European Spa magazine Issue 77 by European Spa magazine

S P E C I A L

E D I T I O N

Issue 77 | August/September 2020

The essential resource for spa businessand and wellness wellness hospitality The essential resource for spa business hospitality

Looking to the future We celebrate the reopening of spas

THE NO.1 MAGAZINE

FOR SPA AND WELLNESS

Helping you get back to business Answering the big questions, European Spa is the essential resource for spa business and wellness hospitality. We are here to help you.

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Welcome I SS U E 77 | AU G U S T/ S E P T E M BER 2020

‘Only when it’s dark enough can you see the stars’

n July 31, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a U-turn on the hard-won date for spas and salons to resume full services (See News p13). This was hugely disappointing for everyone out in industry who has campaigned hard for our sector to fully reopen. Hopefully, a temporary set back, but one that serves as a stark warning of significant challenges ahead. Amid reports of the second and third waves of the Covid-19 pandemic, all the indicators are that ‘start-stop operations’ and ‘localised lockdowns’ are a real prospect everywhere. Our industry, along with many others, will need to adopt a change-management mindset, much courage and smart thinking to deliver adapted wellbeing services and to protect workforces and businesses. ‘Only when it’s dark enough can you see the stars’. These resonant words from Martin Luther King, Jr, seem perfect for this moment in time, reminding us that there has never been a better time to celebrate spa people and their dedication to get businesses reopened. We hope you take inspiration from the many expert interviews in this edition, including: Neil Jacobs and Anna Bjurstam of Six Senses (p28); Erica D’Angelo from Vair Spa at Borgo Egnazia (p40); The Spa at Ashford Castle’s Michelle Ryan (p44); and Hans-Peter Veit from Grand Resort Bad Ragaz (p50). Wellness expert Iain Bell looks at the future role of spas as a mainstream service (p100); spa PR and marketing specialist Tracey Stapleton provides smart reopening tips (p54); and we share some great conversations from our new Instagram Live sessions (p82). You can also take inspiration from the research presented in our Buyers Guide to Covid-secure Equipment (p57) and Expert Guide: Treatment Couches (p90). We hope you enjoy this issue and feel supported and inspired by the wonderful work happening out in industry to bring wellness to the world. And don’t forget to follow @eurospamag on Instagram for our weekly interviews with top industry leaders.

Sarah Camilleri Publisher & founding editor

Publisher & founding editor Sarah Camilleri +44 (0) 7742 977926 sarah.camilleri@spapublishing.com Contributing editor Sarah Todd sarah.todd@spapublishing.com Contributing editor Mark Smith mark.smith@spapublishing.com Art director Richard Page richard@spapublishing.com Production editor David Fagan david.fagan@spapublishing.com Subscriptions manager Angela Sharpe subscribe@spapublishing.com Accounts manager Julie Jones accounts@spapublishing.com Thanks to our expert contributors: Caroline Nokes MP, Gemma Bosanko, Neil Jacobs, Anna Bjurstam, Erica D’Angelo, Michelle Ryan, Hans-Peter Veit, Iain Bell, Tracey Stapleton, Christian Mas, Olivia Taylor, Dr Neil Carpenter, Leonie Wileman, Liz and Mark Warom, and Kathryn Moore

European Spa office address: European Spa magazine, Spa Publishing Ltd, Halifax House, Halifax Place, Nottingham, NG1 1QN, UK. Spa Publishing Ltd is registered in England. Company No. 6293825

European Spa, the essential resource for spa business and wellness hospitality, is published six times a year by Spa Publishing Ltd. Our print edition is produced by Buxton Press on paper sourced from FSC certified forests.

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Contents ISS U E 77 | AU G U S T- S E P T E M BER 2020

BACK TO BUSINESS

13 NEWS We outline the campaigning and lobbying that is

helping to get the UK spa industry back to business

24 I N CONVERSATION WITH... CAROLINE NOKES MP The spa and wellness advocate on her parliamentary battle for UK beauty and spa sector recognition

54 TRACEY STAPLETON, THE SPA PR COMPANY

Five marketing strategies to help accelerate your spa operations and re-engage your customers

RISK MANAGEMENT

Dr Neil Carpenter and Amanda Winwood offer advice

on safe practice for reopening spas

THE BEST OF INSTAGRAM LIVE

Four interview highlights from European Spa’s

recently broadcast ‘In conversation with...’ series

HALL OF WELLNESS AWARDS

Kathryn Moore, founder of the Spa Connectors

consultancy, reveals why now is the time to celebrate wellness talent

108 RESOURCE CHECKLIST

A collection of valuable links to the best online

post-lockdown guidance for spa businesses

SPA REOPENINGS 40 VAIR SPA, BORGO EGNAZIA, ITALY Director of wellbeing Erica D’Angelo says guests are searching for the ‘Science of Happiness’

ASHFORD CASTLE, IRELAND How spa manager Michelle Ryan’s team pulled together to deliver post-Covid operational transitions

50 GRAND RESORT BAD RAGAZ, SWITZERLAND Director of spa and wellbeing Hans-Peter Veit on why service excellence should be guaranteed

On the cover European Spa is the essential resource for spa business and wellness hospitality. On the cover is a view from Switzerland’s Grand Resort Bad Ragaz.

A note for our readers At the time of going to press, the World Health Organisation has continued to classify the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak as a pandemic. Many of the editorial stories in this issue feature the opinions of leading global industry experts. The Publisher recommends that readers always check current government guidelines in their home territory for the latest guidance and legislation.

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Contents I SS U E 77 | AU G U S T- S E P T E M BER 2020

WELLNESS LEADERSHIP 28 SIX SENSES: NEIL JACOBS AND ANNA BJURSTAM The brand’s CEO and Wellness Pioneer discuss the role that wellness will have in reigniting the hospitality industry

00 IAIN BELL, EXECUTIVE FITNESS FOUNDATION 1 The wellness entrepreneur believes communication and engagement are the key to securing a resilient future for spa businesses

02 WELLNESS 1 With the pandemic affecting the sleeping patterns

of many people around the world, we look at how to improve circadian rhythm

28 57

38 TEMPLE SPA

Founders Liz and Mark Warom on the wellbeing wisdom that has nourished their brand for 20 years

57 A BUYER’S GUIDE TO COVID-SECURE EQUIPMENT

The best PPE for your team; touch-free

enhancements for all spa areas; air quality and disinfection products; and sterilisers and autoclaves

70 MENU

Expert Guide

Our selection of the latest product and treatment

launches includes Dermalogica’s anti-ageing Retinol Clearing Oil

90 TREATMENT COUCHES Whether purchasing, upgrading or enhancing your treatment room furniture, our Expert Guide aims to provide you with the most up-to-date advice from manufacturers including Gharieni, Oakworks, Lemi (pictured) and Living Earth Crafts

FROM THE INDUSTRY

26 ESPA

Head of digital Gemma Bosanko discusses the role of its highly supportive Spa Partner Affiliate Programme

68 SOTHYS

The premium French skincare provider’s president, Christian Mas, outlines its innovative spa offering

78 ELEMENTAL HERBOLOGY

Olivia Taylor, head of spa for UK and Ireland, on the importance of teams, training and treatments

80 PREMIER SOFTWARE

www.europeanspamagazine.com

Expert advice from Leonie Wileman on how business software can help spas post-lockdown

Business

GLOBAL DEVELOPMENTS

APPOINTMENTS

INVESTMENT

NEWS

EDITED BY SARAH TODD

Celebrating the return of spa As spas across Europe welcome back guests, UK spas and salons continue to campaign for full reopening

UK: Across Europe as Covid-19 lockdowns loosened, spas and salons celebrated reopenings with enhanced safety measures and full compliance with government guidance in every country. From as early as April 27, Switzerland reopened its spas, with online platform Treatwell reporting positive booking data across Europe, seeing a 2,000% increase in reservations from Germany and bookings in the Netherlands up 4,500% when hair and beauty salons reopened on May 6. However, spas and salons in the UK had to wait much longer to be granted a reopening date from the government. When hospitality businesses (including pubs) were given the green-light from July 4, spas and salons were ordered to remain closed, catagorised as high-risk

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‘close-contact services’. Controversially, hairdressers and barbers were not categorised this way, reopening on July 4. A significant collective effort by a number of trade associations, European Spa magazine, business leaders and MPs informed ministers of the safety of spas. Finally, spas and salons were granted permission to partially reopen in England on July 13 and Scotland on July 22, with indoor pools and gyms from July 25. However, facials and sauna and steam facilities continue to be restricted.

“Politicians need to be educated on the significant value the spa and wellness sector brings to people’s lives and the economy.” Sarah Camilleri Founding editor, European Spa

After further intensive lobbying, a full service reopening date of August 1 was granted but then withdrawn suddenly on July 31. A review of this decision is expected no earlier than August 15. Speaking about the fight to fully reopen spas and salons, European Spa’s Sarah Camilleri, said: “An extraordinary collective effort has gone in to instilling trust and confidence in our sector to get us back to business. “The recent U-turn by the UK government needs to be corrected. If pubs and hairdressers can open then why are professional treatments being curtailed? Politicians need to be educated on the significant value the spa and wellness sector brings to people’s lives and the economy.” www.europeanspamagazine.com 13

Back to business News & industry developments

Chenot Palace Weggis debuts in holistic Alpine harmony Switzerland: The preventative health and wellness specialist Chenot Group has unveiled its flagship property, the Chenot Palace Weggis. Overlooking Lake Lucerne on the Dr George Gaitanos site of the carefully renovated Park Hotel Weggis, each of the retreat’s 97 luxury bedrooms and suites offers secluded balconies or terraces. Designed by specialist wellness architect Davide Macullo and his team, the new 20,000sqm retreat is intended to seamlessly coexist with its surroundings and echo the tranquility of its Alpine location. Locally-sourced materials and 14

traditional Swiss building techniques have been used throughout the construction to preserve the heritage and character of the original property. A 5,000sqm health spa offers the Chenot Group’s holistic and personalised programmes for detoxing, energising and resetting the body and mind. Hand-carved ceilings throughout the spa are complemented by natural light and a neutral palette, with communal areas evoking scenes of forests, roots, water and fire. Treatment beds were supplied by IONTO with a cryochamber from Zimmer Medizintechnik. Hydro-aroma bathtubs were supplied by Unbescheiden and a comprehensive gym offering was created in collaboration with Technogym.

In addition to some 53 treatment rooms, the spa features a 20m indoor pool that is made from natural Alpine stone, which reflects the views of Lake Lucerne and its mountain backdrop to create the sensation of swimming in a freshwater lake. Dr George Gaitanos, scientific director and chief operating officer of Chenot Group, said: “Chenot Palace Weggis is dedicated to health and wellness, and is our most advanced facility yet. “It’s a destination in itself where every space works in harmony – from the tranquil location and the spa to the guest bedrooms and restaurants – to provide an overall transformational journey to detox, energise and increase the performance of the body and mind.” www.chenotpalaceweggis.com www.europeanspamagazine.com

Back to business News & industry developments

Four Seasons Madrid spa to open Spain: Following the seven-year restoration of a collection of seven historic buildings, Four Seasons Hotel Madrid is now slated to open on September 15. Located within Centro Canalejas, which will also house 22 Four Seasons Private Residences, the restoration was led by architects Estudio Lamela and the hotel will boast 200 bedrooms and suites. The 1,450sqm Four Seasons spa retreat is said to be the largest hotel spa in Madrid and will be divided across four floors. Featuring eight treatment rooms, a sky-lit indoor pool and a sun terrace with views across the city, the spa’s interior design was delivered by US studio BAMO with consultancy from Prim Spa.

Treatments will use 111Skin and Miriam Quevedo, with two other brands yet to be confirmed. The spa’s treatment beds have been supplied by Gharieni and KLAFS delivered the heat experiences, with pool furniture from KETTAL and a Technogym-equipped fitness suite. Director of spa Paulina Mercader said: “With its stunning location at the very heart of the hotel, the spa will evolve the future of urban wellness through innovation that delivers authentic value and an exclusive beauty and wellbeing experience for our guests.” The hotel will also implement ‘Lead With Care’, a newly enhanced health and safety programme in place at all Four Seasons properties worldwide. www.fourseasons.com

Appointments Holm becomes new president as GSN Planet adds board members Global: The non-profit spa trade association GSN Planet has appointed Thor Holm as president and added eight additional members to its board. The association was Thor Holm created to help lead the spa and wellness industry in creating long-term and life-sustaining practices. Among the new GSN Planet board members are Julie Andrews, chief creative officer of Kerstin Florian, and Lynn Curry, president and co-owner of Resources For Leisure Assets.

www.greenspanetwork.org

Tahy is new CEO at Duravit Global: Stephan Patrick Tahy has been named as the new CEO of leading bathroom supplier Duravit. Succeeding Prof. Frank Richter, who left the company on Stephan Patrick Tahy June 30, Tahy, who is a former CEO of De’Longhi Germany, said: “I’m pleased at the confidence that has been placed in me to drive the fantastic work of this innovative company forward.”

www.duravit.co.uk

Body reawakening: Decleor launches Aroma Blend

Walter is named as WTS president Global: A provider of management and consultancy services to the spa and fitness industries, WTS International has appointed Todd Walter as president. Todd Walter Reporting to CEO and founder Gary Henkin, Walter will oversee the company’s portfolio of managed facilities as well as other design, feasibility and pre-opening work. Walter said: “Gary and the leadership team have created a company culture that is about trust, respect, and teamwork, and I’m thrilled to be part of it.”

www.wtsinternational.com

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Back to business News & industry developments

Studio Apostoli to design two Cipriani wellness projects Italy/Uruguay: Studio Apostoli has been appointed to interior design and project manage the wellness areas of two new luxurious Cipriani hospitality destinations in Milan and Uruguay. Alberto Apostoli The first property to open will be Palazzo Bernasconi (pictured) in Milan in 2021. Located in an early 20th century building, the boutique hotel complex will include a wellness centre divided into three sections for spa, beauty and fitness. The design will feature a blend of precious materials including red French marble, onyx and mosaic accents, as well as gold finishes and cashmere fabrics. The second property will be the Cipriani Ocean Resort, Club Residence and Casino in Punta del Este. Designed by Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly, the new complex will include a faithful reconstruction of the pre-existing San Rafael hotel, which will preserve its original design.

Facilities within the 3,500sqm wellness area will include a medical section, a relaxation area and a spa divided into two separate paths for men and women, which will then be connected in a sensorial hammam experience. Studio Apostoli founder Alberto Apostoli said: “Each Cipriani wellness space will have an aesthetic language

that comes from the balance between essential lines, geometric volumes, materials and refined finishes. Exporting the best of Italian culture is Cipriani’s goal and the reason for its international success, and we are very proud to be part of these projects.” www.studioapostoli.com www.cipriani.com

Dedicated ila wellness retreat offers guests ‘a touch of magic’ France: Leading natural and organic skincare and spa brand ila has launched a new healing space in the south of France called Maison ila, Le Trésor. Located in the Aude region of the Languedoc Roussillon, the former chambre d’hôtes in the village of Sonnac-sur-l’Hers, has been converted into a sevenbedroom wellness retreat location for the ila brand. Set in verdant gardens, Maison ila has a main house with five bedrooms, a communal dining space, a snug and a yoga and sound healing studio. A separate cottage offers two further bedrooms, a

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living space and kitchen. Therapies for face and body will be performed in the treatment room from a menu that includes ila’s new CBD Collection. Yoga, meditation and sound healing will be complemented by wild swimming in natural pools with wild movement specialist Alli Suddaby. Maison ila will welcome other visiting practitioners throughout the year. Having spent the recent lockdown at the property, ila’s founder, Denise Leicester, said: “There is a touch of magic here that lends itself perfectly to the creation of a dedicated ila space and we are so excited to welcome our guests to escape here with us.” www.maisonila.com

Back to business News & industry developments

Natura Bissé launches #ThanksForSavingOurSkin UK: Leading skincare brand Natura Bissé has launched a new campaign with its spa partners to thank care home professionals in the UK and Ireland for their work during the coronavirus pandemic. The Spanish company has donated the products needed for a treatment at spas around the UK and Ireland, and therapists will give their time for free. Spas taking part in the campaign will provide up to 20 accredited healthcare professionals with free, 60-minute face and body rituals designed to restore sensitive, irritated or damaged skin. Speaking about the origins of the initiative, Natura Bissé managing director Sali Flores said: “We continue to support business and social partnerships, joint actions and shared values as part of our ongoing commitment to society and to solidarity. “We ran a similar campaign in Spain, which was hugely appreciated, and we wanted to do something for the amazing staff of the care homes here in the UK and Ireland to thank them for their tireless work.” www.naturabisse.com

Global Wellness Summit returns to US for 2020 Summit Global: The Global Wellness Summit (GWS) will now take place on November 8–11 at The Breakers, Palm Beach, Florida, US. According to the organisers, every aspect of the Summit will be curated to deliver a safe, hygienic way for people to begin to meet again. Dr Richard Carmona, the 17th Surgeon General of the US, will serve as medical advisor, working closely with the GWS team, The Breakers and local and federal government agencies to ensure that the GWS exceeds all standards for a safe gathering. A previous GWS host location, The Breakers is a spacious beachfront property that enables appropriate physical distancing and a generous amount of outdoor space. This year’s Summit theme of

‘Resetting the World with Wellness’ is intended to be a call to action for businesses, government leaders and the medical and technology worlds to come together to strategise new and more inclusive wellness concepts. The first keynote speaker to be announced is James Nestor, author of Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art, who will describe how even slight adjustments in the way we breathe can positively impact on a range of issues from our ability to focus to weight loss. GWS chairman and CEO Susie Ellis said: “Now is the time to reset the world with wellness because it’s the only concept with prevention and total wellbeing at its core.” The 2021 Summit will be held in Tel Aviv, Israel, from November 15–18. www.globalwellnesssummit.com

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Back to business News & industry developments

