All-inclusive resort operator Club Med found that 61% of people were more likely to book an all-inclusive property as the Brexit date of 31 October approaches – this was an increase of 190% on this time last year.
Club Med’s annual report, The Evolution of the Ski Market - 2019 and Beyond, also found the French Alps was still the most popular and best-value ski destination for UK consumers for the 2019/2020 season.
Despite Brexit and economic uncertainty, the majority of winter sports enthusiasts in the UK (59%) have booked at least two trips to the slopes during the past year.
However, consumers are now booking their ski breaks further in advance to protect themselves against currency fluctuations, with 41% booking between six months and a year before departure, and 38% booking more than a year before their trip.
Value for money was the main deciding factor when choosing a resort for 44% of people, followed by 22% who wanted all the amenities on-site and another 18% who looked for luxury accommodation.
In 2018, only 17% of those surveyed stayed in an all-inclusive resort but this has risen significantly to 29% this year.
Estelle Giraudeau, managing director UK and northern Europe at Club Med, said: “We are already seeing a growth in our customer base and people booking premium all-inclusive ski holidays for the coming winter with an increase of 11% in revenue compared to last year.
“Given the current socio-economic situation, it appears that more people than ever before are wanting to book this type of holiday and in the next two years, Club Med plans to open five resorts across Europe, North America and Asia.”
The report also looked at how technology will change the experience of skiing by 2050 with insights from futurologist Dr Ian Pearson including the use of virtual reality, augmented reality and “blended mixed” reality.
Pearson said wintersports clients could start using virtual reality to try out the skiing and snowboarding at a new resort before they travel. While the survey revealed more than 25% of people expect that skis will be able to change shape or friction under voice control.
