Chapter3Mountain-BasedResortsManagingtheOperation.ppt

Chapter 3Mountain-Based Resorts:Managing the Operation Identify the changing trends in and demographic profiles of the snowsports market. Changing Trends: Skis first became used for recreational purposes in the mid-1800’s. First demand stimulating innovation was the stiff toe-and-heel binding allowed for long, gliding turns developed by a Norwegian Changing Trends (cont.) Austrian’s developed the basic technique for alpine/downhill skiing The first ski lift consisted of a rope and Model T that dragged people up the slope for a dollar a day In the 1930’s and 40’s modern bindings with steel edges gave the skiers more control and led to easier turns. Changing Trends (cont.) Development of ski resorts halted during WWII During this time the Tenth Mountain Division developed a significant reputation for its skiing activities Many of Europe’s best skiers and instructors migrated to the U.S. Many innovations in the 1950’s helped popularize the sport, such as: Easier-turning metal skis, buckled ski boots, step-in bindings, slope-grooming machines, stretch pants, and the inauguration of the interstate highway system Changing Trends (cont.) Condominiums helped cement the relationship between skiing and real estate development. In 1962 Vail, Colorado became the first planned destination ski resort. Great growth occurred in the next decades and by 1960 there were over 600 ski resorts Changing Trends (cont.) In the 1970’s development was slowed by high land prices, significant interest rates, and the time and money required to obtain development approval due to an increased concern for the environmental impact of large-scale developments. Changing Demographics The rate of skiing participation is a function of age The number of teenagers declined in the 1980’s causing concern throughout the industry. Children of the baby boomers, however, returned to the slopes as downhill skiers and snowboarders Changing Demographics (cont.) Due to the increase in snowboarding, a gro