Galgorm unveils additional indoor and outdoor spa experiences UK: Representing an overall investment of more than £2 million (€2.2 million), the Galgorm Spa and Golf Resort has unveiled its enhanced Thermal Village and Spa. The newly opened resort now includes a suite of new attractions for spa guests, including a 10m infinity pool on the banks of the River Maine; a 200sqm Palm House relaxation area comprising six heated loungers, and a new Salt Room for halotherapy experiences with a halo generator supplied by The Mosaic Spa Company. With more than 90% of its Thermal Village and Spa offering located outdoors, Galgorm has also installed two group hot tubs and saunas as well as six riverside cabanas and three

additional private hot tubs. Colin Johnston, managing director of the Galgorm Collection, said: “We are continually seeking ways to enhance the guest experience and, with the closure of the resort in March, we had the opportunity to further invest and expand. “In addition – and as a priority – we focused on implementing comprehensive safety and hygiene measures for the health and wellbeing of our team and guests.” The new spa expansion project is the latest investment into the resort, which has seen a £60m transformation over the last decade with further plans to invest an additional £20m by 2025. www.galgorm.com

Image: The Mullion Cove Hotel, Cornwall, UK

European Spa editor takes role on British Beauty Council

My Spa Pass supports UK NHS UK: The founder of My Spa Pass, Emma Leadbeater, is giving away one million annual memberships to National Health Service and care workers around the UK. Each membership will benefit from discounts to destinations that specialise in spa days, wellness breaks and gym memberships, as well as a range of luxury lifestyle products. “I felt compelled to help as I know exactly how vital the wellness sector is to people’s mental and emotional wellbeing,” said Leadbeater. “Visiting a spa is proven to reduce stress and anxiety, support the immune system and leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. This seemed a perfect way to thank the NHS for their amazing work carried out during the Covid-19 pandemic.” www.myspapass.com 20

UK: European Spa magazine’s founding editor and publisher, Sarah Camilleri, has joined The British Beauty Council’s Advisory Board. Working alongside current board members to enhance the beauty industry’s reputation and support the Council, Sarah is joined by other new board members, including global makeup artist Ruby Hammer, MBE; freelance PR and brand manager Deborah Johnson; Sarah Camilleri celebrity hair stylist John Vial; and professional hair and makeup artist, director and educator Kamanza Amihyia. Speaking about her appointment, Sarah said: “I am honoured to join The British Beauty Council to help drive positive change at such a pivotal moment in time. “Beauty, spa and wellbeing are essential professional services that help people live happier, healthier lives. “I believe that we can collectively progress the value perception and respect given to our hardworking and incredibly dedicated industry. It’s time for us to change the conversation and take our deserved place in the growing, global wellness economy.” www.britishbeautycouncil.com

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Back to business News & industry developments

Summer spa platforms at Kronenhof ‘Revive and Thrive’ business boosts aim to help spas through transition

Switzerland: The Grand Hotel Kronenhof in Pontresina has created outdoor spa platforms for its summer season to enable socially-distanced yoga, Pilates and meditation classes to take place. Overlooking the Engadine Valley panorama, the four wooden platforms have been assembled at different levels on the slope that leads from the hotel’s gardens down to the Flaz river. The classes will be provided on a complimentary basis by the hotel as part of its daily wellness programme, building upon the hotel’s focus on wellness in the great outdoors, which also includes hiking, stand-up paddling and wild swimming. www.kronenhof.com

Reena Hammer moves to Soho House UK: Following a 15-year tenure, Reena Hammer has left luxury beauty services destination brand Urban Retreat to begin a new role shaping the wellness, beauty and movement offer at Soho House on a global level. Jo Harris will now take on the role of general manager at Urban Retreat, supported by chairman George Hammer, who will take a more active role in day-to-day operations. Reena Hammer said: “This has been a time of mixed emotions for me as Urban Retreat has been my life for 15 years. I leave the company in very capable hands and have no doubt Urban Retreat will adapt and continue to grow even in these uncharted times.” www.urbanretreat.co.uk | www.sohohouse.com

Global: Leading spa consultant Jacqueline Ross has created two new ‘Revive and Thrive’ programmes to help guide spa businesses through the new Covid-19 regulations and the still changing reopening process. Jacqueline Ross With more than 30 years of experience in the spa industry, including as UK spa director for Macdonald Hotels and Q Hotels for more than a decade, Ross has access to a wealth of knowledge regarding spa business and operations. The comprehensive new programmes are based on feedback from her clients regarding the direct impact her methods have had on a range of operational factors, including staff morale, organisation and sales. Initially, each client will receive a free 30-minute Zoom business consultation to outline goals and decide which of the two packages is best suited to their individual business needs. They can then choose from a Weekly Support Package or a Monthly Business Maintenance Package. “I fully understand the complexity and challenges spas face and I bring solutions with me,” said Ross. “Having assisted in the build and support of 45 spas from concept to delivery, I comprehensively aid businesses in achieving their goals, driving revenue and staff development as well as exceeding business targets.” For more information, email: jacqueline@jrspaconsultancy.co.uk

Share your appointments, announcements, launches and diary dates with our News editor, Sarah Todd, by emailing sarah.todd@spapublishing.com

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Back to business Caroline Nokes MP

A new champion for our industry We spoke to the Rt Hon Caroline Nokes MP about how she helped to galvanise and support to allow UK spas and salons to reopen INTERVIEW BY SARAH CAMILLERI

s lockdown restrictions began to ease in the UK, spa and salon businesses faced one of the toughest fights of any sector to be able to fully reopen for business, even though they were well prepared and ready to get back to work. Due to an inherent lack of knowledge among senior government officials, while spas were partially allowed to reopen from July 4, they were unable to offer facials or reopen their sauna and steam room facilities, due to continuing restrictions on â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;close-contact servicesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. As a result, associations, trade publications, and business leaders joined forces to lobby Parliament, gathering vital industry and cross-party support to bring much needed focus on the value of spa and beauty services. Speaking in Parliament of the sexism and misjudgement that had led to the government choosing not to enable thousands of professionals to return to work, Caroline Nokes MP contributed to the securing of a full reopening date for the beginning of August. However, at the time of going to press the timing was once again uncertain due to an escalation in the UK infection rate. We asked Caroline about her campaign and why she has been such a passionate advocate of the spa industry.

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Back to business Caroline Nokes MP

Many were dismayed when footage emerged of MPs being openly demeaning about the spa and beauty sector. How did you feel?

When I saw people laughing and heard them sniggering about ‘massage parlours’ in Parliament, it was clear that my male colleagues just didn’t get it. I don’t blame them for that, but a really important part of my job is to talk to ministers and help them understand things. Since then, I cannot tell you how many times I’ve said to people ‘It’s not a parlour, it’s a spa, a clinic or a salon’. I’ve also said to colleagues: ‘You know what? You don’t understand the spa industry and that’s fine, you don’t use it and never have. But why not visit one, see the PPE and talk to these amazing people working in the industry and become their champion?’

What prompted you to show your support?

I just wanted the industry to be treated fairly and for there be understanding, sensitivity and a recognition that there was a real gender bias in spas not reopening. I felt there were some horrendous double standards, especially with what was happening in barbershops at the time. It just wasn’t equal treatment. I’ve also repeatedly asked people to think about cancer patients and those with alopecia or polycystic ovary syndrome, and not to regard this as a trivial industry based on vanity. Spa is an industry based on wellbeing and we do everybody a disservice if we view it any other way.

Was your speech in Parliament planned?

It’s interesting, because I was originally planning to talk in the chamber that day about pubs, but I had a moment of rage. Halfway through, I thought, ‘Hang on, I’ve just had my nail technician and beautician cancel appointments because they’re not going to open on July 4 and this is just horrifically unfair’. I had to say something. If these had been services aimed at men, I don’t think it would have happened. I wasn’t asking for anything unreasonable, just to get people back to work; demonstrating that the spa and salon sector was safe and showing that what they do could enhance the wellbeing of people who, for the last 17 weeks, had been missing its services.

How are you helping to shift the value perception of UK beauty and spa services?

Firstly, the industry employs around 370,000 people and over 90% of them are women. Overall, beauty contributes around £28.4 billion [x31.35 billion] to GDP. That’s a lot by anyone’s standards. It’s a big business but it’s comprised of lots of small companies. www.europeanspamagazine.com

Rt Hon Caroline Nokes MP Elected Conservative MP for Romsey and Southampton North in 2010, Caroline Nokes has served on a number of committees during her time in Parliament, including the Environmental Audit and Education Select Committees, as well as being a Principal Private Secretary at the Department for Work and Pensions. More recently, Nokes was elected chair of the Women and Equalities Committee, and since lockdown measures began to ease off in the UK, she has consistently and passionately advocated for and championed the UK’s spa, beauty and wellbeing industries. https://carolinenokes.com

The other thing that really strikes me is the number of entrepreneurs within the sector, and these are exactly the sort of people we need to get the economy up and running again. It’s not the fact that they’re women. It’s that they’re the sort of ballsy women who are determined to stand up for themselves, be independent and put food on the table. We should be celebrating, encouraging and doing whatever we can to get this sector up and running again.

How do you practice self-care in your own life?

I have a massively high-stress job; I suffer terribly from insomnia and migraines, and I really struggle to switch off at the end of the day. However, I’m also a lousy spa customer. I’m the awful woman you’ll find in your steamroom with a phone hidden in her swimsuit because I don’t like to be out of touch with the world. But when I do visit a spa and my friends hide my phone, it’s bliss. It’s peaceful and you have the chance to truly switch off. It’s perceived as a luxury by some but people’s mental and emotional wellbeing is important and we all need some time out occasionally.

Of all the professionals you have met recently, who has had the most impact on you?

The most heartbreaking tale of any I heard was from a young woman called Bethany. She told me that nobody in her entire career had told her that she was an ‘entrepreneur’. She said her dad, boyfriend and brother all laughed at her and made out that she was a ‘silly little beautician’ who didn’t know anything. But she was actually very successful, marketing relentlessly and had a good client base. When I spoke up in Parliament, it was the first time someone had said she was a businesswoman and acknowledged that what she did was a serious business. And it really is. People should dismiss this industry at their peril.

From the industry ESPA promotion

Facing the future together As spas around the world work to meet the challenges of reopening, ESPA’s head of digital, Gemma Bosanko explains how its Spa Partner Affiliate Programme can ease the transition

hroughout these unprecedented recent times, the team at ESPA has been constantly engaging with our spa partners to help them Gemma Bosanko deal with the challenging circumstances we all find ourselves in. We have been working to help spas adapt their guest journeys and build confidence for their reopenings and long-term post-Covid-19 operation. We understand that the landscape of spa may be different as we enter this new era, so we will continue to 26

remain adaptable in our strategies as we strengthen our in-spa and digital support. Supporting spas to reopen successfully To guide our spa partners, ESPA has collated comprehensive advice in the shape of our Covid-19 Spa Guidelines for use in spas around the world. We have worked closely with global operators to train their teams and integrate this advice into their working practices, ensuring that safety and sanitisation remains paramount within the industry, and improving the overall wellbeing of guests and employees. Throughout the pandemic, ESPA has

provided an arena for its spa partners to come together for networking sessions, allowing them to connect and support each other as they ready themselves for potential reopenings. During these sessions we have brought the Covid-19 Spa Guidelines to life and created a platform of support within our industry. The ‘new normal’ requires new thinking As we begin to look towards an ever more digitalised future, ESPA has been Above from left: ESPA Life at Corinthia London; Ginkgo Spa at Santa Marina Mykonos, Greece delivers ESPA treatments

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Image: Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa, Windermere, UK

From the industry ESPA promotion

innovative in encapsulating the needs of our partners and consumers, translating this knowledge into a digital platform to be proud of. We have introduced regular live content on social media; virtual consultations; and education on a range of topics from wellbeing education and lifestyle, including mindfulness and yoga. The pandemic has truly prompted us to find new ways to connect with our therapists and spa guests at home, while also allowing our partnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; clients to stay connected with their chosen spa. The Spa Partner Affiliate Programme While implementing this activity across our organic social platforms, we have been mindful to take our spa partners on this journey with us. We have set up our first Spa Affiliate Programme to aid them in driving their revenue, maintaining client engagement and servicing client needs during this time. www.europeanspamagazine.com

This is something we will continue to build on to mitigate the financial strains that some of our partners may feel, as we support them in building a new and resilient future for their business. As ESPA, we have supported the affiliate programme with a 360-degree approach, not only being innovative in creating this scheme but also supporting our spa partners with content and digital material to build their own channels, drive sales and educate on the importance and use of social media. Education remains key to excellence While we have been forward-thinking in bringing our spa partners further into the digital world, we have also been conscious to consider not just our therapists and ESPA teams out in the industry, but everyone else who is feeling the impact of spa closures. Throughout the lockdown, our team of expert international training managers

Above from left: ESPA follows a philosophy of natural beauty and inner calm: Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa in Windermere, UK

delivered virtual workshops across the world to motivate and refresh spa teams everywhere â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we welcomed everyone to experience the holistic wellbeing that is at the heart of ESPA. These sessions were primarily focused on reconnecting with our ESPA family alongside non-ESPA branded spa teams, delivering mindfulness workshops, dealing with stress and anxiety in the current pandemic, general wellbeing and ESPA education, where appropriate. Our founding philosophy of providing natural beauty and inner calm will always remain at the core of ESPA, and we will continue to support the total wellbeing of our spa partners and their clients as we navigate the newly evolving spa landscape. www.espaskincare.com

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Wellness leadership Six Senses, Neil Jacobs and Anna Bjurstam

Reawaken your senses Six Senses’ CEO Neil Jacobs and Wellness Pioneer Anna Bjurstam discuss how the brand’s portfolio of leading wellness resorts and spas is getting back to business

INTERVIEW BY SARAH CAMILLERI

wo of the shining lights in global wellness hospitality, Six Senses’ CEO Neil Jacobs and Wellness Pioneer Anna Bjurstam are no strangers to embracing change. As driving forces behind the brand’s global portfolio of ‘barefoot luxury’ resorts and spas, they watched – with many others around the world – as the Covid-19 pandemic tore through every financial projection, development timeline and revenue forecast for 2020 and beyond. Both were quick to realise that significant innovation would be required to ensure the robust continuation of Six Senses’ expert offering.

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In 2019, Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas was acquired by InterContinental Hotels Group from private equity fund Pegasus Capital Advisors for $300 million. The sale included the management of 16 hotels and resorts, 37 spas, and sister companies Evason and Raison d’Etre. Following the acquisition, Six Senses is expected to grow to 60 hotels within the next 10 years. Since then, the brand has achieved an enviable position of strong growth; its significant global portfolio of beautifully located properties, together with huge success in their wellness and sustainability innovations, serving as a big draw for investors and developers.

Wellness leadership Six Senses, Neil Jacobs and Anna Bjurstam

Undeterred by the challenges that lockdown brought, Jacobs and Bjurstam got to work, focusing on the opportunities that lay ahead and the recalibration required to prepare for when it was time to reopen. Guided by the brand’s human-centric approach and its pillars of wellness, sustainability and community, they used this unique pause in operations to future-proof and prepare the business and their teams for a new era. Here the pair share how they have developed and implemented a raft of new digital services as well as fast-tracking a whole generation of innovative new wellness programming. They also detail the careful preparations they have made with their teams across the world to ensure every property can reopen with confidence and trust.

How do you think wellness provision has been affected by Covid-19? Neil Jacobs: The point of differentiation between us and our competitors is our very strong position on sustainability and wellness. It’s absolutely part of the DNA of every employee who hosts in the company. We look at 30

Above: Functional fitness classes are part of Six Senses’ approach to personal wellbeing

it differently – it’s who we are, from A-Z. Wellness and sustainability are the whole foundation of Six Senses and we devote the lion’s share of our budgeting to this. The pandemic has caused everyone to tighten their belts with furloughs, pay cuts and redundancies, and it’s interesting to see what other hotel companies are doing – companies who once talked about how important wellness was, yet are now decimating this part of their business. They see it as such a small piece of the total revenue, so they think they can do without it. But they are not thinking about what it does for their image and brand, and also, most importantly, what good it can do for people now and in the future.

“Hospitality is not just about somewhere to stay. We want our places and spaces to help you reconnect and explore what it means to be mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally happy.” Neil Jacobs CEO, Six Senses

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Wellness leadership Six Senses, Neil Jacobs and Anna Bjurstam

How important will Six Senses’ wellness offering be in recovering from the pandemic?

Neil Jacobs: What could be more relevant today than wellness? From a customer perspective it’s way more important now than it was before Covid-19. We will celebrate our return to business, and it will be better than ever. We are very optimistic about that. The big thing with upscale hotels like ours is that there is great trust in place already. We are making the necessary enhancements to hygiene and safety, but we are not intensively promoting this. We are a five-star hotel brand and guests implicitly trust us. Everyone in hospitality is asking themselves ‘when we will we back to 2019’s level of business.’ We think we’ll be 25% off by 2021, and in 2022 we’ll be close to normal again. I think that the wellness piece of our offer is going to drive that rebound.

How have you been preparing your spas around the world for reopening?

Anna Bjurstam: We have taken all of the specific hygiene measures needed at all our locations, and prepared our staff, who will be wearing wearing masks etc. We are also using UV in our treatment rooms to make sure we kill all bacteria, and opening windows for good ventilation. We are implementing more outdoor treatments and have moved some fitness equipment outside. Our gyms now take bookings and we have restricted access to a certain number of people at a time.

The main challenge for us is managing our guests’ expectations and requirements. Some could not care less, while others are more cautious. The ultra-cautious may not come to the spa anyway, so they’re a very small portion of our guests. Those more likely to come to the spa will be more laid back and not as concerned about Covid-19, so it is our responsibility to tell them exactly how we do things without it being in their face. We are offering them information on request. We show them the options and can tell them exactly what we are doing, such as taking treatments outside, allowing time between appointments for cleaning and sanitation, as well as wearing masks and changing them frequently. We also carry out fever checks on our staff, which is very important for guest and team confidence.

How are you balancing the new requirement for PPE with your sustainability goals?

Anna Bjurstam: The only plastics we’ve had to introduce have been hand sanitisers as these all come in plastic packaging. We are using EcoLab for our cleaning products, which is sustainable, and we are using UV. We’ve certainly had to be creative and inventive, but I would say, so far, so good. The period we are in right now is a temporary one, things will change again. People’s mindsets are changing very rapidly. We have conducted over 100 interviews with our guests around the world to really gauge what they are interested in and how they feel about returning. Six Senses’ guests are looking to enjoy the company of family and friends after lockdown

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Wellness leadership Six Senses, Neil Jacobs and Anna Bjurstam

Above: Endless nature awaits guests returning to Six Senses Samui in Thailand

How important is ‘the power of touch’ in providing people with reassurance now?

