European Spa magazine - Autumn Issue 93

FUTURE PROOF YOUR SKIN AND OCEAN

As a B Corp, we’re committed to regenerating biodiversity on land and at sea. Our new Pro-Collagen Future Restore Serum is made using blue biotechnology to preserve your skin’s health and the environment at the same time. The advanced formula also reduced fine lines and wrinkles in 4 days and enhances luminosity.

ONE SMALL SAMPLE SUPERIOR RESULTS

new.business@elemis.com

Our world-first Opal Skin Algae Complex has been sustainably sourced from the UK’s marine waters. Taking a small sample of sea water, we can reproduce the algae we need in a laboratory leaving their environment virtually untouched.

FROM AN OCEAN DROP TO THE VERY LAST DROP

The 100% recyclable glass bottle features an innovative design that ensures every drop of this advance serum can be used.

THE HOME OF GLOBAL SPA INTELLIGENCE

EUROPEAN SPA PLATINUM

RESOURCE 2024

The ultimate reference for spa business success, our handbook showcases the super brands of spa and wellness, and the latest industry trends and thought leadership

Welcome

Lead yourself well...

Autumn brings a renewed sense of purpose as spas prepare for the busy winter season. To help with your planning, our Festive Gift Guide features the latest collections and expert tips to maximise retail potential at this crucial time of the year for spa businesses (p26).

Fresh ideas and collaboration always shape the spa and wellness world, as will be exemplified at the Global Wellness Summit, which will take place at the Old Course Hotel & Spa in Scotland from November 4-7 (p44). We ask Nancy Davis what’s on the agenda at this year’s water-themed gathering. And to set the backdrop to the event, we celebrate ten of the best Scottish spas and meet their dedicated leaders (p50).

On a new Holistic Leadership Retreat at Euphoria Retreat in Greece, I benefit from the expertise of Marina Efraimoglou and Mary Vandorou (pictured above), and learn about next-level leadership and immersive wellness programming (p82).

With the effect of trauma on individuals moving more into focus in spas, we explore how holistic modalities and coaching can be combined to provide emotional relief for guests (p92). We also bring you Menu inspiration with our pick of the latest products and treatments for spas (p71), as well as stylish equipment innovations in our Spa Specifier (p107).

More expert advice comes from Accor’s Emlyn Brown, who explores the rapid rise of ‘sweat culture’ in spas worldwide (p88), and Arora Group’s Rebecca Doyle, whose insightful article asks how diversity and inclusion will shape spa leadership in future (p104).

We hope you are inspired by this bountiful edition and lead yourself well this autumn.

Sarah Camilleri Editorial director & publisher sarah.camilleri@spapublishing.com

Image European Spa’s Sarah Camilleri (centre) with Mary Vandorou (left) and Marina Efraimoglou at Euphoria Retreat, Greece (see p82)

Meet the team

European Spa is the No.1 business magazine for spa and wellness leaders

Sarah Camilleri

Editorial director & publisher

A respected magazine editor with over 30 years’ experience, Sarah founded European Spa in 2007 to help the spa industry flourish. An influential voice in the global wellness community, she serves on the media advisory board of the British Beauty Council and supports the Global Wellness Institute’s Living Well From Within coalition.

Mark

Smith

Deputy editor

The founder of UK meditation concept Kalm Horizons, Mark has contributed spa and wellness content to European Spaand europeanspamagazine. com for over a decade. In this issue he gathers advice for festive retailing and previews the 2024 Global Wellness Summit, showcasing the best spas in its host nation, Scotland.

Wendy

Golledge

News editor

Constantly up to date with the latest spa trends, property openings, redevelopments and appointments, Wendy visits Mandarin Oriental Mayfair in London to see how it is raising the city’s bar for wellness. She also brings us the latest spa style releases, discussing BC Softwear’s new eco slipper with founder Barbara Cooke.

Thanks to our expert contributors...

Emlyn Brown

Global senior vice president Well-being, Accor

With a role focused on Accor’s Luxury & Lifestyle division – including the Raffles, Fairmont, Sofitel and MGallery brands – Emlyn highlights the benefits to spa operators of embracing the universal and social wellness language of ‘sweat culture’. www.accor.com

Rebecca Doyle

Group spa and wellness director, Arora Group

Rebecca specialises in luxury spa operations and enhancing guest experiences at Fairmont Windsor Park and Luton Hoo, UK. She is passionate about building thriving teams and in this issue she shares the importance of diversity and inclusion to spa success. www.thearoragroup.com

Editorial director & publisher

sarah.camilleri@spapublishing.com

Deputy editor Mark Smith mark.smith@spapublishing.com

News editor

Wendy Golledge wendy.golledge@spapublishing.com

Art director

Richard Page richard@spapublishing.com

Production and online editor

David Fagan david.fagan@spapublishing.com

Production and proofing

Angela Sharpe subscribe@spapublishing.com

Accounts manager

Julie Jones accounts@spapublishing.com

Spa Publishing Ltd Registered in England. Company No. 6293825

On the cover: The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London

Sarah Camilleri

14 THE SPA AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL MAYFAIR, LONDON, UK

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London raises the bar in a city enjoying a wellness wave. We speak to the team who curated the ultra-luxe concept

We ask leading brand experts about their gift collections and how spas can maximise the retail opportunities that 50 44 14

50 10 OF THE BEST SPAS IN SCOTLAND

As the Global Wellness Summit heads to Scotland, we showcase a selection of the country’s best spas that are contributing to the Scottish wellness boom

BUSINESS INSIGHT

44 GLOBAL WELLNESS SUMMIT 2024

This year’s Global Wellness Summit will take place in Scotland on November 4-7. We ask chief creative officer and executive director Nancy Davis what’s on the agenda

82 HOLISTIC LEADERSHIP RETREAT AT EUPHORIA RETREAT, GREECE

Sarah Camilleri takes part in a new Holistic Leadership Retreat that is led by Marina Efraimoglou and rooted in ancient Greek and Chinese philosophies

92 THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF TRAUMA RETREATS

As the popularity of emotional retreats continues to grow globally, we look at how spas can address trauma in their programming and empower staff to deliver life-changing experiences

104 MAKING SPA TEAMS MORE INCLUSIVE

Rebecca Doyle, group spa and wellness director at Arora Group, explores the benefits of fostering greater diversity in spa teams

88 THE RISE OF SAUNA AND COLD PLUNGE ‘Sweat culture’ is a universal wellness language, writes Emlyn Brown, global senior vice president of wellbeing at Accor

26 FESTIVE RETAILING

The glittering pool at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London xx

BRANDS TO WATCH

22 GERMAINE DE CAPUCCINI: 60 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

We talk to Robert Stout, UK country manager, and general manager

Ana Pons Talens about the brand’s heritage and its grand plans for the future

38 ELEMIS: ELEVATING THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

We go behind the scenes at the new Elemis retail concept store in London to discover how the brand’s spa heritage influences its experiential retail offer

42 RKF LUXURY LINEN: A HISTORY OF CRAFT AND CARE

Riadh Bouaziz, CEO of RKF Luxury Linen, explains how the company’s long-term commitment to altruism and education helps drive it forward

68 ISHGA: THE SCIENCE OF SEAWEED

We talk to Leon Trayling, co-founder of ishga, about the organic provenance of the brand’s products and what makes it a great spa partner

80 SOTHYS: SCIENCE AT THE HEART OF SKINCARE

Sothys president Christian Mas reveals how the brand’s new product and treatment launches rebalance the self-protective capacities at the heart of the skin

90 JOURNEY: FIVE STEPS TO OPTIMISE SPA REVENUE

Camille Patricot-Wheatley, head of product performance at Journey, explains how the company helps spas to optimise their growth and profitability

38

SPA SPECIFIER

71 ON THE MENU

Our round-up of the best new products and treatment innovations, including the Natura Bissé Inhibit Zero Gravity Lift and Inhibit High Definition Lifting Cream, and a signature ritual designed for Swissline by a former World Face Massage Champion

97 WELLNESS TRENDS

Delving into the ever-widening world of wellness, we report on the return of the Alma festival by Six Senses and talk to Maria King, co-founder of nutrient-rich juice brand Junius

22

107

71

107 SPA STYLE

A selection of the latest stylish equipment and leading-edge technology, including Dornbracht’s Aquahalo experience shower and the innovative Wave Reset anti-gravity lounger from Living Earth Crafts

The gift of time

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London raises the bar in a city enjoying a wellness wave. We speak to the team who curated the ultra luxe concept

REPORT BY WENDY GOLLEDGE

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group (MOHG) opened The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London in June 2024, in the iconic Hanover Square. A sister to the group’s flagship, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, the subterranean wellness facility was designed by Tokyo-based studio Curiosity. Strikingly modern water-drop lighting runs throughout, creating an intimate, serene environment, while wicker objets d’art by Julia Clarke meld nature and art, bringing elements of the outside in.

The 795sqm spa – conceptualised by assistant director of spa and wellness at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair and The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, Michelle Matthews, and Jamie Pagan, MOHG’s area director of spa and wellness – is a haven of discreet and intimate luxury.

A traditional welcome

A striking green Ming marble reception area speaks to the spa’s oriental heritage, and every guest is welcomed with tea and offered slippers in exchange for their shoes – an Asian tradition that welcomes and invites them to leave the world behind.

Facilities are dominated by a beautiful 25m indoor swimming pool – the longest hotel pool in Mayfair – with tiles that graduate from black to white, symbolising swimming into the light. The sauna, steam room and three vitality pools are discreet and private, something Matthews says was front and centre when creating the concept for the spa.

“Mayfair is all hustle and bustle, parties and shopping. We wanted the spa to be a direct contrast to this. Very high end, private, serene and easy,” she says. “Secluded areas, intimate pockets of space to withdraw to – this was our overarching vision.”

The gift of time

The goal is to give guests two luxuries – simplicity and time – as an antidote to the fast pace of life. “Time is our most valuable asset, one that money cannot buy,” says Matthews. “Instead of a complicated menu that takes times to understand, we’ve developed two key choices:

The glittering swimming pool in The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair in London

Natural Time with Seed to Skin Tuscany or Age-Defying Time with cosmeceutical brand Swiss Perfection. Guests select one and specify the desired duration. What that treatment involves is utterly bespoke, decided on the day by the guest and therapist. It’s a simple menu with a strong concept.” Matthews and Pagan have accentuated this offer with technology. The two-hour Tranquillity of Mayfair and Essence of Mayfair rituals finish with a binaural acoustic and dynamic stimulation therapy session on a Gharieni Welnamis bed. The computer-controlled therapy uses specific vibrations and binaural audio frequencies to train the brain to relax. In addition, guests can combine Welnamis with any other treatment from the spa menu, or choose a standalone 22-minute touchless meditative or awakening experience.

In the Mayfair spa, MOHG’s eastern heritage is reflected in the brand’s signature Oriental Qi ritual. Sleep-inducing or energy-boosting massages from OTO CBD are also available. OTO Energy Flow, for example, uses the brand’s Amplify CBD-infused oil to create equilibrium, and can be followed by 22 minutes of gamma binaural beats on the Welnamis bed to improve mental focus and clarity.

“Our approach at Mandarin Oriental is about building a community, making connections and having meaningful interactions that lead to real change.”

A collaborative working culture

With staff recruitment and retention still challenges within the industry, Matthews has curated a culture of mentoring and an open-door policy. “For me, retaining staff we’ve worked hard to train is the key; it’s more important than recruitment,” she says. “Retention requires collaboration – listening to the team, not delegating to them. We hold regular strategy meetings with our therapists and strive to make sure communications are open, so no one is worried about speaking out.”

To offer the spa’s unique Time treatments requires, says Matthews, “really good, well trained therapists. If the whole offer is about something that’s bespoke, private and personalised, you need therapists that

Michelle Matthews Assistant director of spa and wellness, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair and The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park

Above: the Ming marble reception area in The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair

Mandarin Oriental prepares for future expansion

Jamie Pagan talks about Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s pipeline of new properties and the plans to enhance the brand’s spa and wellness offering

What new properties does Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group currently have in development?

Mayfair is MOHG’s 40th property globally. We have announced plans for a third London hotel, on the South Bank. This is due to open in 2028. In the shorter term, we have Mandarin Oriental Vienna opening in summer 2025; and Mandarin Oriental Rome, Cortina in Italy and Mallorca, Spain both scheduled for 2026.

How do you keep innovating your spa and wellness offer?

MOHG has an incredible heritage in spa – we were a pioneer in bringing luxury spa to the hotel market – and the group’s future plans will continue to build on that wellness legacy. We are working to enhance our spa and wellness model globally, continuing to evolve so we create ever more experiential spas.

Wellness is integral to the brand

“The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair is a new blueprint we’ll be moving forward with as a group.”

Jamie Pagan Area director of spa and wellness, MOHG

and, moving forward, the majority of new developments will have a branded spa; that’s part of our DNA. The spa at Mayfair is a new spa blueprint we’ll be moving forward with as a group.

What do you see as the future of wellness in hotel spas?

There’s a growing awareness around mental health, longevity, preventative care and biohacking in the hospitality wellness sphere. But we must not lose sight of our roots and what we are known for – curated treatments led by therapists with hands-on expertise, coupled with technology in a way that still delivers a tactile experience.

For me, tech used in isolation doesn’t work. New technologies must be added with integrity and fuse seamlessly with our core strength, which is the human element. Touch should always be central to the therapy we offer. We aim to create a seamless and attractive 360-degree guest experience.

Clockwise from far left: Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London; an artist’s impression of the brand’s pipeline property in Cortina, Italy; Mandarin Oriental, Vienna in Austria; a new hotel and spa in Punta Negra, Mallorca, will open in 2026

Raising the bar for transformative wellness

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair is the second BodySpace venue for Stephen Price, following the success of BodySpace at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park.

A lifestyle performance club that offers hyper-personalised services centred around enhancing longevity and quality of life, BodySpace Mayfair has a new kind of business focus. “The core business model is completely different to any other premium fitness offer,” explains Price. “Private members commit to a minimum number of sessions a week for 12 months – this is the commitment it takes to effect behavioural and physical change. Every hyper-personalised session is guided by a programme lead. It’s a clear model of care that does not exist anywhere else in spa, health or fitness.”

Every BodySpace member has access to traditional as well as non-traditional therapies, from osteopathy to mobility and body composition analysis.

“Our mission is that every programme, regardless of the member’s primary goal, will enhance their health related quality of life,” says Price.

“What we’re offering is long-term change and this can only come about through commitment and the support of a multidisciplinary team. It’s pioneering lifestyle performance coaching and a very different way to operate, but it’s transformative.”

are comfortable with every possible request.”

The spa’s therapists undergo cancer touch training with the Amethyst Trust and have had eight weeks of intensive education with product partners prior to opening. “It’s hard to facilitate but that’s outweighed by the results,” says Matthews. “Each brand spent extra time on understanding the products and how to combine them for treatments. The brands came up with bespoke new protocols for us, so our therapists can cherry pick. It took a long time, but now they have the skills to be confident, even when faced with someone whose needs are complex.”

Movement in motion

Much as in the spa, tech is at the forefront of the BodySpace movement area, which features a miha bodytec EMS training device and a Reform RX Pilates reformer, with a screen for guided use.

The gym is open to hotel guests, residents and those holding memberships, but the model is far from standard. The subscription-based membership means people must commit to two, three or four lifestyle performance sessions a week, minimum.

“Each member is assigned a programme director from BodySpace; it’s a hyper-personalised service. Members can’t just pop in and use the gym – we

Above: objets d’art by Julia Clarke decorate the serene inner-city spa spaces

Stephen Price

A brand presence and support functions in nearly 90 countries.

Treatment protocols inspired by nature, tested and with proven results.

A Spa offer integrated into the hotel customer journey and dedicated support

The mission to create value with our exclusive partners, in exceptional destinations

offer a strictly limited number of unique subscription session-based memberships, for optimum results,” Matthews explains.

There is also an ultra-exclusive Clinique La Prairie Membership, which comprises a six-month BodySpace Performance Lifestyle Membership at The Spa, plus an exclusive five-day Clinique La Prairie Detox Retreat in Montreux, Switzerland. “Clinique La Prairie have never done this before, it’s new and very exclusive,” says Matthews.

“This level of bespoke – having someone creating every interaction for you – that’s not something our competitors do. It’s a 360-degree offer that saves our members time and is delivered to an exceptionally high standard. It’s about building a community, making connections and having meaningful interactions that lead to real change.”

SPA STATISTICS

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London www.mandarinoriental.com/en/london/mayfair

Owner Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group

General manager Susanne Hatje

Spa manager Liza Manets

Architect RHSP

Design and interiors Curiosity

Spa team Three therapists

Spa size 795sqm

Treatment rooms Two

Pool and thermals Barr + Wray

Furniture Curiosity

Fitness equipment Technogym, miha bodytec, Reform RX

Treatment beds Gharieni

Towels and robes RKF Luxury Linen

Uniforms by No Uniforms

Product partners Seed to Skin, Swiss Perfection, Mandarin Oriental, OTO, Clinique La Prairie, Talia Collins

Spa software SpaSoft 2.0

Lockers Digilock

Changing room furniture Curiosity

Right from top: three vitality pools provide hydrotherapy; a double treatment room; loungers line the cocooning 25m pool

For 45 years, the Biologique Recherche Methodology has a reputation of expertise based on a clinical and personalized approach in their beauty treatments. Using pure, concentrated and active ingredients within their products, as well as innovative protocols and specific manual techniques adapted to the different Skin Instants© it offers the best solution to building better skins.

