According to an annual report by Montagne Leaders, in partnership with Atout France and Domaines Skiables de France, the French ski industry injected €555 million into infrastructure during 2025. This figure, which mirrors the previous year's expenditure, remains 50% above the ten-year average, signaling a robust commitment to the future of mountain tourism.
As reported by PlanetSKI, these investments represent 32% of the sector's pre-tax turnover. This high level of reinvestment is a response to increasing economic and regulatory pressures. Data indicates that the cost of modern infrastructure, such as detachable chairlifts, has escalated at a faster rate than the price of lift passes, forcing operators to become more selective with their capital allocation.
Geographically, the Savoie region led the investment landscape with €230.26 million, followed by Haute-Savoie (€84m) and Isère (€80.16m). These high-altitude regions remain the focal point for consolidation and long-term growth.
While chairlifts and gondolas remain the largest expenditure category—accounting for half of the total investment—the nature of these projects is evolving. Of the 48 new installations identified, 50% are conveyor belts, highlighting a strategic shift toward beginner accessibility and customer base diversification. Furthermore, there has been a significant pivot toward 'reception buildings.' Spending on multi-service facilities, including restaurants, lockers, and guest service centers, has surged by 125% over the ten-year average, as resorts aim to capture revenue beyond the slopes.
Despite the optimism, industry leaders are concerned about the disparity between top-tier resorts and smaller, more vulnerable sites. Domaines Skiables de France has initiated a solidarity effort to support regions struggling to secure funding, aiming to prevent a widening gap in the industry. With 120,000 jobs dependent on the winter season and an estimated €12 billion in annual tourist spending, the stakes for these investments remain exceptionally high.
