Spa Business_24_3 by Leisure Media

FASHION SPAS

Palazzo Versace Macau, p40

Spa at The Karl Lagerfeld, p44

Uncovering new consumer segments, p60 WELLSurvey

Teen

wellness

Should we be doing more for younger guests? p34

Welcoming industry leaders to Scotland for the 2024 Global Wellness Summit, p5

Nina Kohler

Pos sib i l i t i e s

fo r Yo u r

B u s i nes s

@ hydrafacialemea

w w w hydrafacialemea com

A BRAND BUILT ON 35 YEARS OF EXPERTISE

Although age is just a number, Swissline has achieved quite a lot in its ﬁrst 35 years, including partnerships with some of the most exclusive wellness hotels around the globe.

Since 1989, Swissline has been developing award-winning, skin-friendly, bio-tech formulas that boost collagen production and address silent inﬂammation. With a deep understanding of skin biology and respect for the skin barrier, its results-oriented, consumer products and professional treatments ensure the harmonious revitalization of the skin, inside and out, while delivering ingredients deep into the skin.

Swissline believes that skincare is a key element of self-care, but embracing it alongside regular exercise, a healthy diet and plenty of sleep, is the winning formula.

TAt a crossroads

The UK wellness industry grew faster than any other top 10 market after the pandemic according to fresh research, yet other new reports reveal issues it must resolve if it’s to maintain levels of unprecedented growth

here’s an air of excitement in the UK as wellbeing pioneers worldwide prepare to convene in St Andrews, Scotland for the 2024 Global Wellness Summit (GWS). This year’s host venue is the Old Course Hotel, owned by water fixtures company Kohler, which also operates a portfolio of own-branded spas (see www.spabusiness.com/kohlerspas).

In the run-up to the GWS, fresh research from the Global Wellness Institute (GWI) indicates that the country has the fifth biggest wellness economy in the world (see p21), worth £171 billion (US$223.8 billion, €202.8 billion). It grew faster than any other top 10 market following the pandemic, making it “one of the world’s largest, most diverse and resilient wellness economies”.

GWI numbers show that a small yet still highly significant player in this expansion is the UK’s £2.4 billion (US$3.19 billion, €2.9 billion) spa market. In this issue, we highlight some of its exciting new players –from the new Surrenne longevity club in London (see p74) to singer Charlotte Church, who’s set up a healing centre (see p10) and TV presenter Julia Bradbury who’s launching Walk Yourself Happy retreats (see p16).

However, this booming sector faces several challenges, according to two other new reports. The 2024 State of the Spa Industry Snapshot by the UK Spa Association shows that while demand for services has increased, the sector is grappling with severe staff shortages (see p56). Around 44 per cent of spas have unfilled therapist positions and 28 per cent have four or more vacant roles.

The Good Spa Guide’s State of Spa Report 2024, which surveyed 2,456 UK spa-goers, also airs some concerns (see www.spabusiness.com/gsgsurvey24). It found that although most people value spa experiences and an extra

Obstacles such as severe staff shortages and inclusivity must be addressed

31 per cent are looking to spend in the higher brackets –£100-plus (US$132, €119) for a spa day – compared to last year, the needs of others aren’t being met. Three-quarters of menopausal women feel therapies aren’t adjusted for them and pregnant women say choices are limited.

Some also question whether spas are accessible or support those living with chronic conditions.

As the UK readies itself for the GWS and being in the industry spotlight, the country stands at a crossroads. While it’s emerged as a leader in the global wellness economy, challenges such as workforce shortages and inclusivity must be addressed to drive sustained growth and resilience and to ensure we meet the needs of consumers l

Katie Barnes, editor, katiebarnes@spabusiness.com

Contact Spa Business: +44 (0) 1462 431385 theteam@spabusiness.com spabusiness.com @spabusinessmag Facebook.com/spabusiness

PHOTO: KOHLER CO

The Global Wellness Summit is coming to St Andrews, Scotland, in November

PHOTO: JACK EMMERSON

spa business

5 Editor’s letter At a crossroads

All eyes are on the UK wellness industry as it prepares for GWS 2024

10 Spa people Charlotte Church

The Welsh singer talks about how growing up in the media spotlight has influenced her healing retreat business

16 Spa people Julia Bradbury

Leading a series of Walk Yourself

Happy retreats based on her bestselling book and years of TV presenting

18 Spa people Samantha Dunn

Shaking up the industry with her new, affordable DIY consultancy programme for entrepreneurs

20 Spa Business news

24 News report Big spenders

Finn Partners’ latest research shows how China’s high-net-worth women are redefining luxury travel

26 News report Step back in time

Two new GWI reports analyse the growth of the global spa and hot springs markets over the past 10 to 15 years

28 Interview Dillip Rajakarier

Following a 450 per cent increase in core revenues, Minor Hotels is planning 200 more properties. Megan Whitby sits down with its CEO

34 Everyone’s talking about

Teen wellness

Should spas be doing more to help younger clients? Julie Cramer reports

40 Fashion spas Fashion forward

Neena Dhillon visits the Karl Lagerfeld and Palazzo Versace spas in Macau

48 Jeremy McCarthy

Longevity vs wellness in hospitality

Is ‘longevity’ a meaningful or viable option for hotels?

50 New opening Kintsugi Space

Patrizia Bortolin talks to Lisa Starr about creating a transformative women-only sanctuary in Abu Dhabi

Minor Hotels and MSpa, p28

The Dreaming, p10

Palazzo Versace Macau, p40

Julia Bradbury, p16

PHOTO:

Charlotte Church

Dillip Rajakarier

PHOTO: MINOR HOTELS

PHOTO: REKHA GARTON

56 Research To inform and inspire

The UK Spa Association has conducted its first survey of spa businesses in the country for 18 years. GM Bobby Griffiths unveils the numbers

60 Research From wellness to wellbeing

A new study uncovers four wellness consumer market segments ripe for innovation. WELLSurvey co-author Kevin Kelly reveals the findings in a Spa Business exclusive

66 First person To the source

Jane Kitchen takes to the sulphurous waters of Terme di Saturnia in Italy and shares details about its exciting upcoming sister site in Milan

74 New opening Surrenne at The Emory

The £15k memberships at this wellness club in London sold out in just weeks. Creator Inge Theron tells us why

80 First person Playful wellness

A Stella McCartney facial and Tracy Anderson studio are just two highlights Megan Whitby finds at Surrenne

84 Consultancy White Mirror

Delivering immersive, researchled wellness narratives

92 Top team Olympus Real Estate

The execs behind The Springs Resort and Murrieta Hot Springs talk to Jane Kitchen

100 Software Social influence

How can spa software help operators manage their social media profiles?

104 Product innovation

We take a look at some of the most exciting spa product and equipment launches

114 Menu engineering At your service

New spa treatments and programmes

120 Spa Business directory

122 Finishing touch Suite dreams

Sofitel commissions research to measure travellers’ sleep and creates new programming based on the results

Inge Theron on creating Surrenne, p74

Immersive wellness by White Mirror, p84

Olympus’ Murrieta Hot Springs, p92

PHOTO: PIXEL ARTWORKS PHOTO:

THE SPA BUSINESS TEAM

For email, use contact’s fullname@spabusiness.com

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Liz Terry +44 (0)1462 431385

Assistant editor Megan Whitby +44 (0)1462 471906

Contributing editor

Lisa Starr

+44 (0)1462 431385

Publisher Astrid Ros +44 (0)1462 471911

Editor-at-large

Jane Kitchen

+44 (0)1462 431385

Contributor

Kevin Kelly

+44 (0)1462 431385

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spa people

The Dreaming is about my want and desire to ease the suffering I see

Charlotte Church, founder, The Dreaming

Welsh singer Charlotte Church has spent most of her 38 years in the media spotlight. She rose to stardom as a classical singer with an angelic voice at just 12 years old and by the mid-noughties had established herself in pop music, selling 10 million records globally.

With all the fame came some well-earned highs, having amassed a reported £25 million (US$33.1 million, €29.6 million) fortune aged just 17, but also the lows of being a victim of the UK tabloid phone hacking scandal and a very public divorce. These days, she lives a life away from the limelight, focusing on her family and embracing wellness.

Last year, she opened The Dreaming, a seven-guestroom retreat at Rhydoldog House – the former home of the late Laura Ashley surrounded by waterfalls, forest, rocks and caves in Powys, Wales. Its rich array of activities includes mindful nature connection sessions, mythical storytelling, foraging and sound healing – tapping into Church’s particular expertise.

In an innovative move, she offers a ‘pay what you can’ space on every retreat, a topic we’ve explored previously in Spa Business (see www. spabusiness.com/pwyc).

Next May, The Dreaming will welcome experts from Ananda In The Himalayas for a special healing programme. In 2025, Church also plans to tackle an eclectic range of topics and issues with its new Kindred retreats. They’ll cover everything from the Welsh language and grief to supporting the gay community and Muslim women.

She shares her story and vision with Spa Business

How did the partnership with Ananda come about?

I met Mahesh [Natarjan, COO] at the Synergy retreat expo in Mexico and we really hit it off. He came to a sound meditation I held and having been in the industry a lot longer than me, he had all the juicy details about what it takes to run a world-class retreat centre.

Why is it a good fit for you?

The Dreaming has a lot to learn from Ananda and its deep spiritual work through the ancient practices of ayurveda, meditation and yoga and we’re excited to welcome its experts.

The retreat is based in the former home of the late Laura Ashley

I’ve had some very tricky times. This has led to a deep love of humanity

Singer Charlotte Church has sold 10 million records globally PHOTO:

Money shouldn’t get in the way of people experiencing something so profound

Yet, at the same time, we have similarities in terms of our authenticity, integrity and our intention of holding people very tenderly.

Our collaborative retreat is called Dreams of Ananda and is set to run in May 2025. Prices for this personalised experience include all meals and accommodation and start at £2,160 (US$2,863, €2,560).

How will you personally be involved?

We’ve co-created this with Ananda and its practitioners. I’ll specifically bring my experience in artistic expression as a vocalist and singer to the table. Deeper sessions will use sound and voice to explore and heal the self. Many thoughts and feelings are hidden in our subconscious and I feel that sound and singing are some of the most direct ways to get to those places. We’ll also be looking at how to free up the expression of the voice, how to be playful and gain a bit of confidence.

This is based on my Song of the Soul retreat I developed for The Dreaming. I’ve delivered four so far and they’ve been absolutely stupendous.

Participants have had transformative, meaningful experiences that will stay with them for the rest of their lives and I’m personally very proud of this.

How would you describe The Dreaming’s philosophy?

Our three main pillars are nature connection, sound therapies and ceremony. But our approach is ever-evolving.

How has your own journey in life influenced the concept?

It’s difficult to pinpoint. I’ve experienced so much joy and have been privileged to travel the world through my work. But I’ve also had some very tricky times. This has led to a deep love of humanity, so really, The Dreaming is about my want and desire to ease the suffering that I see.

I’m a strong believer in cultivating awe and wonder in our lives and one of the best ways this can happen is through ceremony – witnessing how spectacular human beings are when being incredibly tender towards each other.

Where did you get your inspiration from?

From a few different sources. I was exploring different healing modalities in my own life and have had a real fascination with spiritual practices from a young age.

The land itself massively inspired me. When I first went to see the house, it was a total wreck, but the land spoke to me on a deep level. I’ve been obsessed with Adrienne Maree Brown’s concept of emergent strategy ever since, of understanding the land and what it’s asking to be.

At the same time, I was doing a course on Aboriginal tribes and how myths and stories of the land have been passed down in song form. I found that mind-bogglingly amazing and everything just all came together.

Who are your guests?

Since opening, we’ve had such a cross-section of people. Quite a lot of guests have never been on a retreat which takes such a deep dive into wellness and that’s always an absolute treat. But many have been travelling on this path for a long time.

PHOTO: ELLIOT COOPER

Church takes great pride in personally leading sound healing sessions

For me, it’s important to hold a space for as many different types of people in society as we possibly can and accessibility is a big part of what we do.