Biologique Recherche - 32 avenue des Champs-Élysées - 75008 Paris - www.biologique-recherche.com

www.biologique-recherche.com

HIGH-END PERSONALIZED BEAUTY CARE

60 years of excellence

Mark Smith talks to Robert Stout, UK country manager, and Ana Pons Talens, general manager at Germaine de Capuccini, about the brand’s heritage and its grand plans for the future

Apioneer of results-driven skincare, Germaine de Capuccini has been supplying the professional sector for 60 years, a milestone the company recently celebrated in a series of events and activations in Madrid, Spain.

The brand was created in 1964 by Carmen Vidal, a skincare visionary who launched the first professional cosmetics brand in Spain, in the small town of Alcoy, near Alicante.

Germaine de Capuccini is still headquartered here, alongside its extensive production facilities. However, it has expanded globally and can now be found in over 70 countries across five continents. With six subsidiaries across Europe, Central and South America, the brand’s greatest growth opportunities currently exist in the UK and USA, with Asia another area identified by the team for expansion in the coming years.

Originating professional products and patented research

To formulate its advanced professional protocols and effective, results-driven skincare, Germaine de Capuccini has an in-house team working on research and development, and a global team dedicated to training and education.

“Our products are known for high performance and efficacy,” says UK country manager Robert Stout. “This enhances the overall spa experience for clients. Spas can rely on Germaine de Capuccini products to deliver visible results, which in turn helps in building client trust and loyalty.”

A comprehensive product line includes perennial favourites such as Purexpert for young and acne-prone skin, a men’s collection and one based on royal jelly. For targeted anti-ageing, Timexpert SRNS offers skin regeneration, Timexpert Rides tackles fine lines and wrinkles, Excel Therapy

“Spas can rely on Germaine de Capuccini products to deliver visible results.”

Robert Stout UK country manager, Germaine de Capuccini

O2 addresses issues around pollution and Timexpert Radiance C+ boosts luminosity with vitamin C.

The range also offers solutions for sensitive skin, lifting, hydration and sun protection. Expert Lab covers a range of high-tech solutions from machines and devices to chemical peels. The brand’s offer also includes the Efficy machine, Dermatech Pen and LED mask. Its laboratories have also researched epigenetics and created a number of leading patents including the exclusive HLG nanopolymer.

Sustainability practices

Germaine de Capuccini has committed to a number of sustainability initiatives. In 2007, the company became the first cosmetic brand in Spain to achieve CO2 Zero Certification. The brand has also won an Ecoembes Award for minimising resource wastage in packaging.

“We have emphasised the use of

A history of innovation: Timexpert Premier Cream

The culmination of 60 years of research in beauty and skincare, Timexpert Premier Cream draws inspiration from ancient Japanese culture, which is renowned for the pursuit of longevity.

The luxury sensorial formula contains patented HLG nanopolymer that repairs and nourishes skin, leaving it radiant and luminous. This also enhances the benefits of the other active ingredients allowing them to penetrate more deeply due to its powerful nanotechnological component of hyaluronic acid, glutamic acid and lysine bridges.

Alpinia extract promotes the production of glycoproteins, enabling the exchange between the dermis and epidermis. It also claims to increase collagen synthesis and stimulates fibroblast proliferation. Lemon balm recycles and restores damaged collagen while helping to create new collagen. With regular use, skin appears refreshed, more radiant and visibly younger looking with the reduction of the appearance of wrinkles.

Opposite page: Germaine de Capuccini’s Excel Therapy O2 prevents and repairs skin damage caused by pollution and artificial blue light

This page: the Timexpert range;

natural, sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients and prioritised environmental sustainability in our production processes,” says Stout.

The Timexpert Sun range has been developed to respect the oceans with biodegradable ingredients and is silicone-free. Germaine de Capuccini has also eliminated cellophane and product leaflets, saving 300kg of plastic and 2.5 tonnes of paper each year. It also participates in the Plastic Packaging Circularity Project and has used FSC-certified paper for its packaging since 2024.

A global vision for professional skincare

Ana Pons Talens, general manager, Germaine de Capuccini, outlines what makes the brand a unique spa partner and describes her vision for the future

Educating the consumer

“Germaine de Capuccini is a professional brand dedicated to products, protocols and education.

“As a skincare brand, we have the opportunity to educate our spas and the end consumer, especially young people who use products without any recommendation. The consumer wants information to be quick and clear.”

Spas are our speciality

“We work closely with spa partners to elevate their position. We help them with education but also the financial side of things. We offer a 360-degree service for spas, with comprehensive sales and marketing support. This begins with a design service for a hotel from the initial idea stage.

“In Barcelona, we are remodelling a spa project, and we are doing the same in Puerto Rico. In addition, we give advice to spa managers and hotel mangers about how to bring people into the spa.

“We work with a lot of hotels to offer amenities and VIP goody bags for suites that include sun protection and aftersun, for example. We also provide education

for hotel spa-based aestheticians, this is because they need to offer a ritual but the situation can be different to a treatment room elsewhere.”

A targeted plan for growth

“Our strategic plan includes a key focus on the USA, the UK and Asia. Branded spas are part of our future, and we are also exploring options for a distributor in Asia as Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia offer great opportunities for us. Our key focus for the future is on the end consumer. If we reach this consumer, we can then direct traffic to salons and spas.”

It’s time to go digital

“We have to transform our brand into the digital space It’s the quickest way to reach our consumers. We will streamline our regional social channels into one global unified identity. We will have one visual identity and communications strategy. We are working very hard on that. We need to work and protect the brand in the digital space. It’s an amazing challenge. I am very positive and after one year, we now have the results which show our actions are working.”

Germaine de Capuccini delivers visible results for spa guests

Training for excellence

Education is at the heart of the brand, which empowers therapists to deliver the best treatments with a thorough knowledge of protocols and products. The brand refers to therapists and aestheticians as Skin Experts and has developed a number of initiatives.

“We are launching new training modules on how to retail in a digital age,” says Stout. “This will support our spa partners and therapists with effective retail training in both digital and physical environments.”

Germaine de Capuccini has a strong reputation for developing innovative spa treatments that integrate advanced skincare technology and luxurious experiences. This is beneficial for spa partners as it provides new interest, excites customers and gives spas a competitive edge.

Beyond this, the team is committed to supporting spas from a wider sales and marketing perspective.

“We are focusing much more on business, marketing and promotional support for us to help our spa

partners grow,” says Stout. “We are working with our partners on joint business plans that include physical and digital marketing programmes and promotional support packages to engage, attract and retain clients.”

As part of its ongoing programme, the brand is developing even more digital training tools to support its partners in business. It is providing resources such as online training modules, virtual consultations and e-commerce solutions to support the professional sector in adapting to modern consumer behaviours.

Expect to see more product innovations, especially from the spa-focused Sperience range. A new amenities range for hotels and spas is due to launch; the iconic Lift_IN collection will be reimagined; and there will be more technological advanced skincare and devices to come.

BE INFORMED...

To see what Germaine de Capuccini can offer your spa, email: customerserviceuk@ gdcbeautygroup.com or visit: www.germainedecapuccini.com

Clockwise from above: Germaine de Capuccini’s 60th anniversary celebrations highlighted iconic products from the collection; Skin Experts are supported to deliver excellence every time; sharing the science behind the brand’s products at an anniversary event

The art of giving

EDITED BY MARK SMITH

The festive period is an opportunity for happiness, joy and celebration. It’s also a busy time for spa operators as the season represents the busiest retail period in the marketing calendar. For some spas it can account for 40% or more of their annual turnover, making it essential for businesses to have a targeted, strategic approach to retailing opportunities.

As consumers search for wellbeing experiences and wellness gift sets, spas are perfectly placed to serve this growing demand. It’s a time to reconnect with current customers and reach new clients with a series of seasonal events and well-executed direct marketing and social media campaigns.

In spas, creating touchpoints throughout the guest journey is a great way to increase engagement. These include a well merchandised retail area, offering the opportunity to touch, smell and captivate the senses with festive gift sets on offer.

Working closely with suppliers can boost your bottom line as they can help to co-create events and curate promotional ideas that engage your customers and team on their journey. Staff incentives work well to increase retail sales in the spa, and be mindful of the many sales opportunities available through your own website by offering gifts and spa vouchers that can be redeemed in the new year.

European Spa has spoken with leading brand experts about their 2024 festive product collections and shares their invaluable insight into how to maximise the retail opportunities during this annual gifting event.

ESPA: Christmas Gift Collection

The ESPA Christmas collection has been crafted to encapsulate the sensorial journey of the brand’s global spa network and honour 30 years of wellness experience. Creating a spa-like experience at home, the sets feature the brand’s best-selling and iconic products, housed in a winterberry box that can be repurposed for storage or keepsakes.

The Wellbeing Advent Calendar includes 25 invigorating cleansers, nourishing creams and rich essential oils to calm the mind, body and spirit. www.espaskincare.com

Christmas gift sets deliver a curated assortment of the most-loved products that are used in spa treatments and sold through retail. These offer an excellent opportunity for clients to explore new experiences. With significant savings built in and limited-edition elements often included, these sets are an optimal way to further a client’s exceptional experience from the spa and brand.

Lucy

Mitchell

Global

brand director, ESPA

Elemis: Holiday 2024

Presenting a range of feel-good skincare gifts, the Holiday 2024 collection from Elemis promises revitalising skincare results. Expect a choice of vibrant aromatics and sensorial experiences as clients discover iconic bestsellers, award-winning favourites and advanced innovations to bring a spark of festive joy.

Pro-Collagen takes centre stage with a range of gift sets showcasing the brand’s iconic products. The Ultimate Pro-Collagen Collection features best-sellers from the range. www.elemis.com

With wellness continuing to be front of mind for clients, spa partners should use the festive period to really focus on driving noise around gift vouchers and new year treatment package bookings. This will ultimately increase revenue for the final and first quarter.

Victoria Elsey

Senior head of UK spa and salon, Elemis

Aromatherapy Associates: heroes under the Christmas tree

Designed to recharge, reset and rebalance, the Aromatherapy Associates Christmas 2024 Collection features a range of essential oil blends and wellness products to transform daily rituals into moments of calm.

Highlighting the brand’s commitment to sustainability, each set has been crafted with biodegradable ribbons made from wood pulp; velvet bags crafted from 100% recycled bottles; and gift boxes produced from recycled paper pulp. The collection includes bath and shower oils perfectly packaged to hang on the Christmas tree. www.aromatherapyassociates.com

Elevate your spa experience this holiday season with a thoughtfully designed scentscape. Scent plays a crucial role in creating a relaxing and luxurious atmosphere. By incorporating seasonal fragrances, you can evoke feelings of warmth and comfort, setting the perfect backdrop for a memorable visit.

Serina Sandhu Chief commercial officer, Aromatherapy Associates

Le Grand Voyage de L’Occitane

Taking spa guests on a journey through the senses, L’Occitane’s festive collection, Le Grand Voyage de L’Occitane, features limited-edition sets and new scents and textures.

The packaging, designed by Calicot-Paris, features a traditional French style of illustration telling a story of a train travelling through citrus landscapes and the region of Provence.

Christmas crackers and baubles showcase shea butter, verbena, cherry blossom and almond ranges, while introducing kumquat and combawa fragrances. www.loccitane.com

During the festive season, elevate your offer with luxury gifts that create unforgettable memories for loved ones. Ensure gifts that embody indulgence and relaxation and present a selection of curated festive sets in your retail area to create pampering moments.

Leslie Caswell

Marketing director, L’Occitane UK & Ireland

TempleSpa: Mediterranean midnight garden

In its Christmas collection for 2024, TempleSpa explores a Mediterranean garden after dark during the winter months. With cocooning textures and luxury aromatics, the 17-piece collection includes best-sellers and new and exclusive products and sets. Expect gifts from the Truffle range, handy travel kits, including Spa Mini-Break, and the Glow Up range, represented by Time to Glow. www.templespa.com

Festive events present a fantastic opportunity to boost retail revenue. Communicate the event’s goals, roles and expectations to your team with rewards for guests and incentives for staff. Advertise the event across social media, email and in the spa. Make it easy to purchase by organising gifts – a table for stocking fillers, a section for bath lovers, and an area for skincare enthusiasts – and provide testers for each product.

Gemma Dobson Spa business manager, TempleSpa

Sothys: festivities from France

Drawing inspiration from a garden deep in the Corrèze region of France, Sothys has launched a seasonal collection for 2024 decorated in midnight blue with evocative festive scenes.

Full of heroes and best-sellers, the brand’s advent calendar has products for face and body, while its crackers include one for intensive hydration, one with the Organics Collection and one containing makeup. www.sothys.com

Gift wrapping adds that extra touch of luxury.

Ideally, you should be using premium and recyclable wrapping paper. We recommend adding some branding, and a discrete call to action, perhaps as a gift tag or sticker, to entice the recipient to your spa. This could be a special offer on their first treatment booked, or upcoming promotions.

Victoria Dello Ioio

UK country manager, Sothys

Germaine de Capuccini: Christmas 2024

Containing customised sets for every skin need, each of Germaine de Capuccini’s festive collections features a unique illustrated design by Spanish artist María Muñoz de Fernando. Her designs feature subtle, fluid and delicate lines, giving them character and movement.

Golden Hours sets are housed in a classic tweed beauty bag and feature products to moisturise, for glowing skin, perfecting wrinkles and night-time beauty. www.germainedecapuccini.com

To attract new customers this year, get creative with a limited-edition festive-themed spa day, ideal for those looking for an experience gift, and create a social media campaign around the event.

A Touch of Winter Spice Spa stay could be a standard spa experience with with spices, such as cardamom and nutmeg, used in a massage. Add value with beverages such as spiced tea or mulled wine.

Julie McCann

UK national sales manager, Germaine de Capuccini

Oskia: a gift to light up their faces

Oskia is elevating the concept of selfcare with its festive Rose de Mai Massage, Body Oil and Treatment Candle, formulated with beeswax, soybean and coconut oil. The luxurious treatment and massage candle features skin-smoothing omega oils, vitamins and minerals and is an ideal way to soften skin while calming the body and mind with its delightful fragrance. www.oskiaskincare.com

The festive season offers an opportunity for guests to purchase for themselves as well as friends and family. Work with brand partners to create enticing displays, showcasing the gifting options. E-gift lists, workshops and shopping evenings can also help to draw awareness. Training for your team is crucial so they can advise, upsell and create a streamlined shopping experience.

Holly Webster Head of spa, Oskia

ishga: Hebridean Night

Inspired by the vibrancy of the Outer Hebrides and the northern lights over the Isle of Lewis, ishga’s festive gift collection is Hebridean Night.

The collection includes gift sets for the body with an oil and scrub, and for the face with a mask and cleansing lotion. For face and body, the Scottish brand’s hero Anti-oxidant Marine Cream is paired with Muscle Recovery Oil.

There is also a set featuring Hydra+ Marine Cream and a discover collection with miniatures of the best-selling products. www.ishga.com

To maximise retail sales ensure that at each point of the guest journey there is reference to how the products are going to enhance the experience. If the team believe in the products and have individual incentives along with collective targets, retail or recommendations will be more engaging.

Leon Trayling Co-founder, ishga

Voya Christmas 2024: Across the Waves

Voya’s seasonal offering has been inspired by an Irish immigration song, Trasna na Dtonnta, which translates as Across the Waves. Artist Emily McKeagney has created bespoke artwork and the colour palette draws on the deep blue and grey tones of the Atlantic in winter.

Expect the brand’s unique seaweed in each product, with sustainability running through the packaging concept and design. Two crackers open up to deliver wellness gifts, while a Christmas candle and skincare and bathing sets complete the offering. www.voya.ie

Leverage the power of social media to elevate your retail strategy and engage your audience with captivating visuals, exclusive promotions and authentic brand narratives. By consistently delivering value-driven content, you will cultivate a dedicated community, drive increased footfall and generate substantial buzz, leading to enhanced sales and strengthened brand loyalty.

Antonia Knox Head of marketing, Voya

Wildsmith Skin: the gift of Stillness

Designed to soothe the mind and body, promoting a sense of calm and easing the transition to sleep, the Wildsmith Skin Stillness collection is perfect for those who are busy throughout the year.

The products offer a chance to breathe and reset, cocooned in an award-winning blend of rose geranium, lavender and Roman chamomile essential oils. The range features Nourishing Body Butter, Nourishing Body Cleanser, Shower Oil, Body Oil and Pillow Mist. www.wildsmithskin.com

We have a unique opportunity to offer the gift of time. Time away from our digital devices in a wellbeing space gives the individual a chance to breathe and be held – this can be the most powerful transformative gift. Even better, it encourages the gift-giver to come along too, to experience the reset together.

Katherine Pye General manager, Wildsmith

Skin

Natura Bissé: creating a holiday glow

Natura Bissé has introduced two exclusive limited-edition sets to celebrate the holiday season in style, providing an opportunity to explore the brand’s best-sellers, inspired by the modernist spirit of Barcelona.

