Sex sells for less in an economic downturn

[Stuart G]

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090617/ap_on_re_eu/eu_germany_economy_prostitution_6


By MARY LANE, Associated Press Writer Mary Lane, Associated Press Writer – 1 hr 3 mins ago

BERLIN – It's past midnight in downtown Berlin, and the prostitutes pace in front of the Hackescher Markt's stores. Signs of a slow economy are everywhere — a sportswear store offers 40 percent markdowns, and bars advertise discounted drinks.

Like so many other businesses, Europe's largest legalized prostitution industry is having to adapt to the economic downturn. Customers are fewer or more frugal, competition has increased, and more clubs and brothels are offering discounts to drum up business.

Since late 2008, the number of English and American tourists has dropped and the street dynamic has changed, according to one prostitute in her mid-20s who requested anonymity because she did not want her family to know her profession. She still gets customers, she said, but they no longer pay for the extras.

"We have to be a lot more aggressive now," said the woman, wearing pink jeans and a black corset, who has worked the area for three years. "The customers used to come straight to you. Now they don't ask you as much."
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Prostitutes in Germany are getting less for their services. The economy is hurting everyone..
Hard to comment on this one..

[FSogol]

1. Woo hoo!!!, um I mean, oh no.

:woohoo: :cry:

[lumberjack_jeff]

3. LOL! n/t

[billyoc]

2. afk