Amer Sports is increasing its annual production of winter sports equipment through investments in Europe, with a new Nordic ski factory nearing completion in Bulgaria, while construction has started on an Alpine binding factory in Romania.
The Amer Sports winter sports portfolio includes Salomon, Atomic and Armada skis.
“We are excited to announce the upcoming full opening of a new ski factory in Bulgaria in the second half of this year,” the company said. “This expansion initiative is designed to support the ambitious growth plans of our brands and meet the growing demand from our consumers.”
Located in Asenovgrad, the new factory is Amer Sports’ second manufacturing plant in Bulgaria and the third in Europe. It is located 50 kilometers northeast of the company’s factory in Chepelare, Bulgaria, with full operational readiness expected in 2024.
“Our factory in Chepelare will exclusively focus on Alpine ski production, while the factory in Asenovgrad will specialize in Nordic skis,” the company stated. “Meanwhile, our ski factory in Altenmarkt, Austria, will continue producing high-end Alpine and Nordic skis. Furthermore, Altenmarkt continues to develop as a ski technology hub, pioneering new production processes, setting industry benchmarks and supplying components and raw materials to the other sites.”
In addition to the expansion in Bulgaria, Amer is preparing to build a new Alpine binding factory in Oradea, Romania. The company said it aims to reduce its dependence on third-party manufacturers through this strategic move.
“We will integrate Alpine binding manufacturing in Romania by transitioning from our current partnership model to a fully in-house Amer Sports production by 2025,” the company noted. “Our new facility will enable us to better fulfill the Alpine binding needs of our brands Salomon, Atomic and Armada.”
Stefan Leberbauer, SVP Winter Sports Operations at Amer Sports, added. “As Amer Sports expands its manufacturing footprint in Europe, we are driven by a steadfast commitment to fueling our brands’ growth ambitions. Our investment in in-house production underscores our dedication to quality and innovation, ensuring that our brands, including Salomon, Atomi, and Armada, continue to deliver excellence.”
Image courtesy Solomon