What’s your ‘wellbeing for all’ approach?

Our retreats start at an affordable £540 (US$714, €641) and we operate a sliding scale pricing policy on our rooms. We’re also bringing in payment plan structures for more expensive specialist retreats so guests can spread the cost.

It’s often the people who have the least money who are the most deprived, which is why we offer a pay-what-you-can (PWYC) place on every retreat. It’s wonderful we can do this, as money shouldn’t get in the way of people experiencing something that can have such a profound impact.

How well has the pay-what-youcan concept been received?

We’re so very proud of this scheme and it’s completely oversubscribed. We use a fair system where people are picked via a random number generator so we don’t go

The Dreaming has a new partnership with Ananda In The Himalayas

Ayurvedic experts from India will travel to the UK to deliver the retreat

PHOTO: ANANDA IN THE HIMALAYAS

Men, teens and the gay community are future target markets

through and judge people on how traumatic their lives have been.

We have an average of two to three PWYC guests per retreat and hope to launch a pay-it-forward scheme soon so even more places can be subsidised.

What future target markets have you identified?

We always seem to have an honorary man on each retreat, so we’re looking to curate more events specifically for them and their needs.

Belonging, our family retreat, is planned for 2025. It’s for carers, grandparents, aunties and uncles, as well as parents who attend with their kids (aged seven to 16). Many families are feeling estranged, mostly because of the tech dependency of young ones and the intensity and pressures they face in modern society. We have some incredible facilitators who help them explore their feelings and bring everyone together to have a whopping great time, especially having loads of fun outdoors.

This family retreat will enable us to include young people next year and we’ll also introduce mother-anddaughter and father-and-son packages.

We’re launching a pay-it-forward scheme so more places can be subsidised

I’m personally also deeply influenced by a lot of First Nations wisdom and would love to welcome more indigenous voices to The Dreaming –to create a space for other cultures and ceremony rituals around the world.

What new retreats are you launching?

We’re just in the process of launching our Kindred series focused on specific groups of people. This includes a Welsh language retreat that’s coming up, a retreat for the gay community and another for Muslim women. Next year, we’re hoping to have a grief retreat, as well as a global majority one.

This series draws on liberation psychology and the idea that healing has to be done in a community and from an understanding of one’s broader culture.

What are your long-term goals for The Dreaming?

I have hopes of developing deeper practices based on eco-psychology – of

holding vision quests in the land and potentially pilgrimages, as there used to be a Cistercian monastery here.

But I can’t be too dominant. This isn’t just my baby. A whole host of lovely humans, practitioners and guests have helped co-create it and have beautiful ideas about what the world needs as well.

Has it met your expectations so far?

It’s surpassed them a millionfold! A lot of what we do is very gentle compared to the hardcore, fast-fix solutions currently out there. I envisioned a place of rest and solitude and play, joy and wonder and offering that alone often helps people transform their outlook before going even deeper. Seeing how people react is absolutely glorious.

The Dreaming is like a flower that’s just starting to blossom. We’ve been in start-up mode, which is pretty intensive. But we’re now really starting to understand who we are and what we can offer to the world. l

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1 bottle sold every 3 minutes around the globe.

99.7% ingredients of natural origin. (Same iconic formula)

2.7 T/year of plastic saved per year from eliminating the cap.

12.8 T/year of glass saved per year from lighter packaging.

I want to lead others through a series of life-changing, wellbeing practices in a focused retreat

Julia

Bradbury, TV presenter and nature evangelist

Julia Bradbury is a UK TV presenter who passionately believes the great outdoors can lead to healing and happiness.

The outdoors lover won the hearts of the nation on the BBC programme Countryfile, which she first appeared on 20 years ago and has written six walking

books, including the bestseller Walk Yourself Happy. Bradbury credits nature therapy with helping her through fertility struggles and survive breast cancer in recent years. She says these life events made her fundamentally overhaul her approach to wellbeing and led her to explore nutrition,

breathwork, exercise, spending more time outdoors and activities such as yoga, grounding yourself in nature and sound bathing.

Now, Bradbury dedicates her time to championing the benefits of nature immersion and walking and has created a spa retreat which will debut at South Lodge Hotel in England in September.

Bradbury turned to nature immersion when dealing with IVF and cancer

by Megan Whitby, assistant editor

PHOTO: DAVID VENNI

MOVING MEDITATION

The two-day event, hosted by Bradbury in person, is based on the Walk Yourself Happy philosophy. Chapters of her book will be brought to life through a blend of expert-led sessions, group conversations and nature-based activities.

“I wanted to bring together a group of experts who had been so transformative in my own personal journey and, together with them, lead others through a series of life-changing, wellbeing practices in a focused retreat,” says Bradbury.

“I know that the guests at our retreats will feel truly energised by spending time doing breathwork, aroma-sound, forest bathing, nutrition work and, of course, going on a nature walk with me.”

Specialists involved in the retreat include breathwork practitioner and Oxygen Advantage founder Patrick McKeown; holistic practitioner Lisa Pauley from AromaSounds and Wildfitness CEO Hannah Beadle, who will teach participants how to unlock the freedom of movement.

Bradbury will be on hand throughout the retreat to share the ethos of cumulative wellbeing practices and host live readings from her books, nature walks and Q+As.

Guests will also enjoy daily nutrition talks and curated meals, sound baths,

The guests at our retreats will feel truly energised

cold water swimming, playtime in nature and the South Lodge spa (see www.spabusiness.com/southlodge).

The upcoming experience is running in tandem with The Outdoor Guide – an online resource for outdoor enthusiasts – which Bradbury founded in 2014. Spaces are limited to 25 people and cost £1,650 (US$2,126, €1,958pp).

HIKING RENAISSANCE

Bradbury has plans for more retreats in the UK for 2025 and joins a number of leading names incorporating outdoor walking programmes.

Notable operators which are now focusing on hiking range from The Ranch and Golden Door in the US to Sensei in Hawaii and Buchinger Wilhelmi in Germany.

Spa Business expects even more spas will tap into ‘moving meditation’ in the near future and has included the trend in its newly-released 2024/25 Spa Foresight predictions (see www. spabusiness.com/foresight2024). ●

The much-loved presenter has written six walking books

Walk Yourself Happy retreats are underpinned by nature-based activities

PHOTO: SOUTH LODGE HOTEL & SPA

PHOTO: WALK YOURSELF HAPPY

We don’t want to replace professional consultants … we want to help entrepreneurs who wouldn’t engage them in the first place

Samantha Dunn, founder, WellBusiness Builder’s Academy

Afirst-of-its-kind DIY consultancy programme to help entrepreneurs make the leap into the wellness world will launch in November.

WellBusiness Builder’s Academy has been created by Samantha Dunn, who’s been a spa consultant for nearly 25 years, working on famous brands such as Kamalaya and Chiva-Som.

AFFORDABLE CONSULTING

Dunn, who’s based in Sydney and was chair of the Australian Wellness Association until recently, has devised the programme to take entrepreneurs through the steps she takes as a professional consultant. These include phase one of a project, comprising market study, concept development, business planning and feasibility, as well as phase two, which covers implementation and pre-opening. “Participants will effectively have their entire business mapped out,” she says.

WellBusiness Builder’s Academy is split into 12 modules delivered via online videos with downloadable transcripts and supported by weekly live sessions and a one-to-one mentoring slot per section. Customisable templates, worksheets and access to support calls will also be available.

The basic package will cost

US$4,900 (€4,498, £8,856) and can be completed over 12 months. In comparison, Dunn estimates that a professional spa consultant could charge anything from US$20,000-US$60,000 (€1,360€55,080, £15,740-£47,216) for a phase one scope and much more for pre-opening services.

ENCOURAGING ENTREPRENEURS

“We’re not aiming to replace professional consultants,” says Dunn. “There’s no substitution for years of hands-on experience.

“We intend to expand the entrepreneur pool by providing a solution to those who wouldn’t normally engage a consultant in the first place.

“They’re typically people who have a dream and deep desire to make an impact. They’ve often been through a crisis and/or had their own lives transformed through wellness and now want to bring that experience to others. However, they’re usually working on a shoestring budget and are put off by not knowing where to start.”

Dunn will trial the offering at an in-person boot camp at Bali’s Adiwana Bisma resort in October. The five-day event, limited to 12 entrepreneurs, will provide immediate feedback on the content before the official launch of the programme on Dunn’s website, www. thewellnessmakers.com, in November.

She’ll also be running a two-day consultant training camp on top of this, with a view to building up an A-team to support the potential new industry arrivals. l

Dunn is launching an affordable spa consultancy programme in November

PHOTO: SAMANTHA DUNN

For more information c ontact: enquiries@espainternational.co.uk

spa business news

Whole Foods’ co-founder opens flagship wellness club in Los Angeles

Integrated health and wellness company Love.Life has made its global debut and opened its flagship 45,000sq ft holistic health and wellness club in Los Angeles.

The brand was co-founded by former Whole Foods Market (WFM) CEO and co-founder John Mackey along with Walter Robb and Betsy Foster (also former executives of WFM).

The trio believe in a new healthcare paradigm that empowers individuals to proactively improve their health by focusing on the root causes of chronic diseases and holistic solutions that optimise overall health and wellbeing.

With specialist practitioners spanning more than 20 disciplines onsite, the first Love.Life unites medical care, precision wellness therapies, nutrition and fitness under one roof.

“We think the new future of health is about highly personalised care that’s focused on the mind, body and spirit,” says Mackey, Love.Life CEO.

“We want to transform the way people experience healthcare and provide an alternative to a fragmented system that is primarily focused on managing symptoms instead of improving health.”

More: http://lei.sr/S3Y3T_B

TheLifeCo Well-being to debut in the Caribbean

Retreat brand TheLifeCo Well-being will make its Caribbean debut in Gros-Islet, Saint Lucia, in 2025 as part of the Caribbean Jewel Seven Wonders project (CJSW).

Since 2005, TheLifeCo has hosted retreat programmes focused on nutrition, exercise and mental and

spiritual wellbeing in its existing centres in Bodrum and Antalya (in Turkey) and Phuket (in Thailand). The facilities offer a range of detox and healthy nutrition programmes lasting from four to 21 days.

Named TheLifeCo Well-being Saint Lucia, the upcoming centre

will be part of CJSW’s 523-room wellness-oriented resort, combining established holistic practices with biohacking therapies. The company says the facility will bring an elevated standard of wellness services to the region and offer a comprehensive range of high-end amenities and services tailored to help balance psychological and emotional wellbeing.

Ersin Pamuksuzer, TheLifeCo CEO and founder, says: “The centre will have a special emphasis on nextgeneration wellness and cutting-edge biohacking therapies in addition to our signature programmes.”

Guests at the Saint Lucia outpost will be encouraged to enhance their experience with yoga, fitness, PT sessions, meditation, breathwork, workshops, retreats and mental health support programmes.

More: http://lei.sr/F3r4q_B

TheLifeCo Well-being Saint Lucia will be the brand’s fourth destination

The new 45,000sq ft wellness destination has opened in Plaza El Segundo

John Mackey

UK revealed as fifth largest wellness economy in the world

The UK wellness industry is experiencing unprecedented growth and is now ranked as the fifth-largest worldwide, following a new report released by the Global Wellness Institute (GWI).

The Global Wellness Economy: United Kingdom reveals the UK’s wellness economy consists of 11 sectors and was worth £171 billion (US$223.8 billion, €202.8 billion) in 2022, placing it behind only the US, China, Germany and Japan.

The industry rose in valuation to £130 billion (US$170.5 billion, €154.5 billion) in 2019, but like many markets, it contracted in the pandemic, shrinking to £120 billion (US$157.0 billion, €142.2 billion) in 2020. However, its rate of recovery positions the UK as the global leader in post-pandemic (2019) wellness market growth.

