Location Brochure Economic Region Schladming 2014

Location Brochure 

Economic Region Schladming 2014 

1 st Edition 

January 2014

We thank in particular the tourist association Schladming-Rohrmoos, the Schladming- 

Dachstein Tourismusmarketing GmbH, the municipality of Schladming and Peter 

Travniczek, MBA for the diligent revision, for the many suggestions, and for providing 

the data for the design of the location brochure. 

An initiative of the 

The present document is directed towards all organizations, hotel-, conference- and 

congress guests, travel and congress operators, real estate agencies and funds, 

institutional and private investors, banks, business companies, industry, culture, sports 

and science, both within and outside the Schladming region. You may use this document 

and also the appurtenant website www.schladming2030.at in order to learn more about 

“Location Schladming”, the future we strive for, our visions and our goals for 

sustainability, as well as how we intend to realize these visions.

01 Portrait of the Location ........................................................................................ 2 

02 Location Facts and Figures ..................................................................................... 4 

Historic Milestones ....................................................................................................................................................... 4 

03 Economy, Work, Innovation and Tourism ................................................................... 6 

Economy and Work ....................................................................................................................................................... 6 

Basic Structure of the economic- and labour market ................................................................................................... 7 

Economic Infrastructure ............................................................................................................................................... 8 

Regional Development and the Commercial and Living Environment ....................................................................... 10 

Innovation and Progress ............................................................................................................................................. 11 

Sample of regional businesses (based on sales volume and number of employees, AMS Regional Profile 2012) .... 12 

Tourism Economy ....................................................................................................................................................... 14 

04 Recreation, Society, Sport and Culture ................................................................... 18 

Special and Popular Events ......................................................................................................................................... 20 

FIS Alpine Ski Weltmeisterschaften 2013 ................................................................................................................... 20 

Special Olympics World Winter Games ...................................................................................................................... 21 

„THE Night Race“ ........................................................................................................................................................ 21 

Annual Events ............................................................................................................................................................. 22 

Flawless Quality of Life ............................................................................................................................................... 23 

05 Education, Further Education and Family ................................................................ 24 

Intelligent Initiatives and Support Programs .............................................................................................................. 25 

06 Regional Consciousness on the Pulse of the Times ...................................................... 26 

The model region offers: ............................................................................................................................................. 26 

Balance between Globalization and Localization ...................................................................................................... 28 

Recognizing the signs of the times – pursuing trends and goals ................................................................................ 29 

07 The Mission & Work of Schladming 2030 GmbH .......................................................... 30 

Additional Information ................................................................................................................................................ 31 

Local Institutions and Infrastructure ........................................................................................................................... 32 

Interactive City map of Schladming: ........................................................................................................................... 33

©Martin Huber

01 Portrait of the Location 

1 

Foreword from Mayor Jürgen Winter 

Mayor of the Borough of Schladming 

“No man that does not see visions will ever realize any high hope or 

undertake any high enterprise!” 

(Thomas Woodrow Wilson) 

Progressive and open to innovation, 

coupled with a consistent presence, yet one 

that is amenable to compromise – 

characteristics that have left their clear 

stamp on Schladming, and not merely in 

recent decades. Schladming not only lies on 

the geographical and geological seam 

between the Limestone and Central Alps, it 

is also located on the historical one between 

Germanic and Slavic settlement. Very much 

shaped by tourism, Schladming represents an 

interface between recreation and 

commerce, especially when it comes to the 

service sector. By hosting the FIS Alpine Ski 

World Championships in 1982 and 2013, the 

historical mountain town of Schladming 

attained international significance, now 

counted amongst the top tourism regions in 

Austria. It is above all the region’s 

pioneering spirit, constantly striving for ever 

greater goals, that is responsible for its 

future-oriented development. So it was, for 

example, that Schladming became the 

trailblazer in snowmaking, creating the very first blanket snowmaking coverage in the Central 

Alps. Also in the field of information technology, Schladming distinguished itself as one of the 

first towns in the Alpine world to introduce cable television and initiated the first public, 

comprehensive WLAN in a tourist area. The Schladming-Dachstein region gives visions and ideas 

the space they need in order to be successful. 

Schladming, “the town in the Alps”, is distinguished by its hospitable and self-assured 

people, its special dynamism and its unique ambience.


2 


Schladming, the historical mountain town with a young spirit, is today the epitome of 

sports, culture, nature and shopping experiences. Schladming is well known as the host of 

countless major events such as the Alpine Ski World Championships in 1982 and 2013, 

the annual Nightrace Ski World Cup event, the Mountain Bike World Cup and the Special 

Olympics 1993 and 2017. 

Located centrally in Austria, the ski mountains of the Schladming-Dachstein region and 

Ramsau offer everything needed for a perfect vacation. The natural beauty of the region 

never fails to impress. The wealth of hiking opportunities and broadest range imaginable of 

recreational and sporting activities make the region a popular and attractive year-round 

holiday destination. Culturally, in addition to authentic folk traditions, the region offers 

numerous cultural events such as the “Mid Europe” music festival and big open-air pop 

concerts. The region occupies a special place in the hearts of all the people who live and 

work here, or who just happen to be enjoying a few days of vacation in this beautiful place 

we are so proud to call “home”. Hand in hand, we will be able to continue our success as 

one of the most beautiful nature and recreation areas in all of Austria, long into a 

sustainable future. The harmonious interplay between the region’s local citizens, partners, 

guests, politics, business and interest groups is essential for the realization of our vision. 

We invite you to accompany us on our journey


3 

Location 

Schladming – the town in the Alps – is nestled between the limestone reefs of the 

Dachstein Massif and the Schladminger Tauern in the Schladming-Dachstein region. 