The Diamond Age Defying Set includes the iconic Diamond Collection and is ideal for those who seek visibly tighter and remarkably lifted skin. The Firming Nourishing Set features the Essential Shock Line, comprising a trio that promotes deeply hydrated, firm, and glowing skin. www.naturabisse.com

To engage customers during the festive season, prioritise creating memorable experiences over offering discounts. Host festive events such as holiday-themed spa days or exclusive workshops. Provide unique packages, such as relaxing spa days for two, to offer special moments with loved ones. Enhance engagement with personalised experiences and consider product bundles or holiday sets as keepsakes from these special occasions.

Stefanie Mach

UK managing director, Natura Bissé

Omorovicza: a season for healing and joy

Each of Omorovicza’s festive sets is adorned with playful illustrations of traditional Hungarian folqa dolls and Budapest’s iconic skyline.

Every formulation features the brand’s Healing Concentrate, a bio-fermented ingredient that delivers the healing benefits of Budapest’s mineral-charged thermal waters directly to the skin. Expect popular products lines in sets featuring the Blue Diamond and Gold ranges with targeted gifts for treating the skin. www.omorovicza.com

Christmas is a great opportunity to raise brand awareness. Marketing moments should aim to educate about products and routines, while sparking seasonal joy. Brands should also focus on engaging with customers face-to-face, with special events at all retail points to further tell the brand’s story, introducing gift ranges and lifestyle activations.

Laurana Bismuth Global trade marketing manager

Ground Wellbeing: a festive hug for all

Offering hand-crafted, sustainable and 100% natural gift boxes, Ground Wellbeing’s festive collection places inclusivity at its heart. Expect heartfelt gift boxes to benefit cancer care, menopause and children.

This year the brand’s Christmas collection features its best-selling, award-winning products plus three stocking fillers. Sets include targeted gifts for hair, sleep and general wellbeing. www.groundwellbeing.com

By curating sustainable, plastic-free, year-round selfcare gifts, we are not only reducing waste but also communicating to customers that their wellness journey is deeply intertwined with the wellbeing of our planet. In conveying this ethos, we can foster a deeper connection with customers who prioritise the wellbeing of the environment.

Peigin Crowley Founder, Ground Wellbeing

Maison D’Asa: Home for the holidays

Maison D’Asa’s Enchanting Home holiday gift set is a cocooning aromatherapy collection with exotic scents of Arabia. The set comprises a soy wax candle and a reed diffuser infused with the Eclat d’Orient fragrance, a signature scent featuring a blend of oud, cedar, and patchouli. The exclusive offer also contains a pillow mist, Caresse de Coton, combining citrus, vanilla, and iris, a gentle mist of 12 essential oils. www.maisondasa.com

To make the most of the festive season, spas should offer a holistic experience that combines a memorable wellness journey within the spa with the other aspects of a hotel. It’s also important that clients leave with both a lasting memory and a tangible keepsake, materialising the exceptional moment they are invited to experience.

Walid El Mernissi Managing director, Maison

d’Asa

Grown Alchemist: celebration and renewal

Blending art and science with an urban edge, Grown Alchemist’s festive collection for 2024 features advanced plant and biotech formulas to keep skin glowing. Expect some of the brand’s best-loved products in edgy packaging. Two body gift sets are joined by a lip and hand duo, a hand set and two comprehensive skincare gift sets presented in a cosmetic bag. www.grownalchemist.com

Creating effective seasonal promotions can be tricky at a time when consumers are overwhelmed with offers. My advice would be to keep it simple. Focus on what you do best at your spa, instead of discounting and devaluing your brand, highlight benefits to the consumer that go beyond savings.

Helen Cain

Global head of spa, Grown Alchemist

Swissline: gifts for day and night

Celebrating its 35th anniversary, Swissline has created two stunning gift sets – one for daytime and one for night, designed to reinforce the brand’s 360-degree approach to collagen.

Each of the sets feature a black faux leather gift case embossed with an outline of mountains. Containing four collagen-boosting skincare products from the Cell Shock collection, each gifting set features two retail products and two trial-size products. www.swissline-cosmetics.com

More money is spent on beauty products during the festive period than at any other time of year. Holiday gift sets are a source of curiosity for customers, who are often drawn to them for the ‘bargain’ feel as they offer a chance to try more products at a competitive price. As well as driving spa sales and reinforcing brand visibility, gift sets also create beautiful seasonal displays.

Marianne Longchambon International training specialist,

Swissline

For more information contact: enquiries@espainternational.co.uk

enquiries@espainternational.co.uk

Elevating the customer experience

We go behind the scenes at the new Elemis retail concept store in the heart of London

REPORT BY MARK SMITH

British skincare brand Elemis is found in over 110 countries worldwide and continues to reach new markets with its hero products. It is a dynamic leader in skin health that does not stand still. Globally, one marine cream is sold every 13 seconds and one cleansing balm is sold every ten seconds.

Spa has always been at the heart of the dynamic brand, representing

where the consumer experiences its range in its entirety. This heritage has carried over into the most recent innovation for Elemis – the opening of a retail concept store in Covent Garden, London. The Monmouth Street venue offers customers a true brand immersion through a series of interactive features.

“Our new store has been designed to bring our feel-good, sensorial skincare

to life,” says Noella Gabriel, co-founder and global president of Elemis.

Features include a product play table and sensorial scent experience with Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm aromatics alongside exclusive new facial treatments. The store will also present exclusive offers and showcase new product launches.

“As a British skin wellness brand born in London over 30 years ago, the

launch of our new stand-alone store in London will allow us to further cement our global renown, delivering a unique experience to local and overseas customers,” says Gabriel.

Wellness and design

The design concept, by Etch, includes circular digital halo screens positioned above the product play table that reflect the weather outside, bringing nature into the store. An LED kinetic wall surrounding the treatment area at the rear of the store features a bespoke organic pattern evoking the vibrational frequency of plants.

“In honour of our spa heritage, we have developed a capsule of new treatments that will be available exclusively in our Skin Studio,” explains Gabriel. “These offer a 360-degree skin and wellness experience, masterfully combining high tech with high touch.” Each treatment takes place on

“Our first standalone retail store in Covent Garden is a pivotal moment for the brand in our home market.”

Noella Gabriel Global president and co-founder, Elemis

a Gharieni zero-gravity treatment bed with a weighted blanket to cocoon guests. The bed features transformative sound and vibration therapy to help reset the skin, body and breath. A comprehensive Visia skin analysis and consultation precedes a combination of expert products and face massage techniques enhanced by LED light therapy and negative ion technology to invigorate the skin. This innovation marks an elevation of the treatment experience in retail and sets the tone for future development.

Experiential retail

Retail is an important part of every brand journey and Elemis draws on its rich spa heritage while always looking forward, tracking demographics and

Above from left: the new Elemis concept store in London; the design was by Etch; gift wrapping completes the immersive retail experience

changing customer demands.

“We are continuing to push the boundaries of Elemis retail, bringing an immersive, educational, engaging experience to the consumer,” says Gabriel. “We are leaders in treatment innovation within retail through services that bring together high touch and high tech.”

Engaging the senses has become an integral part of the retail experience, whether that is in spas, on beauty counters or in the new retail store. This deep sense of engagement excites the customer and embraces them more fully into the brand story.

“For Elemis, product trials that immerse and engage the senses of the consumer play a key role in conversion,” says Gabriel. “Whether this is through treatments or speaking to one of our Skin Experts across a play table, our exquisite textures, infused with uplifting aromatics, bring a positive impact to skin and wellbeing. The skin is a sensory organ and we should stimulate it every day.”

Engaged with spa pedigree

The changing nature of consumer behaviour demands new approaches across different channels to engage and excite the customer. Education, information and storytelling have become a vital part of the engagement experience too.

“Through amplified support across our key channels and experiential offerings we create an innovative dialogue with our local and overseas retail customers. This further cements our reputation for delivering an experience like no other and empowering people on their skin wellness journey.”

Elemis’s spa heritage has been at the forefront of every touchpoint within the brand and the retail concept store is a perfect example of this, launching

Right from top: the retail store showcases hero product lines and new launches; bespoke treatments include Gharieni’s LED Plasma Light Therapy Helmet; clients are offered Visia 3D skin analysis

exclusive treatment concepts and new Cryo Body treatments that will roll out across spas in the coming months. With a combination of high touch and high tech treatments – from the launch of BIOTEC 2.0 to Cryo Body – Elemis is continuously innovating in the treatment space, offering new and exciting developments for spa therapists and customers.

Education matters

Education has always been key to Elemis’s success and the recent launch of a new education platform – Elemis E-Hub – has been pivotal for the brand. “It’s a central online platform designed for our staff and partners to access an incredible range of resources and courses developed to support their professional growth and business success,” says Angela Taylor, global director of education.

This community hub offers Elemis partners and teams across retail and

Delivering a clinically proven treatment experience that goes beyond inch loss, Elemis has introduced the Cryoskin machine. Aimed at promoting body confidence and positivity, the system combines state-of-the-art technology with the latest innovation in cryolipolysis to reduce fat cells, promising visible results after one treatment.

All treatments combine with Elemis’s targeted massage techniques and active products for visible results. The technique works by creating a Cryoskin thermal shock effect. Heat of up to 40°C dilates fat cells making them more receptive

spa a 24/7 resource library on a mobile-first platform. “This contains bespoke pathways for our retail teams as well as our spa and salon therapists,” Taylor explains.

Pre-learning modules are now a necessary precursor to some of the brand’s hands-on training in order to build confidence before attending live instructor-led training.

“We have a personalised learning hub where learners can track their progress and class bookings; a central resource section for access to learning

to cold. Subsequently reducing the temperature down to -8°C with a penetration of 4cm causes thermal shock, destroying localised subcutaneous fat, without damaging surrounding tissue. Finally, rising again to up to 40°C stimulates the lymphatic system to aid elimination. Three treatments have been launched: CryoTighten + Firm improves body contouring and smooths the appearance of cellulite after one treatment; CryoTighten offers immediate inch loss with one treatment for the thighs, abdomen or arms; and CryoFirm smooths and firms skin.

materials; and an ask-the-expert area to connect with one of our experienced trainers,” adds Taylor.

Designed to foster a passionate Elemis community, this forum allows the education team to connect digital learning experiences to in-person experiences in a more holistic way.

“We have some exciting plans to connect our global communities as well as lots of coming-soon sections to continue to empower our learners and push the boundaries with our training.” www.elemis.com

Cryotherapy offers proven results with Elemis Cryo Body treatments

Above: customers can immerse themselves in a scent-based journey with the brand’s Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm aromatics

A history of craft and care

Riadh Bouaziz, CEO of RKF Luxury Linen, explains how the company’s commitment to altruism and education helps to drive it forward

Established in France a quarter of a century ago, textiles company RKF Luxury Linen creates and manufactures bed, bath and spa linen collections for luxury hotels and spas in 85 countries.

Key to RKF’s success are artisanal skills that have been practised for more than 190 years. Keen to protect these unique skills that create its high-end products, the brand this year launched the RKF School of Excellence, to help keep the art of creating luxury alive.

“RKF Luxury Linen is a symbol of luxury, but the intricate skills required to make our products are ebbing away in France,” explains CEO Riadh Bouaziz. “We are heirs to this know-how since 1834 and nothing is more noble than perpetuating this heritage. Along with the French government, we launched the RKF School of Excellence to keep the artistry that goes into making our bespoke bed, bath and spa linens.

“In a world where refinement and expertise make excellence, we want to support trainees and keep traditions going so we may continue providing products that exceed clients’ expectations. Providing training in these exceptional professions is both a duty and a source of true satisfaction.”

Innovative textiles and products

Known for its creativity and innovation, the brand’s most recent development is the Bamboo Collection, an ultra-soft mix of cotton and bamboo fibres.

Also new to its line-up is DresSoft, a fashionable three-piece bathrobe made from eco-friendly DreamSoft fabric. Comprising comfortable pants and a fitted T-shirt and jacket, it is designed to be worn indoors or outdoors.

“In a world where refinement and expertise make excellence, we want to support trainees and keep traditions going.”

Riadh Bouaziz CEO, RKF Luxury Linen

Dreamsoft is one of RKF’s most innovative fabrics. One face of the dual-sided fabric is as absorbent as a classic terry towel, while the other is ultra-soft and silky. Dreamsoft is lighter than terry towelling but with the same absorption qualities, meaning it offers up to 40% savings on laundry costs.

RKF’s award-winning Timeless range of elegant bathrobes offers even greater laundry savings, as the fabric is lighter despite still offering improved longevity and five times greater absorption than classic terry cloth.

“These intrinsic qualities not only

provide more comfort for spa guests but generate 80% savings in laundry costs for spa operators, because the bathrobes are not as voluminous, so more can be laundered at the same time” says Bouaziz.

Charity and progress

In addition to its skills heritage, RKF Luxury Linen is a dedicated supporter of charitable concerns and proudly partners with the Fight Aids Monaco Foundation, a non-profit NGO founded by HSH Princess Stéphanie in 2004.

“Alone we go faster, but together we go further,” says Bouaziz. “One of RKF’s values – and also one of mine – is altruism. We strive to act for the wellbeing of other people, not because we feel obligated to, but because we wish to.” www.rkf.fr

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

RKF Luxury Linen has developed 15 brands and patents, and has received 24 international awards.

This year the brand has been awarded three ISO certifications, including for quality, environmental and safety management. It has also received OEKO-TEX certification, demonstrating its commitment to reducing environmental impact through responsible and certified manufacturing processes.

EcoVadis certification confirms the maturity of its CSR approach, while DNA Paris Design Awards commended the Timeless bathrobe, specifically designed for N Le Spa Negresco in Nice, France.

A watershed moment

This year’s Global Wellness Summit will take place in Scotland on November 4-7. We ask chief creative officer and executive director Nancy Davis what’s on the agenda

Now in its 18th year, the prestigious Global Wellness Summit (GWS) will this year be held at the iconic Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa in Scotland from November 4-7, supported by host sponsor Kohler Co.

The four-day annual event attracts industry leaders and visionaries with a core mission to positively shape the future of wellness worldwide.

This year’s agenda promises a stellar selection of wellness topics and keynote speeches to inspire and track wellness growth and innovation.

The event will also feature the much-anticipated release of the latest Global Wellness Economy Monitor, tracking industry growth across 11 defined wellness sectors.

Held in a different country each year, the Summit has travelled the world since its inauguration in New York back in 2007. It continues to represent a vital opportunity “where relationships are forged, investments are made, and business gets done”.

Since 2009, European Spa has been a media partner for the event, sharing its mission to progress the wellness

industry and the spa world. Speaking exclusively to European Spa’s founding editor, Sarah Camilleri, GWS chief creative officer and executive director Nancy Davis (pictured above with summit chair and CEO Susie Ellis) gives our readers the inside track on what to expect at this year’s event.

Each year, the GWS team works tirelessly behind the scenes to bring together the Summit. When did you first become involved?

Scotland will be my 12th Summit and my first was in 2013 in India. His

INTERVIEW BY SARAH CAMILLERI

Holiness the Dalai Lama was there, and I was smitten with the organisation from the start. It was the ‘deep end of the pool’ for me, since I was asked to executive produce the event with no time for a site visit. Fortunately, I had decades of experience producing huge global events for Fortune 100 companies. This was different, though. From the moment I arrived on site, I felt this was a gathering with a soul, a mission and goodness at its core.

How was your first day presenting the Summit in India?

My partner Sheila and my daughter, Rebecca, often tease me that I have the best job in the world. I can’t really argue with that. I will never forget on the first morning of the plenary session, Lori Hutchinson from Hutchinson Consulting, whom I had never met and who, alas passed away several years ago, came to me while I was pacing nervously in the back

“People

attend the GWS to share high-level thought leadership and can speak to the future of our industry.”

Nancy Davis Chief creative officer and executive director, GWS

of the room. She gave me a hug and said, “Don’t be nervous, we already are grateful for what you’ve done.”

I will also say that having my first GWS experience at the Oberoi Gurgaon didn’t hurt either!

Why did you select Scotland and St Andrews for this year’s Summit?

We have not yet been in this part of the world, and we do always look for something new and unique. Scotland has it all.

Kohler Co. stepped up to be our host sponsor; they own the Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, so it was a

natural fit as our venue. Scotland is a bucket-list place for many. We will sell out for sure. We are looking forward to immersing delegates in the unique and fabulous culture of Scotland. Bagpipes will be present!

Tell us more about your host sponsor and selected co-chairs?

Kohler Co. is an amazing company with a philanthropic heart. Family-owned and with a heritage stretching back 150 years, the company is deeply involved in the arts and supporting wellness innovation on so many levels.

This year we are delighted to welcome co-chairs including Nina Kohler, who leads strategy for Kohler Co. She is joined by Freddie Moross, founder and CEO of Myndstream, and Aradhana Khowala, founder and CEO of Aptamind, and an influential leader in hospitality, travel and tourism. Freddie and Aradhana are London-based, so their proximity to the media and

luminaries in the region make them excellent partners for the event.

Tell us more about this year’s theme: A Watershed Moment for Wellness

This has several meanings for us. We are at a seminal moment for the wellness industry. We will be exploring water in many ways: with Dutch motivational speaker Wim Hof; wild swimming with UK authors of The Ripple Effect, Anna Deacon and Vicky Allan. Kohler Co. will share innovations in water and conservation, and we will be exploring European bathing culture with design consultant Jane Withers and Therme Group’s Robert Hammond, and more.