The UK’s spa sector has also shown resilience and was valued at £2.4 billion (US$3.19 billion, €2.90 billion) in 2022 – nearing its pre-pandemic

record of £2.5 billion (US$3.32 billion, €3.00 billion) – and experienced an all-time high in its number of recorded spa destinations (3,797).

According to GWI senior researcher Ophelia Yeung: “the UK now has one of the world’s largest, most diverse and resilient wellness economies”.

More: http://lei.sr/M2S7s_B

Tennis star Djokovic signs as Aman global wellness advisor

Aman has announced Novak Djokovic as its first global wellness advisor.

The multi-year partnership will see Djokovic enhancing Aman’s guest wellness offering with exclusively designed programmes and events that draw on his training in mental and physical wellbeing, both on and off the court.

Djokovic will also have an advisory role with Aman and will guide future product development and brand extension in the wellbeing space. His partnership with Aman will range across the brand’s properties, including the development of special events for Aman club and residence owners, hosted retreats and specially curated programmes that will be available to guests year-round.

Djokovic says: “Over the years, I’ve cultivated a comprehensive

daily wellness routine combining mental health, nutrition and fitness that has enabled me to achieve sustained success.

“Sharing these learnings with Aman guests will be both a privilege and a pleasure.”

The move follows the successful appointment of Maria Sharapova as Aman’s global wellness ambassador in 2023 – read more about her debut retreat: www. spabusiness.com/msharapova.

More: http://lei.sr/X9R5F_B

Ophelia Yeung

The UK spa industry is worth £2.4 billion of the £171 billion UK wellness market

GWI

Djokovic will create exclusive programmes and events for Aman

DIARY DATES

21-22 October 2024

Spa & Wellness Summit and Awards – Australia

Crystalbrook Byron, Byron Bay, NSW, Australia

An immersive event designed for businesses in the spa, wellness and wellness tourism spaces. www.wellnesssummit.com.au

22-25 October 2024

Interbad

Messe Stuttgart, Germany

Creative design, state-ofthe-art technology, top quality and pioneering trends in swimming pools, saunas, spas and wellness combined under one roof. www.interbad.de

24 October 2024

HCM Summit

QEII Conference Centre, London, UK

A high-end, all-keynote conference that will bring together thought leaders, operators, investors, associations and suppliers from across fitness, health and wellness. www.hcmsummit.live

28-30 October 2024

Beautyworld Middle East

Dubai World Trade Center, Dubai, UAE

One of the largest international trade fairs for beauty, hair fragrance and wellbeing products in the Middle East. www.beautyworldme.com

3-6 November 2024

W3Spa North America

Estancia La Jolla Resort & Spa, California, USA

Spa suppliers and decisionmakers from high-volume luxury spas across the USA will connect through a schedule of one-to-one meetings. www.weworkwellevents.com

Wellness hotels experience positive growth in 2023

Hotels incorporating wellness amenities experienced a boost in total revenue per available room (TRevPAR) in 2023, according to the latest Wellness Real Estate Report by RLA Global, produced in partnership with P&L benchmarking firm HotStats.

Marking RLA Global’s fifth edition of the report, the publication compares performance across three categories of hotels depending on the size of its wellness offering; Major Wellness, Minor Wellness and No Wellness.

All three types of property increased occupancy in 2023, compared to 2022, with Minor Wellness properties – those with wellness and leisure revenue achieving less than US$1 million or less

than 10 per cent of total hotel revenues a year – displaying the strongest growth.

Geographically, the Americas continue to lead global TRevPAR performance, in both the Major and Minor Wellness categories, with the APAC markets and Africa displaying significant increases in gross operating profit per available room.

More: http://lei.sr/M4r2M_B

Equinox plans futuristic wellbeing resort

Fitness-focused hospitality brand and management company Equinox Hotels has announced plans to create a modern resort on the coast of the Gulf of Aqaba in north-west Saudi Arabia. The venture is part of the ambitious US$500 billion (€462.7 billion, £396 billion) Neom giga-project.

Equinox Resort Treyam will be a centrepiece in Magna, Neom’s new luxury coastal region, which encompasses 12 destinations along 120km of coastline. Magna is one of five locations within Neom, a

project that will be bigger than the size of Turkey upon completion.

Nestled amid desert landscapes and crystal-clear waters, the Equinox resort will have a futuristic design defined by a 450m-long bridge-like structure suspended 40m above a lagoon.

Focused on high-performance living, it will include spacious accommodation, longevity and technology treatments, a spa, a signature Equinox Fitness Club, a pool, a Club House and culinary concepts. l

More: http://lei.sr/C9a4Z_B

Hotels with minor wellness offerings came out strongest

Programming will focus on movement, nutrition, regeneration and community

EQUINOX HOTELS

NEWS REPORT by Megan Whitby, assistant editor

BIG SPENDERS

China’s high-net-worth women are redefining luxury travel with a focus on wellness and cultural enrichment, reveals report by Finn Partners and ILTM Asia Pacific

Research by travel practice Finn Partners has revealed the shifting habits of affluent Chinese female travellers and the influence of wellness.

China’s Women in Charge draws insights from 800 high-value Chinese women – aged 25 and above, 74 per cent of who earn more than US$96,000 (€87,000, £74,075) annually – and was conducted in collaboration with ILTM Asia Pacific.

According to the UNWTO, China reclaimed its position as the world’s top spender on international tourism in 2023, with female travellers accounting for almost 60 per cent of the country’s outbound tourists.

The new report states that 54 per cent of highvalued Chinese females intend to increase their leisure travel over the next three years and promise to be powerful players in luxury travel and wellness.

SHIFTING MINDSETS

The following eight factors were identified in shaping their travel motivations:

1. Pursuit of wellness: Wellness now embraces a holistic approach, focusing on both physical and mental health, with an increasing interest in adventurous activities. It remains a major travel motivation and is expected to be integrated into offers rather than a primary focus. It’s particularly popular among older women, who are twice as likely as other age groups to invest in health-related luxury travel experiences

2. Evolving definition of luxury: Luxury has shifted from material goods to experiences that bring personal fulfilment, joy and a sense of accomplishment

Older women are twice as likely to invest in health-related travel, the new research shows

3. Travel as enrichment: Travel has become a means of empowerment and transformation

4. A preference for niche destinations: High-value Chinese female travellers are drawn to lesser-known destinations known for natural beauty, aiming to explore them before they become popular

5. Solo travel on the rise: Solo travel is increasingly popular among affluent Chinese women, offering a path to independence and self-empowerment

6. Independent decision-making: Financially independent Chinese women are making their own travel decisions, significantly influencing family holiday choices

7. Beyond star ratings: Affluent Chinese women value unique experiences over five-star ratings, preferring collaborations with fashion, design or lifestyle brands for themed accommodations (45 per cent), enhanced room amenities such as spa baths and sleep rituals (44 per cent) and more integration of local or cultural features in the property (43 per cent)

8. Technology as ultimate luxury: Chinese travellers prioritise convenience, seeking seamless technology integration for efficient travel planning and enhanced experiences

ADDITIONAL FINDINGS

Through the analysis, researchers have carved out five distinctive archetypes of affluent female Chinese travellers that capture this segment’s differing values, attitudes and behaviours, including how each of them approaches wellness. Read more at www.spabusiness.com/chinaswomen. ●

REPORT by Megan Whitby, assistant editor

STEP BACK

IN TIME

GWI reports analyse growth in global spa and hot springs industries over the past 10 to 15 years

The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) has released an overview of the global spa and hot springs markets from 2007 to 2022, along with growth projections.

The data is part of GWI’s new timeseries reports based on the 11 markets tracked in its annual Global Wellness Economy Monitor (last published in November 2023 – see www.spabusiness.com/gwem2023).

SPA VIEW

GWI unveiled its first industry numbers in the Global Spa Economy 2007 report. Back then, there were 71,672 spas worldwide generating revenues of US$46.8 billion (€42.4 billion, £35.7 billion). In 2022, GWI recorded 181,175 spas globally with a value of US$104.5 billion (€94.6 billion, £79.6 billion).

The time-series report revealed the global spa industry was hit hard by the pandemic. Revenues plunged by 39 per cent in 2020 and there was a net decrease of 5,600 spas.

Despite this, GWI is optimistic about the market. Between 2021 and 2022, spa revenues steadily rebounded worldwide, nearing their pre-pandemic peak of US$113.8 billion (€103 billion, £86.7 billion).

Between 2022 and 2027, GWI projects a global spa industry growth rate of 8.3 per cent a year

– compared to a predicted 4.7 per cent annual growth in global GDP – and estimates the market will be worth US$156.1 billion (€141.2 billion, £118.9 billion).

HOT SPRINGS IN FOCUS

GWI gave its first overview of the thermal/mineral springs market in the 2014 Global Spa & Wellness Economy Monitor, observing 26,800 facilities in 2013, bringing in US$50 billion (€45.3 billion, £38.1 billion).

Before COVID-19, it was one of the quickestgrowing segments in the wellness economy. It peaked in 2019 with 34,960 facilities and was valued at US$65.7 billion (€59.5 billion, £50.1 billion). However, thermal/mineral springs revenue also decreased by 39 per cent in 2020.

By the end of 2022, most hot springs businesses had recovered to 75 to 90 per cent of their prelockdown levels and the global market was worth US$46.3 billion (€41.9 billion, £35.3 billion).

Between 2020 and 2022, at least 150 new thermal and mineral springs establishments opened worldwide and more than 250 projects are now in development. What’s more, GWI predicts it will be the third fastest-growing wellness economy in the coming years – growing by 14.3 per cent annually from 2022 to 2027, amounting to US$90.5 billion (€81.9 billion, £69 billion) in revenues. ●

The World’s Finest Spas Choose

Dillip Rajakarier

Following a 450 per cent increase in core revenues, Minor Hotels is planning 200 properties by the end of 2026. Megan Whitby talks to the CEO about the pivotal role wellness will play

It speaks volumes when a seasoned hospitality veteran such as Dillip Rajakarier recognises the true value of spas – especially given his background in finance. Having held senior global roles in major hotel brands for more than 20 years (see p29), he’s been overseeing strategy, operations and development at Minor Hotels since 2020.

“As a Thai-based company, wellness comes naturally to Minor and is ingrained in our DNA,” says Rajakarier. “It’s not a fad; it’s something we’ve authentically nurtured. Guests today are willing to spend more on wellness because they’re not only looking to live longer but also to lead better lifestyles.” The company is now exploring ways to help customers of any age fulfil this need, both at its properties and after they leave.

Minor Hotels (Minor) is a subsidiary of Minor International (MINT) – one of the largest hospitality and leisure companies in Asia – and operates more than 70 spas within its portfolio of over 550 hotels, resorts and branded residences across 56 countries.

Following a record core net profit of THB121.4 billion (US$3.4 billion, €3.2 billion, £2.7 billion) in 2023 – a 450 per cent increase from the previous year – Minor has outlined a formidable global growth strategy, planning to add 200 hotels across its eight brands by 2027. This expansion includes the development of 10 additional spas and clinics by the end of 2024, as well as two new wellness concepts.

Rajakarier has held senior global roles in hospitality for more than 20 years

Spa Business catches up with Rajakarier, the CEO of Minor Hotels and group CEO of MINT, to find out what wellness means to the company and the role it has to play as it forges ahead with openings worldwide.

Medi-wellness revelation

Since 1999, Minor’s spas have been conceptualised and operated by its spa and wellness division, MSpa. The branch has two major cluster teams based in Bangkok and Dubai, with an emerging cluster in Europe. It’s been spearheaded at the Bangkok headquarters by industry figure Sandie Johannessen, group director of spa and wellness in Asia, since late 2023.

Up until recently, MSpa managed two wellness brands (see p31). Anantara Spa and Avani Spa are both in-house concepts inspired by the company’s Thai heritage. It also holds the franchise rights for the Vivid IV Drip Bar brand and has a thirdparty partnership with Clinique La Prairie.

