Change In Leadership In The Carinthian Cable Car Group
Handover of the baton at the Carinthian cable cars – setting the course for the future
There is a change in leadership in the Carinthian cable car group within the Carinthian Chamber of Commerce: After five successful years, Manuel Kapeller-Hopfgartner, authorized signatory of the Gerlitzen Alpe cable car company, is handing over the reins to his successor, Josef Bogensperger Jr., managing director of the Katschberg cable car company.
With the 2025 Chamber of Commerce elections and the associated reconstitution of the specialist group committees, there will be a change at the top of the Carinthian cable car association. Manuel Kapeller-Hopfgartner will hand over his position to his successor, Josef Bogensperger Jr. Kapeller-Hopfgartner draws a thoroughly positive conclusion: "Carinthia's cable cars are the year-round driving force for domestic tourism – both in the warm and cold seasons. With diverse and innovative offerings, we transport hundreds of thousands of guests safely and comfortably to our peaks every year – and in doing so, sustainably strengthen regional value creation." With almost 60 member companies, they are not only the economic backbone of many regions in winter, but also secure valuable jobs and promote the quality of life. "I am handing over the leadership knowing that Josef will continue what has proven successful, but will also explore new, forward-looking paths," emphasizes Kapeller-Hopfgartner.
Carinthia's cable cars have been placing a clear focus on sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and energy efficiency for several years. This commitment has been further intensified by the sharp rise in energy costs. According to Kapeller-Hopfgartner, this has significantly increased the industry's willingness to use innovative technologies and explore new solutions.
A new speaker with vision
The 45-year-old, himself deeply rooted in the Carinthian mountains, takes on the new role with great respect: "I'm delighted to be able to follow in Manuel's footsteps. I'm aware of the responsibility and look forward to setting new impulses together with our member companies - both regionally and at the national level." Bogensperger, scion of the "Bogensperger dynasty" on the Katschberg, will celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Katschberg ski area next year. The origins date back to Hias Bogensperger, who took over a snack bar in 1955 and built the first lift to the Tschaneck in 1956. Since then, there has been continuous investment in new lifts, slopes, snowmaking systems, and accommodations.
Focus on the young talent
The newly elected trade group chairman is clear: "I want to be a strong spokesperson for our industry – from small family lifts to leading national companies, and I would like to thank Manuel for his excellent work."
These are particularly challenging times for Carinthia's cable car companies. "Especially now, it is the Chamber of Commerce's job to support the companies and provide them with advice and assistance." In addition to modernizing processes and procedures and reducing bureaucratic hurdles, he is particularly committed to promoting young talent. He wants to continue investing in the training of young specialists and in the passengers of tomorrow: "This is the only way we can keep the industry fit for the future."
