2025 Impact Intl. UK/Euro Honoree: Stephan Thanscheidt

STEPHAN THANSCHEIDT
CEO
FKP Scorpio

TOUGH SAILING NO MATCH FOR THE FESTIVALMEISTER

Germany-based FKP Scorpio boasts 13 offices across Europe. Since being founded in 1990 by Folkert Koopmans, the company has become more than a promoter.

In the words of CEO Stephan Thanscheidt, “We like to think of it as a Europe-wide hub for people who want to explore new concepts and are passionate about live entertainment. Alongside our staff, this includes a vast network of industry professionals. Being part of this group of likeminded people is a source of joy for me – as is the fact that we have grown into a tight-knit team of trailblazers.”

FKP Scorpio promotes and co-produces some of Germany’s most beloved festivals, including the company’s flagship Hurricane and Southside. Festivals have felt the pains of cost increases in all areas of the biz, and “while our own brands remain successful, the economic pressure they face is certainly noticeable and can only be mitigated through smart financial strategies and the use of synergies across our group,” says Thanscheidt.

Fans snatched up half of all available tickets for Hurricane and Southside 2026 within 24 hours – a testament to the quality both events have maintained.

“Although the sailing is tough,” says Thanscheidt, “we still believe in the appeal of well-crafted festival concepts.” Add FKP’s strong touring business, and there’s much to be happy about.

Thanscheidt says he’s “especially excited about the opportunities in the exhibitions and family entertainment space. The founding of FKP Scorpio Entertainment is a testament to the remarkable successes we’ve had the privilege of celebrating in just a few short years: exhibition formats such as Formula 1, Minecraft, Tutankhamun, Pompeii, and Titanic have set sales records while daring to try something new.”

Thanscheidt’s favorite part of the job is “getting creative with my festival booking team! Carefully crafting lineups while listening to music together – that’s hard to beat. One thing I could live without is discussing billing issues on general festival artworks with agents.”