Ecosign Celebrates 50 Years Of Innovation In Mountain Resort Planning
Ecosign Mountain Resort Planners Ltd., a global leader in mountain resort planning, is proud to commemorate 50 years of shaping the future of mountain resorts. Founded in 1975 by Paul Mathews, Ecosign has applied innovative, science-based methodologies to more than 1,000 projects across 46 countries, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
“Our 50-year milestone is about celebrating the legacy of our founder, Chairman & CEO, Paul Mathews,” said Ryley Thiessen, President of Ecosign. "Paul’s leadership over the past half century established Ecosign as the world’s most experienced mountain resort planning design firm – a legacy our team is honoured to carry forward. The industry is changing rapidly, and clients are eager for year-round, climate resilient designs. We know that we must respond to these changes with continued innovation and creativity, just like Paul has throughout his career.”
Paul utilized the use of large-scale maps and technical analysis to identify optimal development opportunities, revolutionizing an industry that previously relied on incremental, field-based planning. By leveraging real-life examples, advanced technologies, and a systematic process, Paul initiated Ecosign’s trademark creation of master plans that are both visionary and practical. Realized projects exemplifying our unique approach include:
• Transforming Whistler Blackcomb into North America’s largest ski resort, with over 3 million skier visits annually;
• Designing competitive venues for six Winter Olympic Games;
• Creating pedestrian-oriented resort villages worldwide, including Thaiwoo, China, Ruka, Finland, and Sun Peaks, Canada; and
• Introducing advanced lift technologies, such as North America’s first detachable lifts and Whistler Blackcomb’s iconic PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola.
As the industry evolves, Ecosign continues to embrace change, focusing on sustainable, four-season resort planning with climate resilient strategies top of mind. Ecosign’s Whistler-based team—living and breathing the mountain lifestyle—remains committed to balancing environmental stewardship with economic viability.
“Our creativity stems from working with resorts and clients worldwide,” said Thiessen. “This global lens allows us to apply proven solutions to new challenges, ensuring our master plans are innovative, longevity-focused, and buildable.”
To mark our 50th anniversary, Ecosign launched a redesigned website (www.ecosign.com) featuring an interactive map, detailed project portfolio, and menu of the firm’s diversified services. In-person activations such as sweet treats and swag giveaways will take place at trade shows in Canada, the USA, and Europe. Visit ecosign.com/ecosign50 to learn more, including what tradeshows we will be at.
Ecosign Mountain Resort Planners Ltd. is the world’s most experienced and innovative mountain resort planning firm. Since 1975, our Whistler-based team have blended innovation, creativity and practicality in crafting over 1,000 projects across 46 countries. Resorts of all sizes have benefited from our proven planning methodology which has been the basis for hundreds of realized projects and satisfied clients.
