Ski World Championships: Saalbach Relies On Upcycling

Turning old into new – and doing good in the process: As part of a sustainable collaboration between the Saalbach Hinterglemm Tourism Association and the socio-economic enterprise frauenanderskompetent, stylish and robust bags were made from the advertising banners of the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships Saalbach 2025. These unique upcycling products are now available at the Tourism Association.

Stylish bags were made from the World Cup banners.

The idea combines two central concerns of the region: sustainability and social responsibility. The colorful advertising banners that dominated the townscape before and during the Ski World Championships were lovingly handcrafted into practical bags by the employees of frauenanderskompetent in the FunkelNagel upcycling workshop – each one unique.

Frauenanderskompetent is a socio-economic company based in Salzburg that opens up new career prospects for unemployed women. The company is also supported by the State of Salzburg and the Public Employment Service (AMS). Targeted training measures, support, and practical employment facilitate (re-)entry into the workforce.

"We are very pleased about this collaboration. It shows that major events like the Ski World Championships can leave a sustainable footprint not only in terms of sport, but also socially and ecologically," explains Wolfgang Breitfuß from the Saalbach Hinterglemm Tourism Association. "By upcycling the banners and collaborating with frauenanderskompetent, we are setting a strong example for circular economy and social inclusion."

Theresa Ronacher , project manager for FunkelNagel at frauenanderskompetent, is also enthusiastic: "For our employees, this project is far more than just their daily work. It gives them self-confidence, qualifications, and the opportunity to actively participate in professional life. The visible appreciation—for example, through the sale of the bags at the tourism office—is a great incentive."

By purchasing a bag made from the World Cup banners, buyers not only support an ecological and social project, but also take home a piece of World Ski Championship history.