Bidding War for Chapelco: A Pivotal Moment for Patagonia’s premier Ski Resort

The future of Chapelco, San Martín de los Andes’ renowned winter sports destination, hangs in the balance as the deadline approaches for companies vying for its 30-year concession. The offers are due Monday, April 28th, marking a critical juncture for the resort following the expiration of Nieves del Chapelco’s two-decade tenure, which concluded amidst legal disputes with the government of Rolando Figueroa on April 7th.

Among the contenders is Pica en Punta, affiliated with High Patagonia Cathedral of the Grupo Escalera, the entity currently managing the Catedral Alta Patagonia ski resort in Bariloche. This has raised concerns about potential market dominance.

Union Voices Rise: Protecting workers’ Rights Amidst Change

The prospect of a single entity controlling two major Patagonian ski resorts has ignited concerns among local trade unions.These unions, deeply familiar with the daily operations of Chapelco, are wary of potential monopolistic practices that could negatively impact their members.

If a single company manages the two main winter centers,it is not good,it would be a monopoly.

Ricardo Troncoso, General Secretary of Commerce of Neuquén

Troncoso’s statement underscores the apprehension surrounding the potential consolidation of power within the region’s winter tourism sector. The unions are persistent to safeguard the rights and benefits of their members during this transition.

Key Union Players in Chapelco’s Operation

Unions play a vital role in Chapelco’s operational ecosystem. the Association of Commerce Employees of Neuquén, representing over 400 workers, stands as the most meaningful union presence. Additionally, the Union of Gastronomic Hotel Workers of Patagonia Norte includes 90 members. A substantial number of independent contractors and monotributistas also contribute to the resort’s workforce, including approximately 150 ski instructors affiliated with the Chapelco Ski School, who operate under a separate pay structure.

Safeguarding Labor Agreements: A Non-Negotiable Stance

Troncoso emphasized the importance of maintaining the existing labor agreement, which clearly defines the roles and responsibilities of each worker, including site personnel, lift operators, and technical staff. The agreement also addresses the unique demands of working in a ski resort environment,providing compensation for high-season work,which often involves long hours without days off or holidays,and ensuring adequate clothing for the cold and rigorous mountain conditions.

Workers are keenly aware of the differences in negotiation dynamics at Catedral, where agreements between the union and concessionaire are perceived as less favorable. This awareness fuels their determination to protect the existing agreement at Chapelco.

The prevailing sentiment among workers is clear: The agreement is not touched.

Chapelco’s legacy: A history of Transitions

Despite the concerns, there is a sense of optimism that the transition will be smooth, drawing on the experience of previous administrative changes. The current labor agreement, established 25 years ago, has already navigated three private administrations. The initial operator was Telefónica Cooperativa, which managed the resort for a single year. Subsequently, Enrique Capozzolo, a businessman known for his relationship with Graciela Alfano in the 1980s, took over.The outgoing concessionaire is Juan Cruz Adrogué of Nieves del Chapelco.

A New Chapter for Chapelco: Bidding Process Underway

the Chapelco Ski Resort in San Martín de los Andes, a vital economic engine for the region, is on the cusp of a new era. As the bidding process for a new concessionaire unfolds, stakeholders are keenly aware of the significant investment required to maintain and enhance the resort’s appeal. The transition follows a period of uncertainty, with the provincial government stepping in to ensure a smooth handover.

The stakes are high.Chapelco isn’t just a ski resort; it’s a cornerstone of the local economy, notably during the winter months. Any disruption to its operations could have severe consequences for the town and its residents.

Labor Concerns and Assurances

Union leaders,like Troncoso from Zapala,are closely monitoring the situation,emphasizing the importance of maintaining existing labor conditions. Following government intervention, workers have been transferred to Neuquentur, the Provincial tourism Agency, under the same terms. The message is clear: any attempt to impose new, less favorable conditions will be met with resistance.

“The provincial government took possession and made the counterreloj inventory… That was fine, but if he who comes wants to impose other conditions we will not allow it,”

Troncoso, Union Leader

This firm stance reflects the deep-seated concerns about job security and fair treatment during the transition. The union’s priority is to protect the livelihoods of its members and ensure the continued smooth operation of the resort.

Gastronomic Sector Anticipates a Smooth Transition

Ovid Zúñiga, a prominent figure in the Bariloche gastronomic scene with influence extending to surrounding areas, anticipates a positive relationship with the incoming concessionaire. Unlike the situation at Cathedral, where hostel Chapelco has 90 members in eight hostels of the concession package, Zúñiga foresees no major issues.

