American Spa recently caught up with Christina Cabrera, director of spa and fitness at Spa La Quinta at La Quinta Resort & Club, a Curio Collection (CA). She started her career in the medical field before joining the hospitality industry 20 years ago. She has experience in all areas including food and beverage, housekeeping, front office, and finance. She shifted her focus to spa and wellness management 12 years ago. As a director of spa and fitness, Cabrera mentors and develops her team members, designs service menus, and creates a perfect atmosphere, while staying on top of trends to offer the latest technologies, skincare, and retail offerings. Most importantly, she gets to engage and make meaningful connections to create memorable experiences for internal and external guests. In addition, Cabrera leads the wellness program for the resort team members offering nutrition and fitness guidance, teaching classes, and inspiring wellness challenges internally. She ensures the property has a variety of fitness and wellness class offerings for guests and members weekly.
What is currently the biggest procurement challenge to your business?
The biggest procurement challenges we have faced are product shortages, delayed deliveries, and increased costs. Each of these impacts our overall guest experience. They can affect our treatments or product offerings, as well as our team member operations if they do not have the tools or supplies to perform their jobs efficiently.
What is your most fruitful resource for finding new suppliers?
Trade shows where we can make connections, as well as see and experience new lines are always great. Introductions from other industry professionals have been helpful as well.
Where do you think there are gaps in product offerings? For example, is there technology you haven't found that would make your job easier?
I do feel that we can implement additional technology to personalize both product and treatment pairings. Incorporating the right technology to quickly determine the specific needs of a client can help our team create unique and tailored experiences and provide recommendations for at-home care that will deliver the results the guest is looking for.
How can suppliers better work with buyers and operators?
Having effective communication and training is always the best way to build strong relationships that support suppliers, buyers and operators. When communication is one-sided, it feels like a sales push. We all need to take the time necessary to learn about each other’s business needs and create a plan together so there is a clear understanding, and everyone knows what they can expect from the partnership.
Are there any specific products or solutions that you are currently researching and/or purchasing?
I am currently researching how we can incorporate AI into both product sales and treatment recommendations. Not only for skincare, but bodywork and fitness training, as well.
What are the top three most important criteria you look for when securing a supplier?
The most important criteria I look for in a supplier are:
Having a unique product or service that enhances the experience for our guests and team members and allows us to stand out.
A partner that consistently provides support, training, and incentives for the team, so the product or service is successful.
A partner that shares our values with sustainable practices and gives back to the community.