ISPO Visitor Spotlight: Meet Julien Gauthier
Image credit:
CLS - Ski Company
INTERVIEW/11/25/2025

"ISPO is the one place where I can truly take the pulse of the European market."

Julien Gauthier, CEO CLS - Ski Company
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For Julien Gauthier from France, ISPO is anything but new territory. With 25 years of ISPO experience, the CLS – Ski Company representative returns once again to Munich to reconnect with the European market, spot emerging trends, and meet industry peers from across the continent.

In this ISPO Visitor Spotlight, Julien shares what keeps him coming back, what he’s most excited about, and why ISPO remains such a valuable touchpoint for the ski and rental ecosystem.

Get to know Facts: Julien Gauthier

🇫🇷 Country: France
 🏔️ Company / Brand: CLS – Ski Company (SKISET, SKIMIUM, NETSKI rental networks)
 🔁 ISPO Experience: Around 25 years
 🎯 Focus for ISPO 2025: Trends & Networking
 💬 Top Goal: Take the pulse of the market and meet people from different countries
 🎉 Social Plan: Dinners & parties
 💡 Visitor Tip: ISPO is an unmatched chance to see what’s happening outside your own territory and to learn from peers across Europe

ISPO.com: What are you looking forward to most at ISPO 2025?

Julien Gauthier: Trends and networking. I’m particularly interested in observing how different markets are evolving and seeing which innovations are gaining traction this year.

Go early to get enough rest or dance at the stand parties?

Julien: I’ll participate in some dinners and parties. It’s always a good mix of business and fun, and it’s a great way to connect with people in a more informal setting.

Why are you coming to ISPO 2025?

Julien: It’s an opportunity to meet people from different countries with whom I usually have fewer chances to talk. I want to observe trends, take the pulse of the market, and get insights that help me stay updated across the European landscape.

Is this your first time at ISPO?

Julien: No, I’ve been traveling to ISPO for about 25 years. Each year is slightly different, and it’s fascinating to see how the event and the industry evolve over time.

Why do you keep coming back?

Julien: There aren’t many opportunities to stay connected to the European market. It’s always interesting to hear what’s happening in different countries and to compare strategies and trends across regions.

Which brand or company are you representing?

Julien: CLS – Ski Company, including the SKISET, SKIMIUM, and NETSKI rental networks. I focus on maintaining strong relationships with partners and exploring potential collaborations within the European ski industry.

What do you expect or hope to get out of ISPO 2025?

Julien: Trends are the main reason to come. I also hope to gather information that helps my company anticipate changes in consumer behavior and market developments.

Julien Gauthier CEO, CLS-Ski Company, 1200 Bergsportgeschäfte in FR, CH, IT & AT
Gauthier says that he keeps returning to ISPO after 25 years because it remains a rare chance to stay connected to the European market and build strong industry partnerships.
Image credit:
CLS - Ski Company

What kind of inspiration are you looking for?

Julien: Business and networking. I’m looking to learn from other entrepreneurs and companies about their approaches to challenges, as well as to discover potential new collaborations.

Who do you want to meet here?

Julien: People from different countries. I’ve already scheduled some meetings, but I also leave time open to engage in spontaneous encounters that often turn out to be very valuable.

How do you use ISPO to expand your network?

Julien: By attending meetings, conferences, and events such as dinners and parties. These moments provide excellent opportunities to discuss ideas in depth and strengthen professional relationships.

Is there a specific program, workshop, or event you’re looking forward to?

Julien: As mentioned above. I focus on sessions and networking opportunities that give me insights into trends and allow for meaningful interactions with industry colleagues.

What would you say is the highlight of ISPO for you?

Julien: The chance to connect with people from across different markets. It’s always exciting to exchange ideas and experiences, and these interactions often inspire new initiatives and collaborations.

What tips would you give other visitors?

Julien: Coming to ISPO is an incomparable opportunity to see what’s happening outside your own territory and to exchange ideas with other entrepreneurs. Take the time to speak to as many people as possible and stay open to unexpected conversations – you never know where inspiration will come from.

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