A competition watchdog in Canada is urging increased efforts to prevent a monopoly in paid experiences within Alberta’s mountain parks following the acquisition of Jasper SkyTram by a U.S.-based company.
Pursuit Attractions and Hospitality finalized the $23.7-million purchase of the tram situated on Whistlers Mountain, which was previously under the ownership of the same company managing Marmot Basin ski resort.
Concerns were raised by private business operators prompting an investigation by the Competition Bureau in late 2024 when Viad Corp, now Pursuit, acquired the tram. In April, the bureau concluded that no further actions were warranted.
Keldon Bester, the executive director of the Canadian Anti-Monopoly Project, expressed worries over Pursuit’s ownership of private attractions in national parks, citing potential competition issues in the Rocky Mountain area. The project called on the federal government to reverse Pursuit’s previous acquisitions to prevent a monopoly in Banff and Jasper.
Pursuit operates various establishments globally, including hotels, attractions, restaurants, and lodges. In the national parks of Banff, Jasper, and Waterton Lakes, the company owns 11 hotels and manages multiple attractions such as the Banff Gondola, the Columbia Icefield Adventure, and cruises on Maligne and Minnewanka lakes.
Stuart Back, the chief operating officer of Pursuit’s Banff Jasper Collection, emphasized the company’s active involvement in local communities and strong relationships with neighboring businesses. Pursuit stated that over the past decade, it has generated 1,200 jobs in Alberta, reinvested Canadian profits into local operations, and raised $3 million for Jasper wildfire relief.
Bester acknowledged that Pursuit’s attractions could enhance the experience for individuals with accessibility needs who may not participate in free park activities but noted the associated higher costs. Concerns were raised about high barriers to entry and pricing power discussed by Pursuit, indicating potential interest from consumer advocates.
While the Competition Bureau did not identify competition-related issues during its review, Bester warned consumers about potential drawbacks of monopolies, including increased costs despite reduced quality and innovation. Bester also urged Parks Canada to promote competition effectively whenever private operators conduct activities within the parks.
He highlighted the importance of recognizing potential concerns even if not addressed by regulatory bodies.