A theoretical assessment of the international ski resort industry

Abstract: The purpose of this thesis is to assess the European and North American ski resort industries along a variety of theoretical frameworks. The objective is to determine the degree to which fit is attained between the various theories, and the realities of the modern day ski resort industry. Among the theories that will be discussed are J.-C. Spender’s industrial recipe theory, and more briefly, organizational contingency theory. Utilizing a case study approach, it will be determined how well the various theories describe the firms selected for this thesis, and whether the ski resort industry should be considered as a globally contiguous industry, or perhaps more accurately a regionally based assortment of “sub-industries”. This, in turn, will create a background with which to better understand the ski resort industry, and highlight some of its unique elements.