Highs and lows for tourism industry

Switzerland's cable car operators say turnover increased by six per cent to SFr690 million this winter compared to the 1998/1999. However, not all regions did equally well, reported the operators in a statement.

Switzerland’s cable car operators say turnover increased by six per cent to SFr690 million this winter compared to the 1998/1999. However, not all regions did equally well, reported the operators in a statement.

Companies in the Bernese Oberland and in canton Valais saw large increases, with the Grindelwald-First operator recording a record result. Turnover also increased in canton Graubünden and other parts of eastern Switzerland.

Central Switzerland reported mixed results and the southern canton of Ticino experienced a slight drop.

The cable car operators benefited from excellent snow conditions even though hurricane Lothar, which swept through northern Switzerland on December 26, hurt sales over the key Christmas week.

swissinfo with agencies