The Global Wellness Summit (GWS), taking place in Hong Kong this October 15-17, has announced wellness developers Catherine Feliciano-Chon and Yoriko Soma as co-chairs of the annual congress. To be held at the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, the 2019 summit marks the event’s third time in Asia over its 13-year history.
“Hong Kong is a vibrant, exciting, business-centric destination, offering a gateway to the Asian marketplace, and we are thrilled to be bringing the summit here,” says Nancy Davis, chief creative officer and executive director of the GWS. “From the world-class hospitality of the renowned Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, to top-rated local restaurants led by some of the world’s best young chefs, to the unique wellness scene in this exciting city, GWS delegates are in for an immersive experience of ancient culture and modern innovation that is the hallmark of Hong Kong.”
Feliciano-Chan is the founder of CatchOn, a strategic marketing communications consultancy with offices in Hong Kong and Shanghai. Under her direction, the agency has become known for its insights on the Asian consumer and has developed significant industry resources and trend studies. Soma, a Tokyo-based GWS advisory board member, runs an investment fund for Asian spa and wellness businesses. She began her career at the Boston Consulting Group in Hong Kong, focusing on the luxury consumer market and has participated in multiple resort, destination, and day spa projects in Asia.
“Having the Summit in Hong Kong underscores Asia’s importance to the wellness economy,” said Feliciano-Chon, also a GWS board member. “With China at our doorstep, Hong Kong bridges East and West, the ancient and modern, and sits at the crossroads of many industries shaping the business of wellness. It’s an honor to be part of the leadership team for the GWS 2019.”
According to the Global Wellness Institute’s recently released 2018 Global Wellness Economy Monitor, Asia is the biggest growth leader in key wellness markets. The region is also slated as the fastest-growing wellness tourism market in the world, with China and India ranking first and second in growth worldwide. In addition, Asia boasts the largest number of spas and thermal mineral springs in the world and has a fast-growing wellness real estate market.
“Corporate success is built on collaboration, and that is exactly what the Global Wellness Summit, with its tagline 'Joining together. Shaping the future.' prides itself in fostering,” says Soma. “I’m excited to be part of the team that will help the GWS delegates uncover insights and opportunities in the Asian wellness economy and help them better understand Asian culture and the best way to approach business in this exploding market.”
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