Austria’s surrounding commercial centers and international transit hubs are within two 

hours’ drive of here (Salzburg, Linz, Graz, Klagenfurt - Villach) 

Brand Image 

The region is, amongst other things, one of the most popular vacation destinations in 

the country, and stands for innovation, progress, tolerance and integration in every 

regard. Pioneering spirit and visionary thinking find the space here to grow into 

something even bigger. 

Innovationen 

As a historical mountain town and one of three silver-mining towns, even in very early 

times Schladming was an Alpine centre for technological and societal innovation. 

Continual technological innovations in information technology regularly bring 

international projects into the region. 

Aside from innovations in technology, the region set new standards above all in the 

tourism service sector. The introduction of the Schladming-Dachstein Sommercard as 

well as “Experience Dachstein”, with its numerous attractions, is just a couple of 

examples of the regional pioneering spirit. 

Vision 

Schladming as one of the leading year-round Alpine tourism destinations, boasting the 

greatest breadth of economic, social and ecological opportunities and choices, thus 

promising optimal fringe conditions for investors in the field of technology, 

environment, education, research and development.

02 Location Facts and Figures 

4 


Historic Milestones 

1180 – First chronicled as „Slaebnich“ 

1322 – First town charter granted 

1408 – Schladming miner’s rights first put 

to paper 

1525 – Peasant rebellion and loss of town 

charter 

1530 – Reconstruction and market 

charter 

1875 – Railway connection completed 

1925 – second town charter granted 

1973 – First World Cup race 

1982 – FIS Alpine Ski World Championships 

1993 – X Special Olympics World Winter 

Games (1 st time in Europe) 

1998 – Completion of the ski circuit 

2001 – Joined Amadé ski alliance 

2013 – FIS Alpine Ski World Championships 

2017 – XV Special Olympics World 

Winter Games (2 nd time in Europe) 

Facts and Figures (2013) SCHLADMING KLEINREGION 

Total area 10,33 km² 425,63 km² 

Inhabitants 4335 13063 

Population density 421 EW / km² 30,65 EW / km² 

Public division 

7 communes 

Sea level 745 m 694 m - 1135 m 

SEX (2011) 

Female 2312 52,14% 6660 50,96% 

Male 2122 47,86% 6410 49,04% 

Migration Background (2012) 

EU 27 MEMBERSTATES 233 39,63% 578 52,36% 

THIRD-PARTY STATES 355 60,37% 526 47,64% 

TOTAL 588 100,00% 1104 100,00%


5 

Schladming as a part of the Micro-Region called “Kleinregion Schladming” 

7 communities have joined forces as part of the Schladming micro-region to promote 

cooperation, collaboration and mutual support. The micro-region is distinguished by its 

unique natural features, while at the same time ascribing major importance to its economy. 

High educational quality, a functioning social network, well-structured waste management 

and the micro-region as a flourishing tourism destination add the finishing touches to the 

overall picture. The local population has deep ties to nature and is very tradition-conscious, 

and at the same time very open to innovations. The community per se plays a vital role, 

trying ever more intensively to define, plan and implement new projects together within the 

Schladming micro-region. 

Schladming boasts above average living standards. Furthermore, the region scores high 

points with its numerous recreational opportunities and an excellent balance between work 

and life, something that is gaining ever greater importance in the modern world of work and 

the economy. Furthermore, Schladming is demonstrating considerable growth dynamism, 

market presence and a clear focus on sustainability, and is constantly striving to optimize 

the quality of products.

03 Economy, Work, Innovation and Tourism 

6 


Economy and Work 

The Schladming Region is a strong location for business, which is also anchored and 

networked internationally through the efforts of congress Schladming. Our region is 

characterized by dynamic, advanced enterprises (SMB´s = small and midsize businesses), for 

whom the interest and willingness to play a dedicated part in this development is treated as 

a top priority. For the future, the creation of economic networks and pools of creative 

entrepreneurs is expected to further strengthen the economic dynamics. A broad circle of 

active entrepreneurs meets at regular intervals in order to develop viable measures and 

solutions for all questions pertaining to the economic future of the micro-region. 

Economy and Work (2011) SCHLADMING KLEINREGION 

Labour force 2106 6270 

Self employed 265 1195 

Employed 1841 5075 

Out of labour force 2140 6215 

Unemployed 188 8,93% 585 9,54% 

Employment by sectors 

Primary sector 94 4,46% 404 6,44% 

Secondary sector 510 24,22% 1488 23,73% 

Tertiary sector 1502 71,32% 4376 69,79% 

Work places by sectors (2001) 425 1182 

Primary sector 30 71 

Secondary sector 25 54 

Tertiary sector 370 1057


7 

Basic Structure of the economic- and labour market 

 

The development of population figures 

in Schladming as well as the region is 

expected to be stable to positive until 

2030. By 2030, Schladming expects 

4700 town residents and ca. 13,500 for 

the region in total. 

For the Alpine Ski World 

Championships 2013, around € 400 

million was sustainably invested in the 

region. 

 

 

 

 

Economic growth in the region is 

currently around 3.0 % and attained a 

gross regional product per capita of € 

28,300 (as reported by Statistics 

Austria 2010) 

With regards to the development in 

educational standards, the region 

projects that by 2030 the proportion 

of academics as well as graduates 

from vocational schools of higher 

education will have increased by 

between 2 and 4 percentage points. 

Investments in communication and 

information technology and the 

requisite infrastructure provide an 

ideal starting point for additional 

innovative projects that can be 

realized within the region. 

Due to the increasing number of 

workplaces in the region, affordable 

residential building areas were 

created and other residential building 

projects begun.


