Beijing, China: IMG and Axis Leisure Management Ltd have announced a new partnership that will offer planning, design, consulting, construction and operations management for the burgeoning winter sports and integrated leisure resort space in China.
Through this partnership, IMG, an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation, and Axis have established a joint team that will focus initially on the ski resort industry in China, which is rapidly expanding due to a 2022 Winter Olympic bid.
Justin Downes, currently President of Axis Leisure Management, has been appointed President of the new group whose range of services will include:

• Planning and design (including signature ski area design)
• Construction supervision
• Operational consulting
• Pre-opening technical services
• Resort operations management
• Event management and consulting
• Teaching academies

IMG is a world leader in golf course and resort management, large scale global events, and planning and management consulting, and benefits from a long-standing involvement in winter sport event and athlete management.
IMG Ski Resort Management will offer its clients years of industry expertise and a powerful track record in China and beyond.
Adam Zhu, President, China and Vice Chairman, Asia of IMG, said: “Axis’ expertise in developing and managing exceptional leisure and hospitality brands and resorts and extensive knowledge of the Chinese ski industry and development market will greatly enhance our ability to pursue development projects throughout China.
“We believe that our global execution capability and specialised expertise in the sports management and facility construction business coupled with Axis’ deep-rooted knowledge and relationships in the mountain resort development and management categories will yield some very beneficial and successful partnerships.”
Downes added: “More than ever, high profile developers are entering the leisure market. Coupled with the rising awareness and expectation of the Asian market for high quality goods, services and experiences, we believe that the spotlight is well and truly on top quality and experienced management.
“It is a requirement we see as increasingly important to our clients who are not just looking for a beautiful façade, but most importantly, a financially viable operation and one that keeps guests coming back again and again.”