Evaluating the performance drivers of French ski resorts: A hierarchical approach

This paper aims to analyse the operational performance of French ski resorts by using data envelopment analysis models. The findings show that the hierarchical category data envelopment analysis is more appropriate than the standard one as it takes into account heterogeneity. The impact of the business environment (size, ownership, elevation, and location) on performance level is assessed with efficiency scores that are significantly higher for smaller ski resorts, those that are public managed, and those located at medium elevations. In addition, the results highlight a statistical relation between ski resort location and performance. Finally, the implications of the results and future research perspectives are discussed.