Anna Bjurstam: Humans are not creatures that can survive without touch. We all need it. In fact, I think people are desperate for it and it’s very challenging for those who have been on their own during lockdown without any touch, especially the elderly. Recently, I had my first massage after months of quarantine and it was amazing how it made me feel. I felt like I was flying. It was a powerful reminder to me of the power of touch. Interestingly, a lot of our returning guests are requesting facials and massages. People want to be touched. But for those who are more concerned, we have wellness screening, non-touch healing and many alternative options, including crystal healing, sound healing, and foot and hand massage, which are all very hygiene-focused, so they don’t need to be afraid. 32

What current trends are shaping your approach to wellness programming?

Anna Bjurstam: People’s requirements are changing very rapidly and all the time. Most say the first trip they want to have is a fun one with friends and family, and to have the best time – they do not want to learn much. They want to laugh, eat, drink and enjoy all those things that had been taken away. But people are also very interested in how they can develop a resilient mind and strong immune system and body, in order to cope with any future crisis better. They are also looking to improve their sleep patterns and find ways to be more connected with nature. We have created a number of completely

“Our whole team at Six Senses has been extremely supportive of the changes we are making to prepare for reopening, and we have taken a very human approach to our communications and teams.” Anna Bjurstam Wellness Pioneer, Six Senses

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Wellness leadership Six Senses, Neil Jacobs and Anna Bjurstam

Above: The lush grape-growing countryside at Six Senses Douro Valley, Portugal

new ‘reconnection programmes’ where all of these demands are interwoven and you are not actually having treatment but can enjoy a full-day experience where you reconnect with nature. For example, you can go into our organic gardens and pick your own herbs, then bring them back and create your own body scrub or create a healthy meal with our chef. We also take guests on barefoot nature walks after dinner, using the time to talk about what is important in life. It’s all about learning and providing experiences that can engage a whole family or group of friends.

another current trend. Love and connection will be a key demand in future, not how much money we have, what car, or how hard we work. The shift is about how you reconnect with your heart. I think energy medicine will be one of the most interesting trends for the future. There is a great demand for more rituals that connect people to themselves, others and the Earth.

What specific areas are you looking to innovate now lockdown is over?

What other shifts have you seen as a result of people’s experience during the pandemic?

Anna Bjurstam: We’re going to continue with our high-touch and high-tech approach, but we’re also going to continue to evolve our sustainability, food and beverage offer and wellness experiences. This will allow guests to choose to add treatments if they want, while those who don’t will still be able to find plenty to enjoy. We are prioritising family, fun and nature. We are also crafting an entirely new treatment range and programming that connects with the heart. This is www.europeanspamagazine.com

Neil Jacobs: One thing we’ve noticed is that there’s an elevated degree of consciousness and awareness, and people have had time to consider how we treat each other. Lockdown has created a reset, but we will have to see if it really lasts. Personally, I like to think it will, but my millennial children think that in a few months from now things will be back the way they were. What resonates with me is that I think people are much kinder and more forgiving than they were before. 33

Wellness leadership Six Senses, Neil Jacobs and Anna Bjurstam There’s a more patient energy in interactions now than there was six months ago. People’s behaviour seems somehow different – they appear to be softer, kinder and acting more from the heart, and all of this is playing a role in our thinking for the future.

That’s an interesting observation. So what impact will this have on Six Senses?

Neil Jacobs: For us as a company, reconnection has always been our vision. It’s something people are talking about now as an outcome of the pandemic for them, but we have been working this intuitive way for the past eight years without naming it as a concept. It’s a significant shift for the world of business and certainly has a quality of feeling around it. It is already informing new content and a new approach. This feels right for us and it’s certainly right for the for the time we are all currently living in. Reconnection, as a concept, really allows us to reach out to people and explore different lengths of programmes – three or five days – which in turn presents more access for our guests to wellness. Also, it

allows us to do some good for the world and the people on it, which is the most important thing of all.

Tell us about the work you’ve been doing to engage your wellness community online.

Anna Bjurstam: Our ‘At Home with Six Senses’ digital programme has been very successful. In fact, so much so that we are looking to launch a whole new digital strategy in the autumn. We have now learnt how amazing it can be to connect online with both our existing and future guests. Six Senses’ new digital platform will launch later in the year to provide a place where people can find more education, wellness courses and online consultations and services. For example, if they have had a course with one of our yoga teachers, they can book a one-on-one hour as a follow up at home. It gives us more opportunity to continue to work with our guests post-stay, for instance on quarterly detox programmes. Below: A serene setting for relaxation at Six Senses Kaplankaya, Turkey

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Wellness leadership Six Senses, Neil Jacobs and Anna Bjurstam

Above: Singing bowl therapy, crystal healing and flying yoga are offered as part of Six Sensesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; alternative approach to wellness

How will an improved digital offering empower Six Senses in future?

Neil Jacobs: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a game changer for us, giving us a new relationship with people and a perfect connection with guests between stays. It really is about creating a platform that can deliver information, education and participation as well as offering engaging group services online. We may have been a little slow to get to this stage with digital engagement, but certainly the last few months have demonstrated to us that a digital connection is something permanent that we will continue to develop and craft. There is so much potential and so many people we can touch, which is a good thing. Commercially it is the right way to go too. If anything, this area is the single most exciting development for us that has emerged from the last six months. www.europeanspamagazine.com

What has lockdown taught you personally about business and life?

Anna Bjurstam: Our whole team at Six Senses has been extremely supportive of the changes we are making to prepare for reopening and we have taken a very human approach to our communications. From a business perspective, any company that has not taken a human point of view in this pandemic and only focused on financial survival will lose a lot as we start to move forward. For every company, every operator and every hotel, there is always a choice. Of course, you must always have the financial background, but if you choose to prioritise that above the human aspect to your offering then you have made a mistake. In the hospitality industry and also outside it, I am seeing decisions being made based on money only, and these will cost businesses so much more in the next two or three years than they realise, as such choices will be remembered. By contrast, those who elevate a personal approach and foster wellness in their teams and guests will thrive in future. www.sixsenses.com 35

LET’S FOCUS ON THE “WE” IN WELLBEING.

Courtesy of Faena Hotel, Miami Beach. Photographer Nik Koenig, USA

Europabad Karlsruhe, Germany

From the start of planning all the way to the finishing touches, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re your partner of choice when it comes to bringing health-promoting sauna and spa solutions to life. Whatever your wishes are and whatever the spa trend is, together we can make it happen. After all, one thing is for sure: guests will be looking for a healthy lifestyle, more than ever before. And where better to find it than in the unique spa experience you offer? Chalet Anna Maria, Photographer Alex Kaiser, Austria

Kokon Corporate Campus, Liechtenstein

Be inspired, discover your spa vision of the future at www.klafs.com

Menu Temple Spa 20th anniversary

Surprises and silver linings

Temple Spa co-founders Liz and Mark Warom share some of the wellbeing wisdom that has nourished their brand as it celebrates its 20th anniversary year

emple Spa is in its 20th year and what a rollercoaster it has been recently. Business has been disrupted for us all, but we have been lucky enough to enjoy some silver linings. Our sales have been unprecedented and Temple Spa was the happy recipient of Best Luxury Skincare Brand Award 2020, alongside a further 20 product awards this year. The pandemic has challenged us all to shift our approach, calling for greater innovation, flexibility and focus to drive Temple Spa co-founders Liz and Mark Warom (above) have instilled the brand with a sense of escape that they believe is perfect for the current times, including its Becalm, Be Still and Be Gone skincare range (right)

business and stay connected to our teams, customers and partners. For us, people and products go hand in hand, and that hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stopped. The foundations of Temple Spa have stood us in good stead and we remain dedicated to delivering exceptional self-care, dovetailing our beauty rituals with skin health, soul satisfaction and wellness. Each and every Temple Spa product has been developed to nourish and transform; our spa-strength formulas,

wonderful textures, fragrances and Mediterranean blends help facilitate that much needed escapist and restorative spa experience, wherever you are. Your body is a living temple: honour it, enjoy life and live it to the full More than ever, we find ourselves reflecting on this original mantra of Temple Spa. Now is the time for a reset; to weave some super-restorative self-care into our everyday lives and bring some peace into the present moment to de-stress and re-energise the mind, body and soul. Breathing is a good www.europeanspamagazine.com

Menu Temple Spa 20th anniversary

place to start and one of the easiest ways to improve one’s sense of wellbeing. The power of fragrance can help this, whether people need a moment of calm or to energise their mood. Temple Spa’s Quietude for relaxation and Spiritude for energy are both wonderful aromatherapy mists to help soothe or lift the spirits as needed. Our inhalation essence Breath of Life, stimulates, revives and brings clarity. With lavender and menthol to clear the airways and soothe the mind, a blend of antibacterial and antiviral eucalyptus and tea tree oils will relieve stuffiness and tiredness after just a few breaths. Digital detox Downtime is a must for restoration, especially digital cleansing. A constant stream of messages, updates and data means screen time often competes with sleep time and increases anxiety levels. People should be encouraged to put www.europeanspamagazine.com

Above: Temple Spa’s Purification face mask provides deep cleansing action

their digital devices away and make time for long baths and early nights – the ultimate antidote to frayed nerves. With the radio tuned to a relaxing music channel, a long soak can be enhanced by Drift Away, a luxurious aromatherapy bath and massage oil for deep relaxation and total wind-down. A generous dose of Temple Spa’s night-time aromatherapy resting cream, Repose, will further calm the soul as it moisturises. This soothing product glides onto skin like a cashmere blanket and is quickly absorbed. Its blend of hops, valerian, chamomile, Frankincense, lavender, patchouli, geranium, bitter orange and clary essential oils is designed to help achieve deep relaxation. Our advice to everyone right now is to take time to reset and indulge in some spa-level restoration. www.templespa.com

Bringing spa back home Whether in a spa, at home or on the go, Temple Spa’s comprehensive collections and kits can provide a 360-degree day-and-night skincare routine with products formulated to cleanse, tone, exfoliate, soothe, settle, calm and moisturise. Spa Retreat A collection of spa favourites to leave the skin feeling fabulous and the body utterly pampered, all in the comfort of the customer’s own chosen space. Do not Disturb Our bathing and restoration ritual collection is recommeded for perfect me-time. All Being Well Our go-to wellness products brought together in a restorative collection to help create a moment of calm and promote self-care in any environment.

Spa reopenings Vair Spa, Borgo Egnazia, Puglia, Italy

A demand for wellness We meet Borgo Egnazia’s director of wellbeing, Erica D’Angelo, who believes that the Covid-19 pandemic will serve to push wellness concerns into the mainstream INTERVIEW BY SARAH CAMILLERI

taly’s Borgo Egnazia, a serene five-star resort in Savelletri di Fasano, Puglia, is proud home to the award-winning Vair Spa, which is renowned for its holistic approach to wellbeing and happiness. When hotels and resorts were given the green light to reopen in Italy, director of wellbeing Erica D’Angelo and her dedicated spa team were ready to answer the call for touch therapies and post-recovery spa time. After two months, all the signs indicate that guests are more tuned in than ever before to experience the spa’s transformational programmes and lockdown recovery approach. Here, D’Angelo shares the hard work and dedication that went into preparing for reopening.

When did you reopen Vair Spa and what has been the reaction from guests?

I’m proud to say that we were ready for operation and delivered our first treatments on May 25, the first day that Borgo Egnazia reopened. The spa itself didn’t open until June 13, but we created a dedicated in-room menu for guests to choose from. The good news is that people’s comfort level around returning to spa is pretty high. We have heavily invested Right: Vair Spa at Borgo Egnazia was reopened to resort guests on June 13

“Covid-19 has made what’s important to people come into very sharp focus: physical and mental health and connection with family and friends. This crisis has truly accelerated the mainstreaming of wellness.” Erica D’Angelo Director of wellbeing, Borgo Egnazia

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Spa reopenings Vair Spa, Borgo Egnazia, Puglia, Italy

in training our team and adapting our offering to incorporate all relevant safety requirements – from cleaning to prevention measures.

How else have you adapted your business to suit the post-lockdown landscape? Overall, our spa experience has had to undergo many changes and we have had to rethink the guest journey. For example, our wet spa facilities and thermal area are currently off limits. Although we have modified our procedures we can still deliver a high-quality experience. We ask our guests to respect the new regulations, such as wearing a mask at all times and taking showers prior to their treatments. Our initial in-room service menu, for singles and couples, was delivered in our villas or with privacy in www.europeanspamagazine.com

While wet spa facilities are currently off limits, Vair Spa guests are still able to enjoy a high-quality experience at the five-star resort

the gardens. When we reopened the spa we offered a new set of experiences to help with lockdown recovery, all designed to reinforce the immune system.

What are the most popular treatments now?

Undoubtedly, our massages have been the most popular. Our concept is based on the ‘Science of Happiness’ and we are very aware of the need of oxytocin, the ‘hug and love’ hormone that people started searching for after lockdown. We are social animals and physical contact is extremely important for our wellbeing. Not being able to touch others during lockdown has created the urge to 41

Spa reopenings Vair Spa, Borgo Egnazia, Puglia, Italy

Clockwise from above: A guest experiences one of Vair Spa’s unique treatments; the spa’s atmospheric indoor pool; the team’s holistic approach aims to deliver the ‘Science of Happiness’

return to our cocooning rituals. Most of our clients since reopening have been Italians, and you can imagine what it means for us to have not been able to hug each other.

How successful have your attempts been to create a ‘new normal’ for guests? I have to say that I didn’t expect such a high demand from the first day. I have been very surprised to see that, although overall guest numbers are reduced, the returning rate to spa services during their stay has increased dramatically. The feedback that we have received is that our guests can see that every detail has been cared for in order to preserve hygiene and maintain safety conditions, so they feel relaxed and comfortable in our environment.

How has your team responded to the challenge?

Amazingly. This is thanks to the huge engagement we achieved with each other during the lockdown period. Not only did the Borgo Egnazia talent development team create a rich agenda of training content that 42

revolved around wellbeing and the ‘Science of Happiness’, but also a WhatsApp group was set up that brought smiles and laughter to our days in lockdown. My spa supervisor and I have been very close, always thinking about how to make our team feel safe during these tough months and ensuring they maintained a high level of positivity for reopening. Our team has also been highly motivated and united when it comes to ensuring our standards are consistently implemented and respected. I know that this teamwork has led to the success we are seeing after having only been reopened for two months. Our average daily www.europeanspamagazine.com

While following the Italian government’s operating guidelines, the Vair Spa team are endeavouring to deliver quality wellness provision

revenue is now aligned with last year’s performance, proportionate to the areas available and staffing.

What positives have you taken from the experience of the past few months?

Lockdown provided me with space for creativity, innovation and personal growth. We have been living in an ‘experience economy’ with wellbeing as a key component. After this trauma, I think people will have more incentive to dedicate their time and thoughts to a lifestyle that makes them feel good. If people are limited financially as a result of this, they will prioritise doing something good for themselves and their families. We’ve seen in past recessions that wellness is a resilient market. I think mental wellness and life coaching will become an even bigger focus and will be the next evolution of the spa and wellbeing industry. The lockdown has shifted what people need most and thrown into sharp relief how healthcare is failing us on this issue. But when you talk to people now, what matters more are diffferent kinds of wellbeing. Covid-19 has made what’s important to people come into very clear focus: physical and mental health and connection with family and friends. This crisis has truly accelerated the mainstreaming of wellness. www.borgoegnazia.com/discover-puglia www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa reopenings The Spa at Ashford Castle, Ireland

New 45-minute pool time slots have been introduced to enable improved social distancing

Ready for the new normal The Spa at Ashford Castle in County Mayo has been welcoming spa-goers back since July 2. We talk to spa manager Michelle Ryan about how her team have risen to the challenge

INTERVIEW BY SARAH CAMILLERI

shford Castle, an 800-year old Irish property located near Cong, County Mayo, is set in 350 acres of estate and owned by the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, which operates a portfolio of five-star properties across the world. An emphasis on wellness hospitality and service excellence has seen The Spa at Ashford Castle achieve many notable accolades in its four years of operation. When former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announced that spas had a green light to reopen on June 29, three weeks earlier than the date set on the government roadmap, the spaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s operations were rapidly tailored to adhere to new guidelines while still offering guests the quality they expected. 44

Ashford Castleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spa manager, Michelle Ryan, discusses the challenges and successes faced by her team since reopening on July 2.

How have your operations been adapted for post-lockdown reopening?

Planning and preparation has been key for us. Lockdown presented an amazing opportunity to develop our spa team with a scheduled training plan. My team has been engaging weekly and working through new health and safety considerations, protocols and theory to really build confidence for our return.We also created an effective and mandatory Training Deck for each team member to complete before returning to work. www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa reopenings The Spa at Ashford Castle, Ireland

Clockwise from top: Ashford Castle in County Mayo, Ireland; the elegant spa reception; the spa is operating a reduced number of treatment rooms to allow for thorough sanitisation between appointments

Once onsite, we carried out a reopening orientation for everyone and have continued our weekly Zoom calls to keep communication flowing and trouble-shoot any situations that may arise. For spas to work effectively upon reopening, team communication is imperative.

What key changes have been made?

We have reduced our normal use of five treatment rooms to three, to allow guests to enjoy the full spa journey incorporating the use of the relaxation room. Our relaxation pool has also reopened with social distancing in place. This, along with the Fitness Suite, are bookable on the hour for 45-minute sessions. Currently, the spa has reopened to hotel residents only, who we ask to arrive from their rooms in their www.europeanspamagazine.com

“Working together with our wonderful brand partners Natura Bissé, Elemis, Voya and OPI, as well our own signature spa brand, B Africa, we have introduced a number of new protocols that are mindful not to impact on the guest experience.” Michelle Ryan Spa manager, The Spa at Ashford Castle

Spa reopenings The Spa at Ashford Castle, Ireland

From top: Spa guests are returning to enjoy relaxing time with friends and relatives; pre-booking for the Fitness Suite aims to prevent overcrowding

robe and slippers to reduce the use of changing rooms. We have also amended our start and finishing times to ensure that effective cleaning and sanitation is carried out before and after opening on a daily basis. After each facility is used we have a 15-minute period to fully sanitise and reset for our next guests. Furthermore, on a four-hour rotation, we completely disinfect the facility with a focus on high-touch points.

What treatment measures are now in place?

