As recession bites ski firms are at risk

News at Gatwick 08/03/2009

Ryanair introduces new luggage charge : March 2009 : Man charged at Gatwick over 'hoax' bomb

Cash strapped holidaymakers are shunning the slopes this year and putting chalet operators at risk.

This year has seen some of the best winter snow for over 25 years. But due to the current economic climate skiers are shunning the slopes even with many operators offering half price or 2 for 1 deals to encourage last minute bookings in the closing weeks of the season.

Travel companies have already cut back on charter flights to even the most popular destinations in the Alps and Pyrenees. They are even asking chalet owners to cut their prices by 20 – 50% and owners have little choice if they wish to renew contracts next year.

This year has already seen some chalet agencies cease trading including Indigo Lodges and it expected for more to follow after April when their cash flows will be tested. Nick Morgan of Le Ski said “Those operators who concentrate on doing one thing and getting it right will survive. Those that don’t probably won’t.”

Next year the number of ski holidays on offer is expected to reduce by 15% but prices to rise by 10%. This has been exasperated by rising costs in resorts caused by the high value of the euro.

But if we look on the bright side snow is at its best in the resorts and if you can afford it you can get in some of the best skiing and the lowest prices seen for some time. Just one word of caution though is that due to some significant snowfalls the avalanche risk has risen in some areas to 5/5.

Ryanair introduces new luggage charge : March 2009 : Man charged at Gatwick over 'hoax' bomb

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