“There is no inconvenience now with province or there will be with the new company,”

Ovid Zúñiga, Gastronomic Leader

Zúñiga’s optimism stems from established relationships within the industry, including a past connection with Roberto Trappa, the late founder of Via Bariloche, one of the companies reportedly interested in the concession. This positive outlook from a key player in the region’s hospitality sector suggests a willingness to collaborate and ensure a seamless transition.

Economic Impact and Future Prospects

The triumphant operation of Chapelco is crucial for San Martín de los andes. The new concessionaire will be responsible for significant investments to upgrade facilities and attract tourists. The economic benefits extend beyond the resort itself, impacting local businesses, employment rates, and the overall prosperity of the region.

As of 2024, tourism contributed approximately 10% to the GDP of Neuquén province, with winter sports playing a significant role. The ongoing development of Chapelco is therefore vital for sustaining and growing this economic pillar. The bidding process is not just about selecting a company; it’s about securing the future of a community.

Trappa Group’s Bid for Chapelco: A Controversial Move?

The Trappa Group, owners of Vía Bariloche, are reportedly among those vying for the Chapelco concession. This has sparked some debate, given the company’s history and the importance of Chapelco to the local economy.

Trappa Group | Patagonia: Who are the owners of Vía Bariloche who want to get on the tender of Chapelco

Francisco Aristo

— letter p (@pella_P) March 16, 2025

The selection process will undoubtedly be scrutinized to ensure transparency and fairness, given the potential impact on the region. The chosen concessionaire will not only manage the resort but also shape the future of san Martín de los Andes.

Chapelco’s Unique Labor Landscape

In the heart of Neuquén, Argentina, the Chapelco ski resort presents a distinct labor environment characterized by cooperation between unions. Unlike the broader national climate of labor disputes, a sense of harmony prevails, driven by the seasonal nature of employment and a shared interest in protecting worker rights.

The ski season in Chapelco is short, lasting only about 90 days. This brevity incentivizes workers to maintain their positions and avoid any actions that could jeopardize their employment. According to recent data from the Argentinian Ministry of Labor, seasonal employment accounts for approximately 15% of the workforce in tourist destinations like Chapelco, highlighting the importance of job security for these individuals.

There the work is only 90 days and nobody wants to lose even one. In addition, in Chapelco a skier audience predominates, of greater purchasing power than that of the cathedral. There is no problem with salaries or conditions, the company provides footwear and clothing suitable for work in difficult conditions.

Ovidio Zúñiga, Historic Union Leader

Zúñiga’s statement underscores the favorable working conditions in Chapelco, which contribute to the stability and satisfaction of the workforce. The resort’s clientele, primarily skiers with higher disposable incomes, further supports the economic viability of the region and the well-being of its employees.

Unions United Against Proposed Labor Reforms

Despite their internal harmony, the unions in Chapelco are closely monitoring proposed labor reforms by the government of President Javier Milei. These reforms, which aim to modernize Argentina’s labor laws, have sparked widespread concern among union leaders who fear they could undermine worker protections and job security.

While specific details of the proposed reforms remain under debate, key areas of contention include changes to severance pay, probationary periods, and the classification of temporary workers. Unions argue that these changes could lead to increased exploitation of workers and a weakening of collective bargaining power.

…taking the temporary worker, who works ten or more years ago there, as “new” already proves for six months, “it is a fan that does not go.” “It won’t happen in this case,” he warns.

Ovidio Zúñiga,Historic Union Leader

Zúñiga specifically criticizes the potential reclassification of long-term temporary workers as “new” employees,arguing that this would allow employers to circumvent existing labor laws and deny workers the benefits and protections they have earned over years of service. This stance reflects a broader concern among unions that the proposed reforms could create a two-tiered labor system, with some workers enjoying full rights and protections while others are relegated to precarious employment.

Looking Ahead: A Test of Labor Relations

The coming months will be crucial in determining the future of labor relations in Chapelco and throughout Argentina. As the government moves forward with its proposed reforms, unions are preparing to mount a strong defense of worker rights and to advocate for policies that promote fair and equitable employment practices.

The situation in Chapelco serves as a microcosm of the broader challenges facing the argentinian labor movement. While the resort’s unique circumstances have fostered a spirit of cooperation and stability, the looming threat of legislative changes could disrupt this harmony and force unions to take a more confrontational stance. The outcome of this struggle will have significant implications for workers across the country and for the future of Argentina’s economy.