being assessed to ensure a fair sale price.