8 

Economic Infrastructure 

Comprehensive NGA (Next Generation Access) in the micro-region with up to 100 

MBit/s data transfer 

As an “IT Pilot Region”, Schladming offers comprehensive broadband access. In order to 

remain competitive as an economic region, we offer the local economy cutting-edge 

service when it comes to data transfer. We are always conscious that, only through a 

modern, high-performance infrastructure, will we be perceived as a viable location for 

commerce and technology with a high innovation potential. 

Free WLAN Area with 280 access points for public use 

Wireless Internet access is available free of charge for the use of guests and locals. Yet 

one more time, Schladming was at the vanguard of implantation and use of this 

technology, further increasing the attractiveness of the location. 

Regional data captured for Google Earth 3D 

Barrier-Free Region – “Styrian Region for All” (www.steirische-regionen-fuer-alle.at) 

Athletic Area 

One of the most modern sports centres in Upper Styria, including a 400 m running track, 

synthetic-turf field (105 x 68) and a high-quality soccer pitch (105 x 68), is commencing 

operations in summer 2014. It is the home field of the local football club and a training site 

for international soccer training camps. The Athletic area is located in the south-eastern 

area of Schladming and offers a multi-functional grand stand building with up to 500 seats 

and space for 200 standing visitors.


9 

„congress Schladming“ 

Construction of “congress Schladming” meant the creation of a high-quality media center 

that presents multi-faceted opportunities for congresses, seminars, media support, 

education, sports and special events, representing yet another step forward in terms of 

regional development and progress. “congress Schladming” is the epitome of modern 

architecture, eco-friendly building utilities, multi-functional use, gastronomic perfection 

and state-of-the-art technology, all in the very center of Austria. 

Additional amenities: underground parking, congress-Café, foyer for exhibitions and art 

shows, the very latest in media technology, mobile stage and related technologies 

(www.congress-schladming.at)


10 

Regional Development and the Commercial and Living Environment 

In the core zone of Schladming, commerce, tourism and residential space all have an 

equal footing, profiting from ready accessibility and short distances. This area offers 

significant added value to the majority of specialty retail businesses, fashion stores, 

banks, restaurants, bars, cafes and lodging estabishments. Prescribed construction 

density: 0.5 – 2.0 corresponds to 50% - 200% of property area available for development. 

Due to the increasing number of workplaces, the demand for affordable housing is also 

rising. In 2012, 30 new residential units were completed. In total, Schladming has 

available to it over 118.22 ha of housing space. This includes a 27.2 ha core zone (incl. 

commercial), 89.89 ha residential area and a 1.13 ha village area. 

Regional planning policy is pursuing the goal of generating harmonious coexistence 

between commerce, industry, tourism and housing. The area west of the loop in the 

River Enns, for example, is dominated by commercial activity (wholsesale, construction 

sector, product manufacturing), while the eastern area provides the space necessary for 

waste-water treatment and eco-friendly district heating.


11 

Innovation and Progress 

One reason why Schladming is as attractive as a business location is its vibrant 

entrepreneurial scene. This includes numerous innovative small and mid-size businesses 

(SMB’s) who, in addition to their own powerful pioneering spirit, are able to draw upon 

the collectivity and support from the region. Which explains why, from many 

perspectives, this location became a pilot and pioneer region for the Alps: 

Trailblazer in communication and information technology. Pioneering developments 

in the fields of cable television, the first free WLAN in the Alpine region, 

developmental, research and test region for the EU-supported Experimedia 

(Experiments in live social and networked media experiences). 

First blanket snowmaking system in Austria, today the biggest snowmaking facility in 

the country. 

Europe’s highest pedestrian footbridge, the Skywalk, as well as the “Bridge to 

Nowhere” became milestones in creating attractions in a high-alpine setting on the 

Dachstein. 

Pioneering tourism achievements in the service sector through introduction of the 

Schladming-Dachstein Sommercard, providing guests with access to over 100 allinclusive 

regional attractions.


12 

Sample of regional businesses (based on sales volume and number of 

employees, AMS Regional Profile 2012) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Planai-Hochwurzen-Bahnen GmbH 

Construction and operation of cable cars and mountain lifts, as well as sport venues and 

facilities, public bus lines and rental vehicles, travel agency, commercial business and 

advertising agency, hospitality / 320 employees in winter and 200 employees in summer 

Loden Steiner GmbH 

Manufacture of fashions and loden fabrics, ownership and management of folkwear 

shops, operation of cable cars and mountain lifts / 105 employees in winter and 65 in 

summer 

Karl Pitzer Tiefbau GmbH 

Contractor for civil engineering and excavation projects/ 75 employees 

Combiente GmbH 

Cooperative association with regional building contractors and craftsmen, 

implementation of construction projects, specialized in construction planning, 

management, consultation and coordination / 100 employees based at 4 regional 

businesses 

Royer Georg GmbH 

Logging and mobile debarking, removal by cable line, lumber trade / 200 employees 

Blue Tomato – Snowboard Dachstein Tauern GmbH 

Retail and online business with sporting items of all kinds, rental of sporting equipment, 

plus snowboard-freestyle school / 70 employees regionally / over 200 employees 

internationally 

Winter Versicherungsmarkler Ges.m.b.H 

Independent insurance broker, one of the biggest of its spectrum in Austria/ 60 

employees 

Bliem GmbH & CoKG 

Construction Company specialized in civil engineering projects / 50 employees 

Gera Bau GmbH 

Construction Company specialized in civil engineering projects / 50 employees


13 

Ringhofer Heizungs-, Lüftungs- u. Sanitäranlagenbau 

Builder of heating, ventilation and sanitation systems / 50 employees 

Landgenossenschaft Ennstal - Landmarkt 

Commercial enterprise, largest employer in the district of Liezen/ 520 employees 

Hospital Schladming 

Offers 106 beds, 17 additional seasonal beds, surgical department, department of 

internal medicine, department of trauma surgery, anesthesia department as well as 

an institute of intensive medicine, outpatient dialysis, outpatient physiotherapy, and 

gynecology-obstetrics/ 280 employees 

Kaufmannschaft Schladming / 204 Mitgliedsbetriebe 

The Schladming Merchants Association sees itself as a marketing collaborative and 

representative of the collective interests of business owners in Schladming. Through 

measures such as business registries and street maps, the merchants association 

underscores the quality of Schladming both as a town for shopping as well as an 

economic region. Schladming, after all, has much to offer.