We will also address water as a central climate issue – scarcity, equity and what the spa and wellness industries need to do to mitigate water usage challenges. Our industry has not typically done a good job on this. But Kohler Co. has some extraordinary initiatives around water

for underserved populations, and we will learn about this at the Summit.

Can you give us a sneak peak of who will grace the stage?

I am always thrilled when Martin Palmer appears as his insights into spirituality and wellness and the state of the world are always piercingly important. His life’s work as a theologian, author, broadcaster and environmentalist is really quite extraordinary and fascinating.

Best-selling author Dave Asprey will be discussing biohacking in conversation with Naveen Jain of Viome; Jeremy Jauncey CEO of Beautiful Destinations, will be addressing wellness tourism in conversation with Greg O’Hara, chair of the World Travel & Tourism Council.

Thought leaders appearing at Global Wellness Summit 2024

Aradhana Khowala

Louie Schwartzberg

Dave Asprey

Nina Kohler

Jane Withers

Robert Hammond

Lewis Swire Martin Palmer

Freddie Moross

Anna Deacon & Vicky Allan

Jeremy Jauncey

Sue Harmsworth, MBE

Clockwise from right: Susie Ellis talks to Olympic gymnast Simone BIles at the 2023 Global Wellness Summit in Miami; stunning Scotland is the location of the 2024 event; Nancy Davis says, ‘bagpipes will be present!’

Jeremy will also school us all on how CEOs need to create and control their personal brand on social media.

Who else are you excited about presenting to the audience?

As well as Anna Deacon and Vicky Allan discussing wild swimming in Scotland, I am looking forward to hearing 17-year-old Scottish social entrepreneur Lewis Swire, who is doing amazing things in the world. It’s so important for us to listen to the next generation of leaders at the Summit.

Wellness industry icon and GWI advisory board member Sue Harmsworth MBE will be bringing together Simone Gibertoni from Clinique La Prairie and Issac Jones, a doctor who has disrupted the entire healthcare delivery system, to discuss the future of hospitality and medicine. These are just a few of our fantastic guest speakers!

It’s always very special when Jan-Emmanuel de Neve can join us. He is Professor of Economics and

Behavioral Science at the University of Oxford, where he also directs the Wellbeing Research Centre. Jan will present the results from groundbreaking research on Wellbeing at Work: Insights from the World’s Largest Study on Employee Wellbeing

Why should spa leaders attend this year’s Global Wellness Summit?

Because this is the event where business gets done. Delegates learn what is happening, what the future holds, and how they will be a part of it. The latest Global Wellness Economy Monitor, detailing data on eleven wellness sectors, will be released at the Summit, so stay tuned for that!

The Summit’s secret sauce is that while it’s not a commercially focused event, it’s a very powerful business platform. People attend to share high-level thought leadership, and can speak to the future of our industry.

The decision-makers are in the room. You can come to connect, reconnect and learn new things. Delegates take

information and inspiration away and share it with their colleagues. This is how business happens.

What shifts in wellness demand are you most interested in sharing?

I am encouraged by the resilience of the entire wellness industry, the ways companies have navigated the Covid years – reinventing, reimagining, and now showing up in new and exciting ways. People learned to slow down a little, to focus on what matters, and to ensure purpose in their lives.

I am a big fan of technology, and this has always been a conundrum for the wellness world. Some people think you must deliver wellness unplugged, but for others technology is involved, with VR headsets and apps to power down. It can seem to be a contradiction, but it’s also very exciting.

Covid also woke up people to how and where they want to work, and how they expect to be treated by their employers. Health is a new form of prosperity. Wellness at work is only going to accelerate. Filtered air, natural light, access to nature have led to a re-imagining of our homes,

“Technolgy in wellness can seem to be a contradiction but

is also very exciting”

Nancy Davis Chief creative officer and executive director, GWS

offices, hotels and more; this has resulted in extraordinary growth in the wellness real estate sector. More and more, medical professionals and advanced diagnostics are showing up in residential real estate and hotels.

Let’s finish with a few of your favourite Summit moments... Bringing the children on stage in

Mexico City in 2015 to educate the CEOs on conflict resolution. The remarkable honesty of celebrated gymnast Simone Biles and her mother, Nellie, in conversation with Susie Ellis last year, talking about family and prioritising mental health. She really has helped change the conversation around mental wellness. It was an honour for GWS to present her with the Debra Simon Award for Furthering Mental Wellness in 2023.

Last but not least, the extraordinary work of filmmaker Louie Schwartzberg is a gift every year. We ask Louie to open the Summit because his work opens us all up to the beauty and awe in the world around us. It touches our hearts and stirs our souls and is very visceral. We start with nature, because nature represents wellbeing; it’s also global. The sky, the sea, the flowers, the flutter of a hummingbird – we all connect to that, and in turn, to each other. www.globalwellnesssummit.com

Above: Dr Deepak Chopra is among the speakers to have addressed delegates at previous Summits

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helen.cain@grownalchemist.com

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Ten of the best spas

in Scotland

We celebrate the pioneering spas that are leading the way in making Scotland a global wellness destination

REPORT BY MARK SMITH

Scotland’s breathtaking scenery has long lent itself to exploration by hikers, climbers, kayakers and wild swimmers. A thriving location receiving visitors from around the world, in 2014, VisitScotland, the national tourism agency, first identified wellness tourism as a growing visitor trend. Research shows that it is now a key factor for travellers choosing to visit the country.

According to the Scotland Visitor Survey 2023, 59% of international and domestic visitors strongly agreed that their trip to Scotland ‘enhanced their physical and emotional wellbeing’. “Our research tells us escapism and de-stressing are seen as key benefits of taking a holiday in Scotland,” says Jacqui Souter, VisitScotland’s senior marketing insight manager. “Health and wellness are becoming an integral part of travel.”

In 2023 there were 3.3 million leisure day visits (exceeding three hours) to Scotland during which people took part in a health or wellbeing experience such as visiting a spa, retreat or gym, with an associated spend of £152 million. This is only set to grow.

“We have seen strong engagement for wellness content on our website in the last year, particularly in spa hotels,” says Rob Dickson, VisitScotland’s director of industry and destination development. “The traditional spa experience continues to evolve, with some operators making the most of a connection to nature and the outdoors.”

When it was announced that the Old Course Hotel in St Andrews would host the Global Wellness Summit on November 4-7 (see p44), Scotland’s position on the global wellness stage was confirmed. As a backdrop to the event, we showcase some of the country’s best spa destinations and examine their industry-leading offerings.

Spa Spotlight 10 of the best spas in Scotland

BEST FOR WATER-BASED THERAPIES

Kohler Waters Spa at the Old Course Hotel

Located in the famous Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa in St Andrews, the only Kohler Waters Spa outside the US is within easy access of Edinburgh and Glasgow and offers a range of membership options.

Positioned opposite the sprawling West Sands beach, the spa draws inspiration from the natural splendour of the coastline, embracing the effects of water on relaxation, replenishment and rejuvenation.

The treatment menu reflects this ethos, with a strong focus on water-based therapies such as Vichy shower and Sok bath experiences. Extensive spa facilities continue the water theme with a 20m indoor spa pool, lined by relaxation loungers, that was created as part of a refurbishment in 2023. Guests will also find a hydrotherapy pool, a refreshing cold plunge

Jelena Adahovska

Spa Spotlight 10 of the best spas in Scotland

“Kohler Waters Spa, located just a stone’s throw from the sea, stands out for its deep commitment to wellness from rejuvenating treatments, world-class facilities, nutritious culinary offerings, and comprehensive wellness programmes.”

Jelena Adahovska Spa manager

pool, a new steam room for muscular relaxation and detoxification, and a rejuvenating sauna.

The men’s and women’s changing rooms also feature a selection of thermal facilities with an ESPURO, the first foam steam bath ritual in the UK, in the women’s area.

Fitness and food

The spa also offers a wide selection of massages, facials and spa rituals, expertly delivered by a team of therapists in 13 treatment rooms. Guests can also access a wide range of fitness facilities in the adjoining health club, which has a gym equipped by Technogym.

To further nourish its international clientele of wellness seekers, the Spa Café offers a selection of nutritious and healthy food options crafted with optimal health in mind – the executive chef having curated a seasonal menu using locally sourced organic ingredients to create a wholesome plant-focused menu.

Continuing to reflect the natural cycle of the seasons, a programme of workshops includes autumn equinox and winter solstice yoga, beach meditation, Pilates and a cold water wellness retreat.

SPA STATISTICS

Kohler Waters Spa at the Old Course Hotel www.oldcoursehotel.co.uk

Spa size 1,137sqm

Product partners TempleSpa, Phytomer, Made for Life Organics, Moroccan Oil, Seed to Skin, Neom, Margaret Dabbs, On The Green CBD, CND Spa suppliers KLAFS, Florence Roby, Ellisons, Technogym, Lemi, Resort Suite, Barr + Wray, G&S Tiling

The Spa at Gleneagles

Celebrating 100 years of hospitality in 2024, Gleneagles is one of Scotland’s most iconic hotels and sporting estates.

A member of Leading Hotels of the World, it regularly features in the list of top hotels in the world with the likes of Travel + Leisure and The Times and Sunday Times. When the renowned property first launched in the golden age of travel, guests would arrive in style at Gleneagles’ own train station.

Set in 850 acres of stunning Scottish countryside beneath the Ochil Hills in beautiful Perthshire, the hotel’s spa has been designed to reflect the colours of nature, with hues of green and natural shades of beige and muted taupe.

The extensive wellness space features 22 treatment rooms including a mud and steam room. In the thermal and wet area guests will also find a hot sauna cabin,

Alix Meiklejohn

Spa Spotlight 10 of the best spas in Scotland

dark vitality pool, jet and lifestyle showers plus a light-filled relaxation courtyard and a healthy spa café.

Treatments and blends

Gleneagles’ signature spa treatments evoke the landscape and draw on ancient Scottish healing practices. Expect essences of Scottish pine and welcome foot rituals with salt, heather and honey. The menu includes the Highland Healer, a grounding nurturing hot stone massage and An Taigh-Smuide, the Gleneagles Mud & Steam Ritual Treatment. The team has also developed a range of Gleneagles oil blends featuring natural botanicals from the Perthshire countryside. These include: Calming, with blue chamomile, clary sage and calendula; Uplifting, which features rose otto, neroli, sea buckthorn; Detoxifying with sandalwood, juniper berry and borage. Relaxing includes CBD, arnica, and vetiver.

Adjacent to the spa and hotel is the Beauty Lodge – a former gate lodge that now offers a nail bar, pedicure room, hair salon and treatment rooms.

“Our spa’s uniqueness lies within our curated oils, which contain botanicals local to Perthshire, many of which can be found growing in the Flower Garden here at Gleneagles.”

Alix Meiklejohn Spa manager

SPA STATISTICS

The Spa at Gleneagles www.gleneagles.com

Spa size 2,000sqm

Product partners Gleneagles, Tata Harper and Dr Barbara Sturm, Kure Bazaar

Spa suppliers Anapos, Barr + Wray, KLAFS, Ellisons, Aime Studios, Inline London, BC Softwear, Bellezi, TAC | The Assistant Company, IQ Security, Technogym

Stobo Castle Health Spa

Stobo Castle is one of the country’s most recognised names. A magnificent destination spa deep within the Borders countryside, Stobo’s private grounds are surrounded by vast pine forests and a tranquil lake.

The spa features an advanced hydro pool where an airlounger, airpad and two giant water fountains deliver deep neck and shoulder massages. Recent additions include a mixed steam room and sauna, and in the women-only section guests will find a crystal steam room, laconium and aromatic steam room.

A 25m UV pool offers panoramic views, and guests can choose to swim at their leisure or take part in daily aqua-based classes. Three outdoor hot tubs, upgraded in 2023, provide seating for a soothing water jet massage.

With 28 treatment rooms offering Phytomer and Made for Life Cancer Touch Therapy, the menu caters to all guests. A full programme of fitness classes including ChiBall, kettlebells, yoga nidra, HIIT and Qigong is also offered.

“At Stobo Castle Health Spa, guests are immersed in a world of complete tranquillity within an extraordinary setting, hosting a substantial treatment menu with bespoke rituals.”

Lorraine King Spa manager

SPA STATISTICS

Stobo Castle Health Spa

www.stobocastle.co.uk

Spa size 1,400 sqm

Product partners Phytomer, Made for Life Cancer Touch Therapy, Mii Cosmetics, Neom, So Stobo products, Penhaligon’s

Spa suppliers Lemi Group, Barr + Wray, Inca, Arctic Spas, Aquateq Pools, Precor, Peloton, Ellisons, Queenax, JK Wellsystem Wave, Floluxe

Lorraine King

Spa Spotlight 10 of the best spas in Scotland

Fletcher’s Cottage Spa at Archerfield House

Set on a 550-acre estate on the coast of East Lothian, not far from the seaside town of East Berwick, stands the grand Archerfield House.

The 17th-century mansion was completely transformed in 2002, with guidance from Historic Environment Scotland, and with an onsite golf course so close to the sea, it was a natural home for a luxury spa. Just over a decade ago Archerfield’s award-winning Fletcher’s Cottage Spa opened to critical acclaim.

The purpose-built spa has ten treatment rooms, including two private rustic bath huts with log fires. A relax room – lit by subtle lamps and the flickering flames of a log burning stove – is a haven of soft sofas and warm wood overlooking the walled garden, which features roses, wildflowers, sculptural grasses

Melanie McKenzie

Spa Spotlight 10 of the best spas in Scotland

and organic herbs planted by Claudia Pottier and Archerfield’s head gardener, Duggie Beattie.

Other facilities include a marine steam room and a lavender sauna. There is a small timber-floored gym with a range of machines and free weights, and a full wall of glass allowing users to enjoy views of nature.

Sustainable luxury

Designed by Siân Parry Jones, the spa’s eclectic and striking interiors use natural materials and a soothing colour palette that supports the spa’s treatment-led and holistic approach to health and wellbeing. Unique design features include walls clad in recycled local wooden potato crates and lightshades made from chicken wire. Expect to see antique and bespoke furniture made with vintage fairtrade blankets from Peru and reclaimed saris from India. Logs have been used to create the coffee tables. Ahead of its time from a sustainability point of view, this quirky take gives the space a truly contemporary feel.

“We are a treatment led spa focusing on the full guest experience, delivered by a small team of expert therapists in beautiful and totally unique surroundings.”

Melanie McKenzie Treatments and therapy manager

SPA STATISTICS

Fletcher’s Cottage Spa at Archerfield House www.archerfieldhouse.com

Spa size 2,322sqm

Product partners Voya, Bamford, Beatitude

Spa suppliers Richard Bishop Aqua Thermae, Inline London, BC Softwear, Tielle Love Luxury, Gharieni, Premier Software, Technogym, Ellisons

The Spa at Kimpton Blythswood Square

Part of the IHG Group, Kimpton Blythswood Square occupies a commanding position in the heart of Glasgow. The award-winning subterranean spa, set over multiple levels, is one of the city’s premier spa locations.

The spa has a strong partnership with Hebridean brand ishga, which has inspired the treatment menu, spa journeys and themes throughout the space, including recently refurbished thermal experience rooms inspired by the Hebridean islands.

An intricate set of experiences, including a steam room, panoramic sauna and ice room, lead onto a stunning pool lined with contemporary cabanas. Ten treatment rooms include two designated for couples, and post-treatment, guests can enjoy one of two relaxation spaces. The main attraction in the relax room is a visual representation of the Hebrides with a soundtrack curated by SwellSpa. This connection to the Scottish landscape creates a unique way for guests to connect with nature and its sounds while remaining in the centre of a major city.

“The

Spa at Kimpton Blythswood Square is an urban escape in the heart of Glasgow where five-star service meets award-winning thermal experiences including Scotland’s first snow shower.”

of spa and leisure

SPA STATISTICS

The Spa at Kimpton Blythswood Square www.kimptonblythswoodsquare.com

Spa size 10,000sqm

Product partners ishga, Oskia, Essence of Harris

Spa suppliers Fabio Alemanno, Ellisons, Florence Roby, BC Softwear, Lemi Group, 100 Degrees, Metzger MSK, Aquateq Pools

Shameela Ali Head

Shameela Ali

Spa Spotlight 10 of the best spas in Scotland

The Spa at Cameron House

On the banks of Loch Lomond and with sweeping views of the Trossachs National Park, Cameron House is a five-star hotel and golf course set in 400 acres. A baronial mansion dating to the 1700s forms the central focus of the hotel, with luxury lodges also part of the accommodation, and an award-winning spa completes the offer.

Three miles from the main hotel but still in the grounds of the estate, the spa offers a rooftop infinity pool with views of the loch and Ben Lomond in the distance. A 20m leisure pool, a well-equipped fitness centre and a range of relaxation spaces are available. Rituals by exclusive partner ESPA are delivered in 17 treatment rooms.

The spa’s thermal suite includes a hammam and aroma steam room, infrared and Finnish saunas, a caldarium, tepidarium, rasul mud chamber, ice fountain and private steam room. A dedicated couples suite provides an aromatherapy bath.

“Our extensive thermal and hydro experience includes a rooftop infinity pool which looks out towards Loch Lomond and is surrounded by the beautiful Scottish landscape.”

