What must the ski industry do to help preserve winter? Any predictions about March 2024?
Weather has been a challenge for some retailers the past few years. Certain parts of the northeast did not experience measurable snow for nearly two years which has affected inventory and participation. How has the ski season been compared to the last 2 or 3?
What does Elan believe are the key ingredients for a successful relationship with its retail partners and how has the supplier/retailer relationship evolved in recent years?
A: Our formula is pretty simple… We strive to be easy to work with, provide our partners with world-class products that look good and ski great at the right price, and have some fun in the process of doing business. Over the past few seasons, we’ve had to be adaptable in a changing landscape. For example, we’ve changed how we meet, thanks in part to COVID and a compressed buying season. Previously, meetings with our partners revolved around regional shows and trade shows. Now, we use a combination of virtual meetings and private showings to supplement the trade-show model. We’re a small team, with an experienced sales force that works hard to meet our supporters on their terms. It all goes back to our goal of being easy to work with.