14 

Tourism Economy 

The foundation stone for the continual upwards trend in 

this tourism destination was laid in 2003 with the 

consolidation of the two tourist offices of Schladming 

and Rohrmoos-Untertal into one common tourist 

association. Three years later, the umbrella association 

“Dachstein-Tauern Region” was completely reorganized, 

resulting in the creation of Tourismusmarketing GmbH 

Schladming-Dachstein. This made it possible to place 

products of the region professionally on the 

international market. The know-how and the financial 

means were bundled and, through the good synergy 

between businesses, organizations and dynamic 

personalities, the region continued to further develop. 

The Schladming-Dachstein holiday region is today 

divided (status 2013) into eight tourism associations 

encompassing 21 communities. 

Strengths and Opportunities 

Aside from the very good selection of lodging and dining 

establishments, the recipe for success also includes the 

appurtenant infrastructure. Sincerity and hospitality are 

yet another important factor in successful development. 

Likewise, company and other major events, due to 

professional hosting in the various towns, are true guest 

magnets. The growing world population is accompanied 

by greater urbanization. By the year 2050, virtually 70 

percent of the world’s population will live in cities. The 

Schladming Region, which is able to offer an intact 

natural landscape in the center of Europe as an 

alternative world to the city, can profit from this. 

Economic Importance 

The most important economic factor in the region is 

tourism. Known as a popular and pulsating ski center, in 

summer the Schladming-Dachstein holiday region 

transforms itself into Styria’s premier hiking and sports 

region. In 2013, vacation destination Schladming- 

Dachstein achieved over 2.3 million overnights, with 

over one million alone for the first time within the scope 

of the Schladming-Rohrmoos tourist association (see 

table below).


15 

Tourism 

SCHLADMING 

Schladming- 

Rohrmoos 


Dachstein incl. 

Ramsau 

Overnights ( tourism year) 

2010 464.197 959.073 2.810.848 

2011 465.380 957.288 2.756.315 

2012 483.710 988.655 2.862.560 

2013 588.309 1.094.930 2.934.837 

Amount of Guest Beds 

2010 4.448 8.372 28.807 

2011 4.512 8.463 28.920 

2012 4.589 8.639 28.473 

2013 5.501 9.657 30.244 

Mix of Guests among Nations 2013 

(Overnights) 

SCHLADMING 


Rohrmoos 


Dachstein 

Austria 42% 38% 43% 

Germany 29% 32% 29% 

Benelux 3% 3% 5% 

CZE, SVK, POL, HUN 12% 10% 13% 

Scandinavia 4% 3% 3% 

Other 10% 14% 7% 

Total 100% 100% 100% 

Average growth of guest beds in the last 4 years lies at ca. 3.9 percent, and at ca. 3% for 

the Schladming-Rohrmoos tourist association. 

Each additional guest bed results in ca. 149 additional overnights in Schladming and ca. 

130 overnights within the Schladming-Rohrmoos tourism association. 

The goal of the Schladming – Rohrmoos tourism association to break through the onemillion-overnights 

barrier by 2016 was already reached in September 2013. 

By 2020, the goal is to reach 1.5 million overnights.


16 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Through the marketing value of the Alpine Ski World Championships 2013, an 

additional climb in annual overnights is expected of 3.5 percent on average (World 

Championships Premium – based on internal models) for the next 7 years. 

Annual occupancy lies at ca. 30 percent (365 days) or 110 full-occupancy days for 

Schladming-Rohrmoos tourism association and is trending upwards. 

The German guest still leads the field in the international mix, yet developments 

clearly show that Eastern Europe is growing more and more as a primary market. 

The number of 4-star beds in the Schladming-Dachstein region grew in recent years 

(2000 – 2010) by 38 percent. 

According the “MCI Tourism Model), the FIS Alpine Ski World Championships brought in a 

primary impulse of around 35 million Euros. 

The Schladming-Dachstein Region is one of the top-10 destinations in Austria and is 

growing faster than competing destinations such as the Kitzbühel Alps, Gastein Valley 

and the Tiroler Zugspitze. 

Hotel Category 

among beds (2013) 

Schladming 


Rohrmoos 


Dachstein 

4 Stars 19% 21% 14% 

3 Stars 20% 24% 23% 

below 3 Stars 5% 6% 8% 

Pensions / Apartments/ 

Private Rooms 56% 49% 55% 

Total 100% 100% 100% 

Ø Length of Stay in days 4,4 4,6 4,9 

Percentage of overnights 

among Hotel Category (2013) 


Schladming-Rohrmoos 

4 Stars 28% 32% 

3 Stars 29% 29% 

below 3 Stars 3% 4% 

Pensions / Apartments/ 

Private Rooms 41% 35% 

Total 100% 100%


17 

The region’s biggest lodging establishments 

Sporthotel Royer ****s 

Schladming, 130 rooms, 340 beds / 70 employees 

Hotel Schladming - Falkensteiner ****s 


Hotel Schwaigerhof ****s 

Rohrmoos, 72 rooms, 145 beds / 40 employees 

Natur- Wellnesshotel Höflehner ****s 

Haus im Ennstal, 48 rooms, 98 beds / 30 employees 

Hotel Pichlmayrgut **** 

Pichl, 123 rooms, 10 apartments, 250 beds / 75 employees 

Sporthotel Matschner **** 

Ramsau a. D., 68 rooms, 128 beds / 30 employees 

Alphotel Waldfrieden **** 


Gut Raunerhof **** 

Pichl, 45 rooms, 15 apartments, 110 beds / 20 employees 

Hotel Schütterhof **** 


Hotel Planai ***s 


aQi Hotel Schladming *** 


Sporthotel Tauernblick *** 


JUFA Schladming *** 


Lodging Establishments 



Rohrmoos 


Dachstein incl. 

