Madshus proposes ending ski production in Norway, putting 32 jobs at risk
BIRI, Norway, September 15, 2026 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) — Madshus has proposed ending ski production at its Biri factory and moving manufacturing to the Czech Republic, putting 32 jobs at risk as the Norwegian ski maker seeks to stem losses.
The board’s proposal was presented to employees on Monday. A final decision is expected within weeks, following discussions with workers and union representatives, chief executive Torstein Myklebostad told NRK.
Under the plan, production would mainly move to new owner ConsilTech’s factory in Nové Město after the New Year. Product development, sales, marketing, administration and logistics would remain at Biri, according to a Madshus statement published by the Norwegian sporting goods industry association.
Myklebostad said the company needed to restore profitability while continuing to develop the brand.
“We cannot continue to lose money forever,” he told NRK.
Madshus reported operating losses of 30.8 million Norwegian crowns in 2023, 44.8 million in 2024 and 53.3 million in 2025, according to accounts available through Proff. It recorded a small operating profit in 2022.
The proposed closure has raised concern among employees, some of whom have worked at the factory for decades. Chief union representative Torgeir Sviund Strandbakke told NRK that workers had reacted differently to the announcement and that the union would seek a fair process in discussions with management.
Founded in 1906, Madshus is described by Store norske leksikon as the world’s oldest surviving ski manufacturer. It moved production to Biri in 1972.
Olympic biathlon champion Johan-Olav Botn told NRK he had used Madshus skis from the age of five through to winning Olympic gold. Former biathletes Ole Einar Bjørndalen and Emil Hegle Svendsen also expressed sadness over the proposal, with Svendsen acknowledging the need to address recurring losses.
The announcement follows an acquisition agreement unveiled in August for ConsilTech, which also owns ski brand Kästle, to take over Madshus from Elevate Outdoor Collective. Myklebostad joined the acquisition as chief executive and co-owner.
Sources: NRK; Norsk Sportsbransjeforening, citing Madshus; Proff; Store norske leksikon; acquisition announcement reproduced by Snowsports News
