Skihut has been working to keep with customer demand, but it has been challenging as they have struggled to keep the shelves stocked. Photo: WDIO-TV

By Ryan Juntti of WDIO-TV - December 29, 2020

Skihut owner Scott Neustel says they have been busy as of late, as he says a lot of people just want to get outside, especially this year.

Therefore, Neustel says products like skis and snowboards have been flying off the shelves, but this has also created challenges as their suppliers have struggled to distribute enough gear throughout much of the year.

He says their manufacturing facilities are running about half speed, and that, coupled with slower distribution makes it tough to keep the shelves stocked.

Still, Neustel says he is encouraged by the amount of people he has seen out and about, and says there are a lot of new faces as well.

"I think what's new this year is that people that maybe haven't been skiing for years, they haven't snowboarded for years, they haven't cross-country skied for years, this is the year they're getting back into it," Neustel said.

Neustel says for the most part, they have been able to operate as normal throughout the year.

He says they have also seen an increase in online orders.

Neustel wants to compliment their customers as he says they have done a great job at following COVID-19 guidelines with masking, and social distancing.

Neustel also says the service department at Skihut has been very busy as well. Therefore, he wants to remind customers to be patient when it comes to any repairs.  

To watch the orignal report and see related stories, follow this link to the WDIO-TV website. https://www.wdio.com/duluth-minnesota-news/skihut-customer-demand-pandemic/5963302/?cat=10335