Ramsau 

2011 277 500 1.815 

2012 287 512 1.809 

2013 307 545 1.840

04 Recreation, Society, Sport and Culture 

18 


Schladming is an ideal place to live and to enjoy a vacation, distinguished by its unique 

landscapes, shaped by a local populace with close ties to nature. Famous as a popular and 

pulsating ski center, the Schladming-Dachstein holiday region is transformed in summer into 

Styria’s premier hiking and sports region. The wealth of recreational opportunities in and 

around Schladming provides ideal conditions for a balance between work and life, both for 

employees and self-employed professionals, guaranteeing greater inspiration in the work 

environment. 

Opportunities for families and children 

in the Schladming-Dachstein region 

12 outdoor pools and swimming lakes 

6 beautifully conceived nature paths 

10 easily reachable family excursion 

destinations 

17 paths designed especially for 

families with prams 

Sunrise Breakfast on the Dachstein 

Hiking 

Over 1,000 km of marked hiking paths 

Over 50 mountain huts offering 

refreshments 

Schladminger-Tauern Alpine Tour 

(lasting up to 7 days) 

Panoramaweg 100 – “Hiking without 

Luggage” 

Cable cars with a summer schedule 

Sport 

Over 20 marked mountain-bike tours 

Enns Bike Path 

Bike Park Planai, Planai Adventure 

Park 

45 marked running paths 

2 golf courses in the region (5 

within 50 km) 

4 indoor riding arenas 

17 secured via ferrata climbs 

Rafting/canyoning 

3 Flugschulen 

3 flight schools 

Summertime alpine and crosscountry 

skiing 

Athletic Area 

Several soccer fields 

Skiing Enjoyment 

113 lifts 

Total length of pistes: 230 km 

99% of pistes with snowmaking 

capability 

Night skiing 

Year-round ski area on Dachstein 

glacier 

Snowshoeing 

Member of the “Ski amadé” skipass 

alliance


19 

Alpine Wellness, Nature, Pristine Countryside 

The region features paths and exercise opportunities at all elevations (valley bottoms, 

side valleys with their own unique characteristics, moderate elevations, high-alpine 

elevations including Dachstein glacier, professional training options also suitable for 

hobby athletes). 

Primal Power of Water 

The region is as abundant in water as any other region in Central Europe with over 300 

mountain tarns, 100 waterfalls and gorges. The power of water doesn’t just play an 

important role from a tourism perspective; it also contributes substantially to energy 

generation in the region. 

Tradition and Folk Heritage 

The population is highly conscious of its deep roots and celebrates local culture. The 

region has its own folk costume (Schladming loden, dirndl dress and hat), worn with 

pride, and not merely at cultural events. Cultural events, such as hut and farm festivals, 

mountain masses, folk nights and the Klein Aicher Fair, are popularly used as platforms to 

exchange opinions and experiences. Furthermore, numerous people are dedicated 

members of clubs and associations, adding their own contribution to the unmistakable 

identity of the region (sports clubs, music societies, business collaboratives, weekly 

gatherings at area pubs etc.). 

Popular nearby recreation areas along the banks of the River Enns are ideal places to 

reenergize and enjoy some physical exercise. 

© Schladming 2030 GmbH – Strasser, Raffalt


20 

Special and Popular Events 

The region is a popular venue for major international events. On the one hand, these 

events are used to promote the region internationally and on the other hand to develop 

the destination in a modern manner. Investments in infrastructure and quality, which 

were made for the FIS Alpine Ski World Championship in 2013, serve as a seminal 

fundament for a prospering future. 

FIS Alpine Ski Weltmeisterschaften 2013 

Already in 1985, Schladming together with Haus, hosted the FIS Alpine Ski World 

Championship. Once again, Schladming applied successfully for the FIS Alpine Ski World 

Championsship 2013. Schladming showed the world, once again, that here meet all the 

attributes necessary for a successful event and that Austria with its unique hospitality is 

the ski nation number one. 

Key facts FIS Alpine Ski WM 2013 

Athletes: 

Volunteers: 

Spectators (total) 

Media Data 

Investment Volume 

Long-term Investments through 

(for) the FIS Alpine Ski World 

Championship 2013 

Approximately 650 athletes from 70 nations 

1000 Volunteers 

300.000 Spectators during the Championship 

364 Print-Journalist, 149 Photographers, 73 media 

representatives (international TV stations) with app. 1222 

accredited journalists 

ca. € 400 million 

Media Centre "congress Schladming", Athletic Area, 

transport infrastructure, new housing, modern drinking 

water supply, new waste water disposal, torrent control, 

broadband-internet region, public W-Lan 

Private Investments, motivated 

by the FIS Alpine Ski WM 2013 

Hotel Falkensteiner Schladming, Mountainresort Planai 

Hotel, Care home Senecura, Bioenergie Schladming, 

Talbach power plant, commercial centre Landmarkt, 

Alpreif with Salewa Shop, Mexx am Stadttor, new 

Installation building Ringhofer, Almdorf Schladming 

Touristic primary effect 

Economic primary effect 

850 new quality guest beds, 200 new workplaces 

34,9 million euro added up the consumption during the FIS 

Alpine Ski World Championship, which led to an economical 

impulse of 52,3 million euro


21 

Special Olympics World Winter Games 

For the first time since 1993 (Salzburg and Schladming), the Austrian application – this time 

centered on the cities of Graz and Schladming – to host the Special Olympics was 

successful. True to their motto “Heartbeat for the world”, the Special Olympics World 

Winter Games 2017 represent an important contribution for Austria, Europe and the world. 

