November was a slow burner for the continent, with the majority of developments streaming through in the second half of the month, projects were completed, new builds announced and unexpected (mostly temporary) closures rounded out the variety.

Across the more gym-dense cities of Europe, a subtle but consequential shift is gaining traction: grades are softening. What used to be a shared language of difficulty is becoming increasingly inconsistent, influenced by commercial pressure, competition between large operators, and the industry’s rapid expansion.

The month saw continued growth across a large stretch of the continent, whilst the majority have now turned their focus to a cultivating strong winter for their businesses and maximising customer numbers.

NICAS, a UK-based charity, also known as the National Indoor Climbing Award Schemes, continues to make waves in the world of climbing education and inclusion. With over 300 accredited climbing centres worldwide, NICAS provides structured pathways that help climbers of all ages and abilities progress safely and confidently through the sport.

September had a strong theme of refurbishment and renewal, gyms across the continent were frantically completing works ready for the traditionally busier winter season.

Most gyms now understand how to provide a balanced spread of grades, intelligent routesetting, and a progression that keeps members coming back. The problem, however, lies not in the climbing itself but in everything that surrounds it: the hospitality and front-of-house experience.

It’s no secret that climbers go through a fair amount of chalk, and it makes sense. To perform at our best it’s no good having sweaty hands and a compromised grip, and chalk is the best way to deal with the problem.

MBS Industry is a French company created by renowned climbing Olympians Mickaël and Bassa Mawem and Sébastien Kuehn, a multi-entrepreneur engineer.