Issue No. 50: Ski Butlers Shreds East 🚚🎿
Hey, Outsiders! It’s the big 5-0 today, that’s right delivered fresh to your inbox is Issue No. 50 of Outsider Insider. Join us as we dive deep into the saga of Ski Butlers, a company that has not only left its tracks on the slopes but also paved the way for a new era of convenience in the skiing world. But before you glide off into this issue, we would like to thank you for being on this journey with us, giving us your eyeballs 👀 for a few minutes each week, and allowing us to expand your brain 🧠 with everything you need to know about the business of the outdoors. 🙏
Now, let’s go and hit the slopes with Ski Butlers! 🏂🎿🏔️🤙
— Scott Crowder
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⛷Ski Butlers: From Slopes to Shores - A Tale of Expansion 🚐
In the world of skiing, one company has been taking turns both on and off the slopes, and it's a story worth carving into.
💡Origin and Founding: Ski Butlers, founded in 2004 by Bryn Carey, started as a simple yet brilliant idea: delivering ski equipment rentals directly to customers' doorsteps. Think of it as the Uber Eats of the skiing world, but instead of your favorite meal, it's top-notch ski gear. Bryn Carey's brainchild solved the age-old ski rental hassle of waiting in long lines and schlepping gear from the rental shop to the mountain.
📈 Growth and Innovation: Ski Butlers quickly gained traction, thanks to its commitment to convenience and customer service. As the company continued to grow, it expanded its reach to over 50 of the most renowned ski destinations in North America. Their secret sauce? A team of dedicated ski concierges who know the local terrain like the back of their gloved hand who deliver equipment to guest accommodations for a fitting at a date and time selected by the guest.
💰 Acquisition by Alterra Mountain Company: Fast forward to 2022, and Ski Butlers was ready to take its game to the next level. Enter Alterra Mountain Company, the powerhouse behind iconic resorts like Steamboat and Mammoth Mountain and the Ikon Pass. Alterra recognized the potential in Ski Butlers' innovative approach to ski rentals and acquired the company, bringing its expertise and resources to the table.
➡️ East Coast Expansion: But that's not where the Ski Butlers story ends. In a recent move that has ski enthusiasts buzzing, Ski Butlers decided to conquer new horizons – the East Coast. While the Rockies and the Sierra Nevadas have been their stomping grounds, the company's expansion to the East Coast, as reported by Unofficial Networks, signals a bold new chapter.
The expansion brings Ski Butlers' renowned service to the snow-capped peaks of the East, offering skiers and riders on the Atlantic side the same level of convenience and expertise that their Western counterparts have enjoyed for years.
So, what's the takeaway here? Ski Butlers is a shining example of how innovation and a relentless commitment to customer experience can revolutionize an industry. From its humble beginnings to being acquired by a mountain resort giant and now setting its sights on the East Coast, Ski Butlers continues to redefine what it means to hit the slopes with style and convenience.
Business, Industry, & Economy:
🚴 Loge Camps and Specialized Bikes: Loge Camps and Specialized Bikes are teaming up to bring the thrill of mountain biking and comfort cycling to Loge Hotel properties. This partnership promises a new level of outdoor adventure and relaxation for guests, reflecting the growing demand for unique and active hotel experiences.
🏹 Vista Outdoor's Spinoff Strategy Takes Aim at Growth: Vista Outdoor's spinoff company is setting its sights on a strategic acquisition approach. This move not only outlines a roadmap for the new entity but also underscores the evolving landscape of brands and retailers in the outdoor industry. As the spinoff takes shape, it's poised to make waves in the market and reshape the outdoor adventure scene.
🚐 RVBusiness Announces Top 50 Dealer Award Winners for 2023: RVBusiness has unveiled its prestigious Top 50 Dealer Award winners for 2023, shining a spotlight on excellence in the RV industry. This recognition not only honors outstanding dealers but also reflects the resilience and innovation within the recreational vehicle market, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of outdoor travel and adventure.
🏔️ Big Bear Mountain Resort - $12 Million Investment for '23/'24 Season: After a record-setting winter and the addition of Snow Valley to the Big Bear Mountain Resort family, Southern California's premier outdoor adventure destination is making waves with a $12 million investment across its three mountains: Snow Valley, Snow Summit, and Bear Mountain. This substantial commitment is set to revamp existing infrastructure, introduce new amenities, and elevate the overall guest experience.
👞 Birkenstock's IPO Filing: A Step Forward for US Equities Market: Birkenstock, the iconic footwear brand, has made a significant stride by filing for an initial public offering (IPO). This move not only marks a milestone for the company but also signals continued confidence in the US equities market. It's a testament to the enduring popularity of Birkenstock's comfort and style, as well as a positive sign for the broader retail sector.
🏞️ Workers at Vertical Endeavors Seek Unionization: Employees at Vertical Endeavors are making strides toward unionizing. This movement within the climbing industry raises important questions about workplace conditions and the growing emphasis on workers' rights in the outdoor sector. As the climbing community keeps a close eye on this situation, it may mark a turning point in labor dynamics in the vertical world.
📈 State of the Outdoor Market in 2023 Q3: The Outdoor Industry Association's latest report provides exclusive insights into the state of the outdoor market for the third quarter of 2023. This data-driven analysis sheds light on emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in the industry. It's a must-read for anyone looking to navigate the evolving landscape of outdoor business.
🎒 Cotopaxi's New CEO, Damien Huang, on Taking Charge: In an exclusive interview, Cotopaxi's new CEO, Damien Huang, discusses his vision for the brand and his journey taking the reins. This conversation provides a glimpse into the strategies and innovations that Cotopaxi has in store, giving outdoor enthusiasts a sneak peek into what's next for this beloved outdoor brand.
🚴 Jose Maldonado Takes the Helm as CMO of PeopleForBikes: In a strategic move, PeopleForBikes has appointed Jose Maldonado as its new Chief Marketing Officer. This signals a shift in focus towards strengthening advocacy for cycling and promoting the benefits of pedal power. Maldonado's expertise is set to accelerate the organization's mission to make biking better for everyone.
🌄 Outdoor Retailer's Bold New Format for 2024: Outdoor Retailer is gearing up for a fresh adventure in 2024 with its revamped format, Outdoor Adventure X. This transformation promises to reshape the landscape of outdoor trade shows, catering to a broader range of outdoor enthusiasts and industry players. It's a bold move to keep the outdoors industry dynamic and responsive to changing consumer demands.
♻️ REI's Recommerce and Returns Strategy Unveiled: In a candid conversation with REI, they spill the beans on their innovative approach to recommerce and returns. It's not just about selling products; it's about reducing environmental impact and building a sustainable retail ecosystem. This retail giant's commitment to responsible consumerism sets a new standard for the industry.
🏔️ Patagonia's 50-Year Journey: Doing Good While Making Money: Fast Company takes us on a retrospective tour of Patagonia's 50-year legacy. Beyond making outdoor gear, this iconic brand's ethos revolves around environmental activism and ethical business practices. It's a lesson in how "doing the right thing" can be a long-term strategy for both profitability and positive change.
❄️ Winter Park's Exclusive Early Access Program: Yahoo Sports dishes the scoop on Winter Park's early access program, letting snow enthusiasts hit the slopes before the crowds. It's more than just a perk; it's a strategy to enhance the skiing experience and build brand loyalty. As ski resorts adapt to changing trends, this move could set the pace for the future of winter sports.
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Sustainability, Conservation, & Environment:
🍏 Apple's Sustainability Push Takes Center Stage with Octavia Spencer: Apple is turning heads with its latest sustainability ad featuring actress Octavia Spencer. The tech giant's commitment to eco-consciousness and renewable energy sources is on full display in this star-studded campaign. It's a reminder that big players in tech are using their influence to inspire eco-friendly practices, and the power of storytelling can motivate change.