During the games, from the 14 th to the 24 th march 2017, Schladming and Graz are expecting 

3000 athletes from more than 110 nations as well as 1.100 coaches, 3000 volunteers, 5.000 

family members, 1.000 media representatives und 800 congress guests. 

„THE Night Race“ 

One of the true classics on the annual alpine ski calendar is the Nightrace. Every year, the 

better part of 50,000 spectators makes the pilgrimage to the finish slope on the Planai to 

cheer on their favorite stars. On this day, the centre of Schladming turns into one big party 

with several music stages, video screens and party locations.


22 

Annual Events 

The MID Europe Festival, Europe’s biggest 

festival for wind orchestras and ensembles, 

captivates countless thousands of visitors 

every year with fascinating concerts, indoors 

and out. 2,500 musicians from 15 countries 

bring musical diversity and exhilarating wind 

music from around the world to Schladming 

and the region. 

The Ennstal Classic becomes the ultimate 

highlight for fans of vintage cars each and 

every summer. 240 participants, 51 different 

makes of vehicle, and drivers from 16 

different nations turn this event into a 

magnificent occasion. 

The Folk Musician Ski World Championships 

adds musical accompaniment to the 

reawakening of springtime, as sun skiing is 

combined with music performed by 

countless musicians. 

Schladming’s Music Summer provides a 

weekly gathering spot for many locals and 

tourists. Musical theme nights from July to 

August, even during the week, promise one 

musical highlight after another 

Yet another event highlight is Ski Opening 

on the Schladminger Planai. Greats of the 

music scene, including David Guetta, Pink, 

OneRepublic and Thirty Seconds to Mars, 

draw as many as 15,000 fans every year. 

Annual open-air concerts in the immediate 

region (incl. Nena, Sunrise Avenue, 

Sportfreunde Stiller, The Rasmus, Thomas D, 

Xavier Naidoo) add the finishing touches to 

the wealth of musical opportunities. 

The Styrian Open, a world-class ballroom 

dance tournament, captivates many 

spectators annually at congress Schladming


23 

Flawless Quality of Life 

The town of Schladming provides local services and amenities for the entire immediate 

region, and is very much a distinctive culinary region in its own right as well. Good food 

and drink in combination with regional products and warm hospitality is highly prized by 

area residents. Much of what comes to your table in Schladming originates from the 

immediate surrounding area. Regionality stands for high quality and an appreciation of 

deep local roots. The most well-known product from this micro-region is full-flavored 

“Steirerkas” cheese. But also our Tauern lamb and native wild game are prized far 

beyond our borders. The Heimatgold company has made increasing numbers of local 

products from area farms and businesses available for purchase on the retail market. 

Night owls also find just what they have been looking for in the Schladming region. 

Numerous bars, cafés, après-ski locales and dance bars offer a superlative nightlife. For 

example, Schladming is home to the Tenne, the biggest après-ski hut in Europe. Four 

floors provide ample space for several thousand enthusiastic guests. 

© Pichlmayrgut

05 Education, Further Education and Family 

24 


High-quality education and training are a major focus in this region. This makes it 

possible to complete a full school career in Schladming, from kindergarten to highschool 

graduation. With a solid foundation provided by 6 elementary and 3 New Middle 

Schools, various pathways lead to a completed apprenticeship and / or a high school 

diploma. The format of an “apprenticeship with high-school diploma” opens up whole 

new possibilities for businesses offering apprenticeship programs as well as for the 

apprentices themselves, without having to exclude one thing or another. The career 

high-school diploma is, along with the academic (AHS) and vocational (BHS) high-school 

certificate, yet another way to complete secondary school education. This provides 

unrestricted access to colleges, academies, universities and other institutions of higher 

learning. 

The former Ski Middle School, today’s New Middle School, a ski magnet school and 

Schladming Ski Commerce Academy, with such successful graduates as Hermann Maier, 

Christian Mayer, Alexandra Meissnitzer, Michaela Dorfmeister, Michaela Kirchgasser, 

Elisabeth Görgl, Michael Walchhofer, Andrea Fischbacher, Michael Tritscher, Peter 

Wirnsberger and others, gained international significance. 

Child Services and Educational Institutions: 

9 kindergartens in the region, 3 of which 

are right in Schladming 

2 day-care centres 

6 elementary schools 

3 new secondary schools with different 

emphasis: 

- Foreign languages 

- Naturalistic learning 

- Maths and natural science 

- Sport and Ski 

1 polytechnic 

Music school 

Business school and commercial 

academy with focus on sport and ski 

racing


25 

Intelligent Initiatives and Support Programs 

Free kindergarten and compulsory attendance: In order to remove economic barriers to 

kindergarten attendance for pre-school children and give them all the opportunity to share 

in this affirmative action program, since the start of the kindergarten year 2009/2010, halfday 

kindergarten attendance in the last year prior to entering school is now free of charge 

for parents. 

Many regional affirmative action programs are supported by AMS Gröbming. These include 

projects to provide career orientation and application assistance, a center for training 

management for women, a program for business founders, as well as a 50Plus project for 

non-profit temp agencies for the elderly. (Source: AMS Bezirksprofil 2012) 

In the field of adult education, regular courses are offered in the spring as well as autumn 

semesters. Information about current courses and programs can be found at 

www.vhsstmk.at. 

