When "The Place" opened in 2021, it was set to become the hub for mountain bikers in Aosta. The combination of bike store, small restaurant and base for the bike shuttles was very promising. Launched near the train station and not far from the old town of Aosta, the project enjoyed a lot of advance praise.

However, after just four years, the momentum has already come to an end. Although "The Place" got off to a successful start and actually developed into a local hub for mountain biking, it did not make it into the black. Additional capital would have been needed - but this could not be raised. Until now, it was primarily the Swiss Beat Zaugg who formed the financial backbone of "The Place" with his majority shareholding. Zaugg was CEO and co-owner of Scott Sports until last year. 

Not affected by the closure is the company Aosta Valley Freeride, which has always operated as an independent company with its guides and bike shuttles. They will continue to run their tours and offers unchanged, and Massimo Ferro as founder (and original initiator of "The Place") is still on board as managing director.