Xtraice Team
Q&A: How Xtraice Ecological Ice Rinks Are Changing Ice Skating in North America
Paul Pérez de Guzmán, North American Business Development at Xtraice, on accessibility, cost, sustainability, and where synthetic ice is headed.
Xtraice ecological synthetic ice rinks let North American communities skate year-round regardless of climate, without the electricity or water a traditional rink needs. In this Q&A, Paul Pérez de Guzmán, Xtraice's North American Business Development lead, explains the technology's accessibility, cost and revenue advantages, its ecological footprint, and why Xtraice — operating since 2003 — believes synthetic ice is the future of the sport.
Paul Perez de Guzman is a seasoned business professional with over 20 years of experience as a business developer in the US and abroad. His extensive expertise adds significant value to our team. Having him on our side provides us with invaluable guidance and a solid foundation, making him our greatest asset and ensuring secure entry for anyone venturing into the synthetic ice market in North America.
Q&A: Exploring the Impact of Xtraice Ecological Ice Rinks in North America
What is Xtraice, and how does it revolutionize ice skating in North America?
Xtraice is a leading provider of ecological synthetic ice rinks, offering an innovative solution to traditional ice skating. Our rinks are made from a specially formulated polymer material that replicates the gliding sensation of real ice, without the need for electricity or water. This technology allows communities across North America to enjoy ice skating year-round, regardless of climate or location.
What are the primary benefits of Xtraice ecological ice rinks for North American communities?
Xtraice rinks offer numerous advantages for communities in North America:
- Accessibility — Xtraice rinks can be installed indoors or outdoors, providing accessible ice skating opportunities regardless of weather conditions or geographical location.
- Cost-effectiveness and generating revenue — unlike traditional ice rinks that require constant refrigeration and maintenance, Xtraice rinks are energy-efficient and cost-effective to operate. They can also be monetized through admission fees, rentals and concessions, generating revenue for municipalities, businesses and event organizers.
- Ecological — Xtraice rinks require no water or refrigerants for operation, and their durable construction reduces the need for frequent replacements, minimizing environmental impact.
How are Xtraice rinks contributing to the growth of ice skating culture in North America?
Xtraice rinks are playing a significant role in expanding ice skating culture across North America by:
- Increasing accessibility — providing ice skating opportunities year-round, regardless of weather conditions.
- Fostering community engagement — Xtraice rinks serve as gathering spaces for communities, hosting events, competitions and social activities that promote a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
- Boosting tourism — Xtraice rinks attract visitors from near and far, stimulating local economies and tourism industries by offering unique recreational opportunities.
In summary, Xtraice ecological ice rinks are revolutionizing ice skating in North America by providing accessible, ecological and versatile solutions that foster community engagement, support athletic development, and contribute to economic growth.
Why choose Xtraice? What makes Xtraice different from other North American competitors?
We've been in business since 2003, and one thing we have never ceased to do is limit our investment in R&D. Why? This ensures we are delivering the best product on the market. In a market where everyone claims to be the best, it's tricky to know who to buy from, until you actually test the ice — and this is where we have prevailed.
What's your track record in the U.S.? What experience do you have?
At one point we diversified into Residential and Commercial clients, and we are proud to say that we have Residential clients such as NHL All-Star Aaron Ekblad and Commercial clients such as Cirque Du Soleil, Peninsula Hotel, and multiple NHL teams.
Where is synthetic ice heading? Is there a future?
We have seen that with there being shorter and milder winters and less ice time for teams, synthetic ice is the future and what teams and people who enjoy skating will resort to — so we are betting strong on an environmentally friendly, ecological and all year around skating for everyone!
Frequently asked questions
How does Xtraice synthetic ice work without electricity or water?
Xtraice rinks are made from a specially formulated polymer material that replicates the gliding sensation of real ice without needing electricity or water to operate.
What are the main benefits of a synthetic ice rink for North American communities?
Accessibility (can be installed indoors or outdoors year-round), cost-effectiveness and revenue generation (through admission fees, rentals and concessions), and a lower ecological footprint than traditional refrigerated ice.
How long has Xtraice been in the synthetic ice business?
Xtraice has been in business since 2003, with continuous investment in R&D as one of its core differentiators.
Which clients has Xtraice worked with in North America?
Xtraice names Residential clients such as NHL All-Star Aaron Ekblad and Commercial clients such as Cirque Du Soleil, the Peninsula Hotel, and multiple NHL teams — claims as stated by Xtraice, not independently verified here.
Why does Xtraice see synthetic ice as the future of the sport?
With shorter, milder winters reducing available ice time for teams and skaters, Xtraice sees synthetic ice as a year-round, environmentally friendly alternative that doesn't depend on climate or location.