SPA STATISTICS

The Spa at Cameron House www.cameronhouse.co.uk

Spa size 4,500sqm

Product partners ESPA, OPI

Spa suppliers Spa Vision, Barr + Wray, KLAFS, Florence Roby, BC Softwear, Nilo Spa Design, Technogym, Resort Suite, IQ Security

Amie Nimmo Spa duty manager

Amie Nimmo

Cairndale Hotel and Spa

Opened in 2024 following a multi-million pound investment, a modern spa has breathed new life into the Cairndale and is key to some grand ambitions for the southern Scottish region as a whole.

The two-storey spa, designed by Claire Caddick from Sparticulate Spa Consultancy and Mark Green from Curveline Design, aims to put Dumfries on the tourist map as a wellness destination.

Replacing the hotel’s existing leisure club, the spa boasts a thermal pool with water blades and airbeds. Guests can also enjoy aroma and herbal steam rooms, Himalayan salt and infrared saunas, a herbal lounge, rasul, hammam and a private bathing suite. An ice bath by Brass Monkey offers contrast bathing for guests and there is also a café and juice bar.

Cairndale Spa offers a host of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments from partners including Voya, Tribe 517 and Gaia Skincare, delivered in six elegant treatment rooms, two of which are dedicated to couples.

“As a family-owned business, the team at the Cairndale has created something unique in the area with our stunning new spa. Many of our handpicked team are local to Dumfries.”

Claire Primrose Spa manager

SPA STATISTICS

Cairndale Hotel and Spa

www.cairndalehotel.co.uk

Spa size 1,300sqm

Product partners Voya, Tribe517, Gaia Skincare

Spa suppliers Unique Pool, Barr + Wray, CPA Bespoke Joinery, Brass Monkey, Ellisons, CCP Contract Furniture, Alexander Rose, Trybe, BC Softwear

Claire Primrose

Spa Spotlight 10 of the best spas in Scotland

The Spa at Fairmont St Andrews

High on a hill, overlooking the sea, Fairmont St Andrews offers guests two world-renowned golf courses on its 520 acres, as well as a spa that is a major draw both for its facilities and treatment menu.

The Spa at Fairmont St Andrews, open to hotel residents, spa members and day-spa guests, reflects the energy of its surroundings with ten Scottish-themed treatment rooms, with names such as North Sea, Thistle, Juniper and Heather, a couples’ suite and a male grooming room. A swimming pool, spa pool, aromatherapy steam room and sauna complete the experience.

The spa was the first in Scotland to launch ESPA Modern Alchemy concept, which combines ancient ancestral wisdom and powerful ingredients with selfcare rituals. Hebridean brand ishga brings seaweed-based therapies to the menu.

To really get things moving, guest can access a fitness suite with an extensive range of strength and resistance equipment and TRX suspension, as well as a fitness studio and indoor cycling space.

“Our location allows us to extend our spa and wellness offering beyond the traditional spa environment with outdoor yoga, bootcamps and wild swimming in the summer and winter months.”

Victoria Calcutt Spa

manager

SPA STATISTICS

The Spa at Fairmont St Andrews www.fairmont.com/st-andrews-scotland

Spa size 2,400sqm

Product partners ESPA, ishga

Spa suppliers DaleSauna, Jet Pools, Florence Roby, BC Softwear, Oakworks, Gharieni, Spa Vision, Life Fitness, Ellisons, Book4Time

Victoria Calcutt

Schloss Spa at Schloss Roxburghe

Created as part of an extensive expansion of the Destination by Hyatt collection hotel, the 1,100sqm Schloss Spa at Schloss Roxburghe is a first-class wellness facility in 300 acres of stunning Borders countryside. An additional 58 rooms were also constructed as part of the redevelopment, as well as a purpose-built banqueting suite and several guest cottages. Designed by Kitzig Design Studios, the spa includes a heated outdoor infinity pool complete with LED lighting and an underwater sound system. Indoor and outdoor relaxation areas are dotted about and there is also a plunge pool. The thermal suite and pools were provided by Aquateq Pools. A Finnish dry sauna sits half-sunken into the ground and is completed with a larch exterior finish and large landscape windows.

The spa’s holistic approach aims to support total wellbeing, mindfulness and rejuvenation, and serves hotel guests as well as a locally based membership. The facilities also include an aromatic sauna with the option for guests to select their own fragrance for a personalised experience. A modern fitness suite is also available to boost engagement.

“Schloss Spa is the perfect place to connect with your inner self and restore your harmony and well-being with its breathtaking and pioneering luxury spa facilities.”

Caroline Mullen Director of spa and leisure

SPA STATISTICS

Schloss Spa at Schloss Roxburghe www.schlosshotel-roxburghe.com

Spa size 1,100sqm

Product partner ESPA

Spa suppliers TAC | The Assistant Company, Gharieni, Fashionizer Spa, Aquateq Pools, Technogym, Richard Haworth

Caroline Mullen

Spa Spotlight 10 of the best spas in Scotland

BEST FOR A CITY ESCAPE

One Spa at Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa

Positioned on the top floor of the Sheraton Grand Hotel in Edinburgh, One Spa offers guests a unique experience in the Scottish capital. The award-winning location was a trailblazer when it opened over two decades ago, and is still one of the best spas in Scotland, offering impressive views of Edinburgh from the city’s only rooftop spa hydropool.

Promising a sanctuary from daily life, the spa features a thermal suite with dry salt room, crystal steam room, rock sauna, bio sauna, hammam, laconium, ice fountain and experience showers. There’s also a 19m infinity-edge indoor swimming pool, a poolside sauna and a state-of-the-art fitness studio, as well as a four-person rasul chamber. Its 18 treatment rooms, including one double, offer rituals from TempleSpa and Made for Life Organics. ESPA has been a brand partner of the spa for 22 years and its full treatment menu is available including intensive facials and aromatherapy massages.

“One Spa, for me, isn’t just a collection of treatments and facilities, it’s a narrative of rejuvenation and a sanctuary where each guest’s journey towards total relaxation unfolds.”

Martijn Zengerink General manager, Sheraton Grand

Hotel &

Spa

SPA STATISTICS

One Spa at Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa

www.onespa.com

Spa size 9596sqm

Product partners ESPA, TempleSpa, Made for Life Organics

Spa suppliers Catalog Interiors, Simon Jersey, BC Softwear, Technogym, Book4Time, Spa

Vision, Living Earth Crafts, Ellisons, Barr + Wray

Martijn Zengerink

The World’s Finest Spas Choose

The science of seaweed

We talk to Leon Trayling, co-founder of ishga, about the organic provenance of the brand’s products and what makes it a great spa partner

Since 2013, Scottish brand ishga’s products and treatments have used a unique seaweed extract, sustainably sourced from the pristine waters of the Hebrides. We spoke to co-founder, Leon Trayling, about this focus on purity and what it can bring to spas and their guests.

What makes ishga a great spa partner? ishga not only delivers results through our award-winning organic skincare products, but we also have a dedicated team of experts to support spas. From initial orders through to training, retail support, events and scaled growth, we offer our spa partners a tailored and flexible service to meet their needs. We provide free in-person and online

training, and teams have access to the comprehensive ishga e-learning platform. We support spas to achieve repeat bookings and retail sales. Our range of complimentary and bespoke marketing solutions also supports spa communication programmes.

What lies at the heart of your brand?

We celebrated our tenth anniversary last year, and our founding values remain unchanged. Our products are made on the Isle of Lewis, where we hand-harvest the seaweed we use. The water in our formulations is sourced from the mineral-rich, unpolluted shores of the island or from a local spring well with a blue clay source. However, science underpins our product development and innovation. We were co-founded by Malcolm Macrae, a marine biologist, who developed our unique extraction

process. Research is also vital – we have ongoing studies looking into the effects of seaweed on the skin.

How do ishga’s seaweed-based treatments benefit spa guests? Our treatments deliver anti-ageing, hydrating and skin-renewing results. Seaweed is a naturally abundant source of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants and essential fatty acids. It promotes natural hyaluronic acid production and hydrates the skin. Rich in antioxidant polyphenols, and has been proven to aid the regeneration of skin cells.

BE INFORMED...

To find out more about the benefits that ishga’s Hebridean seaweed-based products can bring to your spa, visit: www.ishga.com

Leon Trayling

SCIENCE

Derived from the ocean, backed by over ten years of expertise in seaweed, science and skincare.

Made on the Isle of Lewis, Outer Hebrides, with pure, antioxidant-rich, hand-harvested seaweed.

BENEFITS

Results-driven organic seaweed skincare, proven to regenerate, nourish and protect all skin types.

On the Menu

OUR PICK OF THE BEST SPA PRODUCTS AND TREATMENT INNOVATIONS

Edited by Mark Smith

EDITOR’S PICK

Natura Bissé unveils Inhibit Zero Gravity Lift

Natura Bissé has introduced a new spa treatment and anti-ageing face cream to its popular Inhibit range.

Inhibit Zero Gravity Lift is a 60-minute facial that focuses on the face, neck and décolleté offering a smoother, firmer appearance and reducing the look of the double chin. Using the Inhibit product range and the new cream, the ritual features exclusive lifting facial massage techniques.

Firming and pinching gestures are also employed to complete the rejuvenating action. Cheekbones are left more sculpted; wrinkles and expression lines are plumped. The treatment is recommended for special occasions or as a monthly skin rejuvenation ritual.

Inhibit High Definition Lifting Cream has been developed to accompany the new treatment. Its rich texture is formulated with GravZero Fusion, a cocktail of biomimetic collagen IV fragments with potent red algae from Brittany in France. This works to improve the dermoepidermal junction, offering denser, fuller looking skin that is more elastic and contoured.

The GravZero Fusion formula also contains Rejuvenix GF made from brewing yeast, which improves skin quality, leaving it smoother. BioMimetic Dermafill Technology contains four molecular weights of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, aquaxyl, squalene and lipids to plump and hydrate, while Densolift System lifts and firms.

To boost the rejuvenating effects, the education team at Natura Bissé has designed an exclusive at-home deep facial massage to stimulate the fascia and connective tissues. www.naturabisse.com

Mood balancing on the go with Voya’s Aromatic Roller Balls

For wellness on the go, Voya has introduced three Aromatic Roller Balls infused with organic essential oils. Each blend has been formulated to support busy modern lifestyles and to restore, invigorate or calm.

Essence, containing clove, basil and cedarwood and citrus notes, is grounding, balancing and revitalising for stressful and busy lives.

Blended with eucalyptus, rosemary and lime, Zest is energising, focusing and uplifting. The product encourages focus and clarity for energy slumps and jet lag.

Soothing, calming and grounding, Rest features lavender, rosemary and citrus to promote relaxation and tranquility for travel, before meditation or prior to sleep.

Applied to pulse points on the body as part of a mini wellness ritual, the oils can be paired with Voya’s range of products for full wellness rituals at home.

www.voya.ie

Isotonic Hydra Gel Eye Masks boost ESPA skincare collection

Developed to offer an instant pick-me-up for tired-looking eyes, ESPA’s Hydra Gel Eye Masks promise immediate hydration and visibly illuminated skin.

The masks work to improve dehydration lines while softening and reviving dull, tired skin around the eyes. Fast-acting patches deliver a boost of nutrient-rich serum in a convenient format, and a set of tweezers allow hygienic application.

The formula boasts ESPA’s exclusive Active Nutrients Mineral + Electrolyte Complex, which leaves skin feeling revived and looking healthier. Snow mushroom, rich in polysaccharides, helps to protect, leaving the skin hydrated and radiant. Antioxidant spirulina improves elasticity and reduces the appearance of dehydration lines. Amino acids from vegetable taurine work to fight visible fatigue.

The fragrance-free eye masks are recommended for anyone who suffers from excessive screen time, jet lag or late nights.

www.espaskincare.com

myBlend introduces

Contemporary Parisian brand myBlend has added two products to its results-driven skincare line.

Hydrating Mattifying Veil features silica microspheres that mattify the skin and absorb excess sebum throughout the day. It contains a radiance peptide formula that evens out the complexion and smoothes the skin’s texture for glowing, shine-free skin. In addition, Bio-Tech Complex combines hyaluronic acid, marine prebiome and fermented turmeric to deeply hydrate, balance microbiota and fight inflammation.

The brand’s Revitalizing Pre-Serum rejuvenates the skin and provides essential nutrients required to combat reversible epigenetic modifications. An ampoule of fermented turmeric protects, soothes, strengthens and restores skin balance, while Vitamin E derivative is antioxidant and protects from the harmful effects of free radicals. Radiance peptide, hyaluronic acid and marine prebiome help balance the skin’s defences, deeply hydrating and stimulating skin cell renewal and boosting radiance. www.my-blend.com

Elemental Herbology addresses menopausal skin in Metal Longevity range

Formulated with ingredients said to help reverse symptoms of perimenopausal and menopausal skin, Elemental Herbology has introduced Pause & Renew Gel Mask. The first product in the brand’s range to support the menopausal life stage, the cooling, calming gel mask combines a powerful blend of active ingredients that reference Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Adaptogens, vitamins and antioxidants including ashwagandha, red clover and niacinamide deliver intense hydration and boost collagen production, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, offers stress-relieving and antioxidant properties to increase collagen production, boost hydration, help reduce inflammation and enhance cell regeneration.

Vegan and suitable for all skin types, this anti-inflammatory age defence product forms part of Elemental Herbology’s Metal Longevity skincare collection and is blended with calming lavender, geranium, frankincense and patchouli essential oils. www.elementalherbology.com

TREATMENT FOCUS

World Face Massage Champion designs Swissline’s new Signature Treatment

2023 World Face Massage Champion Anna Tsankova has designed Swissline’s innovative Signature Face Sculpt Massage treatment. The facial targets the physical manifestations of stress to restore the skin’s natural radiance and wellbeing.

A rhythmic, deep-flow treatment incorporates breathwork, muscle release and fascia manipulation, as well as Tsankova’s signature advanced massage techniques. The ritual stimulates lymphatic drainage and circulation, relieves muscle tension, shapes facial contours and reactivates collagen to boost the skin. The treatment is part of Swissline’s Le Grand Soin au Collagène Pur and offered as an add-on treatment to other Swissline facials. Debuting at Six Senses Spa Marbella, it will be rolled-out in Swissline’s Golden Circle, a hand-picked selection of five-star hotel spas. www.swissline-cosmetics.com

Maison

D’Asa brings authentic Moroccan rituals to Europe

Founded in Casablanca in 2013, Maison D’Asa crafts authentic wellness experiences inspired by traditions from Morocco to Arabia. The brand’s COSMOS-certified organic products offer traditional hammam protocols and beauty rituals that are found in locations including Burj Al Arab in Dubai, The Oberoi, Marrakech, Mandarin Oriental Oman and Waldorf Astoria Lusail in Qatar.

The brand’s products, which include luxurious skincare, also feature a range of aromatherapy products created in collaboration with a renowned perfume house in Grasse, France. Each product has been designed to capture the essence of the Orient, transporting guests on a sensorial journey.

The award-winning brand has eyed Europe for expansion, with luxury spa openings planned in Spain, Portugal and the UK in the coming year. www.maisondasa.com

MOISTURE TO GLOW Radiance Moisturiser

89% said their skin instantly feels smoother.

86% agree said their skin has a healthy-looking radiant glow.

86% said their skin looks brighter.

84% said their skin felt instantly refreshed.

* based on a panel size of 117 subjects age 18–65

Wildsmith Skin adds to bodycare collection with a trio of natural cleansers

Wildsmith Skin has expanded its bath and body range with a series of natural body cleansers, each formulated to support the circadian rhythm at different times of the day. Presented in recyclable aluminium bottles, they feature no additional packaging.

Vitality Brightening Body Cleanser is an antioxidant-rich formulation designed to combat free-radical damage and promote a brighter, more even-looking skin tone. It boasts vitamin C, ginger extract, black pepper and cedarwood.

Purity Exfoliating Body Cleanser includes an advanced AHA and BHA complex to control excess oil and deliver gentle chemical exfoliation, revealing refined, smooth-looking skin. Sweet fennel, grapefruit, and juniper essential oils complete the blend.

Stillness Nourishing Body Cleanser is formulated with hydrating hyaluronic acid and soothing English chamomile hydrolat harvested on the Heckfield Estate in Hampshire, UK to restore and comfort dry or dehydrated skin. www.wildsmithskin.com

TREATMENT FOCUS

Oskia presents its Circadian Syncing Deep Sleep Treatment

Designed to promote a restful night’s sleep, Oskia has introduced its Circadian Syncing Deep Sleep Treatment. It is available in 60 or 90 minutes focusing on the body only, or 120 minutes extending to the face.

Massaging the skin and pulse points with a range of targeted mists, oils and serums, the therapist delivers magnesium and melatonin, a blend to promote deeper relaxation and sound sleep.

The collection includes Deep and Deeper Sleep Massage Oil blended with melatonin. The Deeper Oil also contains CBD. Magnesium Mist for the body is activated with magnesium and lavender, chamomile and patchouli for deep relaxation. Rose and Pea Peptide Mask promotes hair growth. Midnight Elixir serum with bio growth factor, multi-mushroom and melatonin is designed to work with the circadian rhythm to boost cellular regeneration and repair. www.oskiaskincare.com

Swissline’s innovative Signature Face Sculpting treatment, designed by 2023 World Face Massage Champion, Anna Tsankova, made its worldwide debut in June at Six Senses Spa Marbella.

The extremely innovative, original and technical facial massage is a rhythmic, deep flow, yet relaxing, treatment that incorporates breath work, MLD, muscle release and facia manipulation, together with Tsankova’s signature advanced massage sculpting techniques. It stimulates lymphatic drainage and circulation, relieves muscle tension, shapes facial contours and reactivates collagen.

