Ski and Snowboard News, Deals, and Events

Intrawest announced late today (Nov. 19, 2008) in a written statement it has "taken the difficult step of reducing and realigning our workforce."

Company spokesman Ian Galbraith, noting that Intrawest is hardly immune to the current economic environment in North America, wrote that the layoffs were necessary to "preserve our ability to be competitive and ensure our future success."

The number of employees affected and resorts where they worked was not released, but Galbraith wrote that those employees laid off are being offered outplacement services to help in their transition.

"Although these are difficult decisions for us, our vision remains consistent, and we are committed to delivering exceptional experiences for our guests, homeowners, and employees," he said.

Intrawest staved off bankruptcy filing at the 11^th hour last month when Fortress, its parent company, came up with the funding to keep the multi-resort company rolling.

Intrawest resorts include Blue Mt., Copper Mt., Mountain Creek, Panorama, Snowshoe, Steamboat, Stratton, Tremblant, Winter Park, and Whistler-Blackcomb.