INTERALPIN - It's all about innovation

INTERALPIN is the world's leading trade fair for alpine technologies. Every two years, key players and top executives from all business sectors meet in Innsbruck: the cable car and snow production industries, as well as ticketing, digitalization – and especially mountain safety. Insight Snowsports Magazine editor Martin Obermayr met with project manager Stefan Kleinlercher and discussed the development and significance of this specialized trade fair.

“Our aim is to present genuine world premieres, innovative technologies, and exciting approaches at every trade fair,” explains Kleinlercher. The Tyrolean first attended INTERALPIN in 1992, and since 2000, as project manager, he has gradually developed it into the leading global trade fair for all areas of mountain technology.

Stefan Kleinlercher, Interalpin

“The trade fair is an absolute must-attend event, not only for decision-makers from cable car companies: nowhere else can you find the industry gathered in such a concentrated form. It offers a unique opportunity for exchange and global networking – right in the heart of the Alps,” emphasizes Kleinlercher. Here he presents the four key elements of INTERALPIN’s successful concept:

Point 1: Sustainability

"The cable car and alpine technology sector has already set standards in this area in recent years: This involves both economic and social factors as well as climate and environmental protection. This year, sustainability and the associated solutions in the alpine sector are receiving particular attention."

We presented our first hybrid snow groomer back in 2017, and in 2019 our keynote address was on 'sustainability'. The problem is that many innovations don't reach the general public: for example, environmentally friendly lubricants for snow groomers or energy recovery from downhill cable cars. Or efficiency in water and energy consumption in snow production – that's a win-win situation because I conserve resources and save money at the same time.

Point 2: Innovations

“We stand for numerous world firsts and state-of-the-art technologies of the highest caliber. The first indoor ski slope in Dubai was finalized at our trade fair, and the first urban transport cable car in Medellín, Colombia, also originated in Innsbruck. We see ourselves as a platform for the concentration of ideas and a driving force for all technological sectors. Furthermore, we offer top-class keynotes, lectures, and sessions at the INTERALPIN INSPIRATION DAYS.”

Point 3: Networking

“Our core business is year-round alpine tourism and winter sports, but we receive inquiries from transport ministries all over the world: from Georgia to India to China. This is because the expertise of Austrian manufacturers and ski resorts is the global benchmark in many areas. And Innsbruck is an ideal hub: Kitzbühel, St. Moritz, Upper Bavaria and South Tyrol can be reached in one hour; many of the largest producers of alpine technology in two hours.”

Point 4: Safety in the mountains

"International specialists from all areas of safety, protection, and rescue meet here and exchange their experiences. Their fields of activity range from avalanche warning services to radio, call, and monitoring systems, from safety nets to rope testing solutions. It is no coincidence that China has adopted Austrian standards for rope testing as its own."

Sunkid conveyor belt

Doppelmayr gondola

Doppelmayr chairlift

Further information can be found at: www.interalpin.eu