We have introduced service rooms for use by the therapists to prepare for their treatments. Each therapist 46

uses one treatment room per day and all our linen is disposable and all accessories single-use. Our teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s safety is considered with the appropriate use of PPE, including medical-grade glasses and masks. We have tailored our menu to deliver manageable treatments, limiting our spa experiences to 60-75 minutes and removing our extended spa journeys of 90 minutes and upwards. Working together with our wonderful brand partners Natura BissĂŠ, Elemis, Voya and OPI, as well our own signature spa brand B Africa, we have introduced a number of new protocols that are mindful not to impact on the guest experience.

What have been the most popular treatments among guests since reopening?

We have seen an increase in requests for maintenance services, such as eyebrow shaping, lash tinting and manicures and pedicures. We are now finding that guests are booking more 60-minute services; the most common requests being for reflexology and skincare. All our guests are looking for luxury and relaxation, but also for homecare advice and self-care products. www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa reopenings The Spa at Ashford Castle, Ireland Clockwise from top: The Spa at Ashford Castle’s indoor hydrotherapy pool; mini-pedi services are back on the spa menu; hygiene is imperative in all treatment areas as the pandemic continues

What innovations have been most successfully implemented?

I had expected the biggest challenge to be guests having to pre-book the relaxation pool, as we had to reduce access to achieve physical distancing. However, overall I feel this has positively impacted our guests’ enjoyment of their experience as they are able to appreciate the quietness and enhanced quality time with friends, partners or family.

What are the biggest challenges you face?

The main challenge for us is the reduced availability of treatments, as well as the team acclimatising to wearing PPE equipment. It has taken time to get familiar with the new schedule and work out how the whole spa operation can run more smoothly in the ‘new normal’ circumstances.

How have your team responded to the new way of working?

Very positively. I am immensely proud of them and how they have adjusted. Our time in lockdown was well spent in developing our communication skills, training and product knowledge. Their confidence and work ethic since returning has resulted in great guest feedback as well as increased bookings and favourable retail sales. A great deal of hard work and commitment has gone into ensuring everyone’s safety and giving the best service to guests, so the team have adapted really well and found their feet quickly. One of my favourite quotes by Henry Ford has helped inspire us through lockdown: ‘Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress and working together is success’.

What positives have you taken from the experience of the past few months?

Not feeling that we need to rush because we have another appointment is a great positive. A 30-minute turnaround is more effective for the operation in terms of the attention we are able to give to guests in respect of homecare advice and building a rapport. We are all looking forward to celebrating our fifth anniversary this year and are also very excited about our pending online retail launch, as well as developing new wellness services. www.ashfordcastle.com/the-spa www.europeanspamagazine.com

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Spa reopenings Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, Switzerland The view from the garden pool at Switzerland’s Grand Resort Bad Ragaz

Reconnecting with guests Grand Resort Bad Ragaz’s recently appointed director of spa and wellbeing, Hans-Peter Veit, details some of the shifts that the respected health resort has seen since reopening

INTERVIEW BY SARAH CAMILLERI

ne of the industry’s much-loved spa directors, Hans-Peter Veit made some significant personal changes this summer, heading for Switzerland’s famous thermal destination, Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, to take up the reins as director of spa and wellbeing. Having previously spent four years as director of spa at the renowned Victoria Jungfrau in Interlaken, Veit welcomed the opportunity to dive into the healing waters of the respected resort, where he and his new team are welcoming guests back for restorative time together following the recent lockdown. The pioneering spa suites at Bad Ragaz, which opened in 2009, provide private, luxurious accommodation for 50

guests booked in specifically for health and wellness packages. With direct access to a dedicated Medical Health Center, the thermal waters of the Helenabad Spa, and a Body & Sports Fitness Center, guests can enjoy state-of-the-art science-based services as well as a host of pampering luxury spa treatments and personalised packages. One of Bad Ragaz’s most outstanding attributes is the Tamina Therme public spa. Celebrating the healing powers of Tamina Gorge’s thermal waters, for centuries this place of healing and recuperation has drawn visitors from far afield. Today, this 1,300sqm temple to wellbeing offers guests the benefits of a world of saunas, steam rooms, hydropools and gardens all enhanced by www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa reopenings Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, Switzerland Clockwise from left: A treatment room awaits one of Bad Ragaz’s returning guests; pampering massage treatments have remained popular; Tamina Therme’s stunning poolscape

“We did not change our treatment menu but our clients have been booking a little differently since the lockdown. What have been popular are couple treatments and Private Spa experiences.” Hans-Peter Veit Director of spa and wellbeing Grand Resort Bad Ragaz

thermal waters that descend from the gorge above. We spoke to Hans-Peter Veit about the changes in provision and demand that have occurred since the spa reopened for hotel guests at the start of May.

When did your spas reopen?

Our complete spa offer, including our wet area, all pools and the fitness centre, reopened on June 6, respecting all necessary hygiene and distance restrictions. For most of the treatments, we had already opened on May 1, but that was for hotel guests only.

How have you adapted your operations for post-lockdown reopening?

Actually, we did not adapt the business so much by ourselves – the changes resulted from government www.europeanspamagazine.com

restrictions and enhanced hygiene rules. The most important thing to us is that our guests, just like everyone going back to stay at luxury hotels resorts everywhere around the world, have the right to continue to expect service excellence. This being the case, I thought we needed some new ideas and clever solutions to maintain our high level of customer service, and offer people as much as possible; for example, hot and cold drinks are served by a hostess, and to minimise food touch-points we are offering canning jars packed with yoghurt with fresh berries, mixed nuts or dried fruits.

Did you amend your treatment offering?

We did not change our treatment menu but our clients have been booking a little differently since lockdown. 51

Spa reopenings Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, Switzerland

Among the most popular services since reopening have been new Reconnecting packages, which allow couples, families or groups of friends to experience the spaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many facilities, including its Sauna World

What has been the most successful innovation you have implemented?

What have been popular are couplesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; treatments and Private Spa experiences, followed by body rituals and hand and foot treatments. This might be a result of the separation people have suffered and their desire to be pampered; our guests want to indulge themselves in a peaceful atmosphere. In addition, our clients are now more than 90% from Switzerland and are almost entirely leisure travellers, which implies that they are choosing the hotel mainly for spa and culinary reasons. This demonstrates that spas and restaurants are a big draw for resort hotels after the lockdown. 52

Our new Reconnecting packages have been very popular. During the lockdown we created several residential options that are attracting three types of guests: couples looking for time together after weeks of quarantine with the kids; families with multiple generations reunited after months of isolation; and close friends of both sexes enjoying weekend experiences together. Our guests have loved these new offerings. Especially now, it is important to take care of the body, mind and soul. Our health and ways to protect it is a great focus now. This is exactly our competence and we are looking forward to helping guests achieve this.

What were the main challenges of reopening?

Mostly safety-related; managing the increased number of wellness clients while respecting all necessary hygiene and distance regulations, especially on weekends and bad weather days. However, all of my team and the rest of the resort are very happy to be reunited and more www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa reopenings Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, Switzerland A combination of medical services and holistic experiences delivered in grand, luxurious surroundings, is drawing guests back to Grand Resort Bad Ragaz since lockdown

than enthusiastic to get back to business. The important challenge ahead is to give our guests a feeling of security and wellbeing so they can relax and fully benefit from our treatments and programmes. My team are doing a great job every day to ensure this is the case.

What positives have you taken from your experience over the past few months?

Everyone who was forced to stay at home for weeks now sees the world â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and maybe their own lives â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from a different perspective. As a result, I think health and emotional balance will play a more important role in the future and this will positively affect not just the opportunities for spa business, but our own lives. We are already seeing a change in demand and priorities from our guests. Pampering and relaxation is still a major goal for our spa guests, but they are much more interested now in embracing a more holistic approach to fitness. This includes things like personal training and nutrition, and the long-term benefits these lifestyle changes can bring. Our aim is always to deliver trustworthy, authentic and personalised programming. This is the true direction of our industry and also the important role spas can play to help people. www.resortragaz.ch/en

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Back to business Tracey Stapleton, Spa PR Company

How to get ahead in the ‘new normal’

Tracey Stapleton, founder of The Spa PR Company, shares five back-to-business marketing strategies to help accelerate your spa operations and re-engage your customers

he last few months has reminded us of the importance of being agile when it comes to our marketing strategies. The traditional marketing plan has become outdated as we pivot our businesses and identify high-value projects that will achieve the growth we need. What we can’t underestimate is the impact that Covid-19 has had on consumer behaviour or what the effects will be long term. However, the good news for the spa and wellness industry is that in various surveys, personal health has come out as a top priority – so this is the perfect time to market your businesses to the max. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to marketing, but here are some key tactics that could help give yours a boost.

Refine your customer avatars

There’s never been a more important time to know your customers but the avatars, or personas, you might have identified before lockdown could now be different. Come up with a mental model to channel your customers in up to five segment types, then work out their demographics – what they do, what experiences they are looking for and what pain-points they need solving. We could be seeing a rise in the number of millennials booking spa treatments as the more traditional spa guest, in their forties and fifties, returns more cautiously. This could be a chance to increase local loyalty as well as retail spend. So, when you have created your avatars, adapt your marketing messages accordingly and create content that talks directly to them. 54

Go newsjacking

This is a tactic we’ve been using at Spa PR and throughout the PR industry for years, but it was only officially given a name in the Oxford dictionary in 2017. Newsjacking is the art of injecting your ideas into a breaking news story to get them noticed. When there is a focus on your industry, such as recently with the reopening of spas, there’s a rise in demand for experts to comment on the situation, so put yourself out there. This is a way of getting your business media attention with just a little effort. Naturally it works most effectively if you are monitoring the news daily and making it part of your marketing strategy, but an ad hoc opportunity can give your brand an immediate boost.

Grow your database

One of the first things I was taught in my career was that you are only as strong as your database. I’m not sure that’s quite true, but I do know that having an active, engaged database is the easiest way to grow your business and the ROI is four times higher than any other platform. Every new address you add is important, so consider how you are going to take them further up your sales channel. Look at easy ways to capture new prospects – pop-up ads on your website home page work well, and you can make them less obvious by having them pop up in more discreet places. This page: Tracey Stapleton of The Spa PR Company; The Spa at Carden Park in Cheshire, UK

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Back to business Tracey Stapleton, Spa PR Company

This page: The Spa at Carden Park in Cheshire, UK

expansion for some time. However,

Try adding a PS link to your email signature or run a competition with data capture – even with a fee it can work out very cost effective. Create interesting and valuable content that helps solve your customer pain-points, and repurpose this with sign-up links across your channels.

Listen and hyper-personalise

One of the main marketing trends for 2020 is a hyper-personalised approach that has been proven to have a positive and measurable impact on customer loyalty and satisfaction. As we introduce our guests to a revised spa journey, now is the time to really listen to them and act accordingly. Conduct regular surveys, have ‘ears’ on the ground within your www.europeanspamagazine.com

staff, and personalise your content and data marketing as much as you can. Remember, you’re not aiming to talk to everyone, just your key avatars.

Follow the flight to digital

During lockdown we saw a huge move to digital media and despite people returning to spas, people will still expect an omni-channel brand experience. The share of wallet spent online is also expected to continue to increase, so make sure your online presence is as professional and slick as your real-world operation. Review your online channels regularly and use the many free digital tools to refine and target your marketing. Among the tools that we love to use are: ubersuggest.com, which is great to

help you win the game of SEO; Think with Google’s ‘Test my site’ tool, which can improve the speed of your website; and Social Media Today, for all the latest social channel updates. www.thespaprcompany.com

Meet the Expert Tracey Stapleton is managing director of The Spa PR Company in London. Having started her consumer PR career over 30 years ago, for the last 16 years she has specialised in spa and wellbeing, offering a targeted range of PR and marketing services to spa and hotel operators, beauty and wellbeing product brands and services.

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. 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.co.uk

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

Buyers Guide Covid-secure equipment

BUYERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GUIDE

COVID-SECURE EQUIPMENT

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Buyers Guide Covid-secure equipment

Be prepared to protect your spa... We highlight the best products to help you shield your team and guests from Covid-19

ith the loosening of Covid-19 restrictions enabling spas and hotels to reopen, the focus is now upon creating a trusted ‘new normal’ in the wellness space. To provide confidence for both staff and guests, spas now face challenges in every operational area that could profoundly affect the dynamics of their business and its SOPs. Perhaps most importantly, every property will be improving its cleaning and disinfection procedures, sanitising rooms and public spaces with antiviral products, ozone treatments and UV technology. According to experts, treatment rooms will need to be disinfected to ‘hospital operating room standards’ between each client’s visit. It is also likely that spa teams and guests will need to wear face masks, with therapists also wearing gloves wherever possible. As a further measure to reassure guests, spa operators have the option of adding an air quality machine to their treatment rooms and, depending on their facilities, alternating treatment room use to enable them to be fully aired between clients. Other operational factors to consider include stocking up on disinfectant gel,

masks and gloves, and providing guests with a paperless spa experience. With guests urged to shower both before and after treatments, all spa linen must be removed and washed after each appointment, and therapists are advised to keep a spare, clean uniform handy. Treatment appointment times should be staggered to help manage guest numbers in spas, as well as to make it easier to maintain a safe distance between visitors. Wherever possible, outdoor spaces should be utilised for any fitness classes, and the placing of all fitness equipment should adhere to social distancing guidelines. Class numbers for all fitness activities should kept low and ozone machines are recommended in order to sanitise gym spaces overnight. To best support you ahead of reopening, and maximise your future business potential, European Spa has selected some of the most innovative and bespoke hygiene, commercial cleaning and PPE equipment currently on offer. From protective aprons to ozone disinfection, touch-free bathrooms, autoclaves and disinfecting doormats, here is our round-up of the highest quality protective products to ensure the safety and comfort of your team and guests.

New study shows face coverings ‘effective in reducing the spread of Covid-19’ Recent UK research has shown that cloth face coverings are effective in reducing the spread of Covid-19 both for the wearer and those around them. Jointly published by Oxford’s Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science, the British Academy and the Royal Society, the study investigated the effectiveness of different face-mask types and coverings, and included an international comparison of policies and behavioural factors underlying usage. Key findings included that behavioural factors – how people understand the virus, their perception of risk, and how much they

trust expert and government advice – can adversely affect mask wearing. It was also found that more attention should be paid to how well masks fit on the face. Professor Melinda Mills, director of the Leverhulme Centre and author of the study, said: “The evidence is clear that people should wear masks to reduce virus transmission and protect themselves, with most countries recommending the public to wear them. “We find that masks made from high quality material, such as high-grade cotton with multiple layers, and particularly hybrid

constructions, are effective. For instance, combining cotton and silk or flannel provides over 95% filtration, so wearing a mask can certainly protect others.” The full report is available at: https:// royalsociety.org/-/media/policy/projects/ set-c/set-c-facemasks.pdf?la=en-GB&hash= A22A87CB28F7D6AD9BD93BBCBFC2BB24 For further facemask guidance visit: www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novelcoronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/whenand-how-to-use-masks

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Buyers Guide Covid-secure equipment

BUYERS GUIDE

PPE FOR YOUR TEAM 1

1. Face masks BC Softwear Made from 100% natural cotton, the outer and inner layers of this washable mask surround a central protective synthetic fabric that improves breathability and protects from moisture and droplets. The mask is designed in a generously sized, sculpted shape with a soft wire to enable a snug, comfortable fit and adjustable, elasticated ear loops. www.bcsoftwear.co.uk

2. PPE uniform collection Fashionizer Spa Fashionizer Spa’s PPE Collection includes aprons, such as the Freya design (pictured) as well as tunics, printed masks and trousers made from fabrics specifically woven to combine water resistance with durability and comfort. Suitable for industrial laundering up to 85°C, the aprons are available in bespoke prints and offer Shield Plus antimicrobial protection. www.fashionizerspa.com

3. Face visors Clinic Must Haves This full-face visor is worn like a pair of glasses, avoiding the need for a headband or any entanglement in the therapist’s hair. Both sides are left open to keep the wearer cool and avoid the likelihood of steaming up. The visor can be comfortably worn over glasses (as pictured) with replacement screens available that can be attached to them if required. www.clinicmusthaves.com

4. Face masks BREATHE + PROTECT UK-based duo BREATHE + PROTECT offer protective unisex face masks to fit every face shape. Made from organic cotton with a pleated shape to provide a structured fit, the masks incorporate an optional five-layer carbon filter for an added layer of protection. Available in five colourways, they can also be bespoke designed to feature company logos. www.breatheandprotect.com

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Buyers Guide Covid-secure equipment

BUYERS GUIDE

TOUCH-FREE & HIGH-TECH

1. Digital display automatic hand sanitiser

2. Porotex and Special Porotex fabrics

Eclipse Digital Media

KETTAL

This fully automated, 56cm-high hand sanitiser can be fixed to any horizontal surface or wall-mounted and also provides an innovative digital signage display function. Content can be uploaded to its internal Android media player from a USB stick or remotely by registering with the Embed Signage cloud-based software, which is also available from suppliers Eclipse. Commercial-grade components are used to make the display, while the LCD IPS panel has the ability to be in 24/7 use for more than 70,000 hours. www.eclipsedigitalmedia.co.uk

KETTAL has developed two types of antimicrobial Porotex Fabric for use in its outdoor products. As pictured, the Special Porotex fabric inhibits the growth of microorganisms during use. They are certified compliant with ASTM 2180-01 and ASTM G21-09 – the Standard Test Method for determining the activity of incorporated antimicrobial agents in polymeric or hydrophobic materials. KETTAL’s Porotex fabrics for parasols are certified to EN ISO 846-A and have a rating of Method ‘A’ Excellent. www.kettal.com

3. Rechargeable sensor pump simplehuman The simplehuman rechargeable sensor pump features a clog-proof tube to ensure a precise and consistent flow. It can be used to dispense hand sanitiser, washing-up liquid, lotion or any liquid soap that doesn’t contain exfoliants or moisturising beads. The amount of soap dispensed is controlled by positioning the hand closer for a little soap and further away for more. A silicone valve prevents drips and the unit is waterproof for easy cleaning. The sensor pump recharges using the included puck, and one charge can last up to three months. www.simplehuman.co.uk

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Buyers Guide Covid-secure equipment

BUYERS GUIDE 4

4. Touch-Free bathrooms

5. Core

Noken by Porcelanosa

Premier Software

6. Dynamic face-detection display screen

Ideal for spa changing areas or hotel guest rooms, this contactless bathroom solution from Noken features a range of touch-free fittings including electronic sensor taps; taps with soap or antibacterial gel dispensers; and infrared flush systems for urinals and toilets. The stylish range also features touch-free steel towel dispensers; optical hand dryers; bins with lid sensors; and mirrors with proximity sensor lighting and defogging systems. All Noken Sanitary products are 100% ceramic with taps made of brass finished in chrome or copper PVD and titanium. www.noken.com