Combining family with career is supported and promoted by the individual daycare centers 

such as the kindergarten, nursery schools, childcare providers, along with the Diakoniewerk 

for those with special needs. Now, for example, the Schladming town kindergarten provides 

childcare to youngsters ages 18 months and older. According to the AMS District Profile 

2012, the number of children per 1,000 residents receiving regional childcare services 

averages ca. 27 (Austria-wide: 38). 

Flexible childcare on an hourly basis is offered through the Internet platform 

www.kinderdrehscheibe.net. Eleven flexible childcare providers are available in the town of 

Schladming alone. 

Family and Children Services 

Family Income Supplement 

Welfare benefit on starting school 

Child Allowance 

Family Allowance 

Studentship 

Single Earner Tax Credit 

Single Parent Tax Credit 

Deductible amount for educational costs

06 Regional Consciousness on the Pulse of the Times 

26 


Model region for environment, energy and sustainability 

The region is an Alpine Pilot Region for the development and implementation of new ecofriendly 

technologies in the rural world, in order to assure a competitive advantage for the 

future. Since 2010, the immediate region has been a model region of the Austrian Climate 

and Energy Fund. Renewable energy projects comprise photovoltaics, biogas, electric 

mobility, hydro power and organic district heating, all of which pursue one goal – an energy 

self-sufficient region that, in cooperation with businesses, can be effectively and 

economically realized. 

The model region offers: 

CO2-neutral biomass district heating network 

Electricity generated by hydro power 

State-of-the-art wastewater treatment 

Waste collection and separation center, waste processing plant 

Top-quality water supply provided by springs and deep wells 

“Sustainability know-how” in the field of major events 

Energy accounting 

Public participation in photovoltaic initiatives 

Eco-friendly mobility 

Network of E-refueling stations 

Numerous “Tourism Eco Seal” businesses 

Local businesses see great potential in energy self-sufficiency and are also pioneers in the 

Alpine world when it comes to utilizing eco-friendly resources. The “Planai-Hochwurzen” ski 

area became the first ski area in Austria to conduct “eco auditing”. As the region’s leading 

eco-friendly company, they are building upon resource-effective snow management, energyefficient 

piste-maintenance vehicles, and technologies which minimize CO2 and fine 

particles. This philosophy of ecologically sound resource management earned the company 

numerous environmental awards, such as “Austria’s Green Cable Car”. 

Many of the region’s areas have been designated as nature sanctuaries due to their 

uniqueness and beauty. Our natural backdrop, when seen in combination with various forms 

of use and building projects, clearly represents a valuable cultural landscape in which it is 

possible for mankind and nature to live together.


27 

Successful Environmental Projects 

 

 

 

 

Green Event – Within the framework of the competition “Sports towards Sustainability”, 

the FIS Alpine Ski World Championships 2013 was selected as one of the six winners in 

the Green Events Conference. Altstoff Recycling Austria recognized the event for its 

exemplary trash avoidance and separation system, and the associated reductions in C02 

The photovoltaic system on the roof of Schladming Congress Center has to this point 

reduced CO2 by 17.376 kg while producing energy amounting to 40,241 kW/h 

Expansion of the biomass district heating plant in order to reduce CO2 emissions 

First-time establishment of an energy-burden protocol for a major sporting event in 

order to document and analyze additional energy consumption. Based on analyses of 

data collected, it will be possible to develop scenarios for major events in the future. 

This will enable us to utilize alternative technologies, such as electrical energy storage 

systems like SIESTORAGE from Siemens, to guarantee a significantly more efficient and 

consequently more climate-friendly and affordable energy supply (Sustainability Report, 

2013).


28 

Balance between Globalization and Localization 

The trend of the future is in finding a new balance between 

“globalization” and “localization”, thereby leading us to the 

concept of “glocalization” – a combination of global and local 

thinking and actions. Here with us, “local” is not understood 

as a barrier to globalization but rather as a medium, through 

which globalization achieves its full potential. “Local” is not a 

contradiction to globalization, but instead, one of its facets 

that businesses, especially, can use to their advantage. In 

combination with the pioneering spirit of the region, every 

year projects are developed that exploit the benefits of our 

locality. 

Founding of the business “Heimatgold” (with on-going 

expansion) 

Development of new (modern) product lines in the 

sector of regional textiles (loden, linen, etc.) 

Development of a co-working-space in the field of a 

creative economy 

Direct marketing projects for local food producers 

(meat, milk, cheese) 

Global trends have an influence on how the region’s future 

will look. Much will change significantly within the next 50 

years. During this time frame, technological progress, political 

tides and increased pressure due to global challenges 

(including those associated with energy, water, nutrition and 

climate change) will demand that society adapts its social, 

economic and infrastructure systems correspondingly. 

This is something we are always conscious of, and we are 

developing new systems that can be readily integrated and 

have their fingers on the pulse of the times. Already today, we 

understand that free-time and work are merging, that seasons 

are both dissolving and uniting (in tourism), and that the 

future will be driven by intensified networking and 

collaboration.


29 

Recognizing the signs of the times – pursuing trends and goals 

 

 

 

 

 

Demographic Shifts 

In the next several years, demographic changes will also lead to changes in economic 

and tourism markets. The good news: The health status of humans is also changing; that 

is to say, we are living longer and healthier, remaining agile to a ripe old age. We see 

opportunities in this change and considerable potential for new products and services, 

and we are preparing the future framework for our locality even now. 

Innovation as an Economic Factor 

We stand for promotion of a dialogue between science and business. The future lies in a 

combination of scientific research and its international commercial application. 

