Vincent Damphousse: From Hockey Star to Entrepreneurial Success
Vincent Damphousse, the former captain of the Montreal Canadiens and a key player in their 1993 Stanley Cup victory, has not only made a name for himself on the ice but also as a savvy entrepreneur in the business world. After his retirement from professional hockey in 2005, Damphousse redirected his focus to a successful post-career venture in the wellness industry, particularly with his involvement in Scandinave Spa. What began as a leap into an unfamiliar business model has blossomed into a multi-million dollar empire that continues to thrive.
In 1998, while still playing for the Canadiens, Damphousse made an unexpected investment in a Nordic spa project in Mont-Tremblant. Though at the time he had no experience with spas, he recognized the growing potential of the Tremblant area and the uniqueness of the spa concept. By 1999, Damphousse had a 25% stake in the company, which led to the opening of the first Scandinave Spa in Mont-Tremblant. The investment quickly paid off due to the prime location and the appeal of its rejuvenating experiences, which offered visitors a chance to disconnect from their busy lives. This initial success sparked a series of expansions, including the opening of additional locations in Whistler, Blue Mountain, and downtown Montreal.
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However, Damphousse’s path wasn’t without challenges. The launch of the Whistler spa, which opened just before the 2010 Winter Olympics, was fraught with financial struggles due to rising costs and delays. Despite these setbacks, the spa quickly became a hit and today, it remains one of the most popular attractions in Whistler. Damphousse credits the success of the Scandinave brand to its ability to provide a serene, four-season experience in nature, allowing guests to indulge in the restorative benefits of alternating between hot and cold water therapies.
Damphousse’s business savvy didn’t stop there. In 2022, he made a bold move by buying out his partners to become the majority shareholder of Scandinave Spa, solidifying his role as the driving force behind the company's growth. Today, he holds 51% of the company, with the remaining 49% owned by the Fonds de solidarité FTQ. His vision for the future includes expanding Scandinave Spa beyond Quebec, with plans for new locations across Canada.
Despite the success of his post-hockey ventures, Damphousse remains humble and reflective on his career. His efforts in the business world, particularly in the wellness sector, have made him a respected figure. However, there is one accolade that continues to elude him—the Hockey Hall of Fame. Although Damphousse’s statistics are impressive, with over 1,200 points in 1,378 games, he has yet to be inducted. Many feel that his achievements as a player, especially as a leader on the ice, should earn him a place among the sport’s greats.
Even though the recognition has not yet come, Damphousse remains focused on his business and philanthropic endeavors. His leadership within Scandinave Spa, along with his role in advocating for player rights during his time in the NHL, has solidified his legacy in multiple arenas. Whether in sports or business, Vincent Damphousse has proven that his vision and work ethic continue to fuel his success long after his days as a hockey player.
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