The treatment will gradually be rolled-out in Swissline’s Golden Circle properties around the world.

SIX SENSES SPA MARBELLA

Aromatherapy Associates launches Bath Butler service for spa partners

Aromatherapy Associates has introduced its latest experiential concept, the Bath Butler service. The in-room experience has been created for hotel and spa partners, offering a unique blend of luxury and wellness directly within the comfort of hotel rooms.

The Bath Butler service is a bespoke offering whereby guests can choose from five bathing routines. Each is designed to provide a unique sensory and wellness journey, tailored to meet the specific needs of the guest.

A member of the spa or hotel team will visit the guest’s room to prepare the bath, explain the usage and benefits of each product, and ensure an indulgent and transformative experience. The menu includes rituals to relax, de-stress, ease muscles, nourish the skin and one specifically for couples. The sets contain hero products from the aromatherapy range.

www.aromatherapyassociates.com

Alqvimia debuts a mask dedicated to the neck and décolleté area

A new Neck and Décolleté Radiance Mask in Spanish beauty brand Alqvimia’s collection works to brighten the skin through a combination of nourishing, antioxidant, depigmenting and exfoliating ingredients.

Leaving the skin more even, smooth and hydrated, the mask is designed for single use only and is made from a biodegradable fabric of natural camellia fibres infused with a unique serum. A combination of alpha hydroxy, glycolic, lactic, malic and tartaric acids work at different depths of the skin to regenerate and repair possible damage.

The serum texture also allows for a high concentration of hydrating and nourishing active ingredients including sodium hyaluronate and gluconolactone. Lemon, orange, petitgrain, mandarin, grapefruit, bergamot and geranium essential oils create an anti-pigmentation action. www.alqvimia.com

European Spa selects the best professional product launches for spas. Contact mark.smith@spapublishing.com

Science at the heart of skincare

Sothys president Christian Mas reveals how the brand’s new product and treatment launches help to rebalance the self-protective capacities at the heart of the skin

Apioneer in professional beauty, Sothys was founded in 1946 by Dr Max Hotz and acquired by the Mas Family in 1966. The premium brand has a long history of serving the luxury spa market from its base in central France, where its products and treatments are inspired by four acres of botanical gardens, Les Jardins Sothys in Auriac. In autumn 2024, Sothys is adding the DX Glow programme and Le Sérum to its results-driven range. European Spa asks the brand’s president, Christian Mas, about these new innovations.

What will Le Sérum bring to the anti-ageing skincare market?

Le Sérum is the elixir of youth. Each haute couture bottle contains 17,000 drops of precious serum, infused with high-performance active ingredients. A multi-patented technology encapsulates thousands of calibrated gel-oil droplets, protecting the active ingredients until they are applied. Key actives include pro-enhancing polysaccharides, retinol-like sea fennel, energy-boosting postbiotic, and revitalising peptides.

Le Sérum helps the skin protect itself against the effects of ageing, stressors and aggression, to restore its original vitality. In our research, 100 per cent of users noticed an improvement in all signs of ageing in just two weeks.

Tell us about DX Glow and its skin protective qualities. We’re all exposed to numerous environmental and behavioural factors each day: pollution, the air we breathe, diet, smoking, blue light, high-energy visible light.

Known as the exposome, these factors are responsible for 80 per cent of the visible signs of ageing.

The Sothys Advanced Research team has perfected a combination of plant and marine-derived active ingredients to help skin undo this damage.

The Glow Defence Intensive facial is a simple protocol for cleaner, more radiant, softer skin. The accompanying at-home DX Glow programme is a solution for skin burnout, with Glow Defence Serum and Glow Defence Cream to help combat the effects of daily environmental aggressors.

What makes Sothys a great brand for spas to partner with? We have an extremely high degree of expertise and beauty

know-how thanks to our 78-year brand heritage – and we continue to combine pioneering skincare and treatment protocols with a luxurious French touch. Our treatment rituals provide incredible experiences and visible results that spa guests will return for time and again.

BE INFORMED...

Sothys proudly partners with luxury spas around the world, including: Hôtel Le Cap Estel, France; Sofitel London St James, UK; Whatley Manor, UK; Club Med Gregolimano, Greece; The St Regis Singapore; Château Hôtel Grand Barrail Saint-Emilion, France. To explre and discover the brand’s full product and treatment range, visit: www.sothys.com

www.lemispa.com info@lemigroup.it

A new roadmap for leadership?

European Spa heads to Greece to take part in Euphoria Retreat’s Holistic Leadership Retreat, rooted in ancient Greek and Chinese philosophies

REPORT BY SARAH CAMILLERI

Renowned Greek destination spa Euphoria Retreat sits serenely in the heart of the Peloponnese. Perched on a mountainside, surrounded by an enchanting pine forest, this secluded deluxe destination is protected by Mount Taygetus to the rear and commands expansive views over the valley below. Blue skies, olive and citrus groves, and rosemary-filled gardens make it a haven from the outside world.

Set above the sleepy terracotta-tiled village of Mystras, Euphoria’s idyllic location offers a heady mix of yin and yang energy, which is also reflected throughout its design. A Chinese five-element

philosophy and ancient Greek wisdom guides the holistic delivery of spa treatments and retreat programming, which have garnered an international reputation for excellence since its opening in 2018. With just 45 rooms and a team of 70, at full occupancy the guest to staff ratio is one-to-one.

Behind the vision, Euphoria’s entrepreneurial founder, Marina Efraimoglou (pictured far right with energy healer Mary Vandorou), ensures every detail delivers a unique blend of wellbeing and selfcare.

The destination’s welcoming 3,000sqm spa sits at the heart of every experience and has been designed to reflect the five-element philosophy. Set over

four floors and manned by a team of experienced therapists and practitioners, the offer is extensive with a wide range of holistic therapies and modalities from meditation to medical.

Discovering leadership potential I have been invited to try out a new four-day Holistic Leadership Retreat. Curated by Marina and her long-term associate and friend, energy healer Mary Vandorou, this four-day programme offers an immersive schedule of workshops, somatic therapies, drama sessions, group discussions and spa activities. It promises to help people explore their own leadership potential.

Marina’s vision for the leadership programme was inspired by a desire to bridge the gap between two distinct worlds. “In a way, I am bringing my past knowledge of banking and global business together with my knowledge of the wellness world to create something unique,” she explains. “Our new retreat is for leaders seeking a new way forward. It has momentum, it doesn’t use buzzwords like authenticity and empathy lightly. It asks for more depth, more self-awareness and a greater understanding of the three levels of leadership the world needs right now.”

Euphoria’s philosophy, ‘Your Life, Your Journey’, lies at the heart everything, explains Marina. “It reflects the democracy of the ancient Greeks, who believed that we all have the right to be the best we can and also a responsibility to participate as leaders out in society,” she says. “We all know the world is changing and most of us are disappointed by the current leadership. So, collectively, we need to find new leaders – a new architype of leadership.”

Somatic dance and trust

Right from day one, my fast-lane existence of being ‘always on’ – thanks to life, travel and running a

From above: a sound healing session before pledges are made; an awakening immersion in nature is part of the destination’s new Holistic Leadership Retreat

business – takes a welcome pause. I gladly switch off my mobile and leave it in my room as I head down to the spa, where I am warmly welcomed. It already feels like a home from home.

Last night I met my retreat companions for the first time. The international mix – four women and one man – includes two of the Euphoria team. It’s Marina’s philosophy that everyone on her team should experience everything the retreat offers as part of their own personal development. This may be unusual but it’s something I believe more spas should consider if they want their team to work at a higher level and have agency, and create future leaders.

Our facilitators, Marina herself, together with resident healer Mary, have already guided us through the five-elements philosophy and the strands of ancient Greek wisdom they have weaved to address three levels of leadership.

Today is about feeling it and getting into our bodies. I am excited, but also unnerved by the agenda. The

prospect of two hours devoted to somatic dance looms ominously, like a maths exam. I love to dance but not on demand and with five people I have only just met. Thankfully, Marina and Mary ease us in with an extraordinary star meditation and a set of movement exercises to establish trust. Before I can overthink it, I am dancing freely around the expansive yoga studio like a forest fairy. It’s exhilarating, joyful and I feel the burn of my fire element kicking in.

Free your voice

Expertly delivered by drama teacher and media coach

Chrisanthi Kotsafti, a ‘Free Your Voice’ workshop puts us in touch with our bodies. We discover the extraordinary vocal range each of us has, and are taught how to project our sound, and importantly, how to speak so that people listen.

Chrisanthi’s wisdom is eye-opening. She demonstrates how repression of our natural vocal range is something that most of us do as a result of

A timeline of transformation

How former bank president Marina Efraimoglou changed her life and learned the expertise to bring next-level leadership to Euphoria Retreat

It takes heart and often time for each of us to find our path to purpose and leadership. Marina Efraimoglou began thinking about such things when her father gave her The Communist Manifesto to read at the age of 12. It lit a fire in her to change the world.

“When I was growing up in Greece we were moving out of a dictatorship and there was a lot of turbulence – in a good way. At that time my generation thought that politics could fix anything and everything. Now we know this is not the case.”

Academic and determined, Marina gained two degrees – in economics and sociology – and a master’s in international trade and finance. This lead to stellar career in the financial world, which cumulated in her becoming the only female shareholder, as well as president and co-managing director, of a bank.

Her life in international finance took a pause when she faced a significant health crisis. Cancer, and her journey to heal from it, led Marina to make purposeful changes so she could follow a deep calling to lead a more holistic and spiritual life.

Making a pivotal decision to sell her bank, she then invested two

further years to help transition her team before dedicating her time to travelling and studying healing modalities under many masters. It was during this time of emlightenment that the seeds were sown for her next extraordinary chapter: to buy land and build her own destination spa – one that would be like no other.

Euphoria was opened to guests in 2018 and Marina’s dream became a reality. The place truly captures the unique soul of Mystras and Marina’s desire to bring every guest a sense of healing and transformation.

Since then, Greece’s first destination spa has gained an award-winning reputation for its wellness services and retreat programming. Marina’s work continues to lead with heart and provide retreats and spa services to the highest standard.

New frontiers: metabolic health

This autumn, Euphoria Retreat will launch a medical-based Metabolic Health programme that is designed to deliver healing at a cellular level.

The new longevity service aims to give guests a true picture of their health status and how to improve it. The watchword here is ‘precision’ and the retreat will feature a unique integration of Euphoria’s extensive range of holistic wellbeing modalities.

“We have been working with the University of Thessaloniki and our team of medical experts to develop a truly integrated approach to preventative health,” says Marina Efraimoglou. “An excellent new diagnostic kit is sent out before each stay to collect samples of your blood, saliva, urine and microbiome. These are then analysed in the lab.”

Euphoria’s founder recognises a growing demand for preventative health services backed by science and wants to make these services more accessible.

“On arrival guests will have a consultation to understand their test results and we will build their programme based on this data. The gut-brain axis is so important to understand. We look at bloodwork, skin health and a unique set of parameters to really get a true picture of your metabolic health.

“We have invested in the best cutting-edge technology to get real health metrics,’ says Marina. “This is the future of preventative healthcare.”

social conditioning – it’s a false constraint. We are taught to find the range of our first voice – the one we entered the world with, the cry. It’s powerful, emotional and leads to some tears.

“Free Your Voice is the point at which people melt and become connected. Sometimes they cry and open up. To be part of this retreat you really must free your voice and feel able to express yourself,” explains Marina.

We finish day one with a personalised Five Element Balancing spa treatment before embarking on a two-hour evening drama workshop, after which the group has effortlessly bonded.

Forest bathing and the power of silence

Day two brings a completely different focus. It’s first thing in the morning and our guide stands before us, gentle, calm and quiet. He asks us to follow him and stay silent. We leave together in single file, walking very, very slowly up the trail into the forest.

It takes some time for me to shift down into a suitable gear as following and walking slowly are clearly not my natural settings. However, gradually the grace of nature around us quietens my mind and I forget about the pace – and everything – taking in the birdsong and the smell of pine around us. Time falls away as we move through the trees together.

Above: the stunning and unique poolscape at the award-winning Euphoria Retreat, which opened in 2018 in Mystras, Greece

Our guide takes us up to a clearing where together we flow easily through three sessions taking in Qi Gong, tapping and breathwork, before finishing with a memorable tree meditation. The peace I have been seeking starts to land as I connect with my earth and wood elements.

“Our work here is to quieten things down and take you into your body using meditation, walking, movement and somatic awareness sessions,” says Marina. “This approach of three layers – mind, emotional and somatic – over the three days, helps each person connect with their leadership potential.”

Bringing it home and making pledges

Our final day is all about integration. We spend the start of the day working on the three levels of leadership with a group discussion led by Marina and Mary, who use an ingenious set of cards to facilitate a ‘soul conversation’. This allows intuition to flow and frees the group to listen to one another’s life challenges and potential purpose. We explore our

Below from left: drama therapy helps guests on their journey of transformation in the Peloponnese sunshine; the spa’s Holistic Leadership Retreat employs a combination of modalities to help participants find their voice

own limiting beliefs and relationship with boundaries. The flow of encouragement and feedback from several of the group is invaluable.

“Importantly, everything is integrated on the last day with a closing session where each person in the group shares their progress and thoughts on how they can best lead in their lives,” says Marina. “This integration is so important when it comes from the group. It has a higher power when we support each other this way. We also have a ceremonial part, which reinforces the importance of the third level and the intention of each person.”

As a group we have laughed, cried and shared so much together in such a short time. It has been a liberating, thought-provoking and enlightening experience. I am certainly leaving Euphoria with a renewed sense of purpose.

Going forward, Marina explains that she believes the new retreat will evolve to meet demand. “It takes a lot of energy to run a leadership retreat – it’s intense to hold space for different sets of people at different leadership levels. Our work will constantly evolve,” she says. “We hope to bring together people from both the corporate and wellness world, to find new ways to lead change for our future world.” www.euphoriaretreat.com

The rise of sauna and cold plunge

‘Sweat culture’ in spas embraces a universal wellness language that every society understands, writes Emlyn Brown, global senior vice president of wellbeing at Accor

With its ancient roots in Finnish and Estonian cultures, the health benefits of sauna have long been appreciated in cultures around the world. Regular sauna use helps detoxify the body, improve circulation and promote relaxation. Recent studies suggest it can improve cardiovascular health, enhance immune function, and even increase longevity.

endorphins, stimulating the autonomic nervous system and enhancing resilience to stress.

Emlyn Brown

EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

Emlyn Brown has led group operations of several leading luxury spa and fitness operators. During his time at Resense Spa S.A he was managing director of Asia, and he has held senior positions at Six Senses. Brown’s role at Accor sits within the design and development side of the business, focusing on the group’s Luxury & Lifestyle division. This includes the brands Raffles, Fairmont, Sofitel and MGallery among others.

www.accor.com

When the heat of saunas is combined with cold immersion, it becomes an even more powerful and effective experience.

‘Sweat culture’, as we call it, is experiencing a modern-day renaissance. The ancient and universal practice of mixing heat and cold is being embraced by more countries and younger consumers who are adopting it in new and innovative ways.

The cross-cultural appeal of thermal bathing

Every culture, through every age, has enjoyed its own form of sauna. From the Ottoman hammam and Mayan temazcal to the Japanese mushi-buro and kama-buro, from the banyas of Russia to the saunas of Finland, heat therapy has stood the test of time.

It has waxed and waned in popularity and crossed continents in various iterations but sweat is a universal wellness language.

The cold plunge practice, rooted in various traditions, including those of the Nordic countries and Japan, is now popular in sports recovery and wellness circles. Cold plunges reduce muscle inflammation, improve circulation and boost mood through the release of

The rise of sauna and cold plunge circuits reflects a growing interest in holistic wellness and natural therapies. By blending ancient traditions with modern science, amplified by social media, sweat culture has become integral to contemporary wellness routines, with ample room to continue its upward trajectory.

The democratisation of wellness

This trend is another mark in the shift from the ‘me’ to the ‘we’ of wellness that our industry cannot ignore. The sauna is a place of equality – democratic, affordable, effective and increasingly social. Cold plunge is a physical challenge that can be ‘posted and boasted’ to friends and followers.

The social aspect of saunas, where people gather to unwind and socialise, contributes to mental wellbeing, reduces stress and fosters a sense of community. This is highly attractive to our ‘new’ spa consumers, particularly millennials and gen Zs. Opportunities to sauna, swim, bathe and enjoy a wellness drink together are the modern replacement for meeting in bars as these generations seek out healthier ways to connect and socialise.

Hot and cold take centre stage

From a hotelier or spa director’s perspective, this concept of ‘wellness socialising’ must be the cornerstone of how we think, plan and monetise our spas. Once an overlooked and poorly planned amenity within many spas, saunas are now taking centre stage.

How to create a ‘sweat culture’ programme in your spa

1. Use a thermal specialist If you’re keen to develop a sauna and plunge concept the mechanical, engineering and plumbing requirements are vital – don’t cut corners as a show sauna and cold plunge needs specialist expertise to get it right.

2. Remember ‘rest’ areas are as important as the cold plunge and sauna It is vital that any experience provides ample space for participants to rest and recover. Remember that rest is a vital part of any sauna programme.

