Vail Resorts acquiring Whistler Blackcomb

Vail Resorts is acquiring Whistler Blackcomb Holdings. Vail Resorts announced the move publicly Monday.

The transaction has already been approved by the Whistler Blackcomb board of directors and the Vail Resorts board of directors.

"Combining Whistler Blackcomb with Vail Resorts' portfolio of outstanding resorts provides Whistler Blackcomb with increased financial strength, marketing exposure, guest relationships and broadens the geographic diversity of our company with resorts across the United States, as well as in Australia and Canada," said Dave Brownlie, Whistler Blackcomb's chief executive officer. "This relationship will bring greater resources to support our current operations and our ambitious growth plans, including the Renaissance project, the most exciting and transformative investment in Whistler Blackcomb's history."

"Whistler Blackcomb is one of the most iconic mountain resorts in the world with an incredible history, passionate employees and a strong community," said Rob Katz, chairman and chief executive officer of Vail Resorts. "With our combined experience and expertise, together we will build upon the guest experience at Whistler Blackcomb while preserving the unique brand and character of the resort as an iconic Canadian destination for guests around the world. We are delighted to add such a renowned resort to Vail Resorts and look forward to expanding our relationships in the Sea-to-Sky community, British Columbia and Canada."

Vail said it plans to integrate Whistler Blackcomb into its Epic Season Pass and other season pass products for the 2017-18 winter season.