TravelMole
Operators

Rise in skiers booking through operators

Friday, 28 October 20113 min read

More than 80% of people book their snowsports holiday through a tour operator according to an industry report.

Despite an overall drop of 4% in the snowsports market, a 1% rise was seen in the number of bookings made through a tour operator, according to the Ski Club of Great Britain's annual Snowsports Analysis report.

The number of skiers and snowboarders travelling with tour operators has risen steadily by 5% since 2006/07.

Holidaymakers are attracted by the value for money and financial security of booking through a bonded operator.

The report has seen a drop in those booking independently or self-drive trips.

Caroline Stuart-Taylor, chief executive of the Ski Club, said: "Tour operators are innovating and adding value to their holidays in a number of ways – from introducing more all-inclusive packages, to offering deals on lift passes and free child places.”

The report also shows that Austria has increased its market share by 5% since 2007/08.

This is due to people seeking a more affordable destination and an increased capacity offered by tour operators to Austrian resorts.

By Diane Evans