3. Animate your current sauna If you have a simple amenity sauna – no problem! You can introduce ceremony, aromas and aufguss to animate an existing

This gives us an excellent opportunity to pivot how we think about spa experiences within hotels and resorts. The demand for sauna and cold plunge is growing fast everywhere. We are seeing the rise of urban boutique studios dedicated to hot and cold circuits and broader sweat culture, bringing these practices to city dwellers who are seeking convenient ways to incorporate wellness into their busy lives.

amenity space, transforming it into an experience that attracts groups and makes spa fun.

4. Social media engagement is key Use your social channels and video with strong socialised imagery to promote a sense of ceremony. This becomes the attraction, then you can upsell treatments to a very relaxed and engaged consumer who is attracted by an effective experience.

5. Make it communal Work to attract a group. Run clubs followed by sauna and cold immersion – women’s sauna groups and so on – to create guest ‘tribes’ so you can then make ‘fans’.

The vanguard of social spa

A pioneering example is Othership in Toronto, Canada, which blends these ancient practices with modern design and community-focused experiences. Banya No.1 in London is another proponent, along with the innovative individual cold plunge and sauna pods at PAUSE in Los Angeles.

Bathhouse and Remedy Place in New York also unite urban, social sauna and cold-plunge experiences. Lasse Eriksen

Above: Polish world champion Lukasz Dlużniewski is a respected sauna master and trainer

at Farris Bad in Norway has also been doing some great work in this space.

Adding a 15-minute aufguss sauna ceremony is another way to engage guests. This traditional ritual is reaching new heights of engagement with a world championship taking place in Holland this year.

Latvian pirts ceremonies are also informing heat experiences.

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is bringing the concept to hotels. We will soon see the debut of several purpose-built sauna and bathing concepts, such as the new eco-friendly thermal wellness bathing spa at Fairmont Château Lake Louise in Canada. The soon-to-open Fairmont Hanoi in Vietnam will offer a private members’ day spa featuring traditional Asian bathing rituals, while our luxury wellness club in Fairmont The Mere in Cheshire, UK features contrast bathing as an integral part of a longevity concept we will deploy in 2025.

Photo: Ryszard Rak, Wellness Multimedia

Five steps to optimise spa revenue

Camille Patricot-Wheatley, head of product performance at Journey, explains how the company helps spas to optimise their growth and profitability

Journey’s powerful combination of technology and digital marketing solutions is designed to enhance spa performance. The company’s dedicated Product Performance Team continuously analyses data and industry trends to drive growth aligned with each spa’s commercial goals.

Camille Patricot-Wheatley, head of product performance, believes that with the right use of technology, spas can increase revenue from every guest while maintaining an exceptional customer experience.

“By implementing this five-point plan, spa owners can strategically increase revenue, ensure personalised and memorable experiences, and maintain a competitive edge,” she says.

1. Understand your guests’ purpose

If you know why guests visit your spa, you can then categorise their intent into key groups, such as stress relief, health and wellness, beauty or special occasions. Tracking the percentage of guests in each category – and their spending patterns – can identify revenue opportunities and help you to align add-ons and cross-selling.

2. Segment your marketing

By tailoring your marketing messages to meet guest requirements, you can go beyond generic comms and personalise emails, social media and ads to create a meaningful connection. Personalisation allows for exclusive promotions and drives higher spending.

3. Customise the guest journey

People expect an ever more bespoke spa experience. By collecting detailed information about guest demographics and interests, you can gauge their profile to better personalise their stay.

4. Introduce dynamic pricing

A dynamic pricing strategy based on demand, lead times and profitability will allow you to maximise treatment room revenue. Focus on high-demand services that yield the highest revenue per time slot. Use historical data to predict trends and plan pricing accordingly. Fill anticipated gaps by targeting relevant guest segments.

5. Enhance the booking experience

Create an online booking experience that fits the habits of your audience. Flexible scheduling allows last-minute bookings, especially of beauty and aesthetic treatments, that can fill gaps.

From an online booking platform to mobile wallet payments, a flawless digital booking experience streamlines operations and enables staff to prioritise the in-person experience.

BE INFORMED...

Journey’s Experience Management System oversees all spa services and facilities, unifying activities into a central system. This integrates with Journey’s ecommerce booking platform. To discover how Journey could help you optimise spa revenue, visit: www.journey.travel

The power of trauma retreats

As emotional retreats continue to grow globally, we look at how spas can address trauma in their programming and empower staff to deliver life-changing experiences

REPORT BY MARK SMITH

As the concept of wellness programming continues to expand, spas and wellness destinations are responding with retreats that address guests’ deeper emotional issues. Trauma is a niche but growing area that requires careful planning, skilled therapists and an emotionally engaged team to offer truly transformational results.

Processing and releasing past trauma can enhance resilience and offer a deeper sense of inner peace. Techniques to achieve this can include holistic counselling, mindfulness, somatic therapies, bodywork, movement, dance and drama.

“One basic misunderstanding is that trauma is about an event that’s happened ‘back then’,” says psychiatrist, neuroscientist and author of The Body Keeps The Score, Bessel van der Kolk. “That’s not really the case – that event is over. The problem where you develop traumatic stress is because your body and your system doesn’t know that it’s over.”

Having studied trauma for around 50 years, van der Kolk has a deep understanding of the topic. His book was a game-changer in our understanding of how trauma impacts the body, and it has informed much of today’s wellness programming. “Trauma is not an unusual experience. It is extremely common,” he says. “The big challenge of treating trauma is how do we help people to live in bodies that feel fundamentally safe.”

A safe and trusted space

Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary in Thailand has several programmes that address trauma and emotional challenges. “Designing retreats that address trauma requires curating a safe and nurturing environment where people feel truly supported,” says Gopal Kumar, general manager and director of wellness development at Kamalaya. “It’s an approach that requires empathy and integrates holistic practices that engage mind, body, heart and spirit, facilitating a comprehensive healing process.”

All programming at Euphoria Retreat in Greece includes aspects designed to heal trauma, with a specific one called Emotional Harmony. This can also be

n Consultation: conduct a thorough screening and evaluation to understand the specific issues and needs of each guest

n Controlled size: ensure that retreats are intimate, with around 6-8 guests

n Engage your team: it is crucial to have a committed, devoted, skilled and highly experienced team

n Education: provide continuous training, mentorship and a supportive environment to enhance your therapists’ capabilities

n Trust: prioritise confidentiality, empathy and professional expertise to foster a sense of security and trust for your guests

TRAUMA RETREAT CHECKLIST

offered privately with follow-ups once the guest returns home.

“The most important aspect in all our retreats, is we ensure a safe and nurturing space, like we are giving them a mother’s hug,” says Marina Efraimoglou, owner of Euphoria Retreat. “It reinforces our notion – Your Life, Your Journey – without judgement and with acceptance.”

At Preidlhof Luxury DolceVita Resort in Italy, as well as providing a safe space, consultations and screening in advance of arrival are a cornerstone. “This is essential for tailoring a programme that effectively addresses

guests’ trauma,” explains Patrizia Bortolin, co-founder of Glowing Flow Wellness Specialists and spa concept manager and transformational wellness coach at Preidlhof. “The complexity of each guest’s story requires a sensitive approach to design a programme that will achieve the best results.”

Transformational techniques

Given that trauma is often imprinted in the body and can be retained there for many years, it is natural for therapies to encompass a wide variety of techniques from talking and counselling to deep body work, mindfulness and even drama.

Preidlhof integrates techniques at certain stages of its programme,

such as shiatsu, touch for health, ThetaHealing and psychotherapy. Euphoria Retreat uses a variety of strategies including game cards, somatic body work such as movement and dance, meditations and drama workshops. For unblocking trauma, the throat chakra is a focus to help open up the voice. Chakra balancing and pranic healing are also utilised. Members of the European Spa team have participated in various programmes addressing emotional health over the years, including shamanic healing at Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof in Austria, led by Gabrielle Scharnitzky. Particularly enlightening were the creations of Stefano Battaglia (who co-founded Glowing Flow Retreat

From left: relaxation at Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary; dramatic therapy at Euphoria Retreat

MEET THE EXPERT

Stefano Battaglia, co-founder, Glowing Flow Wellness Specialists

Stefano Battaglia is an award-winning master therapist, spa trainer and retreat leader. Currently based at Preidlhof Luxury DolceVita Resort, he is globally renowned for his pioneering approach to emotional wellness and trauma healing.

With over 20 years of holistic clinical practice, Battaglia has extensive experience in healing techniques, and as a meditation and mindfulness teacher. His treatments aim to address traumas stored in the body using trauma touch skills, which delve into emotional memories, uncovering concealed pain and working to dissolve physical and emotional tensions. He is also an integrative therapist and massage trainer.

www.glowing-flow.com

This page: Preidlhof offers guests time for reflection as well as singing bowl therapy

with Bortolin and works with trauma touch skills) and Beata Aleksandrowicz who is a gifted practitioner leading sessions with an intuitive touch.

Empowering teams to deliver emotional programming

The key to any successful trauma retreat comes down to the skill of individual therapists and practitioners coupled with team dynamics. There is a huge amount of trust involved for guests embarking on a trauma retreat, and teams need to be educated and supported to deliver the very best results while guiding with care, kindness and compassion.

Continuous education and mentorship are central to supporting the team at Kamalaya. “Our Life Enhancement Mentors are skilled in handling emotional challenges with compassion and expertise, ensuring they offer the highest level of care and support,” says Kumar. “This

Above: meditation is part of the approach to healing at Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary

empowerment translates into effective and empathetic guest interactions.”

Deep personal work and reflection are integral parts of the approach at Euphoria Retreat, with staff offered one-to-one sessions with spiritual mentor Mary Vandorou. “Staff are trained in reiki, and we regularly clear the treatment rooms using pranic healing techniques with sage and crystals,” says Efraimoglou.

Supervision and mentorship ensure staff wellbeing in this area at Preidlhof, says Bortolin: “We provide continuous training and development, particularly in trauma-informed care and therapeutic techniques. It’s important to foster empathy and compassion within the team, encouraging practices like mindfulness and reflection.”

Freedom to flourish

Working with trauma presents many challenges and opportunities. With a growing awareness of how trauma

Beata Aleksandrowicz, founder, Beata Aleksandrowicz Spa Training Method MEET THE EXPERT

Beata Aleksandrowicz is an international expert on massage, healing and women’s wellbeing. An intuitive practitioner and global educator, she is an author and speaker who shares her expertise on the importance of touch, wellbeing and spiritual growth at conferences and through her Instagram channel.

With a global reputation, her unique method combines intuitive touch, deep muscular release, breathwork, meditation, ThetaHealing and a profound connection with clients to work on a deeper level to unlock trauma held in the body.

Her Spa Training Method provides therapists with effective injury free massage techniques, communication skills and life coaching. www.beata.website

can be held in the body, more and more people are seeking to undertake work in wellness spaces to clear these blockages. Through emotional healing, guests can gain a sense of self-acceptance, self-love, and an increased presence in the moment, along with enthusiasm for life. They can also find new purpose and a sense of empowerment and freedom. www.euphoriaretreat.com www.preidlhof.com www.kamalaya.com

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Edited by Mark Smith

Alma festival from Six Senses set to return

Six Senses has announced the return of its transformative wellness festival, Alma.

Featuring a unique programme of longevity practices, spiritual reconnection, guided movement and uplifting celebration, the four-day festival brings together global healers, thinkers and spiritualists, inviting participants to ‘rewild the spirit’.

Highlights of the event, scheduled for November 6-9, include biohacker Ben Greenfield, who brings his groundbreaking strategy for ‘boundless longevity’, with insights into vital health. Christian Drapeau, a neurophysiology

scientist, will explore the healing power of stem cells, while leading LA celebrity trainer Kim Strother will address the healing power of movement.

Dutch duo Sanctum will showcase their uplifting mindful movement concept, and Dr Jessica Shepherd will offer insights into hormone optimisation. Biohacker and presenter Tim Gray will provide attendees with tools to navigate an unhealthy world.

A diverse line up Nutrition and gut health are also a focus for the programme. With insights on gut health optimisation, Dr Ingrid

Yang will address how to maximise the microbiome; Bonberi’s Nicole Berrie will address intuitive eating; and Jessa Greenfield will explore relationships, spirituality, nutrition and cooking.

Other sessions will address subjects as diverse as breathwork, ecstatic dance and meditative sound healing as yoga, body sculpting and HIIT.

Alma’s blend of wellness workshops, insight-packed talks, transformative healing sessions, and sunset ceremonies have been designed to foster new perspectives in the natural landscape. www.sixsenses.com www.almafrequency.com

Brian d’Souza unveils SwellSpa concept powered by generative technology

Using generative technology to deliver therapeutic sounds for hotels and spas, international DJ Brian d’Souza has launched SwellSpa.

Harnessing the power of transformative sound, SwellSpa delivers end-to-end sound experiences that can be choreographed to each treatment. Composed by award-winning musicians and sound therapists the concept provides unique compositions every time.

The SwellSpa treatment room sound therapy concept enables purpose-driven sound treatments that accommodate the client’s taste, ensuring a distinct and personalised sound journey for guests.

The SwellSpa app puts customers and therapists in control of the experience – the duration of the treatment can be adjusted ‘on the go’ and the experience becomes more active as a result.

Said to raise the value of sound in the treatment room (with no copyright licenses required) it presents a superior alternative to passive, traditional background music playlists. www.swellstudio.io

DolceVita Hotels turns up the heat with retreats led by sauna masters

DolceVita Hotels, a collection of four family-run wellness hotels in Italy’s South Tyrol, has announced its latest sauna retreat will be led by two sauna master world champions.

Sauna Around Week will take place in October 2024 with traditional aufguss sauna shows and rituals performed daily. This experience is free to all guests of its hotels.

This year the sessions will be led by two sauna master world champions: Michael Niedermair (pictured), the reigning Italian sauna master champion and two-time world vice champion from South Tyrol; supported by former world champion Kasia Klajn.

Sauna events will take place across each of the five and four-star DolceVita properties: Alpiana, Preidlhof, Lindenhof and Feldhof, located in the Lana and Naturno regions of Italy.

As part of the inclusive hotel-hopping concept, guests can move freely between properties to see the champions in action while staying at just one. All are just a short walk or drive away from each other. www.dolcevitahotels.com

Sparcstudio creates inspiring, innovative, multi-award-winning spa, hotel, and wellness spaces. Our expert space planning and attention to detail ensure our designs are truly bespoke, unique, and experience-led.

The ‘Reeds’ at South Lodge, Exclusive Collection: sustainable luxury spa lodges, set in nature around a wild swimming lake.”

Ananda in the Himalayas brings authentic Ayurveda to the Welsh Valleys

Experts from the renowned Indian wellness retreat Ananda in the Himalayas have partnered with the singer Charlotte Church, who is custodian of The Dreaming, a healing retreat in Wales.

Taking place in May 2025, Dreams of Ananda offers a highly personalised rejuvenating experience for guests, including one-on-one consultations with Dr Harilal, Ananda’s highly esteemed Ayurvedic physician, and Malati Mehrish, the resort’s head of yoga. They will work alongside Church to restore guests’ mind, body, and spirit to a state of ananda, the Sanskrit word for bliss.

A one-to-one consultation with Dr Harilal will decide a personalised treatment plan, dietary recommendations, preventive health care, herbal medicine and detoxification as needed.

As well as nutritious Ayurvedic cuisine there will be nature immersions and outdoor activities in the breathtaking Welsh landscape. These will be complemented by sound healing to release blockages, enhance wellbeing and restore balance. www.thedreaming.co.uk | www.anandaspa.com

Equine therapy gallops out globally at Healing Hotels of the World

Healing Hotels of the World (HHW) has seen a growth in the uptake of equine therapy across its network of wellness hotels. The horse-related practise is a growing concept whereby the gentle nature of the animals enables guests to connect with themselves during guided therapy sessions. The process is said to help individuals learn to develop trust, empathy and self-awareness.

Across the HHW portfolio, Tenuta di Paternostro and Dojo Bianco in Italy, NewTree Ranch in the US (pictured) and Nirvana Retreat in the UAE, each provide distinctive equine therapy programmes.

In the Tuscia region of Italy, guests at Tenuta di Paternostro engage in workshops and have various encounters with the estate’s free-roaming horses, cultivating empathy, trust and emotional release.

At Nirvana Retreat in the UAE, the horses are rescued ex-champions from world-class racing, endurance, dressage and show events. The animals, having faced trust issues and depression after being injured or abandoned, now play a pivotal role in the healing process of guests. www.healinghotelsoftheworld.com

indoor.technoalpin.com www.indoor.technoalpin.com

Schloss Elmau launches Gaga retreat exploring movement and dance

To encourage guests to explore the possibilities of physical movement, Schloss Elmau in Germany, has introduced a Gaga retreat. Gaga is a form of physical expression that requires no previous experience and allows people to express themselves through movement and dance. The artform was conceptualised by Ohad Naharin, a choreographer, performer and previous artistic director of the Batsheva Dance Company.

Gaga is said to be an exploration that relies on improvisation, sensation and an acknowledged connection between the mind and body. The practice is not comprised of specific techniques or forms but invites individuals into a deep exploration of their own movement capabilities, in a receptive and engaging environment.

