There is no doubt that “Wellness” is one of the most important trends shaping the spa industry’s future. I’ve been thinking about the topic of wellness for weeks--seems the more I learn the more confused I become!
The fundamental challenge when writing about “wellness” is the broadness of its definition. As defined by the study Spas and the Global Wellness Market Synergies and Opportunities (Global Spa Summit/SRI International) “Wellness is multi-dimensional and holistic, incorporating dimensions of physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and environmental wellness.” In other words, the concept of wellness is complex and mighty hard to nail down.
Definitions aside, wellness is big business. And it appears that spas around the globe intend to take advantage of it. The “wellness industry cluster” represents a market of nearly $2 trillion dollars globally.(SRI/Global Spa Summit) Nine out of 10 industry respondents interviewed in the study say they plan to make wellness-related investments in the next 5-10 years. Click here to read the complete SRI study at no charge--thanks Global Spa Summit!
While the SRI study shows the Macro side of the wellness industry, ISPA defines wellness in spas in Micro terms. Wellness programs in spas are limited to weight management, detox programs, stress management, holistic health, cooking classes, smoking cessation, etc. The latest ISPA research shows that only 17% of spas offer these types of wellness programs in their spas. I’d venture to say, however, that many more spas who don’t offer formal “programs” consider their spas to be “wellness spas.” Confusing, you bet!
I need your help! I know there are many of you out there working the wellness trend for the benefit of your clients AND your pocketbooks. We want to hear your success stories and challenges
Here is some food for thought:
What defines a wellness spa?
How can spas take advantage of the global wellness trend to increase revenues and client loyalty?
How do spas provide holistic wellness programs with space limitations and without “breaking the bank?”
My request is that we start a conversation for the benefit of the entire spa industry. Please write your comments below…let’s take this topic head-on!