This winter has been great for Ontario ski resorts, with plenty of snow and excited visitors on the slopes! While the weather boosted business, the ski industry is facing some issues behind the scenes. Rising costs, from labor to energy, are putting pressure on profit margins, requiring resorts to find fresh ways to stay competitive.
This winter is a dream for Ontario’s ski resorts. After a heavy snowfall yesterday, and with more expected over the weekend, resorts are expecting an increase in visitors and productivity. Kevin Nichol, president of the Ontario Snow Resorts Association, is happy with the season so far: “This season's been very good. It's a return to winter in Ontario,” he said, adding that the cold temperatures have allowed resorts to make plenty of snow and keep the ski slopes in great condition.
The fresh snow bringing back a large number of skiers and snowboarders. Nichol said that resorts are experiencing high visitor numbers, with people ready to enjoy the outdoors. "Natural snow and cold air really get people thinking about being outside in the winter," Nichol explained. “We want to encourage people to get fresh air, exercise, and make some great memories with friends and family."
While this season has been a success in terms of visitors and snow conditions, the ski industry is facing some challenges behind the scenes. A recent report from Statistics Canada released that while ski resorts hit a record in revenue in 2023, rising costs—especially for labor, energy, and insurance are pushing profits. Nichol confirmed this, noting, “Expenses are going up across the board, but we’re adapting by improving efficiency. We’ve invested heavily in new technologies like more efficient snowmaking machines, which help us manage costs.”
As climate conditions change, it becomes more challenging to rely only on natural snow. Nichol mentioned that modern snowmaking devices are significantly more efficient than those used 20 years ago. “We need cold temperatures to make snow, but once we’ve got a solid base down, that snow sticks around for a long time, even if the weather warms up,” he said.Thanks to advanced snowmaking technology, resorts can open earlier and stay open longer, that keeps visitors coming back throughout the season.
The good news is that visitors are showing up in big numbers. Many resorts are offering deals and events to attract even more skiers and snowboarders. “We’ve seen a lot of interest from families, which is great because skiing is something everyone can do together,” Nichol said. Special programs, early season discounts, and fun social activities are also helping to bring people to the slopes.
Despite growing costs, Ontario's ski resorts remain stable. According to Statistics Canada, Ontario's profit margins were between the highest in the country this year. This success is due to regular investments in equipment, visitor experiences, and infrastructure, that being paid off.
"People notice when you invest in making their experience better, and it keeps them coming back," Nichol said.
As the snow continues to fall and the temperatures keeps low, Ontario's ski season looks promising. With additional snow expected this weekend, Nichol is confident about how the season will go. "We’re having a record year, and it’s only February," he said, smiling. “There’s still lots of time for people to get out and enjoy the snow!”
With a lot of snow and plenty of winter fun ahead, Ontario’s ski resorts are ready to welcome even more visitors this season. The snowfall has created perfect conditions for skiing and snowboarding, and with more snow on the way, excitement is high. Whether you're a seasoned skier or trying it for the first time, this winter promises to be one to remember on Ontario’s slopes.
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