🌿 Innovative Farming Approach in England: The Nature Conservancy is rewriting the rules of farming to benefit both nature and agriculture. Their pioneering efforts in sustainable farming are a testament to the potential for harmonious coexistence between humans and the environment. This approach not only preserves biodiversity but also showcases the innovative solutions required to address the planet's growing ecological challenges.
🌎 Bezos' Earth Fund Commits $10 Billion to Forest Conservation: Jeff Bezos, the billionaire behind Amazon, is opening his wallet wide to save the world's forests. His Earth Fund is injecting a colossal $10 billion into the fight against deforestation, aiming to preserve these critical ecosystems. This move underscores the private sector's increasing role in environmental conservation and highlights the urgency of protecting our planet's green lungs.
🤐 Brands' Silence on Sustainability Speaks Volumes: While sustainability has become a buzzword, some brands are mysteriously tight-lipped about their eco-efforts. Marketing Week dives deep into the trend of "greenhushing," revealing that for some companies, actions might speak louder than words. This silence raises questions about genuine commitment versus greenwashing, urging consumers to look beyond the surface and demand transparency from their favorite brands.
🏞️ Sierra Club's Ongoing Eco Efforts: The Sierra Club, a longstanding champion of environmental causes, is far from resting on its laurels. In the latest Sierra magazine, their ongoing eco-initiatives take center stage. From protecting wilderness areas to advocating for clean energy, the Sierra Club showcases its commitment to driving meaningful change. It's a reminder that environmental progress requires persistent dedication and grassroots activism.
Health, Wellness, & Fitness:
🚴 Empowering Workouts: Peloton's "Yes, I Can" campaign taps into the motivational power of affirmations in fitness journeys. By emphasizing the mental aspect of exercise and encouraging users to believe in themselves, it's a smart move to connect with their fitness community on a deeper level.
🤖 AI in Fitness: Forbes delves into the capabilities and challenges of AI-enabled fitness applications, shedding light on the evolving landscape of fitness technology. As AI continues to transform the industry, it presents exciting opportunities for personalized workouts and data-driven fitness, while also raising important questions about data privacy and ethical considerations.
🏞️ Outdoor Recreation Surge: The Colorado Sun highlights the record-breaking increase in outdoor recreation participation in 2022. However, the article also sheds light on a concerning trend: despite these high numbers, young families are not going outdoors as often as desired. This decline in outings, even with the help of Colorado programs aimed at reducing barriers to outdoor access, raises important questions about how to encourage more frequent outdoor engagement among families.
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion:
🌈 Fitness for All: The fitness industry is making notable strides towards LGBTQ+ inclusion, acknowledging the importance of creating welcoming and supportive environments for athletes of all backgrounds. This progress not only fosters diversity and inclusivity but also helps strengthen the industry by expanding its reach to a broader audience.
🎿 Breaking Boundaries: The announcement of an all-women ski film tour represents a significant shift in the traditionally male-dominated ski industry. By featuring and celebrating female athletes, this tour not only empowers women in sports but also encourages more inclusivity and gender diversity within the skiing community.
🚡 Inclusive Slopes: Vail Resorts' initiative to decorate gondolas with messages of inclusion sends a powerful message about the importance of diversity in outdoor recreation. Beyond the aesthetic aspect, it's a step towards creating a more welcoming environment for all visitors, regardless of their backgrounds, at popular ski destinations.
🏞️ Outdoors for Everyone: The Reeve Foundation's "Outdoors for Everyone" initiative is a commendable effort to make outdoor activities more accessible to individuals with mobility challenges. Promoting inclusivity and improving accessibility, it not only enriches the lives of those directly impacted but also raises awareness about the importance of ensuring nature is enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their physical abilities.
Government, Grants, & Policy:
🏞️ National Parks at Risk: Bloomberg Government delves into the looming threat of a potential government shutdown during peak fall season raises concerns for the nation's treasured national parks. This situation underscores the importance of stable funding and management for preserving these natural wonders and ensuring access for visitors.
