Moroccan hammams in danger
Despite a surge in the price of firewood, which has doubled, Moroccan hammam owners are for now refusing to raise their prices. They are trying to preserve the purchasing power of their customers by cutting into their profit margins.
The sector is under pressure. Firewood, an essential element for the operation of traditional baths, is becoming scarce on the market. As a result: its price has more than doubled, exceeding one dirham per kilo compared to 30 to 40 cents previously. Added to this is the continuous rise in fuel prices, linked to disruptions in global supply chains.
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This situation directly affects operating costs and drastically reduces profits. The president of the national federation of hammam owners’ associations told Hespress that professionals are facing a "huge leap" in prices. However, they refuse to raise the price of the service to protect the purchasing power of citizens.
For many managers, the social bond with the clientele takes precedence over the purely commercial aspect. If no increase is imposed, the rates remain flexible according to the "suggested price". In working-class neighborhoods, the entrance currently oscillates between 15 and 20 dirhams, while it can reach much higher levels in upscale areas, depending on the quality of the services.
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This crisis hits hard during the winter peak, a period of two to three months that normally allows to cover the expenses of the whole year. Legally, any agreement between professionals to set prices is prohibited. Prices therefore follow the law of supply and demand, while owners see their incomes melt away due to the shortage of wood.
