Social
We shape community & collaboration
Social sustainability is a central pillar of our corporate strategy – on a par with environmental responsibility and economic stability. In the context of sustainable tourism, social responsibility means empowering people in all their diversity, developing their potential and creating an environment in which competence, team spirit and a sense of responsibility can flourish. We set an example, particularly in the area of social sustainability in tourism and with regard to the social aspects of sustainable tourism: our employees are the foundation of our success – and at the same time ambassadors of the hospitality that guests on the Schmittenhöhe in Zell am See so appreciate.
Vision, mission, corporate values
Schmittenhöhebahn AG consciously focuses on mutual respect and a mission statement that emphasises diversity, humanity and cooperation. People from 26 nations work together at our company – a living example of the power of international teams that learn from each other, drive innovation and develop a strong sense of community.
Our purpose is clear: we shape responsibility.
We shape it for our employees, our guests, our region and the natural environment that surrounds us. This sense of responsibility shapes our culture, our actions and our long-term thinking.
Our vision is to be known as the leading provider of tourist experiences in Zell am See and to offer our guests the highest Austrian quality, hospitality and authentic nature experiences. Schmitten inspires!
Our mission is to develop „the Schmitten“ into a distinctive and outstanding provider of a complete tourist experience. Innovative and proactive, we strive to shape the name of our company as a unique and authentic epitome of „the best of Austria“.
This understanding is also reflected in our daily work:
- We actively promote a culture of respect, openness and cooperation.
- We see diversity as an opportunity that strengthens our innovative power and allows us to grow as a team.
- In recruiting, we focus on talent, personality and potential – regardless of origin, age or gender.
- We trust in the strength and sense of responsibility of our team and create an environment in which everyone can find individual professional and personal development opportunities.
Our values – humanity, innovation, teamwork, tradition, success and sustainability – form the foundation of our actions. With heart, vision and a genuine sense of responsibility, we are shaping the future of the Schmittenhöhe together.
Executive Board member KR Dr. Erich Egger sums it up:
„We specifically promote the integration of all employees. Diversity has a positive effect on the working atmosphere and the operating result.“
KPIs
sustainability in measurable facts
Social sustainability in tourism is reflected in measurable facts. The key figures demonstrate the strength and diversity of our team.
Key figures
- Number of employees (average): 313
- FTE: 284.63
- Maximum number of employees in winter: up to 426
- Nations in the team: 26
- Proportion of women: 30.2 %
- Female management positions: 24 %
- ROI of human capital: 36 %
- Turnover per employee: € 177,000
Equality & promotion
More and more young women are choosing technical professions such as apprenticeships as cable car technicians. It is our job to actively support these career paths and break down barriers – as exemplified by young talents such as Celina Schuster.
Meet our people
Behind the achievements of Schmittenhöhebahn AG are individuals who help shape the company.
One example is Peter Hofer, who brings his 15 bee colonies to the Schmitten in summer. There, the bees produce aromatic Schmitten honey – a symbol of the interplay between closeness to nature, tradition and the modern working world.
The apprentices at Schmittenhöhebahn AG also contribute to the future of the company with their commitment. Their feedback shows how important a supportive working environment, structure and variety are for young people – and how much they appreciate these conditions.
Benefits
An appreciative working environment encompasses much more than fair pay. Schmittenhöhebahn AG offers its employees a wide range of employee benefits and has created a comprehensive system of benefits and perks that combines quality of life, financial advantages, mobility, health and internal communication.
In their everyday working lives, employees benefit from affordable meals, free ski passes, travel allowances, shopping discounts with partners, and sports and health offers, among other things. The Schmitten Inside app is a modern communication system that enables team news, exchange and information in real time.
The new Areit 2 staff house, completed in 2024, is a modern residential building with 33 units, sustainable construction (aiming for klimaaktiv GOLD certification), its own photovoltaic system and efficient heat pump technology. Together with existing accommodation, a total of 98 residential units are now available – an important benefit for both year-round and seasonal employees.
Further training is a crucial factor for sustainable corporate development. The Schmitten Academy is an internal competence centre that pools knowledge and provides targeted support for employees. Eight participants recently completed courses on the basics of electronic maintenance and training as electrically qualified persons.
At the same time, Schmittenhöhebahn AG supports external further training: from operations manager courses and language training to management seminars and specialist events. Interns – 13 last year – gain early insights into practical work, while six apprentices are currently laying the foundations for their professional careers.
A particularly strong sign of social sustainability is the Kunterbunt company kindergarten, which opened in September 2025 as the first inter-company childcare facility in Pinzgau and the province of Salzburg.
In cooperation with the Ebster Hagebaumarkt DIY store, a 512 m² sustainable timber building was constructed with space for 48 children aged between 1 and 6. Two toddler groups and two mixed-age groups ensure age-appropriate development. The facility is open almost all year round – a decisive advantage for businesses with seasonal peaks.
The opening hours from 7.30 am to 6.30 pm, and on weekends if necessary, are ideally suited to the tourism and retail industries. Fresh, regional meals from Schmitten Gastronomie and spacious outdoor areas with a focus on nature round off the concept.
Executive Board member KR Dr Erich Egger emphasises the importance of the project:
„The compatibility of work and family life is a reality for us – not just a buzzword.“
The nursery is therefore not only a service for employees, but also an important building block for the entire region.