Employer and Employee Qualifications 

The competitive advantage is created by encouraging employers and employees to raise 

their qualifications to the very highest levels. Our region’s qualified workforce ensures 

our future as an attractive location, as it does that of the individual businesses 

themselves. 

Networking of regional entrepreneurs 

The networking of individual businesses not only enables the exchange of experiences 

and education, it also leads in many cases to more cost-effective collaborative 

projects. 

Data Infrastructure 

In order to keep our finger on the pulse of the times, we continually evaluate the 

newest technological requirements and implement them, not when they become 

absolutely necessary, but rather well in advance. This assures our location will always 

boast a modern IT infrastructure. 

In order to better pursue and manage these goals, and to efficiently determine the 

activities in support thereof, Schladming 2030 GmbH was initiated in 2009. The same 

goals, the same interests, one region and a very big shared mission were focused on this 

company. Openly, unconventionally, in non-partisan fashion and enthusiastically, 

strengths are bundled, projects initiated, coordinated and communicated collaboratively 

to the outside world. This company sets the course, accompanies and monitors 

implementation, and keeps both the general public as well as the main economic actors 

well informed – an institution that serves as a partner, point of contact and a support 

resource.

07 The Mission & Work of Schladming 2030 GmbH 

30 


The mission of this company is to support long-term and future-focused measures aimed at 

positioning and marketing the Schladming Region from an economic, ecological and social 

point of view. Schladming 2030 GmbH functions as a coordination centre and clearing 

house for the various stakeholders and key players in the region. By centralizing decisionmaking 

competency, avoiding duplication, better identification and concentrated goalsetting, 

Schladming 2030 GmbH is the primary resource for new ventures, business 

relocations and projects in the region. 

In close cooperation with Rural Development Styria, we support and assist their plans, all 

the while making ourselves available for questions and research of all kinds. Schladming 

2030 GmbH and Rural Development Styria offer orientation relating to the following 

themes: 

 

 

 

 

Long- and medium-term goals 

for the region 

Prognoses and future prospects 

in the region’s socio-economic 

and –ecological fields 

On-going projects and project 

proposals for the future 

Networking within the region 

 

 

 

 

 

Business partners and business 

institutions 

Activities for the economy and 

tourism 

Core competencies within the 

region 

Structural information 

Regional studies


31 

Additional Information 

Website Schladming 

www.schladming.at 

Information about tourism and municipal area 

Website der Schladming 2030 GmbH 

www.schladming2030.at 

Information projects, objectives and initiatives 

Website Tourismusmarketing GmbH Schladming-Dachstein 

www.schladming-dachstein.at 

Touristic information about the whole region 

Website Steiermark Tourismus 

www.steiermark.com 

Touristic information about Styria 

Website des congress Schladming 

www.congress-schladming.at 

Information about “congress Schladming” and events 

Website of Athletic Area Schladming 

www.athletic-area.schladming.eu 

Information and reservation 

Websiteof Schladming’s merchants 

www.diekaufmannschaft.at 

Information about the “Kaufmannschaft” 

Websites der Planai-Hochwurzen-Bahnen GmbH 

www.planai.at 

www.derdachstein.at 

Information about offers, services and projects 

Wirtschaftskammer Steiermark, Ennstal/Salzkammergut 

http://wko.at/stmk/groebming 

Business coordination and representation of business-interests 

Website Arbeitsmarktservice Gröbming 

www.ams.at/stmk/sfa/sfags_groebming.html 

Austrian Public Employment Services 

Austrian Online Help Service 

www.help.gv.at 

Help and Information for foreign citizens


32 

Local Institutions and Infrastructure 

Deaconess Hospital, Schladming 

Red Cross office 

Schladming Volunteer Fire Department 

Police station 

Mountain-rescue office 

Schladming-Rohrmoos Tourist Office 

District court 

Village hall / Borough offices 

Schladming post office 

Edelweiss pharmacy 

Schladming railway station (barrier-free, remodeled 2012) 

Citybus network 

Town museum 

Large events grounds 

Schladminger brewery 

Adventure pool, spa and fitness studio 

Athletic Area 

congress Schladming 

Pedestrian zone 

Several playgrounds 

Top shopping opportunities in this regional retail hub (Schladming Merchants’ 

Association); For more information, please visit www.diekaufmannschaft.at)


33 

Interactive City map of Schladming:


34 

© Herbert Raffalt 

© All right reserved: 

Despite painstaking editing of all contributions, errors cannot be excluded. As a 

consequence, no guarantee can be given for the correctness of content. Liability on the part 

of the author or the publisher is excluded. In the interest of better readability, use of the 

feminine form was dispensed with. We emphasize, however, that this brochure is intended 

to be directed equally to the needs of both female and male users. The brochure does not 

purport to be complete. Aside from the examples contained herein, there are a whole series 

of similarly noteworthy and no less significant businesses, institutions, enterprises, projects, 

personalities, recreational, cultural and sporting opportunities in our Schladming-Dachstein 

Region.


35 

Location Brochure 2014 

1 st Edition 

January 2014 

Publisher: 

Schladming 2030 GmbH 

Contact and details 

Learn more about the location and destination 

e-mail: office@schladming2030.at 

Telefon: 0043 (0)3687 22030 

Impressum: 

Responsible for the content: Schladming 2030 GmbH 

Text: Mag. Hans Miller, Mag. Lukas Seyfried, Mag. Alexandra Mattarollo 

Translation (English): Stephen Micklethwaite 

Picture credits: Foto Tom, congress Schladming, Helmut Strasser, Gernot Langs, Herbert Raffalt, 

Martin Huber, Schaldming-Dachstein Tourismus GmbH, Planai-Hochwurzenbahnen GmbH, APA, 

Schladming 2030 GmbH

Location Brochure Economic Region Schladming 2014

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