Once upon a time, a pet food company owned three iconic Colorado ski resorts
This article details the surprising history of Ralston Purina, a company initially founded for animal feed that later became a major pet food producer, and its unexpected ownership of three prominent Colorado ski resorts: Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, and Breckenridge. From 1974 to 1996, Ralston Purina significantly invested in these resorts, playing a crucial role in their development before eventually selling them. The company itself was later acquired by Nestlé, forming Nestlé Purina PetCare Company.
As A-Basin prepares to change ownership, a look back at when it was owned by dog food maker Purina
Arapahoe Basin (A-Basin) is set to be acquired by Alterra Mountain Company, prompting a look back at its ownership history, particularly the period when it was owned by pet food company Ralston Purina. Ralston Purina, which also owned Keystone and later Breckenridge, treated A-Basin and Keystone as sister resorts with a shuttle service. This era ended in 1997 when Vail Resorts acquired all three, with A-Basin subsequently changing hands again to Dundee Realty before the current acquisition by Alterra.
Brain Post: Ralston Purina (Yes, the Pet Food) Owned Which Colorado Ski Resorts?
This article reveals that Ralston Purina, the well-known pet food company, once owned and developed several Colorado ski resorts, including Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, and Breckenridge. Ralston Purina significantly expanded Keystone, acquired Arapahoe Basin in 1978, and purchased Breckenridge in 1993. Ultimately, Vail Resorts acquired Breckenridge and Keystone in 1997, and Arapahoe Basin was later sold to Dundee Realty Corporation after the Department of Justice raised concerns about market control.
From feed to food: Purina history tells century-long story of pet food
This article traces the century-long history of Purina, from its beginnings in animal feed to its current leadership in pet food. It highlights Purina's pioneering role in pet nutrition research, including establishing the first canine nutrition center and developing innovations like extrusion technology and specialized pet formulas. The company's sustained success is attributed to its commitment to science, innovation, and understanding the evolving needs of pets and their owners.