A leading business management software for the spa and leisure industries, Core helps to create a seamless, contactless client journey around any spa. Connecting with self-swipe terminals at entrance points, Core uses wristbands or cards to enable guests to access lockers and other facilities with ease. Fast Track terminal technology can monitor guest frequency, and pairing Core with a Premier Mobile licence means staff can change the arrival status of guests online, complete online consultations and enable bookings to be made from a smartphone or tablet. www.premiersoftware.uk

This contactless access control module offers a high-tech facial recognition function to facilitate the quick indentification of staff. In addition, temperature measurement from Goodview is achieved through the use of an infrared thermometer. Multiple installation modes are available to suit different environments and the module comes with a support for wall-mounting. It can also be purchased with either table-top or vertical support options for floor installation. www.luxorcinema.com

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Luxor Cinema

Buyers Guide Covid-secure equipment

BUYERS GUIDE

AIR QUALITY & DISINFECTION

1. Infection control waffle entrance mat HC Slingsby Suitable for commercial use, the disinfectant mat from access equipment specialist HC Slingsby can add an extra level of hygiene to spa entrances. When filled with diluted disinfectant the mat creates an antimicrobial bath for guests to pass through. Its natural rubber ‘fingers’ clean and coat the soles of their footwear and its bevelled edges retain the disinfectant liquid. Added safety and stability is provided by the mat’s slip-resistant base. www.slingsby.com

2. ULV Fogging Initial Medical

3. Automatic door handle disinfecting system

Infection control and waste management specialist Initial Medical has launched a new, all-purpose disinfection service that protects against microbial infection. The deep-clean offering involves specialist room foggers that generate extremely small droplets of disinfectant, which settle underneath, on top of and on the sides of all objects and hard-toreach areas of any room. There is also the option of additional touchpoint cleaning to provide spa operators with added reassurance. www.initial.co.uk/medical

From entrepreneur Simon Sassoon comes an automated system to achieve seamless door-handle sanitisation. Designed to disinfect the main cross-contamination points for viruses, the 99POINT9 cleanses door handles every 15 minutes and is said to kill 99.9% of bacteria and viruses, even when dry. The 99POINT9 system was created with involvement from Tony Bourne, former CEO of the British Medical Association. www.99point9hygiene.com

99POINT9

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Buyers Guide Covid-secure equipment

BUYERS GUIDE 4

Tips for performing a high-contact audit n C onsider reconfiguring your

indoor relaxation areas to offer socially distanced ‘filter spaces’ where guests can relax as they wait for different spaces to be sanitised.

n H otel spa guests can avoid

some high touch-points by showering in their guest rooms and then coming to the spa already dressed in their robes.

n U tilise as much of your spa’s

outdoor space as possible, such as gardens, courtyards or roof terraces.

n E nsure you have plenty of

towel drops and well-placed bins throughout your spa, and conduct an ‘aroma audit’ of your entire property to ensure you deliver a pleasant sensory spa journey alongside your enhanced cleaning protocols.

How to carry out a spa risk assessment 4. Air purifier

5. Ozone Generators

AIRVIA Medical

e.l.k Cleaning Services

This high-performance air purifier has a cylindrical design that provides a 360-degree intake capability, enabling it to completely clean the air in spaces of up to 90sqm within just a few minutes. The intake system is comprised of several concentric ducts and is capable of extracting air in all directions, even over a long distance. Using eight different purification technologies with negative ions diffused to eliminate fine particles, the air is quickly and efficiently refreshed. www.airpurifier.co.uk

Delivering high quality air purification, these generators use ozone as a disinfectant to destroy pathogens. Provided with a three-year warranty and suitable for professional use, they operate at a low noise level, are portable, easy to maintain and offer full coverage to every corner of the environment. Each machine comes with lifetime technical support and free replacement plates after 6,000 working hours. The plates can last from 10-70 years, dependant on usage. www.elkcleaningservices.co.uk

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n C omplete a thorough

examination of your existing air ventilation and filtration systems and ensure they are easy to inspect and maintain.

n A ll signage should be clear and

reassuring to guests.

n P rovide intuitive access to

automatic and sensored sanitisers and washbasins throughout your spa.

n C onsider introducing

contactless wristband access for your guests to use to provide timed spa experiences.

Buyers Guide Covid-secure equipment

BUYERS GUIDE

HYGIENE, STERILISERS & AUTOCLAVES

1. UV cabinets

Ellisons

2. Automatic medical autoclave

Ideal for storing instruments following sterilisation in a chemical solution or autoclave, these UV cabinets are available in two sizes and use short-wave ultra-violet radiation at 254nm. The hard-wearing and chip-proof white cabinets are suitable for tabletop use or can be fixed to the wall. www.ellisons.co.uk

This steam-pressurised, automatic medical autoclave enables spas to carry out thorough sterilisation of professional tools and implements. Suitable for a variety of metal instruments, the autoclave uses distilled, ionised water in its base and sterilises tools in 11 minutes. www.ellisons.co.uk

Ellisons

3. UV hot towel cabis Pevonia UK Two options from Pevonia UK provide exellent hot towel storage for Covid-safe operations. The first is a compact electric, waterless and thermostatically controlled hot towel warmer with a durable, chemical-resistant casing, that can hold up to 24 cabi towels. https://spaequipment.pevonia.co.uk

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Spa Life Digital 2020 Ireland 2020 is going online 15th – 16th September 2020 Covid 19 may have prevented us going ahead with our full Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort wellness experience until next year, but we’re not going to let it stop us bringing the Irish Spa community together this year! Presenting our first ever live virtual event. Now more than ever we need to connect our community; to help and inspire each other to navigate a new way forward and to set a new standard of excellence for customers. Join us in celebrating innovation and excellence in the sector through a two-day virtual mix of: • • • • •

Online networking opportunities Industry insight from a host of expert speakers Virtual supplier showcases Exposure to the latest trends and innovations Hands-on access to real brand products in your off-line goody bag

To find out more and book your place visit: www.spa-life.ie

Back to business Dr Neil Carpenter and Made for Life Organics

Keep calm and open up Dr Neil Carpenter outlines some key risk management guidance that has been put together in collaboration with the founder of Made for Life Organics, Amanda Winwood

However, it is not the kit that will resolve the problems, but the measures you have in place and ensuring they are adhered to. We recommend that spas: • Create clear procedures in line with the Standards Authority for Touch in Cancer Care (SATCC). Ensure all staff are well trained and your processes meet government guidelines. • Consider working for certification in hygiene and cleanliness procedures. • Keep records of your cleaning procedures and regularly audit to ensure they are carried out. • Ask personnel to avoid touching their face and nose. • Ensure your team knows the difference between cleaning, sanitising, disinfecting and sterilisation.

here have been many conflicting and confusing messages around risk, sustainability and hygiene during spa reopenings. We asked Dr Neil Carpenter from consultancy NMC2 to guide us through the scientific recommendations that he and Amanda Winwood, founder of Made for Life Organics and the Made for Life Foundation, have compiled to ensure spas and salons can open up safely. How is Covid-19 transmitted? Covid-19 cannot enter the body through the skin, only by droplets from the respiratory tract of an infected individual being coughed or sneezed onto a mucosal surface or conjunctiva of a susceptible individual; through direct contact or via a material surface; or through transmission of infectious agents in small airborne particles, particularly during procedures such as intubation. Importantly, Covid-19 can only enter the body through the mucosal barriers that line the mouth, nose, conjunctiva, oesophagus and gastrointestinal system, as well as areas of both the male and female reproductive tracts.

Should therapists wear masks and visors? n Visors have not been fully evaluated

for protection, but they protect the eyes, nose and mouth from direct droplet exposure from others. They may play some role in self-protection when worn with a mask, and they likely cause a decrease in direct droplet transmission, but droplets can still make their way out from under a visor in an aerosol. Safety glasses also provide some protection.

“Spas should consider working for certification in hygiene and cleanliness procedures.” Dr Neil Carpenter NMC2 In reality, for most individuals the nose and mouth are the main routes of entry. There is also a limited risk from surfaces, eyes or faecal matter, but as little research has been done in these areas, a precautionary approach is currently being taken. How can spas protect their teams? The training of employees in the correct procedures is the first and most essential part of personal protection. This should be supported by PPE equipment to mitigate risks to both staff and clients.

What daily practices do you advise? Nobody should come to work if they have any symptoms of Covid-19 infection, but as up to 80% of people are asymptomatic, we recommend that: • People should not travel to or from work in their uniforms. • Team members should wash hands thoroughly upon arrival at work, then fresh uniforms, laundered at 60°C, should be put on. Laundry should be undertaken by the spa rather than the employee to ensure consistency. • There are too many variables for the temperature testing of clients to provide an accurate or conclusive measure of infection. • Ensure your clients clean and sanitise their hands on arrival by making it part of your welcome ‘cleansing ritual’. Left: Among Made for Life Organics’ naturally inspired products is a Botanical Hand Sanitiser

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Back to business Dr Neil Carpenter and Made for Life Organics

Adapting the spa journey Recommendations for a safe and hygienic spa experience n All team members should wear a

cloth face covering in the presence of clients to protect them from those asymptomatic of Covid-19.

n Where the treatment allows,

introduce a cleaning ritual and guide your clients to shower before their spa time. Cleaning rituals could start with a hand massage using sanitiser including essential oils.

n Provide additional cleaning

everywhere. Establishing a disinfecting routine in all areas of the spa, morning and night, is crucial. Have this displayed to give the clients confidence in your practices.

n Ensure saunas and steam rooms

What advice can you offer about masks? Masks are only effective if they are both fitted properly and not touched with contaminated hands. FFP3 masks are the only ones that are waterproof to stop droplet ingress. Masks that are not FFP3 protect others by reducing the distance that your breath travels. To understand this better, think about breathing out on a cold winter’s morning and how far your breath spreads without and with a scarf in front of your mouth. A homemade double or triple-layered cloth face covering is as effective at doing this as costly FFP1 or FFP2 masks. Importantly, masks should be washed frequently at 60°C or with a dilute bleach solution, or ironed on steam setting to kill any viruses or bacteria. Is it safe to carry out facials? While Covid-19 is considered to be highly transmittable compared with other viruses, such as influenza or norovirus, the hygiene standards needed to address it should already be largely embedded into the protocols created for the implementation of, for example, Cancer Touch Therapy Massage, www.europeanspamagazine.com

Above: Spas must ensure the correct hygiene and protection procedures are set and followed

where spas and hotels teams have been servicing guests who are severely immuno-compromised. These standards are part of the criteria for meeting SATCC standards. As long as the risks have been assessed and addressed, we do not see any difference between a facial and a beard treatment. Can spas welcome back those going through treatment for cancer or guests with compromised immunity? Absolutely, as already noted, the SATCC standards address the behaviours and protocols that need to be followed. My research has clearly shown that massage and wellbeing treatments within spas are beneficial to cancer patients and should be considered to be part of their treatment regime, as they are in other parts of the world.

For more guidelines on reopening spas, salons and hotels, including risk assessments and audit, visit: www.madeforlifeorganics.com

are cleaned frequently and run at a higher temperature, +60°C.

Meet the experts: Dr Neil Carpenter and Amanda Winwood Dr Neil Carpenter helps to develop natural product formulations for cancer and AIDS treatments. He served on ICI’s leading Innovation team and worked with L’Oreal and Beiersdorf before becoming director at Avon Rubber. His consultancy NMC2, focuses on delivering cosmetic product safety reports and has recently helped to develop Made for Life Organics’ Botanical Hand Sanitiser. www.nmc2.co.uk Amanda Winwood, CEO of Made for Life Organics and founder of the Made for Life Foundation, has trained more than 1,000 therapists in spas across the UK to confidently open their doors to people with mental health issues and also those going through cancer. www.madeforlifeorganics.com • Readers are recommended to always check local government guidelines for the latest guidance and legislation.

From the industry Sothys promotion

A commitment to excellence We asked Christian Mas, president of French luxury skincare brand Sothys, about the brand’s new launches and how it is supporting clients during the pandemic

ounded in 1946, luxury Paris-based brand Sothys has a reputation for excellence in the development of Christian Mas professional skincare. Its flagship store opened at 128 rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré in 1985, where its clientele enjoy the very best in anti-ageing and hydrating facials alongside targeted body treatments. With a strong commitment to research and innovation, Sothys can be found in prestigious spas and hotels in 130 countries around the world. We spoke to brand president Christian Mas about the family company’s current focus on its spa partners. Tell us what drives your brand Sothys has always stood out for its extraordinary commitment to research and development. This quest for innovation has led to the creation of the Sothys Advanced Research Department, as well as ongoing collaborations with universities and research laboratories, in order to develop our unique products and professional treatments. A number of years ago, we developed Les Jardins Sothys (The Sothys Gardens) to nurture the botanicals from which we develop our active ingredients, so we can offer clients total traceability. What elevates Sothys within the professional spa and beauty market? We have always been a family company, with family values, delivering excellent value and service. Our products are exclusively created for professionals by professionals, and our retail and treatment products are only available 68

Right: Sothys’ dedication to skincare innovation includes the upcoming launch of its Indonésie Ancestrale body treatment, based on traditional Indonesian rituals

in Sothys salons and spas. We have a presence in some of the world’s most prestigious spas, hotels and beauty institutes. With around 30 new and innovative products launched each year, we are always at the cutting edge in our treatments and products. How do you create your spa offering? We are proud of our comprehensive treatment and homecare menu. We cater for the needs of women and men, for face and for body, and we also offer a makeup range. Every one of our spa treatments provides a premium experience based on fulfilling four important principles: sensoriality, efficacy, nature and safety. We also support all of our partner spas with staff training and amenities for www.europeanspamagazine.com

From the industry Sothys promotion

Left: Sothys products are created for professionals by professionals Above:The brand’s Parisian flagship store at 128 rue du Faubourg Saint Honore

spa and hotel bedrooms, as well as our Sothys Athletics range to complement the fitness activities of the spa. Tell us how you are supporting spas ahead of their reopening In the UK, when spas and salons were closed, we started a mail order service so spa guests could order directly from their therapist, as usual, but the products were shipped from our head office. This has helped to maintain the relationships between spa guests and therapists, and we’ve had really positive feedback. In the run up to re-opening, we have been offering our spa partners marketing support, online training, promotional packages and special offers to encourage guests to return. We have also supported the healthcare profession with donations of products, such as hand cream to frontline NHS medical staff. In order to combat Covid-19, we have adapted our treatment protocols to enable therapists to use our porcelain spoons for modelling, thereby limiting direct contact with the skin. www.europeanspamagazine.com

What new launches are coming soon? We will soon launch our new Indonésie Ancestrale body treatment, which is a sensorial escape imbued with sandalwood and jasmine. It is based on traditional rituals and uses breathing techniques to relax both the client and the therapist. Our beauty treatment designer Séverine Monjanel fully immersed herself in Indonesian culture to understand the focus that is placed on body massage and combine it with the expertise and excellence of Sothys treatments. We will also shortly be launching our Seasonal Treatment for the face and body with acai berry and passionfruit. This is the latest in our bi-annual releases, enriched with minerals to meet the challenges facing the skin during the autum and winter seasons. In addition, our completely reformulated Eye Contour line now features blue-light protection and a professional ‘cryo’ treatment utilising our much loved porcelain modelling spoons. The range includes a new treatment and four homecare products, including an innovative Express Eye Patch. www.sothys.com

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SKINCARE

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TANNING

NAILCARE

THALASSOTHERAPY

EDITED BY MARK SMITH

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Editor’s choice

Reverse the signs of ageing Dermalogica adds Retinol Clearing Oil to the Active Clearing range to treat break-outs and premature ageing in adults Designed to treat problem skin, breakouts and premature ageing, Dermalogica has developed a powerful new retinol oil to complement its effective Active Clearing range. The brand’s Retinol Clearing Oil combines two potent ingredients in one formula. Salicylic acid rapidly cleans and prevents breakouts, while effective, time-released retinol (vitamin A) helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. Janine Da Costa “Retinol is one of the most powerful and popular ingredients used to help diminish visible wrinkles, fine lines and hyperpigmentation” explains Dermalogica’s training executive, Janine Da Costa. “It can also help to reduce the appearance of breakouts by encouraging cell turnover. Retinol works by going into the follicle and communicating with cell receptors to help stimulate skin renewal and increase cell turnover.” Helping to reduce the visible signs of skin ageing, the high-performance night oil visibly renews skin during sleep, promising a clearer complexion and reducing signs of ageing within seven days. The unique formulation’s time-released retinol helps to increase the skin’s resilience and reduce the appearance of uneven tone and hyperpigmentation that increases with age. Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that stimulates natural exfoliation to reduce breakouts and clear skin, while the product is further boosted by Argan, rosehip seed and golden jojoba oils – lightweight phytoactive lipids that work to soothe and nourish the user’s skin. Dermalogica advises applications of between six and ten drops each night by smoothing the formula gently over the face and neck, avoiding the eye area. The brand also encourages clients to wear an SPF product the following day. www.dermalogica.co.uk

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Menu New products & treatments

Skin-friendly suncare DeclĂŠor has launched its Aloe Vera Suncare range to offer effective anti-UVA and UVB sun protection. The four products in the range feature sesame oil to nourish and soothe, and macadamia oil to nurture and protect, as well as aloe vera to hydrate and boost the skin with antioxidants. The line includes Sun Face Fluid SPF 30, Sun Face Cream SPF 50 and Sun Gel Cream SPF 50. An innovative addition is Sun Bi-Phase Oil SPF 30, an ultra-light, non-sticky and sweat and salt-resistant new product featuring Argan and coconut oils that nourish and hydrate for up to eight hours. The oil-based lotion has been scientifically proven to reduce skin temperature by 2Â°C, making it the perfect summer application. www.decleor.co.uk

