Annual Report 2024/25

Annual report for the financial year 2024/25

Reliable, efficient, forward-looking

The 2024/25 financial year was once again marked by transformation, continuous optimisation and targeted further development – both operationally and strategically. Two perfectly timed snowfalls down to low altitudes – before Christmas and again just in time for the sports holidays – led to a strong start to the season and satisfactory capacity utilisation during the high season. The guests came – and we delivered: quality, experience and efficiency. In line with our motto ‘Make it work. Make it LAAX’, we tackle various challenges with pragmatism and drive. Where others see problems, we find solutions – and implement them consistently and with focus. This commitment to always making the best of every situation and pulling together as a team shapes our daily actions and is a key success factor for the Weisse Arena Group.

Strong growth in guest numbers and economic performance

With 1,092,191 first-time admissions, we significantly exceeded the already solid previous year’s figure (1,028,134). We also saw marked growth in the accommodation sector: Overnight stays rose to 177,980, representing growth of 11.6% compared with the previous year (159,482). This positive development is also reflected in our economic performance: our EBITDA reached CHF 26,492,326 – a clear increase over the previous year (CHF 23,984,336). Cash flow was CHF 24,107,195 (+15.8% compared to the previous year), which underlines our solid financial basis and confirms our ability to invest sustainably while maintaining stable operations.

Our focus on sustainable business practices remains unwavering. We keep a close eye on cost control and implement optimisation measures where they are most effective – based on data, across teams and with a strategic perspective. Targeted changes in the area of automation have been implemented to increase efficiency and service quality. We are also constantly developing our operational business. Processes are being refined, interfaces optimised and new technologies integrated in a meaningful way. In our service areas – accommodation, catering, rental, leisure activities and railways – we rely on a balanced mix of proven quality and innovative formats. This is how we create the experiences that define LAAX: authentic, progressive and reliable at the same time.

LAAX is and remains on the move – economically strong, structurally sound and culturally anchored. With vision, clarity and a strong team, we are continuing the success story of the Weisse Arena Group. In August 2024, the new, enlarged and improved Freestyle Academy was officially inaugurated. A milestone for LAAX and our consistent focus on freestyle. In December 2024, we put two further sections of the FlemXpress into operation. The Segnes and Nagens Sura sections complemented those already opened in 2023. The expansion presented us with new challenges, as the two new sections open up a multitude of new scenarios.

These projects mark a significant further development of the Weisse Arena Group’s infrastructure: the new Freestyle Academy has created an attractive, year-round leisure offering that particularly appeals to younger target groups. The expansion of the FlemXpress significantly improves the comfort and accessibility of the area and sets new standards in the cable car sector. The completion of the fourth construction phase of the rocksresort with the opening of two additional buildings strengthens the accommodation offering and underscores WAG’s commitment to providing a modern and high-quality holiday experience.

Outlook

For the coming financial year, our focus is clearly on the consistent continuation of organisational development. We are sharpening structures, strengthening responsibilities and promoting entrepreneurial thinking at all levels. In doing so, we are guided by the principle of ‘Reduce to the Max’ – clarity over complexity, impact over actionism. Our processes will be reviewed in a targeted manner and realigned where necessary – efficiently, digitally and user-oriented. We are optimising where it counts: at the core. This is precisely where our strategic lever for future growth lies. Growing at the core means strengthening our strengths – in infrastructure, service quality and guest experience.

A key project in this context is the further expansion of the FlemXpress: Construction of the fifth and final section from Segnes to Cassons is proceeding according to plan. The cable car will start operating in mid-August 2025, with full commissioning scheduled for December 2025. This will mark another milestone in the sustainable development of the area and at the same time strengthen our offering for summer and winter guests. For us, renewal is not a contradiction to consistency, but its logical continuation. With this in mind, we are actively shaping the future of the Weisse Arena Group – with a clear focus, high standards and the unconditional will to further position LAAX as a leading Alpine destination.

Our development as an organisation is reflected not only in figures, but above all in people. Building a strong employer brand is not a side project for us, but a strategic success factor. Because anyone who wants to strengthen LAAX as a destination needs teams with attitude, competence and passion. We invest specifically in culture, training and development – and create an environment that promotes entrepreneurial thinking and strengthens personal responsibility. For us, leadership does not start at the top, but with each individual. Our aim is to find, challenge and promote the best talent – so that we are ready tomorrow when it comes to making it work. Make it LAAX.

Supplementary management commentary

The 2024/25 financial year marks another step in the strategic and operational development of the Weisse Arena Group. The growth momentum in first-time admissions and overnight stays confirms the attractiveness of our offering. The positive development in EBITDA and cash flow underscores our economic strength. Our consistent focus on process quality, product innovation and operational efficiency is paying off in measurable terms. With the successful change in management, the organisation is ready to continue on this path with renewed energy. The clear strategic direction – reduction to the essentials, strengthening of core elements and bold renewal – forms the foundation for sustainable growth. LAAX proves once again that an Alpine destination can be economically strong, creatively bold and culturally authentic at the same time.

In the name of the management

Haempa Maissen