Is the Ski Industry Cracking? Insights from Park City's Bold Strike

In case you were too busy skiing, playing pool, or indulging in chocolate truffles while binge-watching classics, something remarkable happened at a Vail-owned resort in Park City, Utah. Ski patrollers went on strike, effectively shutting down the resort and turning many customers against Vail while they fought for better pay.

A Rare Event in Ski History

When was the last time a significant strike occurred in the ski industry? It's a rarity, especially in a sector dominated by a few major players. Vail Resorts and its competitors have changed the skiing landscape, especially with the introduction of the Epic Pass, which has altered how skiing is marketed.

The Epic Pass Model

This model allows Vail to advertise aggressively, securing a substantial cash influx before the season even starts. While customers feel like they're getting a deal, this model relies on maximizing slope usage and minimizing costs, including labor expenses, leading to a precarious balance.

Park City ski patrollers strike in their quest for livable wages in Park City, Utah, on Jan 7.

The Impact of the Strike

Recently, the bold action taken by Park City ski patrollers resulted in 80% of the terrain being closed. This strike highlights the risk skiers face when relying on replacement patrollers unfamiliar with the mountain. As a ski instructor, I appreciate the essential role these patrollers play in ensuring safety on the slopes.

The Challenges of Running a Ski Resort

Every CEO faces the challenge of balancing the needs of owners, employees, and customers. While I respect Aspen Skiing Company, I've noticed a trend towards seeking small savings that could ultimately impact employee satisfaction. Pay for ski instructors should be increased, and additional benefits like free ski tuning and massages after shifts would greatly enhance morale.

The Bigger Picture

The strike at Park City underscores a critical issue: when the ski industry model relies on low labor costs, strikes can pose a serious threat. Local political leaders have struggled to address the affordability crisis, making it difficult for workers to live near their jobs. As spending power decreases, ski resorts risk losing essential staff needed for operations.

Vail's response to the strike may be a sign of more changes coming to the ski industry, as it grapples with the tension between profitability and employee welfare.