In Q3, MSpa’s portfolio will be bolstered by a new medical wellness concept which, according to Rajakarier, “is designed to cater to the modern-day guest and their evolving needs”. Life by Anantara will debut at Anantara Layan Phuket Resort. Spanning 1,767sq m, the purposebuilt Layan Life facility will integrate medical technologies with Rajasamnak healing traditions based on treatments originally developed for the country’s much-revered royal family.

Rajakarier’s

career trajectory

2001 – deputy chief financial officer, Orient-Express Hotels, Trains & Cruises

2007 – chief finance and investment officer, Minor Hotels

2008 – COO, Minor Hotels

2011 – CEO, Minor Hotels

2020 – group CEO, Minor

Wellness is not a fad for Minor – it’s something we’ve authentically nurtured

group runs 70 spas globally and is launching two more in-house concepts

The

Minor has 550 hotels in its portfolio already

PHOTO: ANANTARA_MINOR

Thai traditional medicine (TTM) is an ancient system of spiritual healing that uses astrology and numerology to identify and cure health conditions. Life by Anantara will be grounded in the four elements of TTM – earth, water, wind and fire – and offer programmes lasting from three to 10 days, focusing on weight management, stress reduction, fitness improvement and anti-ageing treatments. The protocols have been created by specialist doctors and will combine advanced medical assessments, personalised nutrition and guided fitness regimens alongside TTM.

The purpose of the new concept, says Rajakarier, is to “help guests take preventative steps to improve their health, rather than waiting until it’s too late and treating a condition”. He foresees it being of particular interest to local customers, which Minor is looking to attract with memberships. It’s a market the group is well versed in, considering the ratio of local versus international guests at Anantara resorts already sits at 40:60.

Introducing AvaniWell

In addition to Life by Anantara, TTM has been used to underpin a second wellness concept launch for Minor this year. In July, the company’s upscale lifestyle brand Avani unveiled AvaniWell – its first wellbeing clinic model – at Avani+ Hua Hin in Thailand.

AvaniSpa, the brand’s original in-house concept, already boasts 13 global outposts.

We want to drive wellness into all our brands

Mostly focused on holistic treatments, it has a flexible approach according to how much time guests have and how they want to feel.

Rajakarier says Minor has introduced AvaniWell as a way for people to experience more personalised wellbeing journeys to help guests develop healthy habits. Resident TTM specialists will offer one-to-one assessments and prescribe signature treatments, while guidance will also be offered on physiotherapy, including a focus on Reformer Pilates, modern practices such as NAD+ IV drips and healthy dining options.

MSpa’s Johannessen explains: “AvaniWell provides a stepping stone for those starting their wellness journey, taking the brand’s millennial and gen Z audience from the familiarity of the spa to a more personalised and adventurous approach to wellbeing.”

Rajakarier adds that the idea is to kick-start good practices through weekend resets, serene staycations and weekly wellbeing programmes, as well as to offer top tips to help guests achieve optimal results post-stay.

Anantara Golden

Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Thailand

Concept rollouts

Life by Anantara, a new medi-wellness concept, will debut imminently

The two fresh spa approaches mean MSpa now manages six different spa brands (if you also include its partnerships). Rajakarier emphasises that both launches are part of Minor’s plans to carve out its own distinctive wellness niche that’s accessible, fun and sociable.

He reveals: “We have plans to expand the Life by Anantara concept across other Anantara resorts worldwide, but Thailand will serve as the initial testing ground, with the Phuket flagship setting the standard for forthcoming destinations.”

All outposts will prioritise medi-wellness, but each will have a distinct offering inspired by the healing traditions and customs of their specific regions.

It’s testing the waters with AvaniWell, but Rajakarier says Minor would be open to opportunities for expanding the concept in destinations where there’s market demand.

Balancing act

Overall, Minor’s expansion plan for the next two and a half years will see its global portfolio

Minor’s in-house spa concepts

Anantara Spa

AvaniSpa

AvaniWell (opened July 2024)

Life by Anantara (opening in Q3)

Other partnerships

Vivid IV Drip Bar in collaboration with Verita Healthcare Group

Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie

increase by almost 40 per cent, explains Rajakarier. Out of the company’s eight hospitality brands (see p32), he reveals that Anantara, Avani, Oaks, Tivoli and NH Hotels will be the key drivers of growth, with Avani alone expected to more than double its property count to almost 100.

While Asia has always been the main market for Minor, the goal is to achieve a more balanced global distribution of brands in the future. Approximately half of the openings will still be in Asia, with India being a particular focus. However, more than 50 properties will be revealed in both Europe and the Middle East. Australia, New Zealand, the Americas and Africa will also see new openings.

Oﬀ ering a more personalised approach, AvaniWell launched in July

Minor’s Thai heritage is a USP for all of its spas

Wellness used to be a nice to have and now it’s a must-have

Driving wellness

With a personal passion for wellbeing, Rajakarier is clear that wellness will be a priority as Minor continues to grow internationally. The goal is to “drive wellness into all of Minor’s brands,” he says, revealing that he attends retreats worldwide not only for their health benefits but also for research purposes. “To be the best, you must always be open to learning from others.”

In the immediate future, we can expect 10 new spas and clinics by the end of the year. Longer term, there are some particular markets that Minor has its sights set on. “We’re excited to focus more on China because its consumers are very enthusiastic about wellness,” says Rajakarier. “I also see significant potential for greater wellness integration in hotels in the Middle East.”

He continues: “Wellness used to be a nice to have and now it’s a must-have. Based in Thailand, our home base is so famous for wellness and the care in which it’s delivered, it’s about transplanting that into other countries.”

Some owners are so inspired by the authenticity and high standards of Thai wellness that they ask Minor to employ only Thai spa therapists in their wellness facilities.

“Whether it’s a location in Thailand or Europe,” says Rajakarier, “the company wants to execute wellness to the highest standard. Our offering needs to be commercially viable – because wellness requires a lot of investment – and be exciting enough that guests are drawn to it like a magnet.

“We want to make wellness attractive to everyone and educate people about living healthier and longer lives. And, if in the process we can convert some of them to a better lifestyle, this will be a huge contribution to helping create a happier, healthier society.” l

Minor’s hotel brands

n Anantara Hotels & Resorts n Avani

n Elewana n NH Collection n NH Hotels

n Nhow n Oaks n Tivoli

PHOTO:

ANANTARA_MINOR

Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas

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If you don’t respond to the changing needs of the audience, you’ll become extinct

Everyone’s talking about...

TEEN WELLNESS

As studies show a doubling of mental health problems among children and adolescents, should spas be doing more to o er services for the teen and family demographic? Julie Cramer asks the industry

Mental health has been a particularly dominant topic since people emerged from COVID-19 lockdowns seeking more meaningful help.

While no one would expect spas to replace specialist mental health services, they still offer numerous programmes and treatments that have a positive impact on the mind in a safe, professional and relaxed setting.

There’s also a growing conversation around how spas could open up to a demographic that’s especially known to encounter struggles with mental wellbeing: teenagers. Coping with hormonal changes and peer pressures might well be considered a rite of passage for this age group, but in today’s society, the problems are much greater than that. Statistics published by WHO in 2021 show that one in seven 10 to 19-year-olds experience a mental disorder globally. Furthermore, a meta-analysis of 29 studies

published between 2020-2021 found that 20 per cent of young people were suffering from elevated levels of anxiety and depression – double that of pre-pandemic levels.

With an adults-only policy in most spas, is it time to review the age limit and accept younger people? Leading US resorts such as Miraval and Canyon Ranch are paving the way with their dedicated children’s or family weeks. Is the time ripe for more operators to step into this arena and, if so, what are the legal and ethical considerations of targeting a younger market?

Could the demand become large enough to consider permanently lowering the age limit, or would this alienate existing clientele? Even if the business opportunity is currently small, is it smart to start marketing to the next generation of customers and play an influential part in helping them establish lifelong wellness habits, while at the same time cultivating brand loyalty? We ask the experts.

The Rewire Retreat for girls aged 13 to 16 is led by Natasha K Richardson

PHOTO: NATASHA K RICHARDSON

Natasha K Richardson, founder, Rewire Retreat

There’s a huge need for safe spaces where young people can go to learn new techniques from teachers outside of the systematic curriculum, who can inspire them to feel better about themselves.

In my travels, I met young people all over the world who spoke to me like an agony aunt or big sister about the weight they carry, problems at school and within themselves. So, I created the Rewire Retreat to empower teenagers.

Our retreats include up to 14 girls aged from 13 to 16. We focus on three core principles: teaching them to work with their own biology, connect with the outside world and master their emotions.

I’d advise any facility considering delivering a

teenager-focused programme to think about what pre- and aftercare they’ll offer.

We’ve embedded a care system that looks after the girls before, during and after the retreat. The pre-care includes a detailed screening form to fill out and a one-toone Zoom call. The aftercare includes a WhatsApp group and Unplugged monthly mentor membership they can join to keep connected and continue to learn and support each other.

I’ve met young people all over the world who spoke to me like an agony aunt about the weight they carry

There’s a good business case for spas to offer services for teenagers, especially in the area of mental health and anxiety. Operators should evolve their offering – not only with short-term physical treatments like massages but also long-term

future-proofing services like trauma release therapies, somatic workshops and pop-up programmes.

Like any business, if you don’t respond to the changing needs of the audience, you’ll become extinct.

Jeremy McCarthy, group director of leisure, spa and wellness, Mandarin Oriental

Spas naturally offer experiences to aid mental health, including silent time, separation from technology and nurturing touch. Teenagers could also benefit from spending time in this environment to help establish a self-care mindset from a young age.

However, I don’t see this as a huge untapped market. Most teens may not have the money for spa services or prioritise them.

At Mandarin Oriental spas, teen and family wellness is only a very small percentage of our revenue and not something we track closely.

That said, there are certainly many parents

who want to expose their children to wellbeing experiences, so it would be beneficial for spas to find safe and appropriate ways to deliver these experiences to a younger clientele.

Before establishing a policy for younger guests, spas must fully understand their local legal requirements and insurance policy

I don’t see teens as a huge untapped market … but there are certainly many parents who want to expose their children to wellbeing experiences

limitations and take advice from their legal counsel on the appropriate parental waivers and procedures for safe and appropriate treatment of teen guests.

One way to reduce liability is to encourage parents to be involved in their kids’ treatments by sharing an experience together in a couple’s treatment room, for example.

The fact that there are societal pressures on

teens surrounding their appearance and self-esteem means that spas could help them learn new strategies to manage their own skincare, as well as their own mental and physical wellbeing.

At the same time, consideration also needs to be given to the ethical considerations of marketing beauty treatments to teens. Spa experiences that are purely aesthetic may be inappropriate.

Rewire Retreats focus on connection, emotions and biology

Joelle El Khoury, child development and family wellness specialist, Zulal Wellness Resort

Zulal, the first ChivaSom destination outside of Thailand, offers adults-only wellness (Zulal Serenity) and family-focused approaches (Zulal Discovery) in the same setting. The idea is to develop familial bonds while also supporting individual wellness goals.

We offer a range of retreats and activities, such as Discovery Reconnect, which balances active family time with space for individuals, while Zulal Young Adults is ideal for guests aged 13 to 17 who want to learn to balance mind, body and spirit.

Zulal has been a family-orientated resort from inception

With the right activities and expertise, spas can offer an ideal environment for teenagers to focus on themselves

We draw from a curated list of over 400 activities, from gardening, kayaking and adventure walks to floating meditation, beach walks and dance. Alongside this, our Discovery Oasis offers age-appropriate spaces for four specific groups: 0 to three years, four to eight years, nine to 12 years and 13 to 17 years.

Teens today face unprecedented levels of stress due to academic and social media pressures. Normalising mental health support and encouraging teens to seek early intervention will prevent more severe issues down the line.

We believe there’s a significant market for families travelling with teens, so facilities should consider lowering the age limit to include this demographic.

The school holidays are a key time for family stays and we’ve recently added a range of summer camps around topics such as happiness, mindfulness and emotional intelligence.

Families say they’ve seen significant improvements in the quality of time they spend together and say it’s also encouraged them to continue new habits when they go home, such as focusing on family walks, breathing exercises and cooking together.

