This podcast discusses the discontentment among skiers at Attash ski resort after its acquisition by Vail Resorts. It explores Vail Resorts' strategy of acquiring regional ski resorts in the Northeast and the challenges faced by these resorts within the company's portfolio.
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Quick takeaways
Vail Resorts' delayed improvements and lack of attention in its northeast expansion led to dissatisfaction among skiers.
Vail Resorts' strategy of acquiring smaller regional resorts in the East as stepping stones for skiers before heading out West has resulted in subpar conditions and disappointment among skiers.
Deep dives
Vale Resorts' acquisition of Attash Mountain and the disappointment of skiers
Vale Resorts purchased Attash Mountain in New Hampshire with the expectation of a major overhaul to improve its dated infrastructure and services. However, after the acquisition, skiers were disappointed by the lack of substantial upgrades and the overall mediocre conditions. Vale Resorts attributed the delay in improvements to the unexpected challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, labor shortages, and the transition process. The dissatisfaction was not only limited to Attash Mountain but also spread to other resorts in the Northeast owned by Vale Resorts.
Vale Resorts' strategy of acquiring smaller regional resorts and its impact
Vale Resorts has shifted its strategy by acquiring smaller regional resorts in the East, positioning them as stepping stones for skiers before heading to more prestigious destinations out West. These regional resorts, known as 'theater properties,' have lower-priced seasonal passes compared to single mountain season passes. However, skiers in the East were disappointed with the subpar conditions and felt that the high-quality experience expected from Vale Resorts was not delivered. The frustration was further exacerbated by instances like the incorrect placement of Attash Mountain on Vale Resorts' website, symbolizing the perceived lack of attention and investment in their regional properties.
Watch Carol and Tim LIVE every day on YouTube: http://bit.ly/3vTiACF. Bloomberg News Technology Reporter Austin Carr discusses his Businessweek story about ski giant Vail Resorts’ northeast expansion that has created a backlash.Hosts: Carol Massar and Tim Stenovec. Producer: Paul Brennan.