Superfood skincare Elemis has added two new products to its Superfood skincare collection. Superfood AHA Glow Cleansing Butter is a pumpkin facial cleanser formulated with nourishing mango butter and chia seed oil, which leaves the skin feeling hydrated and silky-soft. Pumpkin and acerola cherry, naturally rich in AHAs, gently brighten dull skin for a glowing complexion. This fragrance-free formula can also be used safely around the eyes to remove stubborn, long-wear makeup. Superfood Glow Priming Moisturiser offers a blend of kombucha and fermented ginger extracts to boost radiance and help to improve the overall look of skin texture. This kombucha-intensive moisturiser blends nourishing green tea seed oil with an active prebiotic to help leave the skin feeling soft and balanced. Vegan-friendly and 100% sulphate-free, the formula layers perfectly under any existing makeup or skincare routine. www.elemis.com

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Menu New products & treatments

Eco-friendly sun protection Known for its commitment to innovation and sustainability, [comfort zone] has introduced new eco-friendly products to its Water Soul collection. Designed to deliver maximum protection for the skin, Eco Suncream SPF30 and SPF50 products contain chemical filters that are ocean-friendly, water-resistant and fragrance-free. They also feature a biomimetic DNA-defense peptide that activates and mimics the natural protection and repair of DNA. Eco Shower Gel comprises a highly biodegradable formula that cleanses and respects the skin and the environment. Aloe Gel combines natural aloe vera and organic Argan oil to cool, soothe and repair the skin after exposire to the sun. The new products are packaged entirely in recycled material with sugar cane derived plastic for the tubes, and any CO2 output is compensated through a reforestation initiative in Ethiopia. www.comfortzone.it

Managing the microbiome Helping to protect, support and balance the microbiome, Murad has introduced Clarifying Oil-Free Water Gel; an oil-free, non-comedogenic gel moisturiser that instantly soothes, smooths and hydrates the skin. Ideal for oily and blemish-prone clients, the purifying lightweight hydrator uses Quorum Sensing Technology with Korean red pine extract to disrupt the bacteria breakout connection. This interruption promotes a balanced and diverse microbiome, helping to minimise impurities that can trigger irritation. The gel renews the equilibrium of the skinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s microbiome for a clear, healthy complexion. Ginger root extract and hyaluronic acid further help comfort and nourish the complexion, while Salicylic acid exfoliates and smoothes the skin. www.murad.co.uk

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Menu New products & treatments

A therapeutic shower boost Aromatherapy Associates’ Shower Oil collection is an elegant blend of four rich, oil-to-milk body cleansers that gently cleanse and hydrate. Boosted by the powerful therapeutic aroma of pure essential oils, they aim to transform any shower into a daily moment of mindful wellbeing. Formulated with ten skin-nurturing ingredients, plus a combination of up to 28 pure essential oils, the Shower Oils are available in four of the brand’s best-selling iconic blends. ‘De-Stress’ soothes anxiety with woody frankincense, refreshing petitgrain for balance, and wild camomile to calm. ‘Revive’ is a fruity, floral blend with invigorating juniper berry and geranium coupled with stimulating pink grapefruit and rosemary. ‘Muscle’ combines therapeutic rosemary, warming ginger and energising black pepper to ease and soothe stiffness and aches, while ‘Rose’ combines rose, geranium and the rejuvenating powers of palmarosa to lift the mood. www.aromatherapyassociates.com

Super hydration for the lips Mii’s new HydraBoost Lip Lover is an innovative lip formula developed to hydrate and boost the lips for a smoother, fuller lip effect. Highly pigmented, the nourishing core is packed with water-binding, volume-boosting hyaluronic acid to give lips a healthy, plumped look. An Ayurvedic swertia chirata herb extract is included to support skin-cell regeneration and strengthen the fragile lip area. Designed to smooth fine lines, this treatment lip colour is rich and bold with a glossy finish. The collection includes: Summer Lovin’ 01, a peachy nude; Beach Bum 02, a pink nude; Nudist 03, a tanned nude; Flamingo 04, a hot pink; the juicy coral of Tutti Frutti 05; and Hot Tropics 06, which is a watermelon red. www.miicosmetics.com

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Menu New products & treatments

ESPA focuses on a sustainable future ESPA has introduced three major strategies that illustrate its commitment to sustainability and the natural environment as well as future-proofing its spa business with new modern packaging. The brand will continue to use its signature, luxurious 100%-recyclable glass packaging while moving its serums and moisturisers from plastic bottles to glass bottles with removable pumps. Recyclable cardboard boxes and paper are being introduced and single-use plastics are being phased out of use in its retail products. From 2021, all paper and cardboard will be sourced from FSC-certified sustainable sources and 40% of the energy the company uses will be sourced from its own solar panels. ESPA has also gained COSMOS natural certification and is introducing vegan-friendly formulas and certifications. Meanwhile, modern packaging styles and a refreshed colour palette have been launched alongside simplified product categories, including three new age-defying ranges: Tri-Active Resilience, Tri-Active Regenerating and Tri-Active Lift and Firm. www.espaskincare.com

Red hot colours for summer

Body reawakening: Decleor launches Aroma Blend

Gerrard International has introduced a new summer colour collection from Jessica, called Cabana Bay, which evokes memories of beaches, bars and poolside fun. The on-trend colour palette is available in full-size and mid-size Custom colour as well as the long-wear gel range, GELeration. The colours include Caribbean Cooler, a muted pink; Tini Bikini, an iridescent emerald; the high-vis purple of Grape Escape; Alotta Colada, a shimmering gold; Bahama Mama, a sunset orange; and Lava Flow, a hot red. The tones can be finished with a sweep of Jessica Brilliance UV inhibitors to provide a brighter mani-pedi for longer. www.gerrardinternational.com

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Menu New products & treatments

Magical Milan The cultural, culinary and fashion wonders of Milan are celebrated in the new Muse of Milan Collection by OPI. From vintage warm hues to classic denim-inspired shades, the collection draws on the city’s façade of industrial grey and shiny steel. Taking a journey to one of the capitals of haute couture, the 12 colours – available in GelColor, Infinite Shine and Nail Lacquer formulas – include names such as Fall-ing for Milan, a bold bronze; Have Your Panettone and Eat it Too, a burnt orange; Duomo Days, Isola Nights, a sapphire blue; and Leonardo’s Model Color, a shimmering violet. www.opiuk.com

Post-lockdown selfcare support In response to the Covid-19 pandemic and to help nurture and care for mental health and wellness post-lockdown, ilā has launched a set of Recovery and Care packages. The collections feature some of the brand’s best-selling products, which have been chosen to foster healing and restoration and help guests move forward with vitality. Packages include Anxiety Recovery and Immune Boost Care with products formulated from lemongrass, wild juniper, lavender and rose geranium. Meanwhile, Self Nurture Recovery draws on rosa damascena, Argan oil and rose stem cells; and Protect and Care features new hand protection products formulated with oregano, thyme and tea tree oil. The selection of healing therapies are set to be introduced at ilā spas when they reopen. www.ila-spa.com In every issue, European Spa showcases the best new product and treatment launches. Contact Mark Smith on +44 (0) 7956 658261 or email mark.smith@spapublishing.com

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From the industry Elemental Herbology

The Three ‘T’s We spoke to Elemental Herbology’s head of spa for UK and Ireland, Olivia Taylor, about the brand’s approach to supporting spas as they return to business

aunched in 2008, Elemental Herbology’s professional skincare and body products combine the highest quality, natural ingredients with the Olivia Taylor latest technologies. With a presence in some of the world’s leading spas, the brand’s eco-conscious, cruelty-free and results-driven product portfolio comprises more than five ranges and 35 products, each providing a unique skincare solution. As well as offering a luxurious and solution-driven range of treatments that work to minimise the effects of seasonal, lifestyle, dietary, hormonal and environmental change, Elemental Herbology strives to provide its spa and retail partners with the highest level of business support. We asked the brand’s head of spa for the UK and Ireland, Olivia Taylor, how the brand’s unique ‘Three T’s’ approach is supporting spas as they ease out of lockdown restrictions and aim for successful reopenings.

Team

“Everything begins with our teams. Our therapists, technicians, managers and reception workers are the hardworking people who ensure our guests’ satisfaction, so their mental health is of paramount importance when returning to work. This is a topic not discussed enough, but during extraordinary times like this, it is essential that every spa addresses the mental wellbeing of its team. People need to feel comfortable to return to work, so they must be put at ease and feel listened to. Everyone will 78

Right: Elemental Herbology’s Rejuvenate Bath and Body Oil contains lemongrass, which is a powerful antiviral ingredient

have had different coping mechanisms throughout the recent challenging times, and empathy for all is how you will recreate a strong foundation for your spa. As a brand, Elemental Herbology will support all our accounts with this, as well as providing more functional operating guidelines to help spa owners navigate the reopening process.” www.europeanspamagazine.com

From the industry Elemental Herbology

Right: The brand’s Clean Hands gel aims to provide hygiene confidence for therapists and guests

Training

“Hygiene and safety training needs to be offered to everyone on your team. Spas and salons have always had very high standards of hygiene, but this was usually a behind-the-scenes process: now is the time to bring it to the fore. This includes ensuring appropriate PPE is worn by your therapists and instilling a new culture of regular handwashing, with sanitisers located around the spa for ease of use. Elemental Herbology’s Clean Hands is an essential antibacterial and antiviral sanitiser for therapists and clients to help them to feel safe. In addition, product and treatment training should be increased to reignite your team’s passion and remind them how quality treatments and products can help people, which is why we all got into this industry in the first place.” Resources to help your team For ways to help discuss and manage mental health in the workplace, visit: https://www.mind.org.uk/workplace/mental-health-at-work/taking-care-of-your-staff/ useful-resources/ For information on the importance of training in spas and salons for sales growth and staff satisfaction, visit: https://www.nhbf.co.uk/news-and-blogs/blog/the-importance-oftraining-in-your-beauty-salon Lemongrass oil and its powerful and effective antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. For more information, visit: https://aromaticstudies.com/lemongrasscymbopogon-citratus

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Treatments

“One thing that has not changed despite the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic are the reasons guests want to visit spas, whether it be to enjoy a deep, relaxing massage, a detoxing wrap, a results-driven facial or a range of treatments to help them sleep better and improve their overall wellbeing. Elemental Herbology is based on the five elements of Traditional Chinese Medicine, with products from each element made with the highest, natural quality ingredients. Lemongrass, for example, is one prevalent ingredient found in our Wood Rejuvenate range, and it is one of the most powerful antiviral essential oils. As a brand, we will be focusing on immune-boosting treatments that use our Lemongrass & Nutmeg Body Wash and Cream, Wood Rejuvenate Diffuser, and Rejuvenate Bath and Body Oil – all of which contain lemongrass. In this way, spa treatments can be tailored to the guest in whatever way they require, but they can also be assured that the products being used will boost their body’s natural defences. We are all in this together. As an industry, it is important to continue to support each other and as a brand, Elemental Herbology is committed to doing exactly that.” www.elementalherbology.com

From the industry Premier Software

Software to help make social distancing simple We find out how Premier Software’s business management solution, Core by Premier Software, can help reopened spas to navigate the post-lockdown landscape with greater ease

aintaining a business during a global pandemic has been a daunting task for many, and one that is even more challenging for the spa and wellness industry, which has touch at its core. The UK government recently underlined the importance of contactless interaction by guests wherever possible throughout spas. With every step of the client journey being scrutinised, the power of software to help adapt, innovate and tailor operational processes to follow social distancing guidelines has become clear. Business management software expert Leonie Wileman explains how Premier Software’s flagship solution can support spas and enhance the guest experience, from booking through to departure. Diary and staff controls Capacity will undoubtedly be affected when spas first reopen, as operators look at ways to ensure social distancing is achieved. This aspect of safe operation can be managed with Core by Premier Software’s Group Activity and Facility booking functions. While both options enable the spa to control availability, Facility booking ensures greater flexibility on times and duration, whereas Group Activity booking provides more structure, lending itself better to aid regular cleaning. When booking online, guests can also see how busy the spa is through the Group Activity traffic light system. This allows them to choose a quieter period if they wish. Once their appointment has been selected, they can then pay, reducing departure processes. 80

“Safer spa operations can be ensured with the Group Activity and Facility booking functions in Core by Premier Software.” Leonie Wileman Chief Operating Officer, Premier Software

Meanwhile, operators are enabled to protect staff by assigning them to specific teams using Core by Premier Software’s rolling rota. In doing so, spas can limit any unnecessary crossover and ensure that, should a staff member contract the virus, other team members will be protected. From booking to arrival Once an appointment has been booked, Core by Premier Software will automatically send the client a Covid-focused medical questionnaire to fill in prior to their arrival. Accompanied by a virtual consultation, this allows

operators to keep face-to-face communication to a minimum. On the day of the visit, staff can use Premier’s SMS functionality to let clients know when they are ready for them, avoiding crowding at reception. To further enhance a smooth arrival process, Premier Software is also working on an online arrivals page, which will launch in line with spas as they reopen. This will enable staff to see all clients who are due to visit that day, check in guests and review online medical questionnaires from just one screen. Once checked in, contactless access to the spa’s lockers or facilities is available with Core by Premier Software’s Fast Track technology. By requiring the tapping of membership card or wristband at touch-points around the reception area, operators can also prevent unauthorised entry while monitoring visitor frequency to measure client retention. After departure Post-spa visit, Core by Premier Software continues to abide by data protection guidelines by storing client contact details securely, complying with the Government’s Test and Trace service. Should a staff member start to display symptoms of Covid-19, operators can also use Core by Premier Software’s Covid Client Warning system to alert clients as quickly as possible. To find out how Core by Premier Software can take the pressure off social distancing in your spa, book a free consultation today at: www.premier-core.com www.europeanspamagazine.com

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Back to business The best of Instagram Live

European Spa In conversation with... Join our new Instagram Live sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays at 6pm BST (7pm CEST, 10am PST)

s part of an enhanced digital presence to connect with our readers and share thought leadership, European Spa’s Instagram Live series, which takes place every Monday and Wednesday, has gathered a growing audience of spa, wellness and beauty professionals from around the world who enjoy a good business conversation. ‘In conversation with...’ is immediate, insightful and topical, delivering trusted insight on spa-related topics ranging from how best to equip your teams to return to work with confidence, to how spa leaders have handled lockdown and reopenings. Here we highlight some key takeaways from four business leaders who joined us to share their wellbeing advice: Six Senses’ Anna Bjurstam; Denise Leicester, ila Spa; Dave Courteen, Mosaic Health Club and Spa; and Peigin Crowley, Irish Spa Association. Join the conversation on Instagram @eurospamag Going live: Interviews by European Spa’s founding editor Sarah Camilleri

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Reconnecting with heart Anna Bjurstam Wellness pioneer, Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas “Wellness is really about the whole person, as everything is interconnected. I define it as being well physically, mentally, spiritually and emotionally. It’s understanding that there is synchronicity between the inside and outside of the body, and that everything needs to work together to create balance. “In a period of great uncertainty, preventative wellness is hugely important as it helps people to boost their immune systems and physically cope better by eating well, moving more and sleeping soundly, which are all the essence of wellbeing. “One of the biggest issues during the pandemic has been the threat to our mental wellbeing. Often we feel a range of emotions in a single day, from anger to joy and back again. As a result, I think wellness provision will

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continue to grow in popularity as people realise they need to be mentally and physically well in order to cope with what we are all going through right now and what may come in the future. “Over recent months, I’ve also seen a significant return to the heart. Our need to connect is greater than ever and I think we’re going to see a new era of connection – with ourselves, with nature and with others. “This is going to be hugely important and will be a more prominent feature going forward. People have realised that they can’t leave it to anyone else; they have to be responsible for their own wellness. Overall, I have been left with a greater hope for humanity after this pandemic than I had before.” @sixsensesspas

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Creative productivity Denise Leicester Founder, ila Spa “For me, it was such a shock when lockdown began and life as we knew it came to a stop. There was disbelief and also fear in that initial phase. Many people wanted to do more and find more to do, then suddenly there was a wave of letting go when it really hit us that we couldn’t go anywhere or do anything, and very naturally, we simply stopped ‘doing’. “This enforced pause in our lives gave us the opportunity to reflect. We’ve also been able to focus on things that needed to be addressed, but which we couldn’t find the time for due to our rapid pace of life pre-Covid-19. “As with every business, ila’s dropped initially, so we looked at how we could restructure. Those who felt comfortable going into work operated in a safe way, using staggered rotas to increase social disctancing. “We also set up structures of communication in very different ways, with sales, marketing and finance all working from home. It wasn’t easy, but we found our rhythm. I have noticed that people are taking a lot of personal responsibility and really working harder at home due to the great sense of coming together as a supportive, caring team.” @ila_spa

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Winning hearts and minds

Dave Courteen Founder and managing director, Mosaic Spa & Health Clubs “In terms of our spa offering, it’s a different type of engagement as many of our guests use the spa as a way of escape. It is an important purchase, but our spa is used less often than our health club, which people frequent once or twice a week. “Our returning spa guests want to know that they are safe and feel comfortable, so it is down to us as an industry to communicate the protocols we have put in place and reassure them about the safety of using spas. “Throughout the pandemic, we’ve been regularly communicating with our spa guests. We’re also filming a series of videos that we’re sharing through our social media channels and our online ezine. These cover topics such as social distancing, enhanced cleanliness, and the new protocols that we have in place to minimise the risk of infection. One of our first videos also shows our staff, and how keen they are to come back to work. “We’re going to encourage groups to visit by offering exclusive sessions so that our guests can come and enjoy our spa in their existing social ‘bubbles’. It’s critical that we win the hearts and minds of our teams and therapists, and have everything in place for them to feel safe and connected in their work environment. If we do this well, I think we’ll be pleasantly surprised as we begin to reopen.” @davecourteen Right: ‘Spa Man’ Mark Smith asks the big questions eurospamag

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Re-centre and return Peigin Crowley Spa consultant and co-founder, Irish Spa Association “Spa is needed now more than ever. There’s been such a joint effort from the entire industry in terms of our response and setting out a blueprint. But we don’t need to take what we used to be and just add ‘Covid-19’ to it – we need to be even more than we were. “The spirit of information sharing, interaction and generosity in the spa industry has been incredible since the lockdown began. “In terms of spas reopening, equipping people in a positive way is key. The shared pandemic experience means we’re returning to spas as better therapists and business operators. There’s also a shared sense of vulnerability that will help us build relationships both now and in the future. “Spa and wellness is all about connection, so reconnecting your staff with the reasons why they originally chose the spa industry will really help to re-centre them. “The return to work needs to be built on trust, which can be created through open communication and leading by example. Ultimately, before a business owner or spa manager looks at the guest customer journey, they need to look at the working environment for their therapists. No one has ever done this before so there’s no roadmap for this – we’re building the road as we travel down it.” @irishspaassociation eurospamag

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Main image, bottom left and right: Center Parcs Woburn Bottom centre, Brimstone Spa, Langdale

HOSPITALITY & LEISURE CONCEPTS SEAMLESS DEVELOPMENTS FROM CONCEPT TO COMPLETION

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Back to business Hall of Wellness Awards

A celebration of people Kathryn Moore, founder of Spa Connectors, tells us about the launch of the Hall of Wellness Awards, designed to recognise excellence in wellness

ustralian spa expert Kathryn Moore is a powerhouse of experience, commitment and industry knowledge. Founder of recruitment firm Spa Connectors, her work to provide business, recruitment and training solutions for leading spas gives her a unique global perspective on the wellness workforce. Moore’s personal mission to gain recognition for spa and wellness professionals has been sharpened by the Covid-19 pandemic, having witnessed first-hand the impact it has had on spa professionals and, critically, the uncertainty it has caused for career opportunities and job prospects. We meet her to find out how the current situation galvanised the launch of the Hall of Wellness Awards, which aim to showcase talented individuals, wherever they are in the world.