With the right programme, activities and expertise, spas can offer an ideal environment for teenagers to focus on themselves and their families as they temporarily disconnect from the outside world.

To support a child or teenager, it’s important to build trust to ensure they engage with both individual and family activities, which is why we offer consultations with children and parents separately, as well as the entire family.

There’s a significant market for families travelling with teens

Many spa services offered to adults could easily be adapted for adolescents with minimal adjustments. We’d recommend focusing on self-care, relaxation and mindfulness experiences – coping mechanisms

teens are already actively seeking – rather than appearance and beauty.

Liability issues must be carefully considered, as the traditional spa environment of being one-on-one with a therapist would not be suitable for those under 18.

Obtaining parental consent and having a well-crafted waiver in place can help mitigate potential risks.

But with touchless wellness treatments now available, there’s an opportunity

to have 13-year-olds and upwards be dressed and in a more public environment. This significantly reduces the risk of liability while presenting beneficial hands-free therapies such as red light, infrared, percussion instruments and acoustic vibrational experiences.

In this context, we’d encourage all operators to lower the age requirements and welcome a younger clientele. We believe that the time is right. l

Amy McDonald, founder and CEO, Under a Tree Wellness Consulting

PHOTO:

MORE THAN COLD!

The vario Vaultz V3 by Art of Cryo is a top-of-the-line wholebody cryo solution that uses cutting-edge technology to create unforgettable experiences .

This sophisticated solution is designed for people who are serious about incorporating cryotherapy in their wellness routine. Its advanced features and emphasis on creating exceptional results make it the stand-out offering on the market.

Technology

● Set-up: The vario Vaultz V3 features a triple cryo room system, allowing for gradual and controlled exposure to cold temperatures.

● Temperature range: -110°C (-166°F), with two anterooms with -60°C and -10 °C.

● High-tech controls: The system includes advanced controls for precise temperature management, ensuring consistent and safe cryotherapy sessions.

● User-friendly: Featuring a touch screen encased in either carbon- or chrome-plated stainless steel, this interface is designed for ease of use and session customisation.

Design and comfort

● Spacious and comfortable for up to six guests to stretch and move around.

● Ultra-large windows for clear views and extended comfort.

● All doors are flush and fully integrated within the walls.

● Triple glazed entrance door with continuous handle.

● Emergency door for one step exit.

● Six light-guided treatment timers.

● Light-guided breathwork.

● Multi-coloured LED lights.

● Music playback.

Style: Hemlock wood or designer stainless steel interior.

Treatment Targets

Vaultz V3 is the perfect fit for modern tecspas with results-oriented concepts

● Longevity ● Beauty ● Recovery ● Regeneration

● Performance ● Preparation ● Detox ● Relax

● Medical Wellness and much more.

Fashion forward

Macau’s most in-vogue hotels, with spas by Palazzo Versace and Karl Lagerfeld, are located at Grand Lisboa Palace Resort.

Neena Dhillon tries them for size

PHOTO: NEENA DHILLON

Exuberant contemporary classicism overseen by the House of Versace weaves its way around the new hotel and spa

Grand Lisboa Palace Resort, built with an investment of HK$39 billion (US$5 billion, €4.6 billion, £3.9 billion) by owner SJM Resorts, completed its development when Palazzo Versace Macau opened its doors this March, joining The Karl Lagerfeld Macau that welcomed its first visitors in mid-2023. These two fashion-branded hotels are part of a larger, integrated, three-tower resort, including the Grand Lisboa Palace Macau, which also has a spa. Collectively, there are close to 2,000 guestrooms, six pools and 25 treatment rooms. While looks are everything – the House of Versace and Karl Lagerfeld Group were responsible for all the design and styling of their respective towers, including the spas – Spa Business was keen to find out more about the fashion/ spa crossover. How does the overall wellness concept ‘fit’ with these brand icons? How deep does it go? What’s the business model behind the partnerships? And are these stylish new facilities tempting a different kind of consumer?

Versace emblems, including its iconic Medusa head, feature throughout

FASHION SPAS

Asian debut: PALAZZO

VERSACE MACAU

Exuberant contemporary classicism overseen by the House of Versace weaves its way around the fashion brand’s second hotel in the world. More than 2.5 million mosaics can be found in the tower, all handcrafted by fourth-generation Milanese artisans, alongside a kaleidoscope of signature Versace emblems, including its iconic Medusa head, geometric Greca motif and Barocco print. Expressed in carpets, furniture and sculptures, these symbols appear consistently and creatively throughout, with the overall effect of a glamorous Italian palazzo. To complete the brand experience, Versace Home textiles, lighting and linens are integrated into the opulent 271 guestrooms across 12 floors.

The Spa at Palazzo Versace Macau continues this luxurious Italian aesthetic, although a chrysanthemum has also been introduced in everything from the flooring and walls to cushions, coasters and a detoxifying tea served in the welcome lounge. The flower is a local symbol of good health and appeals to Chinese people, who make up the majority of visitors.

Beautiful amber-hued Lasvit chandeliers illuminate the spa reception and complement the Italian marble and red leather furniture. The spectacular pool complex – created in part by Barr + Wray, which had a hand in the mechanical design of all spa wet areas across the Grand Lisboa Palace Resort – is a standout feature. Meanwhile, the corridor leading to the spa deserves its own mention for the hand-drawn prints of fashion models wearing the brand’s shimmering dresses, exclusively created by the House of Versace for the hotel.

Versace Macau’s spectacular pool is a standout feature

MEDITERRANEAN WELLBEING

Central to the Versace wellness concept is the hammam experience, here given an Italian twist, and Mediterranean-infused therapies underpinned by Frame Cosmetics. Based on raw ingredients grown in southern Italy’s protected Pollino National Park, Frame has also choreographed treatments exclusively for our Palazzo Versace spa. A spokesperson for Grand Lisboa Palace says: “These treatments by the advanced Italian brand support the body’s inner wellbeing with herbal infusions, prioritising genuine wellness over abstract notions of beauty.”

For spa visitors, this translates into a distinctive Mediterranean wellbeing experience with hammam rituals that incorporate crushed olive seed scrubs, Mediterranean sea salt and organic herbs such as neroli and lavender, which are present in oils and purifying masks. Even the spa’s signature fragrance epitomises this part of the world, evoking a garden with the scent of sage. Visitors choosing a signature body ritual are given a free run of a wet area featuring a steamroom, sauna, plunge pool and ice fountain that all complement the candle-lit, mosaic-patterned hammam, in which Versace’s famous Tresor de la Mer print makes an appearance. As these rituals continue to unfold in one of the seven treatment rooms, artworks and mosaics maintain a strong visual link to the Versace lifestyle.

There are more than 2.5 million mosaics, all hand crafted by fourthgeneration Milanese artists

A hammam with an Italian twist is central to Versace’s wellness concept Beautiful

Lasvit chandeliers light the Versace spa reception

PHOTO: SJM RESORTS, S.A

Lagerfeld’s love of China is reflected in the wet area decor

One-of-a-kind: THE KARL LAGERFELD

As the only hotel designed exclusively by the late fashion legend, The Karl Lagerfeld bears his fingerprint at every turn. While he never got to actually see the hotel he obsessively handcrafted through hundreds of sketches, his team – including The Karl Lagerfeld senior VP of image and communications Caroline Lebar – ensured the finishing touches to his vision were executed after he suddenly passed away in 2019. From headboards to door knobs, the book lounge to the spa, every detail is as Lagerfeld imagined for a hotel that he wanted to reflect the influence of “Chinese art on European style.” Recurring features include oversized porcelain vases handmade in Jingdezhen, circular room dividers influenced by Chinese moon gates and Chinoiserie-inspired decorative touches enlivening a rock-star palette of gold, black and red.

The intimate 7,750sq ft Spa at The Karl Lagerfeld is tucked away purposefully on the third floor of this sprawling complex. Designed to be private, doors glide open to a residential-style gold-hued reception, complete with a 2.1-metre-high jade art piece inspired by the detail from one of the late fashion designer’s belts. Lagerfeld loved China, in particular the country’s artisanship and artistic traditions. This passion is reflected in the fantastical scenic landscapes of pagodas, bridges and birds captured in the black-and-gold mosaic walls of the spa’s wet area, which includes saunas, steamrooms and jet pools for men and women. His personal taste also runs to the eye-catching, cascading metal chain chandeliers he had in his own home, which are installed here in gold.

THE SMALLEST DETAILS

The spa team confirms that Lagerfeld was directly involved in every design detail, from the choice of silk and brocade embroidery panels in the six treatment rooms to the luxurious black wall coverings and sensuous chain screens in the relaxation room.

A Grand Lisboa Palace spokesperson says: “This meticulous attention extends to the design of staff uniforms, the spa’s signature scent, selection of linens and amenities, the furniture, fixtures and fittings and even the floral arrangements.”

To differentiate the treatment offering, the Lagerfeld spa offers therapies from 111SKIN, bringing the brand to Macau for the first time. Clinicalgrade facials are the focus, with anti-inflammatory rose gold masks and serums combined with rose quartz crystal therapy or cryotherapy stones to depuff and define the skin. There are also targeted

Spa uniforms were designed by the Lagerfeld fashion house

PHOTO: SJM

RESORTS, S.A

PHOTO: SJM RESORTS, S.A

As the only hotel and spa designed exclusively by the late fashion legend, The Karl Lagerfeld bears his fingerprint at every turn

facials for skin pigmentation and blemishes, as well as a smaller menu specifically for men.

The combination of Lagerfeld’s personal styling and 111SKIN’s treatments is designed to attract travellers with an interest in fashion and wellbeing. The experience is enhanced by a gym in which yoga and personal training sessions are available, as well as two magnificent pools. The indoor pool, in particular, conjures up art deco magic with bathing beauties in 1920s swimming caps painstakingly created out of mosaics, while scalloped stone columns are complemented by a signature moon-gate-shaped bar, keeping this area right on The Karl Lagerfeld brand. As a nice post-treatment touch, spa visitors are handed colouring books to take home and bring to life their own Lagerfeld sketches, one of which depicts the designer’s celebrity cat, Choupette.

Barr + Wray worked on all the pools and spa wet areas

FASHIONISTA TOURISTS

The business model at the resort sees SJM serving as both the developer and operator of these two fashion hotels. Running of the spas, including overseeing 30 spa therapists, is the responsibility of the Grand Lisboa Palace team.

Both the Versace and Lagerfeld spas certainly capture the essence of each brand with style, flair and impressive levels of detail, which a spokesperson at Grand Lisboa Palace says is drawing in a different audience. “We’re finding that guests not only want an exceptional design from their hotel room but also wellness facilities that reflect the ethos of each fashion icon, tempting them beyond just a night’s stay. These innovative spas are attracting a new type of traveller, the fashionista, with an enriched sensory journey.”

There’s no doubt that haute couture names are piquing people’s attention as the hotel towers were certainly bustling with activity. At the time of Spa Business’ visit in the middle of the day, however, the spas themselves were quiet – the team explained that as they cater to casino and leisure guests, they’re busier in the early morning and evening. The health facilities in the Versace tower had more traffic, with visitors using the Technogymequipped studio and two incredible pools.

Whether or not the fashion-focused spas have enough pulling power beyond their designs to capture and build a repeat clientele remains to be seen. Overall, however, the wellbeing facilities were generously staffed, with therapists and pool butlers on hand to satisfy every need, a level of service to be expected from spas representing world-renowned lifestyle brands. ●

The style, flair and impressive levels of detail is drawing in a different audience

A striking art deco mural in the Lagerfeld spa

Spa Business’ journalist Neena Dhillon taking notes in the Versace spa

https://www.rkf.fr/

ILONGEVITY vs WELLNESS in hospitality

Longevity is everywhere, but how do we know if it’s really meaningful or viable for businesses? Jeremy McCarthy gives his view

n the last few years, ‘longevity’ has become one of the biggest buzzwords in our sector and it now seems everyone is trying to bring more of it into their offerings.

