DAYTON — There are not enough professional Santas this year, according to the red suit survey. The survey reached out to more than 300 Santas with an average age of 66.
Nearly 20% are sitting out this holiday season because of COVID.
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The shortage has inspired retailers, like Old Navy, to hold virtual training programs. The training also focused on encouraging people of color to become Santas.
The survey also asked the Santas how they have been keeping healthy and coping with the pandemic.
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Many said in 2020 where they worked had prevention measures in place, such as plexiglass walls or a wide-open set. Some Santas said this year they will be doing home-based video calls rather than in-person visits.
And in case you were wondering, according to the survey, Santa’s favorite cookie is chocolate chip.