🌲 Massachusetts' Outdoor Vision: The appointment of Massachusetts' first outdoor recreation director underscores the state's commitment to enhancing its outdoor offerings. With a focus on beaches, trails, camping, and more, this initiative aims to elevate the outdoor experience for residents and visitors alike, aligning with the growing importance of outdoor recreation.
🌾 Wetland Conservation Boost: The Interior Department's announcement of over $506 million in wetland conservation projects highlights the ongoing efforts to protect vital ecosystems. This significant investment reflects the recognition of wetlands' critical role in biodiversity, carbon storage, and resilience against climate change.
🚓 Unified Law Enforcement: Utah's Department of Natural Resources' decision to merge its law enforcement agencies marks a strategic move to streamline operations and enhance conservation efforts. This consolidation aims to create a more efficient and coordinated approach to protecting the state's natural resources and outdoor spaces.
🌆 Car-Free Lessons: Fast Company showcases a Spanish city's 24-year journey of restricting cars which offers valuable insights into sustainable urban planning. This case study highlights the benefits of prioritizing pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport to create healthier and more livable cities.
Travel, Tourism, & Hospitality:
🏔️ Mountain Destinations' Summer Blues: Western mountain destinations are experiencing a dip in summer occupancy, reflecting changing travel patterns and challenges faced by these regions. The decline highlights the need for adaptability and creative solutions to attract visitors beyond the traditional winter season.
🌄 Redefining Adventure: Outbound Hotels is reshaping adventure travel in America's great outdoor destinations. Their innovative approach emphasizes sustainable and immersive experiences, aligning with the evolving preferences of travelers looking for memorable outdoor adventures while also promoting responsible tourism.
Products, Gear, & Gadgets:
🌊 Eco-Friendly Surfing: Patagonia's release of a neoprene-free Yulex BioRubber wetsuit reflects a growing trend in eco-conscious surf gear. This innovation not only enhances performance but also aligns with the company's commitment to sustainability, catering to surfers who prioritize environmentally friendly products.
🚐 Airstream's New Offerings: Airstream's introduction of a new Class B camper van and updated Trade Wind travel trailer showcases the brand's dedication to providing quality outdoor travel solutions. These offerings come at a time when outdoor enthusiasts are increasingly seeking comfortable and convenient ways to explore the great outdoors, highlighting the company's understanding of evolving market needs.
🏆 Celebrating the Outdoors: Outside Online's awards recognize outstanding achievements and contributions to the outdoor community. This celebration of individuals, organizations, and innovations in the outdoor industry not only acknowledges excellence but also encourages further advancements in outdoor recreation, conservation, and exploration. It serves as a reminder of the diverse and dynamic nature of the outdoor world.
🌱 Eco-Friendly Sleep: REI highlights NEMO Equipment's fully recyclable sleeping bag, making it a hit with environmentally-conscious outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative gear aligns with sustainable trends in the outdoor industry, emphasizing the growing importance of eco-friendly products in the market.
🎿 Chairlift Auction: Breckenridge Ski Resort's decision to auction off chairs from its former 5 Chair lift adds a nostalgic touch to the resort's transformation. It not only allows skiing enthusiasts to own a piece of history but also serves as a creative approach to repurposing old equipment, showcasing the resort's commitment to sustainability and memorable experiences.
❄️ Sustainable Snowboarding: The unveiling of new eco-friendly snowboard bindings reflects the industry's growing focus on sustainability. This innovation caters to environmentally-conscious riders, highlighting the need for sustainable practices and products in snow sports. As the outdoor community increasingly prioritizes eco-friendliness, such innovations are likely to gain traction.
📽️ REI Film Release: REI Co-op Studios' celebration of new co-produced films for fall offers outdoor enthusiasts captivating content. These films not only entertain but also inspire adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. In an age where digital media plays a significant role in outdoor engagement, REI's investment in film production aligns with their mission to connect people with the outdoors through storytelling.
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