Tell us about Spa Connectors?

Spa Connectors was born out of the need to produce great quality staff for spas and wellness facilities. We launched with training and recruitment and then moved into consulting. We are all about finding talent and developing it – making sure that the people in our industry have a career path, unlock their ambition and end up with a life they are proud of.

What impact has the pandemic had on work opportunities?

I have to tell you, it certainly keeps me up at night. I have seen all kinds of positions being made redundant, from therapists through to senior management. I know they will come back at some point, but will we reward their expertise or hire cheaper, less experienced people to fill the gaps, and 88

“Most awards recognise businesses and brands. We wanted to create one that was all about people” Kathryn Moore Founder, Spa Connectors what does it mean for those who have dedicated their lives to our industry? I predict that we will have a glut of talent on our hands. It does mean that essentially it’s a buyer’s market, but how this will play out remains to be seen. Will talented people accept less to get back into the profession?

Will the pandemic bring new opportunities, though?

In terms of opportunity, it will increase the demand for wellness-related services as people are all about self-care now. Hotels and spas have the ability to

pivot and offer wellness services by collaborating with local and independent wellness providers. The rise of domestic travel and staycations means hotels can create some exciting experiences for guests wanting to recover from the last few months.

What do hotels need to do to deepen their wellness offer?

The price point and quality needs to be accessible to a wide demographic. Generally speaking, wellness travel was previously out of the average traveller’s price range; now that the world is in a recession, people have less to spend but need wellness more than ever. Packages need to be affordable while still being profitable for the operators. I Above: Therapists can nominate colleagues, employers or themselves for a Hall of Wellness Award

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Back to business Hall of Wellness Awards

Below: All wellness practitioners are encouraged to attend the online ceremony in December

guess it comes down to the strategy of the hotel, but I would say that using this time to increase brand awareness is a good way to go.

What inspired you to launch the Hall of Wellness Awards at such a challenging time?

We wanted to find a way to recognise the years of expertise that our people have put into their careers. We want them to know that we see them, we know what goes into honing their craft and we believe it’s time to shed some light on their stories. Also, it’s a good time to show the world that we are a serious industry that contributes to the global economy and shouldn’t be ignored. At a time when many people have lost their jobs, we wanted to try and offer something to get excited about. www.europeanspamagazine.com

How are these awards different and how will they help?

There are some fantastic awards in our industry that I have been honoured to be a part of, but most recognise businesses and brands. We wanted to create an award that was all about people. The money raised from sponsorship will go towards a scholarship fund that has been created to offer training and upskilling to those in the industry who apply for it. The money will be funnelled back to our training providers, acting as a stimulus to support businesses that are struggling at the moment.

Who can get involved?

We have a variety of opportunities. We would love for people to self-nominate and also put forward their worthy peers. We have a fabulous sponsorship programme that offers exposure across

our network, so lots of brand recognition, plus ambassador, media, training provider and association partnerships. We want to share content so we are excited to work with all our partners and share their stories with the world. http://hallofwellnessawards.com

Nominations still open for Hall of Wellness Awards Nominations for the Hall of Wellness Awards opened on July 1 for three months, so there is still time to get involved. Nominate a boss you admire, a colleague who has been a rock – or yourself, after all if you don’t see your own worth, who will? Judging takes place in October and November and the awards will be announced on Dec 4 in a unique online global awards event.

EXPERT GUIDE

TREATMENT COUCHES

he best spa experiences are anchored in investment in the very highest quality equipment. This is perhaps most important in treatment rooms, where the comfort of every guest is paramount and the ergonomics of a healthy working space are equally vital to safeguard your team. As spas begin to reopen after the pandemic lockdown, enhanced hygiene and operating procedures will be critical, and key adjustments will need to be made to treatment rooms to ensure the safety of both staff and guests. Responding to the new operational 90

challenges faced by spas, many premium treatment couch suppliers are now offering equipment complete with innovative, touch-free enhancements that focus on delivering luxurious wellbeing experiences for guests with minimal therapist intervention. European Spa would like to thank the following companies for their contribution to this guide: GHARIENI • OAKWORKS • LEMI • LIVING EARTH CRAFTS

This page: The Portofino EVO treatment bed from LEMI

Alongside this, a range of new protective shields have been developed to help therapists observe rigorous hygiene SOPs while safely delivering a range of approved treatments. Treatment tables experience the heaviest and most consistent use of any piece of equipment in a spa, so purchasing the highest quality furniture is essential. From multi-functionality to boosting revenue-per-available-room, treatment couches can be a costly but www.europeanspamagazine.com

Expert Guide Treatment couches

Treatment room takeaways n Inspect all of your treatment room

n Keep all treatment spaces visibly

n Courtesy call each guest ahead

n Intelligently flex your treatment

equipment before re-opening to ensure there is no wear and tear that could allow any bacteria or virus to grow.

of arrival to explain what new procedures they can expect during their visit, such as temperature checks and mask policies, and address any wellness concerns.

n Touchless technology in treatment

rooms can enable guests to guide their own spa journey with minimal need for a therapist using automated equipment and beds.

sterilised, ventilated and bright. This will boost confidence and reassure guests that the highest levels of hygiene are in place.

menu to match fluctuating guest demand, and optimise the available workspace by incorporating multi-functional treatment beds.

n Make the great outdoors work

to your benefit. Many spas are offering treatments outside in nature, and investing in portable treatment beds could help to boost your bottom line.

Clockwise from top: PlexiShield from Gharieni; the Oakworks Shield; a stretchguard silicone face pillow cover from Living Earth Crafts

vital investment, so the ability to make informed purchasing decisions is crucial. Whether you are making purchasing decisions or would like to upgrade or enhance your existing treatment room space, our Expert Guide to Treatment Couches will empower you to make intelligent and considered investments in the future of your spa business. www.europeanspamagazine.com

Expert Guide Promotion

GHARIENI Germany’s Gharieni Group is a leading manufacturer of high-end spa and medical equipment with almost 30 years’ experience. The quality and detail of its products are appreciated by clients in more than 100 countries How can your products help spas prepare for the ‘new normal’? We are seeing increasing demand for technologies for touchless treatments. Even before the Covid-19 pandemic, we were Sammy Gharieni Founder and CEO working on products such as the Gharieni Spa.Wave. Similar to meditation, this offers binaural acoustic and dynamic stimulation that is computer controlled and trains the brain to relax and benefit from deep relaxation techniques. The pandemic has also increased interest in our other touchless technologies, such as our new body contouring device, the Gharieni Celliss (far right). This is a unique slimming machine that treats thighs and hips as well as buttocks or abdominals with a non-invasive aspiration/percussion process without needing a therapist. Our MLX i³Dome is a triple detox therapy that combines far-infrared technology with plasma and light therapy, and offers three ultra-effective detox treatment methods in one, also without the touch of a therapist. What else is new in Gharieni’s offering? We have developed the Gharieni PlexiShield (top). A protective shield with illumination for all facial treatments, it is attached directly to the couch frame and offers optimal space for the therapists’ legs. We have also supplemented our range of disposables with face masks and additional hygiene products. How can spas ensure hygiene levels? We advise our customers to pay even more attention to hygiene than before the pandemic. Use each towel and treatment couch cover only once and wash every single towel and sheet after every treatment at a minimum temperature of 60°C. In essence, do everything they have done before, but even more carefully.

All kinds of treatments can be combined and performed with ease and without compromise, allowing the development of interesting new treatments without the need for more rooms or equipment.

How does your company support spas? Space usage has always been a vital consideration and now it’s more important than ever to be flexible, fast and effective. Multi-functional treatment beds like the brand new Gharieni 601 (above) combine the best features of a spa table and a treatment bed in one efficient unit, saving time and space.

What’s next for Gharieni? We will continue to work on touchless technologies and increase the hygiene aspects of our future developments. We will do whatever we can to help the spa and wellness industry back to business. GHARIENI +49 (0) 2841 88 300 50 www.gharieni.com

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TAKING TO THE

WELLNESS

NEXT LEVEL

Bergamos Retreat Friendswood, Texas

Caesars Palace Bluewaters

W Ammman Hotel Jordan

Dubai, UAE

INFRARED THERAPY La Butte aux Bois Lanaken, Belgium

PEDI/MANI CHAIRS Mandarin Oriental, Doha

HYDROTHERAPY

Qatar

Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club Surfside, Florida

TREATMENT TABLES

SLEEP THERAPY

www.gharieni.com

QUARTZ THERAPY

Expert Guide Promotion

OAKWORKS Working to meet the equipment needs of all integrative healthcare professionals and their clients since 1978, Oakworks is committed to providing safe, durable, and ergonomic equipment to spas worldwide How has Oakworks adapted its product development for post-lockdown spa operations? As a medical equipment company, we have a measured approach to Jessica Wadley Vice-president, developing new products. business development, integrative health Our new Oakworks and wellness Shield (below) creates a large barrier between client and therapist to force aerosols to travel approximately six feet before reaching the other person. Anything less is likely to offer little help with minimising exposure. The shield is on a moveable stand and allows aestheticians to reach under it to touch the client. How can spas ensure hygiene levels? Any textiles, such as sheets, blankets and accent items must be replaced with fresh ones for each client. Oakworks specialises in medical-grade IS0-10993 treatment bed covers that can provide a hygienic barrier between the table, any heating elements or additional padding you may have, and traditional textiles that you may be dressing your bed with. Our fitted table covers are long-lasting, can be machine washed and will not erode with the approved list of EPA-listed disinfectants designed to fight Covid-19 and other viruses. How can spas encourage guests to return to them with confidence? Confidence is born out of believing that the spa is knowledgeable and caring. The first step is to create a clear statement online that reflects an understanding of the risks, providing a detailed description of rules and protocols designed to minimise them. Prior to the guest’s arrival, call them to explain what to expect in the way of temperature checks and mask policies. You can also take this time to address any other

wellness concerns. Once a client arrives, they must see this information presented again in writing and observe the spa doing what they said they would do. How does your equipment support spas? All of our equipment and accessories are covered with IS0-10993 TerraTouch fabric that has a list of hospital-grade disinfectants that can be used on it. We have made new innovations, such as one-piece and removable padded tops for a new modern look that make disinfecting and cleaning easier. This design was only available on our top-of-the-line Master’s Series, but will now be available on many more of our models. What’s next for Oakworks? Getting the Oakworks Shield out to spas. The latest science regarding transmission of Covid-19 points to aerosols, along with droplets, as being the prime culprits. Most aesthetic treatments don’t allow proper social distancing, so this is an essential tool. OAKWORKS +1 717 235 6807 www.oakworks.com

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PERFORMALIFT Now with one piece top!

Oakworks is ready to help spas reopen! Proven Quality

TerraTouch fabric has been a standard for over 15 years in clinical and spa settings.

Certified Cleanability

Proven to handle hospital grade disinfectant on a daily basis, passes ISO10993 standards for use in medical environments. Tested Medical Grade Fabric

Reliable

TerraTouch upholstery has excellent resistance to oil, abrasion, and tears and passes testing for cytotoxicity, skin irritation and sensitization.

www.spatables.com

001 717.759.3125

Expert Guide Promotion

LEMI Some 30 years after it created a bed that revolutionised the beauty and spa sector, LEMI’s Italian design, advanced technology and premium quality continue to provide a rewarding experience for every spa guest How can your products help spas prepare for the ‘new normal’? We are fully committed to professional training focused on systems and procedures to reassure returning spa guests. Matteo Brusaferri General manager In treatment rooms, space will be an issue, so we offer spa beds such as Portofino, which has an integrated heated drawer. Our multi-functional trolley line includes the T-Vapo, which has an integrated vaporiser; and the T-Vale, which includes hot and cold cabis, enabling spas to maximise their treatment spaces. Do you have new post-lockdown products? We have created our thermoformed plexiglass Spa Shield (second from top), which offers protection for the guest and the therapist to work in comfort and safety. The shield has a painted metal base with silent rubber wheels, a brake and a fully height adjustable stand, so it is compatible with any spa bed. With a view to operating in conditions of maximum hygiene, we also suggest that spas use our polyurethane mattress protectors on their treatment beds. How can spas ensure hygiene levels? We believe excellent hygiene should start from the very first direct point of contact: bed fabrics. LEMI equips its products with Nefos and Spa Prestige vinyl leather, both of which incorporate antimicrobial additive technology. Studies have shown that fabrics treated in such a way are up to 99.9% resistant to harmful bacteria and sanitised with a permanent effect. How can spas best encourage guests to return to them with confidence? A constantly sanitised and disinfected spa environment is fundamental to win the confidence of guests. This is why we created the SaniSPA protocol to support

therapists by providing them with the tools necessary to effectively and efficiently sanitise their treatment table. Creating a sense of space and keeping all areas visibly sterilised, ventilated and bright will make spa guests feel safer, more comfortable and relaxed. How can your equipment support spas? LEMI’s multi-functional beds have always aimed to optimise the spa workspace. For example, our mattresses are produced with rounded corners and our beds offer electric height adjustment to allow the ultimate ease of performance for therapists of different statures. What’s next for LEMI? We are confident that, once the initial emergency is over, there will be a strong demand for both physical and mental wellbeing, so we will continue to study new ways to make our products safer and more comfortable for clients and therapists. LEMI +39 0374 363069 www.lemispa.com

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Expert Guide Promotion

LIVING EARTH CRAFTS With a myriad of patents covering its advanced electronics and comfort technologies, multi-award-winning Living Earth Crafts spa equipment can be found in the finest spas in more than 120 countries How can spas best prepare their treatment room spaces ahead of reopening? Living Earth Crafts’ new line of protection products was created for wellness facilities, Erica Coble Vice-president, sales, practitioners and clients Living Earth Crafts to minimise the risk of Covid-19 exposure during treatments. The line includes accessories and supplies including: the Safe-Guard treatment shield; Stretch Guard silicone facepillow cover; hand sanitiser; Flexa-Cover and Standard protective table covers; and disposable and washable coverings. How have you adapted your products during this period? Our FDA-registered Prone Comfort bolster (above right) has been in high demand to assist Covid-19 patients with proning techniques that improve oxygenation levels. It is a new version of our popular pregnancy bolster. We’ve also introduced the first anti-microbial face pillow, the Strata Anti-Microbial (below). Upholstered with medical-grade Ultraleather Pro fabric, treated with EPA-registered antimicrobial silver ion technology, it has minimal stitching and is easy to disinfect. Inside is our proprietary Strata memory cushioning system and Cloudfill batting, and the pillow is designed to fit all standard platforms. How can spas ensure hygiene levels? The primary purpose of treatment bed coverings and textiles is to make sure our wellness business operators have the protection products they need to safely restart and operate their businesses in the continuing pandemic environment. Living Earth Crafts is offering products like the

Flexa-Cover Protective Table Cover to provide protection on treatment tables, and the Stretch Guard Silicone Facepillow Cover (right), a seamless, disinfectable, molded silicone cover that is reusable, washable and dishwasher safe. How can spas best encourage guests to return to them with confidence? We know that the safety of both spa clients and employees is paramount. Spa leaders need to have one-on-one conversations with their team, so they feel comfortable with the new protocols and are able to share this with the customers. How can your equipment support spas? Safety is on everyone’s mind, especially therapists and others who work in wellness facilities. Our product line can help to minimise the Covid-19 exposure risk for spa guests and the team during treatment delivery. We know sanitisation and disinfection in the

treatment room is one of the biggest concerns for clients, so everything must be done to make them feel safe again. What’s next for Living Earth Crafts? We are developing a new washable table barrier sheet made with a knitted polyester material that is also waterproof and easy to disinfect. This will help the sanitation process in the treatment room to be faster and more effective. LIVING EARTH CRAFTS +1 760 597 2155 www.livingearthcrafts.com

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NEW COVID-19 PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES REINFORCING OUR COMMITMENT TO MASSAGE, SPA & WELLNESS Living Earth Crafts’ new line of protection products was created in response to the need for wellness facilities and practitioners to minimize Covid-19 exposure risk to their clients and employees while performing treatments and operating wellness facilities during the on-going pandemic.

Safe-Guard™ Treatment Shield Professional Table Covers

Strata™ Antimicrobial FacePillow

2010

2011

2012

Prone Comfort™ Bolster Hand Sanitizer

Stretch Guard™ Silicone Facepillow Cover

2016

Favorite Company for Manufacturer Support

760-597-2155 • livi ng e ar thc r af ts. c om • i nf o@ l i vi ng e ar thc r af ts. c om

Wellness leadership Iain Bell, Executive Fitness Foundation

Future-proofing spas In part two of our wellness series, Iain Bell, founder of Executive Fitness Foundation, looks at how spas can cultivate greater resilience to meet the challenges of the ‘new normal’

he British Medical Association says that 64% of UK doctors have noted a significant increase in demand for non-Covid care. Demonstrating the strain that the ‘sharp end’ of healthcare provision is under, some 20% of them reported that levels of demand were higher than before the pandemic began. Current research also indicates that there has been a significant increase in anxiety and stress disorders, catalysed by uncertainty brought about by the pandemic, which is set to continue. While we cannot directly compare national health services to the spa industry, we should recognise that our frontline operations could play a significant future role in promoting preventative health and wellbeing. Spas need to consider exactly how they can provide relevant support in this area as it will be key to industry growth in a post-lockdown world. To meet these shifts in demand, our teams need to feel safe and accounted for through the delivery of relevant and clear wisdom and leadership. The entire industry, including all its stakeholders – suppliers, operators, developers and investors – will need to shore up their business models and drive a more resilient, dynamic and positive approach to every aspect of business and communications.