In some ways, this isn’t hard, as anyone in the wellness industry is, by definition, already trying to improve the length and quality of people’s lives. So, this sudden influx of new longevity programming is confusing. It’s difficult to know if it’s merely a change of semantics or if something more meaningful is being proposed.

Modern longevity treatments, programmes and concepts are categorised by a few primary principles:

They’re based on measurement and diagnostics

They begin with assessments to establish a baseline of health, age and wellness metrics to be addressed through further treatments

2 They’re scientific

Brands are shifting their language from holistic (and perhaps fluffy) concepts to those based on ‘longevity’ which implies that there’s some medical oversight or, at a minimum, some scientific validation for the services being offered

They’re forward-thinking

Longevity programming isn’t just about feeling good in the moment or improving current health. It’s about making changes now

I’m reluctant to push too much longevity into hospitality

that will have a lasting effect on our health and quality of life across our lifespan

Longevity clinics and programmes are popping up everywhere, not only in medicine but also in fitness, nutrition, beauty, spas and hospitality. Although the media is very excited about this trend, it’s unclear how many of these new concepts are viable. I suspect many businesses will fail in their longevity ventures, while a few models will succeed. I’m reluctant to push too much longevity into hospitality. It’s so popular because consumers don’t want to wait until they’re sick to apply scientific approaches to improve their health and quality of life. They want their healthcare to become less about disease management and more about wellness. They want it to be more holistic, proactive and serviceoriented. In other words, longevity is gaining so much traction because consumers want their healthcare to feel more like hospitality, NOT because they want their hospitality to feel more like healthcare.

Based on this, longevity is more likely to be a disruptor of healthcare than hospitality. Patients may be influenced by longevity offerings when choosing clinics, physicians or hospitals – who they wish to partner with for their long-term health. But when it comes to choosing hotels, brands and destinations for travel, guests will be more influenced by wellness.

In contrast to the principles of longevity, wellness in hospitality is based on different core beliefs:

1 It gets us more of what we need now

Providing services and offerings that help guests to be and feel at their best, including physical movement, healthy nourishment, deepening relationships, positive emotional experiences and improved sleep, rest and recovery

It offsets the modern pressures on wellbeing caused by travel and technology

Helping guests to maintain their wellness lifestyles, even when routines are disrupted

3 It inspires us

Guests are introduced to healthy and enjoyable practices that inspire positive lifestyle changes

Hospitality customers are looking for offerings that enrich their experience and immediately impact their wellbeing. They aren’t usually thinking about long-term health goals.

Hospitality brands which are developing their wellness offerings should consider this difference in the temporal focus. Longevity is more about how you will feel later in life. Wellness is more about how you feel now. The media has fallen in love with longevity. But our guests are still looking for good, old-fashioned wellness, not to help them age better, but to help them be at their best right now. l

Jeremy McCarthy has worked in the wellness industry for over 30 years. As group director of leisure, spa and wellness for Mandarin Oriental, he oversees facilities at 40 luxury hotels globally. Contact him with your views on Twitter @jeremymcc

The media has fallen in love with longevity, but guests want good, old-fashioned wellness

I AM WOMAN

A wellness club on Abu Dhabi’s Al Reem Island offers a transformative sanctuary for female empowerment and healing.

Lisa Starr hears more from creative director Patrizia Bortolin

“Embracing imperfections allows for even more strength, beauty and resilience”. This thought-provoking statement is the mantra behind Kintsugi Space, a seven-floor building designed as a safe space for restoration and transformation for women in the Middle East.

The newly-opened members-only club on Al Reem Island in Abu Dhabi began life as a movement and magazine in 2022 to “seek out the very best wellness techniques from around the world”. It was inspired by the Japanese philosophy of kintsugi, a traditional method of mending broken pottery, which translates as ‘golden repair’.

Lisa Starr visits the facility that puts females first and speaks with Patrizia Bortolin, founder of Glowing Flow Consulting, who brought the concept to market and continues to lead its management team.

How did you become involved with Kintsugi Space?

I started speaking with the owners, a holding company in Abu Dhabi, in 2022 and felt a great connection with the concept and the city of Abu Dhabi. The project was behind schedule and the building didn’t feel like a wellness centre. Over 18 months, I’ve realigned and expanded the vision and brought in Emanuela Benedetti, an amazing interior designer and architect from Orion Design, to create a space evocative of a luxurious home where women can feel free and inspired.

What’s the philosophy behind it?

Bortolin is an expert in creating transformational spa concepts

It’s focused on holistic healing for females and was originally created by a group of businesswomen and philanthropists here in Abu Dhabi because there’s nothing like this locally. It’s about repairing the body, making

life even more beautiful than before and ultimately opening the heart – which resonates perfectly with my transformational wellness approach.

Can you elaborate on its scientific innovations?

The core concept is based on quantum healing technology, blended with the unparalleled power of touch, beauty and love of authentic wellness.

I’ve had a strong interest in quantum physics for a long time, but it’s been challenging to fine-tune it for wellness guests to make the offering meaningful and engaging. All guests receive a quantum assessment, which becomes the framework for therapies that all work to boost their frequency and energy needs –whether that’s our signature hands-on rituals or tech-based treatments such as the Biostar PBM helmet, Psio light and sound therapy or futuristic Keope chair for rebalancing to name a few.

Tell us more about the food

The menu offers nutrient-dense, plant-based and detoxifying meals. Our restaurant is led by Emanuele Giorgione, who used to work at Chenot and is inspired by the Italian food culture.

Our nutritionist is trained in therapeutic mindful eating and offers consultations, encouraging people to take a ‘food as medicine’ approach to enhance their digestive and immune systems.

Kintsugi membership includes unlimited meals and many of our members come for breakfast before starting their day.

How did you put the team together?

Many employees were already hired when I arrived and had moved here just to be a part of Kintsugi

It’s focused on holistic healing for females … there’s nothing like this in Abu Dhabi

Kintsugi Space is a women-only club spread over seven ﬂ oors

The core concept is based on quantum healing and the power of touch

PHOTO: LETIZIA CIGLIUTTI

Space. I managed to meet and hire several exceptional people in management, as well as therapists and trainers. When fully staffed, we have up to 80 people as we’re open long hours, seven days a week and sometimes we have events as well.

Who are your clients?

We have the capacity for 200 female members and the club is exclusive and niche. Our customers are a mix of expats and locals. There are many expats in Abu Dhabi, some of whom have been here for several decades. The Emirati women welcomed Kintsugi Space with enthusiasm and open hearts and are now asking us to create a holistic destination for the men!

What is the membership application process?

You apply to join online or over the phone before meeting our membership curator in person. She’s a trained psychologist who guides potential members through a creative and sensorial interview to explore their goals and motivations, sharing the unique Kintsugi approach.

Memberships come in three- six- and 11-month options (we close in August due to the heat). They start at AED14,400 (US$3,921, €3,593, £3,078) and go up to AED34,800 (US$9,476, €8,684, £7,438). There is also a range of shorter visiting packages, such as a one-day pass for AED3,000 (US$817, €749, £641), which includes a treatment and access to all classes and meals.

It’s been challenging to make quantum physics meaningful and engaging for wellness guests

KINTSUGI SPACE AT A GLANCE

n Seven floors dedicated to distinct wellness disciplines and healing methods, ranging from art and meditation to tea tasting, dance and sound baths

n Variety of educational talks and visiting practitioners

n Central leisure floor equipped with an infrared sauna, obsidian crystal sauna, a hammam and relaxation nooks

n There’s also an oxygen bar, hyperbaric oxygen chamber and LED light bed

n Outdoor retreat spaces include a zen garden, a gazebo for mindfulness, a stone path for meditation and a quiet bamboo-concealed balcony designed for creative endeavours

n Suppliers include Comfort Zone, Mauli Rituals, Globalia, Gharieni and Lemi

Kintsugi Space is a haven for restoration for women in the Middle East

MIND-BODY WELLNESS TECHNOLOGIES

EXPERIENCE THE FUTURE OF WELLBEING WITH GHARIENI’S METAWELL MIND BODY WELLNESS TECHNOLOGIES

DISCOVER THE WHOLE RANGE OF QUALITY WELLNESS AND SPA EQUIPMENT

What is the wellness climate like in Abu Dhabi?

The environment here is very clean. People enjoy walking, cycling and the fresh air from the ocean. So these elements are already in place and now the Ministry of Culture is launching a campaign to raise awareness of wellness living. It’s organising festivals and events to shine a spotlight on what Abu Dhabi has to offer and creating visibility via its PR and media channels worldwide. All of which will support wellness businesses.

What’s the long-term vision for Kintsugi Space?

This flagship is extremely important, but we want to create more than a luxury space – we want to create a movement.

The Kintsugi Space magazine will become an almanac, which will be a beautiful book. We are bringing out our own beauty and healing products, perfume, lifestyle tools and clothes.

Next year, we’ll launch an online membership option to connect a global audience with our workshops, classes and retreats. And at some point in the future, there will also be an academy to train therapists in a wide array of modalities and holistic therapies.

The design brief was to create a space evocative of a luxurious home

Abu Dhabi’s Ministry of Culture is launching a wellness living campaign

You specialise in creating transformational concepts, how do you deliver something different each time?

My work takes a lot of energy, but I’m inspired by ‘love circles’ – very special people around me. For me, spirituality is the priority; having life mentors, a core purpose and human connections, investing in myself and finding togetherness.

Where is the wellness industry heading and what’s new for you?

I feel so privileged to have been creating pioneering concepts over many years and now I think the world is finally ready for experiential, healing and holistic wellness. I also think we’ll see more developments for solo travellers. Personally, I’ve just launched a movie, Wellness Leadership Insights, about how lovely it is to work in wellness (see www.spabusiness.com/pbmovie). It took months to make and cost a lot of money to produce – but I’m really happy I did it. I wanted to share how people in this industry help so many lives because, honestly speaking, the majority of people I know are not well. They’re burnt out and the work we do makes such a difference. ●

Local women have welcomed the concept with open hearts

Spas need to do more to entice guests under 30, the survey found

To inform and inspire

UK Spa Association general manager Bobby Griffiths breaks down the country’s first survey of spa businesses in 18 years

The UK Spa Association (UKSA) is on a mission to take a closer look at the nation’s spa facilities to help owners, operators and managers make more informed decisions about optimising their businesses.

With fresh details for the sector long overdue – figures of the same ilk date back to 2006 – the organisation conducted a State of the Spa Industry Snapshot Survey in June, asking operators to report on customer demographics, the type of treatments and facilities they offer and their workforce.

The findings pinpoint key issues and growth opportunities, painting a promising picture for a sector that’s faced many challenges in recent years. Bobby Griffiths, UKSA’s general manager, analyses the numbers for Spa Business and explains what they mean.

MARKET DEMOGRAPHICS

The UKSA’s 2024 State of the Spa Industry Snapshot Survey is based on the responses of 82 properties across the country split between hotel

(56 per cent), day (15 per cent), resort (11 per cent), boutique (10 per cent) and destination spas (9 per cent).

Operators estimate that 99 per cent of their guests who have spa treatments are mostly aged between 31 and 55 years old. While the over 55s are from a generation where spas were still very much a luxury rather than a necessity, the lack of business from under 30s is both surprising and concerning. Is the cost-of-living crisis pushing them to enjoy a more modest lifestyle?

Barriers to entry certainly demand a deeper analysis. As spa customers of the future, we must work to understand more about attracting this market segment and how to keep them engaged.

