FESI Report: Europe's Ski Industry Continues to Grow

Europe's ski industry keeps growing. This is the conclusion of the annual market report of the Federation of the European Sporting Goods Industry (FESI) on last winter.

Compared to winter 2017/18, sales figures for skis, ski bindings and ski boots rose by around 10 percent. This is a continuation of the progressive growth since 2016: almost 20 percent more ski sales were registered in 2019 than in 2016.

Sales increased particularly in Italy, Spain and Sweden. In the Czech Republic, too, FESI recorded a noticeably positive development.

In Germany, Austria, Sweden and Japan there was also a marked increase in sales of women's skis and ski boots.

According to the annual report, the United Kingdom is the only EU market to record a decline in sales. The report cites uncertainty due to the brexit and the weak Pound last winter as reasons for this.

Outside Europe, Canada in particular had "interesting growth" to show.

"“I am extremely pleased with these results, which are really encouraging. After several tough years, the ski industry is now back on track and I hope it will continue for the next few seasons," said René Harrer, Head of the FESI Winter Sports Working Group.

"Investments are paying off and that customers’ confidence is back," said Jérôme Pero, FESI Secretary General. "Women played a key role in boosting skis and ski equipment’s sales in various countries, meaning that the ski industry aims to be as inclusive as possible."