Together alone in a digital world

Like it or not, we have all, to some extent, become ‘digital beings’ in the past months. Covid-19 and the ensuing lockdown required each of us to learn new skills to try and understand how to deal with it, so we looked to the internet and chat groups to seek positive 100

“We must promote the intrinsic value that a massage, facial or gym session can provide to boost our guests’ emotional states.” Iain Bell Founder, Executive Fitness Foundation

motivation and direction. In fact, we probably all overdosed on almost every available digital platform and resource to try and find a way forward. This was also the case in the spa industry, where lockdown became a shared experience. We all came to terms with the reality, but there is now great uncertainty about how we restart our operations back in the physical world. If there is one common denominator for all in the pandemic, it is uncertainty about the future and our personal and public safety. This is the greatest issue we have to tackle, and figuring out how to

proceed can be difficult. It’s very human to feel confused and anxious about this. The real prospect of mini-lockdowns and moving in and out of restrictions poses an ongoing undercurrent of insecurity. So, as we look to our future, we must build behaviours that are creative, shared and supportive to become more resilient.

A circle of communication

Key factors in the post-lockdown landscape are communication and engagement. Customer relationships and feedback will be vital tools in growing spa businesses. They will help operators formulate clear strategies to nurture and build resilience in their teams. This strength will then feed back to the guest Above: The Executive Fitness Foundation’s Iain Bell; engaging with the outdoors builds resilience at Euphoria Retreat, Greece

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Wellness leadership Iain Bell, Executive Fitness Foundation

Below: Six Senses has tailored its wellness offering since the pandemic began

Five resilience hacks

How to get your spa back to business n C ommunication is key: Develop a

total communication strategy for your team with shared responsibility and accountability. Start the day with express meetings to set the tone and focus. Use motivational quotes and the language of positivity.

and be as visible as the hygiene and safety procedures we put in place. If we take anything away from the pandemic it’s that we need to put our teams first. Ingenuity and creativity will allow spas to thrive and this is a golden opportunity to place greater transparency and value upon ourselves. Collectively, we need to shape this change. We should demonstrate clarity and engagement from within and establish resilience as a core competency. This will be an integral component for training and people development. Where spa guests are concerned, the experiences we provide will continue to evolve, matched by a more person-centric philosophy that reflects adaptability, community and resilience. Spas will get back to business quicker if they adopt a leaner and more proactive style. Covid-19 has forced us to look at www.europeanspamagazine.com

Image: Six Senses

Image: Julian Okines

n P rovide support and direction:

our industry’s flaws and weaknesses. It has given us an opportunity to open the doors to ourselves and our customers with a new, clearer spa philosophy based on change management, positive communication and energy. Together we continue to grow, bringing positivity to our clients and nurturing human skills beyond the spa walls. This allows us to thrive in life with purpose and true resilience. www.ef1.com

Meet the Expert Iain Bell launched the Executive Fitness Foundation (EFF) in 1991 and the company is now active in Thailand, Australia, Spain and the US, exclusively managing wellness and lifestyle services at One Spa in Edinburgh, Scotland.

The spa industry employs a high percentage of young people who potentially need greater support at this time. Create support groups and share links to professional bodies that are attuned to our teams. As spa managers, we need to show adaptability and approachability.

n B e prepared for PTSD: A return to

work does not mean a return to normality and trauma and anxiety may need to be treated. Prepare your teams with confidential support and an open-door policy.

n Remember what’s important: Spas

are not only about financial success, they are places of human interaction and contact. We must promote the intrinsic value that a massage, facial or gym session can provide to boost our guests’ emotional states. Deliver these with passion and character, and create positive outcomes. This is our new bottom line.

n Professionalism is also resilience:

Our duties and our industry is of true value. We must set an example to our guests of the passion and purpose in what we do and how well we deliver it. To make positive impressions upon ourselves and others and celebrate this.

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Wellness

HEALING THERAPIES

NUTRITION

MINDFULNESS

MOVEMENT

RETREATS

EDITED BY MARK SMITH

Editor’s choice

Covid-19 leads to sharp increase in sleep disruption Spa businesses work to deliver innovative products and therapeutic wellness programmes The Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown interrupted not only the lives but the sleeping habits of millions of people across the globe. A UK study by King’s College London and Ipsos MORI found that nearly two-thirds (63%) of people said their sleep has been worse since the lockdown was announced on March 23. “Adequate and good-quality sleep is important to maintain our physical and mental resilience, and disturbed sleep is often caused by stress,” explains Dr Ivana Rosenzweig, head of the Sleep and Brain Plasticity Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London. “We also know that poor sleep can play a role in increasing our levels of stress, which can create a cycle that’s difficult to break,” she continues. “This is reflected by the findings that this effect was greater for those most vulnerable and those who were more concerned about the pandemic.” This is a pivotal moment for the sleep economy, which includes supplements, eye masks, sleep mists, aromatherapy, subscription plans, home-use sleep trackers and in-spa sleep analysis. According to The Global Wellness Institute’s The Future of Wellness 2020 report, the sleep economy is expected to reach $585 billion [£451 billion/c498 billion] by 2024.

“We predict a major shift in wellness with less attention paid to generic sleep solutions and a keen new focus on circadian health optimisation.” Beth McGroarty Vice-president of research and forecasting, Global Wellness Summit and Global Wellness Institute

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Wellness Trends & developmentss

Three of the best: Sleep aids Made for Life Organics Sleep Ritual In collaboration with BC Softwear, Made for Life Organics has introduced a new Sleep Ritual combining a soothing, calming natural botanical spritz with a super-soft sleep mask. A Calming Room Spray offers a relaxing combination of rose and lavender, blending the gentle benefits of chamomile and Roman chamomile with mood-boosting orange to provide a soothing end to the day. A mask from BC Softwear’s ECO range, SmartSoft, blocks out the morning light and ensuring a longer and more peaceful sleep. www.madeforlifeorganics.com www.bcsoftwear.co.uk

Ōura Ring

Resorts worldwide have introduced specialist sleep therapies and retreats, including Lefay Sleep at Lefay Resort and Spa Lago Di Garda, and Sleep Diagnosis at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz in Switzerland. Beth McGroarty, vice-president of research and forecasting for the Global Wellness Summit and Global Wellness Institute, believes the future of sleep is changing: “We predict a major shift in wellness with less attention paid to generic sleep solutions and a keen new focus on circadian health optimisation to improve not only sleep but all the brain and body systems that are controlled by the circadian clock.” www.kcl.ac.uk www.globalwellnessinstitute.org

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Taking a high-tech approach to sleep analysis, the elegant, durable and easy-to-wear Ōura Ring is a sleep and activity tracker that measures a range of physiological signals including heart rate, temperature and movement. The ring analyses all stages of sleep progression, including awake, light sleep, deep sleep, REM, via a small water-resistant ring worn on the finger. Easily accessible data is linked to the user-friendly Ōura app, which offers daily feedback to inspire practical changes for healthy lifestyles and to improve sleep health habits. Daily and weekly updates can be provided and it can be linked to Google Fit and Apple Health. www.ouraring.com

Mela Weighted Blankets Weighted (or gravity) blankets are duvet-style sleep aids that distribute deep-touch pressure on the body. Mela Weighted Blankets are made using glass quartz pellets that gently mould to the body’s shape. The pellets are padded with polyester and encased in a breathable, 100% cotton outer shell to help maintain an ideal body temperature. Creating a sense of stillness and calm, weighted blankets are said to ease muscle tension and reduce stress hormones by 30%, increasing the release of ‘happy hormones’ by 30%. www.melacomfort.co.uk

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Wellness Trends & developments

Reopened SHA Wellness Clinic offers guests a preventative health boost SPAIN: Integrated medical and holistic pioneer SHA Wellness Clinic is set to continue its commitment to preventative health with the launch of an immunology ‘booster’ programme. Combining medical treatments and natural therapies, the booster, which can be taken as part of SHA’s award-winning seven-night Rebalance programme, aims to restore and stimulate the body’s natural immunity. The treatment includes a series of assessments starting with immunotherapy

and energetic health consultations alongside lymph system and viral profiling. The programme also incorporates therapeutic infrared heat, optimal electromagnetic balance treatments and ozone therapy. Guests can enhance the package with optional stem cell and serum therapies, vitamin C megadoses and stress management sessions. During lockdown, SHA also developed and launched a new digital portal that opens up its award-winning expertise and philosophy

on a virtual platform to its previous clients, wherever they are in the world. Users of the portal can choose from seven different programmes and specialists depending on their health aims and goals. The remote medical service provides one-to-one sessions – available in English or Spanish – with the clinic’s dedicated team of doctors and specialists on subjects from healthy nutrition to stress management and preventative care. www.shawellnessclinic.com

Lefay Spa programme provides a holistic path to a Nourishing Life ITALY: Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda has launched Nourishing Life, Prevention – a programme designed to boost and strengthen the immune system by combining Classical Chinese Medicine principles and Lefay’s holistic wellness approach. The programme introduces the new Nutrire La Vita massage, which begins with 10 minutes of moxibustion focusing on the spleen and pancreas before an energy-balancing massage. Dr Carlo Barbieri Psychosomatic and psychotherapeutic consultations to specifically address lockdown anxiety can be combined with rebalancing outdoor activity and stress-relieving massages. As part of the offering, the White Tiger Path combines movement and meditative activities including yoga, breathing classes, a guided walk through the Energy Therapeutic Garden and a full-body massage working on energy points to overcome melancholy. “Lefay SPA’s Nourishing Life Prevention recommends treatments, activities and nutrition for our guests to promote a healthy grounding of mind and body, helping to defend against viral infections with a more effective immune system,” says Dr Carlo Barbieri, president of the Lefay SPA Method Scientific Committee. www.lefayresorts.com

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Wellness Trends & developments

The Zest Life launches wild swimming and yoga weekend retreats in Wales UK: The Zest Life has introduced a new retreat combining wild swimming with the best of meditation and movement at a secluded country house on a 21-acre estate on the Isle of Anglesey. To connect guests with nature, the retreat, which is scheduled for September 18-21, will combine daily yoga and meditation in a purpose-built, oak-framed building in grounds with views of Mount Snowdon. Under instruction from yoga teacher Kate Hamilton-Hunter, morning classes will be dynamic and energising, preparing participants for the day’s activity, while evening classes will have

a more restorative focus, with time for meditation, setting intentions and long, nurturing relaxation. Wild swimming under expert instruction will be tailored to the group’s requirements and could include a coastal swim, floating in lakes beneath mountain peaks, or an active dip in some of the region’s stunning waterfalls. Post-swim, participants will warm up with herbal tea and wholesome cake as part of a plant-based vegetarian menu, avoiding sugar, dairy, wheat and gluten, which will feature picnics on the beach and evening meals at the house. www.thezestlife.co.uk

Cloud Twelve takes Herbal House concept online

Body reawakening: Decleor launches Aroma Blend

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UK: Jenya Di Pierro, founder of holistic wellbeing club Cloud Twelve in Notting Hill, London, has taken her Herbal House concept online. Providing bespoke virtual consultations, naturopath and herbalist Di Pierro works with clients to remedy issues ranging from sleep, digestion and anxiety to hormone imbalance. A 75-minute online consultation addresses current symptoms, previous medical history, diet, lifestyle and emotional wellbeing to create a 360-degree picture of the client’s health. Di Pierro then curates a personalised prescription of natural herbal and dietary protocols, including a range of tinctures and teas, diet and lifestyle advice, as well as healthy eating recipes. “I wanted to give people the option to use plants and begin to really feel their regenerative power and to see how much calmer, happier and more balanced they can be,” explains Di Pierro. “During these unusual times herbs can be enormously beneficial.” Drawing on wisdom from traditional Greek, Chinese and Indian Ayurveda, Di Pierro utilises active ingredients from all parts of medicinal plants to create therapeutic powders, creams, oils and alcohol extracts carefully tailored to individual needs. www.cloudtwelve.co.uk

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Wellness Trends & developments

Lucknam Park’s equine therapy aims to foster emotional growth

Post-lockdown programmes to ReSet and ReEnergise Global: Subtle Energies has developed two new programmes designed to restore the body physically, mentally and emotionally post-lockdown. Offered over 3-7 days, the programmes will be fine-tuned to the needs of each spa and country, and will be supported by a series of at-home video webinars, guided meditations and yoga sessions. Nick Irani “Isolation and lockdown can lead to lethargy, adrenal fatigue and anxiety that can often go unnoticed,” says Nick Irani, director of operations and brand development at Subtle Energies. “Our core focus was to bring together a short programmme that could have a direct impact in key environments.” ReEnergise focuses on detoxification, strengthening muscles and joints, reducing fatigue and lethargy, and creating a healthier immune response. ReSet targets the mind, body and emotions, balancing and assisting with any anxiety to promote better sleep, rest, relaxation and repair. Each programme is supported by a prescribed set of products for use at home, so guests can continue to reap the benefits. www.subtleenergies.com.au

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UK: Luxury Wiltshire country house hotel and spa Lucknam Park has developed an equine therapy offering to provide its guests with a holistic, experiential and highly specialised form of therapy that incorporates working with horses. Led by Dawn Cameron, Lucknam Park’s Equestrian Centre manager for over 20 years, the sessions aim to improve both mental and physical health and are designed to help individuals learn how to communicate with others and release anxiety. Acting as a form of mindfulness, guests can connect with the animals in a natural setting, being taught to control the horses through their body language. A horse’s natural instincts and methods of communication rely solely on the placement and subsequent release of pressure, so guests will be taught to control the horses through their body language in what is a form of mindfulness practice. “The handler has to adopt their body language to communicate with the horse,” explains Cameron, “They will need to understand how horses interact

in the herd environment, which is completely different to the ways in which we communicate. “They have to completely focus on the horse.” Creating connections with the animals is said to encourage guests’ emotional growth, helping them to learn about themselves and develop new ways of thinking – all of which are skills transferable to their personal relationships. “Guests can learn interpersonal skills, team work and a better understanding of reading body language,” adds Cameron. “It brings a great sense of peace, inner calm and a connection, while enabling people to understand their own emotions and personality types.” www.lucknampark.co.uk

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Back to business Post-Covid-19 resource update

Roadmap to reopening

European Spa shares an updated selection of useful post-lockdown resources

pa and wellness businesses around the world are reopening and adjusting their operations to meet the new health and hygiene challenges. From cleaning protocols to social distancing, maintaining business continuity, performing regular risk assessments and anticipating future demand, the challenges are complex and different in each part of the world. European Spaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s round-up of government guidance and resources specific to the spa, beauty, wellness hospitality and fitness industries will help provide clarity around how to reopen your business in a timely and safe manner.

UK GOVERNMENT ADVICE With the rapidly changing nature of the Covid-19 pandemic, information and advice from governments can change quickly. For all the latest information, please visit: Comprehensive health advice and legal obligations in the UK: www.gov.uk/coronavirus Comprehensive health advice and legal obligations in Scotland: www.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19 Comprehensive health advice and legal obligations in Wales: www.gov.wales/coronavirus Comprehensive health advice and legal obligations in N. Ireland: www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/latest-update-coronavirus-covid-19-3

Back to business Post-Covid-19 resource update SPA & WELLNESS RESOURCES UK Government guidelines on close-contact services: www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19/close-contact-services

European Spa’s ‘Spa Crisis Management Plan’ - A concise business tool for spa leaders presents clear guidance and easy-to-follow advice on how to respond to the pandemic: https://mailchi.mp/spapublishing/spacrisismanagementplan European Spa FREE Six-month digital subscription - Helping you get back to business, sign up to receive the June/July, Aug/Sept and Oct/Nov editions without charge: https://mailchi.mp/spapublishing/6monthsfree The Global Wellness Institute has aggregated a number of global resources for hotel, spa, fitness and wellness businesses: https://globalwellnessinstitute.org/positivelywell/reopening-standards-toolkits/ The International Spa Association has sought advice from global experts to keep its ISPA Spa Reopening Toolkit up to date: COVID-19 Resources: https://experienceispa.com/covid-19-info Reopening toolkit: https://experienceispa.com/covid-19-resources-new?id=400 The UK Spa Association has issued updated reopening guidelines: www.spa-uk.org/covid-10/uksa-uk-spa-industry-reopening-guidelines The Irish Spa Association has published its COVID-19 Business Continuity & Reactivation Plan: https://media.wix.com/ugd/5c0333_7a58cf106c73403ba8906f3701e46140.pdf?fbclid=IwAR1-HptsW3Z1daoOvP_3srgchmhg f5Wovgp4KMIZw_ukiYTm8k2J8GzgotI Additional resources from the Irish Spa Association: https://www.irishspaassociation.ie/covid-19-resources CIDESCO offers a global standard in training for schools, colleges, beauty salons and spas: For schools: https://cidesco.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Standard-Operating-Procedures-for-Schools-COVID-19.pdf For spas and salons: https://cidesco.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Standard-Operating-Procedures-for-Salons-SpasCOVID-19.pdf The British Association of Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology (BABTAC) has developed its Back to Work Guidelines for beauty and hair salons: https://www.babtac.com/userfiles/files/BABTAC%20Back%20to%20Work%20Guidelines%20.pdf ESPA has compiled its International Spa Guidelines for 2020: https://globalwellnessinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/ESPA-Guidelines-COVID-19-Ext_.pdf

RESOURCES FOR BUSINESS, HOSPITALITY AND FITNESS The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) offers daily webinars and a range of resources for business: https://www.cbi.org.uk/coronavirus-hub The Federation of Small Businesses is offering advice and guidance for small businesses and the self-employed: https://www.fsb.org.uk/campaign/covid19.html UK Hospitality is the country’s leading hospitality trade association and represents the interests of its hospitality sector: https://www.ukhospitality.org.uk/page/coronavirus UK Active, a not-for-profit association with over 3,500 members, has proposed a four-stage strategy for fitness suite reopenings: https://www.ukactive.com/news/ukactive-sets-out-four-stage-strategy-to-support-reopening-of-physical-activity-sector Technogym offers practical advice on club layouts, instructions on cleaning and sanitising, digital services for booking and managing access: https://www.technogym.com/land/en-int/re-open-for-a-better-world-2020

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