Sean Tupper, Owner of Chateau Mountain Sports, opened the family business in 2008 to sell outdoor/casual clothing, footwear, and accessories, and to rent bikes/e-bikes, skis, snowboards, skates and snow shoes to locals and tourists in Lake Louise. The first storefront was in the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Following the success of the first store, Tupper opened another one in Fairmont Banff Springs in 2012. In 2019 Tupper undertook the biggest step yet – a standalone flagship store in Canmore.
Then the pandemic hit.
“We finished the last coat of paint when the closures happened,” says Tupper. “Immediately we pivoted to an online store. But could a small, independent business be on the same level as the big guys? This was my newest, and biggest challenge.”
Although Chateau Mountain Sports had been selling top brands such as Arc'teryx, Patagonia, The North Face, Canada Goose, Dakine, Smith, Oakley and more in store, Tupper knew these were desirable brands wherever outdoor adventures could be had around the world. It was time to expand from more than a decade of selling to tourists into a company that provided the products and customer service outdoor enthusiasts wanted whether they were local or across the globe.
“Our location was a key part in the early years,” says Tupper. “We were fortunate to have the first two stores in two of the most famous landmark hotels in the country. We were very fortunate to have constant traffic by local and international visitors. Brand knowledge in what to bring in, and the ability to answer questions to match gear with shoppers are where we excel. The website opens us up to the world. It is designed to provide an exceptional experience. It is easy to navigate, offers free shipping in Canada over $99, affordable shipping worldwide, and both online or printable gift cards. The cards can be shipped or an e-card can be sent, which make them the perfect gift for Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, birthdays, anniversaries, and graduations.”
It hasn’t been easy. All of the businesses in Lake Louise, Canmore, Banff, and area rely heavily on tourists. With business and travel restrictions, new business models are a necessity for survival. Tupper feels fortunate that determining and supplying outdoor adventure seekers’ needs can extend to their new online model.
Tupper notes, “In the business community we have always been very focused on supporting each other by purchasing and recommending each other locally. Now this is absolutely necessary over the last 12 months. With our new store in Canmore, my wife and I are overwhelmed by the support. To have Canmore locals happy to shop in our store is very humbling.”
He continues, “I’d like to say the biggest thank you to our staff that have not just hung in there for the past 13 years, but also for the past challenging months as well. Our ability to survive has been dependent on our staff. Our people have stayed and for that I’m very grateful.”
Whether you need the best outdoor clothing and accessories, are looking to rent a bike or e-bike this summer, or need a gift card for someone you love, you’ll find all this and more at Chateau Mountain Sports. Visit the new flagship store in Canmore, find them in the Fairmont properties in Banff and Lake Louise, or shop from any location in the new online store. Stay tuned for the latest updates, sales, and more on their Facebook page, and see the gear in action on Instagram.