SUBSTANTIAL GROWTH

The most significant finding from the survey is that 60 per cent of spas report a growth in day guests over the previous 12 months (see Graph 1). If COVID-19 did anything positive, it was to

PHOTO: BOBBY GRIFFITHS

Bobby Griﬃ ths

Graph 1: In the previous 12 months has your number of day spa guests increased or decreased?*

Increased 60%

Decreased 11%

Stayed the same 29%

*Source: UKSA State of the Spa Industry Snapshot Survey, June 2024

highlight the need for self-care and help make spa become a more accessible and sociable pastime. As a result, the value of spa is now becoming obvious and operators are more likely to invest in their facilities further – 37 per cent of those surveyed had upgraded their spas in some way, while 22 per cent had recently had a renovation and 29 per cent were planning one. While international travel took its time to reboot after the pandemic, staycations and spa days became the norm and people don’t want to give this up. If anything, the figures show these visits are still on the up, with the only threat posed being a shortage of staff to provide the services.

STAFFING ISSUE

The lack of therapists coming into the industry is a huge worry and has been for a long time. A career in spas is still not often a popular choice, with many choosing it as an option when they’re unsure what else to pursue. How can we change this perception and market the industry better for the varied opportunities it affords?

28 per cent of spas have at least four or more roles they’re recruiting for

Our survey asked if all therapist positions were currently filled. Forty-four per cent of spas said no and 28 per cent of spas said they have at least four or more roles they’re recruiting for (see Graph 2). While 50 per cent of roles had been vacant for less than a month, an alarming 14 per cent of jobs have been available for a year or more (see Graph 3).

WAGE WATCHERS

Even once people come into the industry, retention is an issue and one which has worsened since COVID-19, with many therapists choosing to either leave the sector altogether or set up from home, where they can dictate the hours they work. Could UK spas make more of the developmental opportunities available and tap into mentoring to maintain engagement, stimulate motivation and encourage progression?

Graph 2: How many therapist positions do you have vacant at present?*

Graph 3: How long has the positon(s) been vacant?*

*Source: UKSA State of the Spa Industry Snapshot Survey, June 2024

A large number of spas, including Hoar Cross Hall, are investing in upgrades

Wages and remuneration will form part of the UKSA’s next industry survey

The next natural question is, is the current therapist wage fair? However, with all business overheads increasing substantially in recent years, there’s a limit to passing costs onto the end user. Wages can also vary hugely by region. The UKSA is keen to delve deeper into this subject and salary and remuneration will form part of a larger State of the Spa Industry survey, which it will conduct next year.

THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX

Savvy spas pivot when necessary and without enough therapists to perform treatments, it’s essential to maximise revenue-per-hour. The survey highlights multiple creative approaches operators are adopting:

• Changing to own-branded products to reduce costs (30 per cent)

• Rolling out touchless treatments (45 per cent).

• Incorporating cold therapy (37 per cent) – including ice baths, snow cabins, ice fountains or plunge pools

• Removing short treatments to ensure maximum yield per treatment hour – 28 per cent of respondents no

longer offer 30/45-minute treatment protocols and of that group, 87 per cent had done so previously

• Opting out of assistance from third-party booking agents, ensuring maximum profit goes to the bottom line (24 per cent).

UKSA PROMISES ANNUAL SURVEY

Anecdotally, spa stakeholders and GMs may have an inkling of some of the insights provided in UKSA’s latest survey. Yet having industry figures to support these notions is essential for the approval of planned strategies and new purchases.

The hunger for UK spa data has been growing for a long time and the reaction to the survey has been humbling. UKSA intends to keep up the momentum and deliver a State of the Spa Industry Survey on an annual basis, in addition to collecting and releasing bite-size snaps of industry data on key issues periodically. l

n A full copy of the survey is available for UKSA members – sign up here: https://spa-uk.org/

More spas are incorporating cold therapy experiences

There’s a move towards longer treatments to increase yield

From wellness to wellbeing

A new study unpicks consumer attitudes to wellness and wellbeing and reveals four distinct market segments ripe for innovation. Study co-author Kevin Kelly reveals more

The health and wellness industry comprises product, service and experience providers which cater to a broad yet imprecise cohort of consumers. Wares are delivered through a plethora of channels – from the hospitality sector, spas, fitness centres and spiritual arenas to lifestyle real estate, healthcare and medical institutes and nutritional/food-based businesses.

For all its vibrancy, however, the industry has grown in a decentralised manner and lacks standards, terminology and performance metrics. This has led to market confusion and makes it much harder for product and service providers to communicate genuine differentiation and establish brand loyalty. Consumers question why they should pay more or travel farther for top wellness resorts, for example, if they don’t perceive them to offer anything meaningfully different than affordable, local brands.

It’s against this backdrop that WELLSurvey, a new thought-provoking national probability study, measured the attitudes, behaviours, beliefs and intentions of US consumers towards wellness and wellbeing.

WELLNESS VS WELLBEING

WELLSurvey is co-authored by Civano Advisory Services’ CEO, Kevin Kelly, a spa figure with more than two decades of experience and Peter Yesawich, co-founder and former vice chair of leading travel and tourism marketing agency MMGY Global.

It’s based on 1,002 Americans aged 25-74 who reside in the top half of all homes defined by annual household income – with a mean of US$155,400 (€139,651, £119,249) and median of US$127,500 (€114,578, £97,840). Reflecting the sentiments of 88 million households, the survey indicates the majority of respondents describe themselves as resilient and optimistic about their future but also express concern about the direction of the country and world events. Most now incorporate health and wellness practices in their everyday lives and cite being with family members as their greatest sense of joy.

Findings reveal that US adults consider ‘wellness’ and ‘wellbeing’ complementary concepts associated with different lifestyle benefits. The former is

PHOTO: KEVIN KELLY.

PHOTO: PETER YESAWICH

Study co-authors Kevin Kelly (left) and Peter Yesawich

understood to include objective, measurable activities and functions that enhance healthier living. The latter is a broader term that includes emotional health in addition to mental and physical states. It’s associated with more subjective, aspirational and relational terms (see Diagram 1). We explore the relationship between how these two concepts are viewed in more detail in a separate article – see www.spabusiness.com/wellsurvey1.

Significantly, 20.2 million affluent households in the US (23 per cent of respondents) are now more interested in enhancing their wellbeing than wellness. Meaning, that while they value the functional aspects of healthier living found in wellness programmes and services – healing touch, food, fitness, mental health, healthier routines – all of which feed into the wellbeing toolkit, they embrace a more integrated and ethereal approach to healthy living overall.

MARKET SEGMENTS REVEALED

With the US$5.6 trillion (€5.03 trillion, £4.30 trillion) global health and wellness marketplace projected to achieve a compound annual growth rate of 8.6 per cent through 2027, according to the Global Wellness Institute, it’s logical to conclude that one size doesn’t fit all when targeting today’s customers.

Diagram 2: ADDRESSABLE MARKET: ADULTS INTERESTED IN ENHANCING THEIR WELLBEING*

US households headed by 25-74 YOA, annual HHI >US$75,000**

52.8 million are WELLSearchers

(.60) x (88,160,000) = 52,896,000 HHS

27.3 million are WELLTrackers

(.31) x (88,160,000) = 27,329,600 HHS

15.8 million are WELLFanatics

(.18) x (88,160,000) = 15,868,800 HHS

Market segmentation is necessary for more effective strategic positioning, differentiation and growth.

To this end, WELLSurvey measured people’s responses to 84 attitudinal, behavioural and belief statements/variables, plus gathered details about demographics and health metrics. Significantly, it uncovered four unique consumer groups – as outlined below and in Diagram 2 – with distinctive wellness and wellbeing habits, interests and lifestyles.

While the segments have varying, and at times overlapping, characteristics, they present exciting opportunities for industry growth through the development of new products, programmes, services and experiences that reflect their preferences.

WELLSearchers

52.8 MILLION HOUSEHOLDS

–

The largest market segment, representing 52.8 million US households (60 per cent of the overall sample), WELLSearchers are defined by their regular use of spas, alternative medical practices and healing therapies. They are spa and wellness enthusiasts who are optimistic and prioritise their efforts to achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are significantly more likely than other adults to:

● Have a higher annual household income

● Weigh less

● Take a daily vitamin or supplement

● Have children and pets

● Live in an urban area

● Be racially diverse

● Agree with the following statements:

❖ I love learning

❖ You can accomplish anything if you’re determined

❖ I love spending time in nature

❖ My health is priority one

15.8 million are WELLZoomers

(.18) x (88,160,000) = 15,868,800 HHS

The second largest market segment is the WELLTrackers

WELLFanatics

exercise 7 hours or more a week

WELLFanatics are more likely to have a higher household income

WELLTrackers

– 27.3 MILLION HOUSEHOLDS

WELLTrackers are defined by their use of wearable technology to track and monitor their health metrics and wellbeing. There are 27.3 million

WELLTracker households (accounting for 31 per cent of survey respondents) and these adults are significantly more likely than other adults to:

● Collect and monitor their health metrics daily

● Rate their overall health good/excellent

● Have a four-year college degree

● Be employed full-time

● Live in an urban area

● Not have a disability that inhibits them

● Agree with the following statements:

❖ I love learning

❖ I have the energy to do the things I want to

❖ My family is the source of my greatest joy

WELLFanatics

15.8 MILLION HOUSEHOLDS

–

Defined by their exercise frequency, WELLFanatics account for 15.8 million households (18 per cent of all people surveyed). WELLFanatics are highly active physically and embrace a sense of success. They exercise 7 hours or more a week and are significantly more likely than other adults to:

● Have a higher annual household income

● Rate their health good/excellent

● Collect and monitor their health metrics

● Take fewer medications

● Agree with the following statements:

❖ Life’s journey is about constantly growing and improving

❖ Integrity is everything to me

❖ I feel empathy towards others

❖ I have a sense of purpose

WELLZoomers are 25-34 years old

WELLZoomers – 15.8 MILLION HOUSEHOLDS

There are 15.8 million WELLZoomer households in the US (representing 18 per cent of survey respondents). They’re defined by their age cohort (25–34-year-olds) and attitudes about healthy living. WELLZoomers are the children of Boomers who possess an even stronger desire for healthier living and greater wellbeing. They are significantly more likely to:

● Use wearables

● Use spa, alternative medical practices, and healing therapies

● Rent versus own a home

● Feel anxious

● Consume recreational marijuana and CBD products

● Be black or Hispanic

● Agree with the following statements:

❖ I wish I could spend more time with my spouse/significant other

❖ I measure my wellbeing by how hopeful, joyful and energised I feel

❖ I am excited about what lies ahead

❖ My work has meaning

FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES

As competition in the marketplace increases and the integration of data, technology and health science into experiential programmes and services continues, it will be imperative to have clear standards and agreed metrics to define and differentiate unique experiences and programme premiums. Further, providers will need a deeper understanding of the profiles and expectations

of diverse market segments to remain relevant, identify new business opportunities and prosper. Consumers’ increased focus on the pursuit of healthier lifestyles, guided by the insights derived from personal information and big data, has created a remarkable opportunity for both revenue growth and brand distinction. Providers who evolve their products and services to reflect the preferences of emerging markets will be the most successful. ●

■ For more information on the WELLSurvey, contact Kevin Kelly at kevin@civanoadvisors.com or visit https://civanoadvisors.com/wellsurvey/

The children of Boomers, WELLZoomers, have an even stronger desire for wellbeing

The study reﬂ ects the values of 88 million US households

To the SOURCE

The waters at Saturnia have been used since the time of the Etruscans. Jane Kitchen travels to Italy to visit one of the most iconic thermal springs in the world

We smell it before we see it: the pungent scent of sulphurous waters permeates Terme di Saturnia Resort, seeping into the lobby. It’s quite possibly the strangest first impression of a five-star hotel

I’ve ever had. But it’s the waters that people come here for – we’ve driven 2 hours from Siena, down roughly paved, precariously twisty roads, to the remote landscape of Maremma, where spring waters have gushed from the centre of the earth for more than 3,000

years, since the time of the Etruscans, who called the town Aurinia and used the springs for sacred rituals in the 7th century BC.

Legend has it that the Roman god Saturn, tired of the constant warfare of men, took a thunderbolt to the earth, causing a river of hot water to gush through the valleys and envelop all things so that their spirits were quietened. The Romans renamed the town and the springs Saturnia and the first modern hotel was built on the site in 1919. Terme di Saturnia was born.

