Consensio – a new co-operative chalet business launched by an ex Descent Director

Consensio Holidays is a new co-operative chalet business set to re-shape the future of luxury ski chalet companies. Whilst historically chalet operators have retained chalets on a long-term fixed rental basis and paid in advance, thus exposing themselves to financial risk, Consenio Holidays works with the chalet owner directly and operates on a profit-sharing basis. This obviously offers a far lower risk to both chalet operator and owner alike, an appealing factor in this recession-weary climate, that means neither party will be exposed to the scale of loss experienced by the likes of the deceased Descent. The added advantage for owners is that they have the flexibility and absolute right to use the chalet how and when they wish, rather than being restricted to set owner weeks at the behest of the operator.

Ceri Tinley one of the founders of Consensio Holidays (who created the business model), said: “Our business plan has come about because of the down turn on the market and the forced change of relationship with chalet owners. Many chalet owners are tired of operators dictating terms as to how and when they can stay in their multi-million pound assets. This never felt fair to me. With our model, our owners can enjoy the 5 star service Consensio offers and share some of the responsibility for our company’s success.”

When the jungle drums started making noises about Descent’s demise, chalet owners were eager for advice on how to manage future operations. As an ex-FD of Descent, it was to France-based Ceri Tinley that owners turned and her philanthropy has paid off with Consensio coming together in record timing, and just as the ski season is kicking in.

The chalets already featured in Consensio’s portfolio are:

   Luxury ski chalets in Meribel: