Create the Perfect Après-Ski Experience

Start With Your Resort Procurement Services

The winter holidays have passed, and the stage is set for the winter sports season. It’s now peak season for skiing, snowboarding, dining, and sitting by fires. That means that resort owners and operations managers still have time to perfect the winter traveler experience.

The best way to attract snow-bound guests? Maximize the après-ski experience for your customers. Access to the right resort procurement services will make the process it easier.

What Is Après Ski?

The idea of a relaxing social event after a day on the slopes originated in the French Alps in the 1950s, and caught fire in the 1960’s USA at places like Stowe in the beautiful green mountains of Vermont, when skiing was just gaining mainstream popularity. The term “après ski” refers to social time back at the resort or ski lodge after the lifts close and before dinnertime.

Now, many resort-goers consider après ski to be an essential part of each day’s vacation routine. It’s gained so much popularity that even the travelers who stay off the slopes partake in this tradition. Offering the space and activities for après ski is important if you want to become the top choice for winter sports enthusiasts.

Set the Scene

Après ski is all about coziness and comradery amongst the winter warriors. Your property should reflect that. Next time you’re adding furniture or décor to your resort procurement services plan, consider decorating with warm, rich browns and reds. You may also want to focus on soft lighting and fabric-covered furniture that is both comfy and firm. Extra points for soft throw blankets and rugs.

Make Your Ideal Menu

After a long day of down-hill adventure and exercise, many guests are craving refreshments. While après ski technically takes place before dinner, you’ll still likely want to offer a menu with food and drinks that will hold guests over until their evening meal. Think warm beverages and hearty snacks to share. That can mean a signature hot cocktail or a fondue appetizer.

Market Your Experience

The best way to gain attention for your après ski set up is to market it on social media and inside resort common areas. You can try strategies like:

Influencer-exclusive events that encourage posting about the experience.

Serving “Instagrammable” beverages and appetizers to encourage sharing.

Collaborating with your staff to create themed content highlighting the après ski atmosphere.

Promoting specials on internal signage or video screens, as well as in-room TV’s.

 

Online buzz is a great way to get visitors through your doors, even if they’re staying the night elsewhere.

Gear Up for a Successful Winter

Ready to update your après ski plan? Start by teaming up with your resort procurement services partner. Identifying products and services that make your property a cozy haven from the cold will go a long way to impressing your guests.

Speak with a Foodbuy Hospitality representative today to get started.