Ski Facilities
Companies in this industry operate recreation areas used for downhill and cross-country skiing. No major companies dominate the industry. Companies that operate ski lodges and resorts -- facilities with overnight accommodations for guests -- are not included in the industry, but those companies are significant competitors of independent ski facilities. Important ski lodge and resort operators include Alterra Mountain Company, Aspen Skiing Company, Booth Creek, Boyne USA, and Vail Resorts (all based in the US); Compagnie des Alpes (France); and Whistler Blackcomb (Canada).
Globally, there are about 70 countries that offer equipped outdoor ski areas covered with snow, according to the 2021 International Report on Snow and Mountain Tourism. The Alps and the Canadian Rockies are popular ski destinations outside the US. France, Austria, and the US have the most ski lifts and the highest total skier visits. The industry is growing in Eastern Europe, China, and the Middle East.
The US ski facilities industry includes about 340 establishments (single-location companies and units of multi-location companies) with combined annual revenue of about $3 billion.
Companies that operate ski lodges and resorts are covered as part of the Hotels, Motels & Resorts industry profile.
Competitive Landscape
Good snow conditions and personal income drive demand. The profitability of individual companies depends on effective marketing and efficient skiing and business operations. Large companies have advantages in marketing and in sharing resources and staff among multiple skiing sites. Small companies can compete effectively by catering to the local population or providing customized services. The US industry is highly concentrated: the top 50 companies account for over 85% of revenue.
Products, Operations & Technology
Major services at ski facilities are facility use, food and beverage sales, instruction fees, merchandise sales, and equipment rentals. Skiing facility
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