The first Gaga retreat was held in summer 2024 with artistic director, Saar Harari. In March 2025, a second retreat, hosted by the creator Ohad Naharin will be held. This will be assisted by Harari. New dates are set to be added throughout the year. www.schloss-elmau.de

Combe Grove introduces metabolic health retreats Bath, UK

Said to be the first of its kind in the UK, Combe Grove Metabolic Health Retreats integrate leading medical science with a programme designed to rebalance the five key principles of human wellness.

Located within 70 acres of mature woodland and meadow in Bath, the retreat has been developed in consultation with leading GPs, nutritionists and medical professionals to deliver a year-long process (with one residential week) that is helping to transform health outcomes.

Programme options are offered to address pre-diabetes, menopause, food addiction, type one diabetes, men’s health and fertility.

Working with leading medical and nutritional experts, including Dr Campbell Murdoch, the retreat has been curated to address nutrition, movement, sleep, mindset and environment.

Comprehensive health assessments are undertaken by registered GPs upon arrival and at departure from the retreat, forming a measurable basis for the immediate and ongoing health benefits derived from the programme. www.combegrove.com

Liquid wellness

We talk to Maria King, co-founder of nutrient-rich juice brand Junius, about her passion for health and approach to functional medicine

Taking a whole-body approach to preventative healthcare and wellbeing, Junius is a family-run business creating award-winning organic cold-pressed juices and shots for the wellness market.

Certified functional medicine expert, nutritionist and co-founder Maria King formulated the range with scientifically backed ingredients and it is now found in Claridge’s and the Groucho Club in London. We asked her about the concept and the brand’s approach to health.

How can spas enhance their guest journey with nutritionally rich juices?

With the industry increasingly questioning and even moving away from alcoholic beverages in spa and wellness environments, this is a great time to offer alternatives. Junius drinks can be used to upgrade arrival refreshments or to pair with signature treatments, extend the spa drinks menu and contribute to the F&B offering.

Does Junius make different juice blends that offer specific benefits for spa guests?

We are educators at heart, constantly looking at nutritional science and biochemistry. Our

range is based on well-researched nutrients and phytonutrients shown to positively influence the roots of health. Our products include Zen, a stress minimiser; Zap, for immune defence; Spa, a cell cleanser and Zip to energise.

Why is cold-pressed juice so rich in nutrients?

At Junius we are passionate about the active compounds, or phytonutrients, found in the living colour of the plant, so we cold-press our juices to deliver maximum nutrition.

Phytonutrients have many health benefits and are found in all plant foods such as fruit and vegetables. When heated these compounds can be destroyed. We use a powerful stainless steel hydraulic press to extract every drop of pure juice from organic, fresh fruit, vegetables, spices (turmeric and ginger) and herbs. Cold pressing is a slow process using pressure, not heat, to create a superior product.

Where does functional medicine tie in with the Junius philosophy?

Functional medicine is the study of the science of prevention. At Junius, we strongly believe that the future of health is a shift towards prevention rather than a need for a cure. www.wearejunius.com

Below: the Junius juice collection: Zen, Spa, Zap and Zip

Maria King

How can we make spa teams more diverse and inclusive?

Rebecca Doyle, group spa and wellness director at Arora Group, explores the importance of inclusivity and how spa managers can adapt to ensure a more balanced, rounded team

Rebecca Doyle

EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

Rebecca Doyle is group spa and wellness director at Arora Group, specialising in luxury spa operations and enhancing guest experiences at Fairmont Windsor Park and Luton Hoo, UK. Passionate about supporting her teams, she has previously worked at locations including Grantley Hall and the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh, and spent time working as a spa consultant on various projects. www.thearoragroup.com

Promoting inclusivity in the spa industry goes beyond being ethically responsible; it is crucial for achieving business success. Embracing diversity and inclusivity – of age as well as race and gender – enhances the experiences of both clients and team members, fostering innovation and growth.

Spa managers must set an example for others to follow, ensuring that our properties are welcoming to all. Remember, a happy and inclusive spa is a profitable spa.

While there are certainly still areas for advancement, in the past two decades there has been an evolution when it comes to diversity and inclusivity in the make-up of spa teams. This shift has allowed us to serve a clientele of all skin types, ages and preferences.

The significant changes during this era have laid the foundation for today’s spa industry. Younger people in education show a real grasp of diversity and inclusion, actively promoting fairness and addressing issues surrounding it.

It is crucial for the spa industry to embrace this attitude. Their openness has the potential to drive progress and innovation in our field.

“Education is the real key to opening up our industry”

As leaders in the spa industry it is our responsibility to provide training that prioritises diversity and inclusivity. In the UK, regulations such as the Equality Act 2010 safeguard individuals from discrimination based on nine protected characteristics: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.

Educating our staff about these safeguards ensures adherence to regulations and fosters a fair and respectful work environment.

Similarly, in the US, laws prohibit workplace discrimination based on race, colour, religion, gender and national origin. Recent trends indicate a rise in lawsuits filed by therapists in America who allege gender bias in terms of opportunities and earnings compared to their counterparts. Some involve allegations of preferences towards therapists in client appointments and renumeration.

“Age is just a number but talent adds up to success”

Despite advancements, age discrimination remains a challenge in

spa workplaces. Employers may be hesitant to hire based on assumptions about experience or concerns about candidates keeping up with job demands. Emphasising talent and skills over age is essential. Legislation such as the UK’s Equality Act 2010 promotes inclusivity and safeguards against age-related bias, helping us to nurture a diverse workforce.

“Explore the unique possibilities of every individual”

I once had the privilege of collaborating and learning with a therapist who was hearing impaired. Despite her inability to hear she had an ability to connect with clients by sensing vibrations, providing them with a remarkable experience. Her success truly highlighted that expertise and connection with clients transcends any limitations, emphasising the

significance of hiring practices. Currently, my top performing therapist is male, demonstrating that talent does not adhere to gender boundaries.

Workplaces that value inclusivity tend to be more unified and productive Research by McKinsey & Company found that companies excelling in gender diversity have a 21% likelihood of achieving above average profitability compared to those with lower levels. Additionally, research by Catalyst suggests that teams embracing inclusivity make business decisions more successfully 87% of the time. It’s time that we took a lead to support diversity. By incorporating some of these strategies, spa leaders can cultivate environments where individuals from all backgrounds feel welcome.

Top tips for fostering diversity in spa environments

n Update recruitment protocols: ensure that job postings and recruitment processes are inclusive and encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

n Diversity training initiatives: conduct education programmes to teach employees about different cultures and promote inclusivity within the workplace.

n Facility accessibility enhancements: make your spa easily accessible to individuals with disabilities by providing facilities such as ramps, wide doorways and treatment rooms within reach.

n Broaden service offerings: introduce a range of treatments that honour different customs and traditions.

n Embrace feedback and take action: open channels for feedback collection on diversity and inclusion efforts, then make improvements based on this information.

An educated and diverse spa team results in a better experience for staff and guests

Your next spa project starts here.

Offering an unrivalled level of service and an exceptional selection of beautifully crafted, high-quality furniture and equipment, Ellisons will ensure your next spa project is a success. spapartner@ellisons.co.uk www.ellisons.co.uk/spa

Our Spa Partner team can help with every aspect of your project, making sure it runs smoothly, on time and to budget. With a portfolio showcasing an extensive range of high-profile spa refits, you can depend on our years’ of experience advising on new builds and refurbishments in treatment rooms and relaxation and reception areas.

Ellisons offer an impressive selection of attractive spa furniture from leading brands Gharieni, Living Earth Crafts, REM, Salon Ambience and many more. Amongst our luxurious product range, you’ll find a selection of elegant, ergonomically designed treatment couches offering bespoke options to suit every treatment need.

Please contact our dedicated Spa Partner team to discuss your options in more detail: spapartner@ellisons.co.uk +44 (0)24 7636 9114

Find out how you can add value to your next spa project by downloading our Spa Guide at www.ellisons.co.uk/spa

SpaStyle

SHOWCASING STYLISH EQUIPMENT AND LEADING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY FOR YOUR SPA

Edited by Wendy Golledge

STYLE INNOVATION

Aquahalo

Dornbracht

The sculptural Aquahalo experience shower, designed by Michael Neumayr and modelled on the classic crystal chandelier, has been unveiled by Dornbracht.

The ring-shaped design has an integrated light and offers three different flow modes. Meditative Aqua Circle Rain envelops the body in soft jets of water that form the shape of a cone; invigorating Tempest Rain is a dense, powerful stream of water that is aesthetically pleasing and ideal for washing hair; and Diamond Rain combines water and soft lighting into a crystal-clear stream to deliver a relaxing experience for body and mind.

“My original inspiration was a chandelier that hung in my parent’s dining room – the way it reflected the light always reminded me of sparkling water as a child,” says Neumayr.

Available in five finishes – chrome, brushed platinum, glossy or brushed champagne (22kt gold) and matte black – Aquahalo has been installed in the Priesteregg Premium Eco Resort in Austria. www.dornbracht.com

EOS-X and Sculpta

Déesse PRO

The new EOS-X by Déesse Pro is a medical-grade LED solution featuring 1,070nm wavelength technology. This near-infrared wavelength has been clinically proven to penetrate deep into the skin’s subcutaneous tissue and muscle, to stimulate ageing and compromised tissue while also improving microcirculation and cellular oxygenation.

Exclusively available in spas and clinics, an anti-ageing medical mode allows therapists to combine three wavelengths to elicit a painless pro-inflammatory response akin to the effects of a laser or chemical peel.

Also new from Déesse Pro is Sculpta, which combines three energies – electrical muscle stimulation, radio frequency and red LED light therapy – to deliver facial rejuvenation and promote skin health. The dual-ended handheld device targets three layers of the skin to restore facial definition, improve the appearance of ageing, boost circulation and aid lymphatic drainage. www.deessepro.com

FRIMAS

KLAFS

Global wellness concept supplier KLAFS has launched FRIMAS, an ice steam room that allows gentle, humid cooling to maximise the health benefits of saunas.

KLAFS developed this new type of wellness cooling to complement the intensive heat phase of sauna bathing. The concept enables a moist, cold gradual cool-down to round off a sauna bath and gently rebalance the body.

At cabin temperatures of around 5°C, a fine mist is created, which provides an increased sensation of cold without exposing the body to too powerful a stimulus. By avoiding an abrupt change from hot to cold, the body can regulate itself in a balanced way and slowly adapt within ten minutes.

FRIMAS has backlit blue acrylic blocks and can be customised with snow, ice fog and authentic-looking ice surfaces. There is the option to have a glacier ice wall with ice fog. www.klafs.com

Myrtha Wellness creates, engineers and manufactures sustainable products that delight the clientele.

Myrtha modular panels technology are the epitome of ‘Made in Italy’ thermal bathing wellness products.

Fragrances for steam baths, saunas, whirlpools, hot tubs and experience showers

Cleaner for sauna, spa and wellness areas. Disinfectant and cleaner for whirlpool and spa tubs.

www.myrthawellness.com www.myrthawellness.com

Sauna and spa technology for experience showers, saunas, hamam, steam baths and rhassoul, dosing systems, inhalation systems, lighting technology

Kemitron is a manufacturer of high quality products for spa, sauna and wellness (technology, fragrances, cleaning, cosmetics) with a focus on best quality and workmanship. All products are “made in Germany” and are sold on the international spa and wellness market. www.kemitron.com

VIBRO-ACOUSTIC DEVELOPMENT

Wave Reset lounger offers zero-gravity quantum sound therapy

Vibro-acoustic

resonance technologies enhance release from Living Earth Crafts

A luxurious new zero-gravity lounger from Living Earth Crafts (LEC), Wave Reset is electronically adjustable and designed to produce deep states of relaxation. The ergonomically shaped lounger can be equipped with LEC’s award-winning Mind-Sync or ReZen vibro-acoustic resonance technologies, allowing spas to offer an advanced acoustic resonance therapy experience.

Mind-Sync is a clinically tested, bio-hacking, stress-reduction technology. It offers six immersive programmes of 25-60 minutes, which utilise powerful embedded transducers to flow quantum harmonic sound waves through the body.

Noise-dampening headphones deliver two channels of proprietary brainwave entrainment frequencies, masked by gentle music and nature sounds to help override our sympathetic nervous system and move guests into a para-sympathetic

mental state. The programmes include vibrational wellness, sleep therapy and restorative meditation.

Alternatively, ReZen is a curated vibro-acoustic soundscape designed to reduce stress and anxiety with customised curated spa content delivered by Myndstream. The healing wellness programming is also delivered via noise-dampening headphones, while a series of embedded transducers flow harmonic sound waves through the mattress to the guest’s body.

Built to order and featuring LEC’s Strata Cloudfill mattress with EarthConnect, the Wave Reset lounger also has programmable synchronised chromatic lighting in its IceBlock base. One-touch electronic adjustments allow the pad to shift from a more upright reading position to a zero-gravity relaxation angle. www.livingearthcrafts.com

Interior eco-landscaping

Benholm Group

Creative plant designers Benholm Group have completed a green spa transformation at Isle of Eriska Spa, on a private island in Scotland.

Benholm has created an interior landscaping solution for the spa as part of a hotel-wide renovation. A 26-foot-long green wall, complemented by an array of more than 40 hanging and potted planters, creates a lush backdrop for guests as they swim in the pool.

Benholm recently collaborated on a year-long research project called ‘Reap What You Sow’, to help explain the wellbeing value of biophilic design. The findings demonstrated a 200% increase in wellbeing in spaces with biophilic design, compared to normal spaces. “We have applied these findings to the spa and wellness sector, to show how biophilic elements can attract and retain customers and have a positive impact on wellbeing,” says director Adrian Byne.

www.benholm.com

Gemini Evo

Lemi

New from Italian wellness equipment supplier Lemi, the Gemini Evo massage table combines design and functionality with luxurious aesthetics and comfort.

With a dual-column covered base, the Gemini Evo has a sturdy structure designed to ensure maximum stability and safety during adjustment. Equipped with Lemi’s HBS Stress Relief mattress system, it ergonomically supports a guest’s head, shoulders and back, and is easy for therapists to adjust according to the specific needs of the treatment.

Guests can be positioned without stretching thanks to the adjustable armrests and headrest. The wooden base merges with the mattress and can be customised to suit any spa environment from three standard colour configurations: wenge, white or taupe.

The Gemini Evo is equipped with three electric motors to adjust height, backrest and legs, and features a control panel with a memory function and an automatic return from any position to zero, to simplify daily use. www.lemigroup.it

Luxury Bio Slippers elevate guest comfort and sustainability

BC Softwear develops recyclable and compostable footwear for high-end spas

Leading spa textiles manufacturer and supplier

BC SoftWear has launched the Luxury Bio Slipper – a compostable, recyclable, yet indulgent option for spa guests.

“We’re seeing high demand from spas for a more sustainable slipper,” says CEO and founder Barbara Cooke. “Providing guest slippers is a spa staple, but they’re not easy to make sustainable. Three years ago, we were one of the first suppliers to bring out a completely biodegradable coir-soled slipper, but we’re aware they aren’t as luxurious as the five-star spa community requires. So now, we’ve come up with a new design featuring Npulp straw soles.”

In the Luxury Bio Slipper, the coir sole has been replaced with a unique compressed straw sole. It is manufactured using a new process that uses an enzyme to digest the straw and turn it into pulp. This eliminates the need for harsh chemicals, while also minimising water and energy consumption.

Npulp also has an OK Compost Certificate from the raw material supplier. This certificate not only identifies the raw material as biodegradable but the NPulp manufacturing technique as nonchemical, low-energy and pollution free.

“Our Npulp soles are both compostable and recyclable,” says Cooke. “While they feel like a standard sole, they have less environmental impact. The soles also offer considerably better anti-slip protection and – a vital consideration for spas looking to provide footwear that’s suitable for wet areas – are water resistant.” www.bcsoftwear.co.uk

Barbara Cooke

Ice Treesse

A new glass-edge infinity mini-pool has been designed by Marc Sadler for family-owned Italian company Treesse.

With a focus on minimalism, hidden tech and atmospheric lighting, the brand’s counter-current swimming pools, saunas and mini-pools have a high-end, sophisticated appearance.

Measuring 225cm x 225cm, Ice is a new addition to the company’s Ghost Plus range, which has concealed hydromassage nozzles and multi-coloured LED lighting for added chromotherapy effects. Ice has larger hydromassage nozzles which, when combined with traditional jets, intensify the power.

Designed to accommodate up to four people, Ice has four classic cushions and two extra-large side cushions, which can serve as additional seating or as small shelves. A fibreglass staircase makes entry and exit easy for guests. Treesse is distributed by Alchemy Award.

www.alchemyaward.com | www.gruppotres.com

Natural pools and off-grid saunas

Shokk&Awe

Yorkshire-based Shokk&Awe was founded by Charles Longbottom in 2020 after he created a 10m natural swimming pond with an off-grid sauna alongside – a contemporary take on savusaunas (smoke saunas) found inside Alpine timber barns.

Now built in Sweden, each Shokk&Awe lodge is hand-crafted from seasoned Swedish pine with a hand-finished aspen interior. Wood-fired or electric stoves are supplied by Huum.

Accompanying 1.5sqm plunge pools are filtered naturally by the brand’s air pump system – water moves through the substrates and planting like a natural stream. There is also a large, chemical-free filter surface and integrated UVC clarifier to remove pathogens and floating algae.

“Our saunas are bespoke so we can create an authentic, hand-crafted, customised experience for any commercial set up,” says Longbottom. www.shokkandawe.com