The company which owns CairnGorm Mountain have begun talks with staff about the future of their jobs after the resort reported financial losses.
Just a few days ago, the latest accounts revealed that the business had dropped £1.25million into the red.
Staff could be asked to work at other Natural Retreat venues, which include Lews Castle in Stornoway and John o’Groats.
A spokeswoman for Natural Retreats said: “We can confirm that conversations took place with staff last week and are still ongoing regarding their roles at CairnGorm Mountain.
“We are not able to confirm numbers and we do not think it is fair on those individuals who might be affected to disclose further information regarding their positions. CairnGorm Mountain is such a big part of Aviemore and we know that many of our staff are well known in the community and we want to respect their privacy.
“The consultation process is ongoing and we are still speaking to individuals to explore alternative options, such as opportunities for temporary redeployment elsewhere within the Natural Retreats portfolio.
“As a national business, we are fortunate that in circumstances such as this, we can look at short term secondment opportunities within our wider organisation where staff in a variety of roles can develop their skillset and experience further to support their future career progression. This is also beneficial to those who we are undertaking NVQs, where the additional experience is vital for completion of their qualifications.”
A lack of snow this season, particularly during the normally busy February holidays, has hit the resort’s takings.
The spokeswoman said: “This current winter season has been challenging especially two of the key trading months (January and February), which includes the half-term holidays. Since the start of the year we have opened for snow sports on 24 days with limited terrain and uplift available. The poor season has had a huge impact on our winter revenue, which is crucial to sustain the operation during the summer months.”
She added: “As a snow sports destination, we have to ensure that regardless of peaks and troughs in snowfall and therefore visitors, that we are adequately staffed so that we can continue to deliver a great experience for visitors. The current review of our workforce at CairnGorm Mountain is being carefully managed to ensure that enough resources and staff remain in place to cope with demand at peak times.”