Challenging economic times and concerns over a likely drop in the number of tourists has led Intrawest to lay off staff across North America at its resorts.
Some of layoffs are at Whistler-Blackcomb.
“There are workforce reductions at Whistler-Blackcomb,” confirmed Intrawest spokesman Ian Galbraith this week.
Added Whistler-Blackcomb spokeswoman Christina Moore: “While
there have been a number of positions eliminated across the Intrawest network
of resorts, the impact on Whistler-Blackcomb is in fact minimal. The majority
of positions eliminated at Whistler-Blackcomb are in the form of vacant
positions that will now not be filled.
“In no way will the cuts impact the Guest Experience at
Whistler-Blackcomb.”
No numbers are available for any of the resorts affected. According to other media outlets there are also layoffs at the Steamboat ski area in Colorado.
Intrawest, based in Vancouver, owns 11 North American resorts and employs 22,000 workers.
“Like many companies in North America, Intrawest is not immune
in this current economic environment,” said a statement released by Galbraith
in explaining the layoffs.
“As such, we are taking the necessary steps to preserve our
ability to be competitive and ensure our future success. As part of this
process we have taken the difficult step of reducing and realigning our
workforce.
“Impacted employees have been offered access to outplacement
services to help in their transition. Although these are difficult decisions
for us, our vision remains consistent and we are committed to delivering
exceptional experiences for our guests, homeowners and employees.”
Galbraith said the layoffs were not in positions that would
affect guest experience.
He could not confirm that Whistler-Blackcomb vehicle use, and
the number of promotional passes handed out, was also to be cut back.
“Like every company out there we are taking a close look at our
bottom line,” said Galbraith.
Despite the sober news of the layoffs Galbraith said Intrawest
is firmly focused on delivering a great year for visitors and staff alike.
“The fact that we are opening a day early is fantastic and we
are looking forward to another great year,” he said.
“The Peak 2 Peak is coming and with the Olympics a year away I
think there is a buzz up there and there is a lot of interest up there.
“Our research has shown that if we can put together good
packaged products and offer a great experience, and arguably Whistler-Blackcomb
is one of the best in North America, people will still want to come. We see
that with season pass sales and vacation planning packages.”
Whistler-Blackcomb does not reveal its numbers for things such
as pass sales. But Stuart Rempel, senior vice president marketing and sales,
said: “…We're doing well and tracking well to plan.”
Tourism Whistler has been predicting that U.S. visits will be
down about 12 per cent this winter.
At a recent meeting the organization said it is working to
fight the trend by continuing with its long-term strategy to grow and diversify
Whistler’s markets, but concentrating on core markets with the highest return
on investment.
Actions include:
• increased focus on B.C., Canada, regional U.S., the U.K.,
Australia, Germany and Mexico;
• creating and promoting aggressive lift and accommodation
packages;
• promoting the additional value that comes with the exchange
rate;
• promoting Whistler’s strengths, including the 2010 alpine and Nordic venues, the Squamish-Lil’wat Cultural Centre and the Peak 2 Peak gondola.