Since then, people have been coming to the resort to experience the thermal spring’s healthgiving properties; the water – which contains bicarbonate, alkaline, calcium, magnesium and carbon dioxide in addition to 14 mg per litre of sulphur – is said to have beneficial effects on every system in the body, from skin and the respiratory system to bone health. It flows at 500 litres per second from underground, which means the water is naturally replenished in the resort’s pools every 4 hours. Unlike many hot springs, which often need to be cooled for bathing, Saturnia’s water is a perfect 37.5°C.

Jane Kitchen takes to the sulphurous waters with her husband Christian

PHOTO: JANE KITCHEN

A 40-YEAR JOURNEY

We’ve come to Saturnia after a long weekend of celebrations for my cousin’s 40th birthday – a fitting time to visit, as the thermal water makes a 40-year journey underground from Mount Amiata, flowing through travertine passages lined with clay and picking up its mineral content along the way. The water bursts from the spring into the resort’s main pool, then spills over into other pools and finally to a stream that moves downhill until it reaches an old stone mill. It’s here where the iconic terraced pools of Saturnia are located with their milky blue waters. This is where my cousin heads with his wife and two young children, keen to see beautiful pools from Instagram first-hand. It’s a bonus that they’re free and open to the public. “Just think,” I tell my cousin, who’s grown up summering in Tuscany, “you’re soaking in rainwater that fell onto Mount Amiata the year you were born!”

Up at the hotel, my husband and I don our robes to check out its five thermal pools. The main pool, which houses the spring, is a deep cerulean blue and is shaded throughout with darker hues, which

The Terme di Saturnia Resort offers a more tranquil experience

The famous terraced pools of Saturnia are free to the public but often overcrowded

PHOTO: SDM TERME DI SATURNIA

I only realise after a few minutes of floating are actually clusters of algae. The thermal plankton is gelatinous in texture but rich in minerals and is used in the resort’s treatments and cosmetics.

THIRD-GENERATION VISITORS

I fashion an armchair of sorts from foam noodles and simply float in the water, which is filled with small bubbles that gently caress your skin as they burst, in addition to the algae that feels incredibly silky. The pool is full of mostly Italians doing the same thing – soaking, chatting, relaxing. In fact, 75 per cent of the resort’s guests are nationals, with the average age between 35 and 50, and “younger and younger with the years passing,” says general manager Antonello Del Regno. Many are second and third-generation visitors, having first come as children and now bringing their own families. Up to 40 per cent of business is from repeat guests, says Del Regno.

“In Italy, Terme di Saturnia is recognised as the ultimate escape for wellbeing, having such a long tradition since the Romans,” he says. “Families celebrate festivities and important achievements with us – it’s like a second home … a gift from generation to generation to take care of yourself.”

I get a text from my cousin: the children are enjoying the shallow waters at the public pools, but he advises us to stay put at the tranquil resort as it’s packed where he is.

BEYOND SPA & BEAUTY

The hotel’s thermal area includes five outdoor thermal pools, as well as whirlpools, contrast therapy and indoor and outdoor relaxation areas. But the resort also includes a Spa & Beauty Clinic with 53 treatment rooms, where guests can have massages, mud therapy, inhale thermal vapours, medical and beauty treatments, nutritional guidance, hydrokinesis and Tecar Therapy, as well as fillers, injections, skin peels and laser treatments.

Terme di Saturnia is like a second home to many families ... a gift from generation to generation to take care of yourself

Shaping

THE WELLNESS REVOLUTION

Myrtha Wellness creates, engineers and manufactures sustainable products that delight the clientele. Myrtha modular panels technology are the epitome of ‘Made in Italy’ thermal bathing wellness products - including saunas, steam rooms, vitality pools, plunge pools, ice fountains & experience showers and swimming pools. The exceptional technical team of experts at Myrtha Wellness works globally in concert with architects, designers and engineers throughout the project lifecycle to create memorable experiences, leading the latest technological trends in the hospitality sector. www.myrthawellness.com

The Terme di Saturnia Method focuses on different goals – losing weight and shaping the body, elimination of toxins, stimulation of the immune system and reactivation of energy flows – and the team includes several specialised medical practitioners.

“The healing water is a treatment in itself, with so many health benefits,” says Del Regno. “Most weekend guests are happy just with that and then they’ll choose a classic massage or facial.” Midweek guests, he says, are different, choosing longer programmes and more treatments advised by doctors. Regardless, he reports that the spa capture rate is an incredible 98 per cent.

Terme di Saturnia has also recently introduced a series of programmes focused on areas such as metabolic health, qi gong and yoga. “We wanted to grow awareness of Terme di Saturnia not only as a medical spa but also as the perfect location for holistic wellness,” says Del Regno. “Prevention instead of cure is the keyword now. Nature, expertise, healing waters and medical know-how are the perfect premise for this.”

MESMERISING HIGHLIGHTS

With only one night at the resort, my husband and I dedicate our time to the original treatment of balneotherapy and taking to the waters.

At 8am the next day, I take advantage of the cooler air to go for a run down to the old mill. I have the place nearly to myself and am mesmerised as the thermal steam punctuates the morning light. I imagine this is what it used to be like before Instagram got the best of it. I’m struck that the highlights of Saturnia are the ones that can’t be captured in a

De Montel Terme di Milano will be one of the largest thermal parks in Italy ... accommodating 700 guests at a time

photograph or reel: the pure relaxation felt by floating in perfectly warm water that’s taken 40 years to surface – and yes, that waft of sulphur. Not everyone likes it, but to me, it’s a signal of the power of the minerals in the water. It smells like true healing.

SISTER SITE COMING SOON

Writing this article weeks later, it’s announced that Terme Italia Holding, the operating company behind Terme di Saturnia, is scheduled to open one of the largest thermal parks in Italy in early 2025.

The €50 million (US$55.3 million, £42.1 million), 16,000sq m De Montel Terme di Milano will boast 10 pools ranging from 22˚C to 38˚C and accommodate up to 700 guests. Companies helping to bring it to market include bbspa_Group, Starpool and Myrtha Wellness.

The thermal park is a redevelopment project of Milan’s renowned De Montel horse racing stables. It’s also part of the Reinventing Cities initiative. Reinventing Cities is underpinned by C40 – a design competition launched by a network of mayors of 100 world-leading cities to “transform underutilised urban sites into beacons of sustainability and resilience”.

I can’t wait to return to Italy to see how the old and new thermal spas compare. l

The company behind Terme di Saturnia is opening a €50m thermal park in Milan next year

Satisfaction Innovation Quality Sustainability

Innovation Quality

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Sauna, and wellness technology: Technology for showers, saunas, hammam, steam baths and rhassoul, dosage systems, inhalation systems, light technology

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workmanship. All items are “made in Germany”.

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Kemitron , is manufacturer of high-quality products the spa-, sauna-, market (technology, cleaners, cosmetic). The company’s focus is on best quality and workmanship. All items are “made

Kemitron , is high-quality for the sauna-, and wellness market (technology, fragrances, cleaners, The company’s focus is on best workmanship. All “made in Germany”.

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Kemitron’s products are sold on the international spa and wellness market and can be purchased via our webshop on our homepage. www.kemitron.com

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Kemitron’s products are sold on the international spa and wellness market and can be purchased via our webshop on our homepage. www.kemitron.com

Kemitron’s products are the international spa and wellness market and can be via our webshop on our homepage. www.kemitron.com

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THE ART OF RECOVERY

With an approach to wellbeing that’s both holistic and grounded in science, the latest massage from L’OCCITANE en Provence promises to have a powerfully-beneficial effect on customers, both in the spa and at home

L’OCCITANE en Provence stands out in the cosmetics world as a pioneer of holistic wellbeing experiences that address the physiological, psychological and social needs of clients at a deeper level. Since its inception, the company has a unique vision of beauty that’s reflected in its spas through specially-designed massages and sensory products that promote precious moments of personal care and reconnection – all backed by a rigorous scientific approach.

The latest addition to Spa L’OCCITANE’s holistic repertoire is the Power Nap Massage which turns a spa moment into a multi-sensory journey and brings scientifically-backed relaxation and recovery benefits to spa guests.

Inspired by the centuries-old Provençal art of napping – usually a short sleep to escape the heat of the day – Spa L’OCCITANE has developed a treatment that only takes 25 minutes and leaves guests fully refreshed and energised. The three different phases of the Power Nap seamlessly blend grounding and breathing exercises with traditional acupressure techniques and percussive movements. The massage is performed clothed and without massage oil, making it easy to integrate into any lifestyle schedule and allowing clients to immediately return to their everyday activities post-treatment. With its sensorial products, such as the Relaxing Pillow Mist and the iconic Shea Butter Hand Cream, the ritual includes breathing rituals at the beginning and end of the treatment.

The Power Nap massage is a wellbeing recipe from Provence with beneﬁ ts proven by neuroscience

SLEEP LAB TESTING

E ssential oils-based products enhance relaxation, enriching the sensory experience

To truly test the efficiency of the Power Nap Massage, L’OCCITANE en Provence partnered with the European Sleep Center, a renowned institute in the field of sleep and recovery. L’OCCITANE had previously worked with the science centre on the predecessor of the new Power Nap – its award-winning Sleep and Reset massage. Evaluation of this comprehensive massage showed sleep quality improved by 40 per cent and ‘time to fall asleep’ reduced by 30 per cent, earning it the Treatment of the Year award from Destination Deluxe in 2020. For the Power Nap testing, a study was conducted on 17 volunteers whose sleep was being disrupted by stress. Each participant was exposed to four conditions, serving as their own control: Nap, Power Nap Massage, Control and Regenerating Ritual – the home treatment protocol –Using subjective questionnaires and objective measures such as heart rate monitors and EEG headbands, the study measured overall wellbeing,

Our Power Nap massage and Regenerative Ritual reinterpret napping and transform this wellbeing moment into a relaxation experience with beneﬁts proven by neuroscience

Hélène Goetzelmann, vice-president of Client Experience for L’OCCITANE en Provence

dynamism, eye openness, cardiac variability and brain wave activity to ensure scientific rigour and confirm the beneficial effects of the Power Nap Massage.

The treatment was shown to enhance relaxation and recovery by 35 per cent, improve perceived wellbeing by 29 per cent, and increase the openness of the eyes by 25 per cent in comparison to a classic nap.

This commitment to proven effectiveness earned the brand the title of Spa Brand of the Year at the 2023 World Spa Awards.

WELLNESS AT HOME

With its dedication to ‘democratising’ its wellbeing expertise, Spa L’OCCITANE has also taken the step of extending the Power Nap Massage experience to customers in a home environment with the Regenerative Ritual, a five-step ritual for the home that involves self-massage of the head, hands or feet, accompanied by an exclusive free-to-download sound composition, breathing exercises that will allow them to unwind and reconnect to themselves.

Results after testing by The European Sleep Center study, were highly promising. The Regenerating Ritual demonstrated significant benefits in terms of relaxation and overall wellbeing, with subjects reporting a 43 per cent increase in relaxation and 16 per cent less perceived signs of fatigue after the ritual.

The Power Nap Massage is available at the flagship Spa L’OCCITANE at the Couvent des Minimes in Mane in Provence, and in a selection of Spas L’OCCITANE worldwide. The Regenerative Ritual can be found in a selection of boutiques, on the L’Occitane en Provence website, and on the brand’s social media ● More: www.spa.loccitane.com

FOUR FLOORS OF

WELLNESS

The Maybourne Group has unveiled its all-new London hotel The Emory. Megan Whitby goes behind the scenes at Surrenne, its four-storey health and wellness club

Afunctional medicine clinic, scientific advisory board and the UK’s first Tracy Anderson fitness studio combined with a multisensory spa, 24k gold ceilings, snow showers and mushroom sculptures. These are just some of the standout features of Surrenne, the hot new health and wellness club being heralded as London’s next-generation longevity space. The 2,000sq m private members wellness enclave covers four floors beneath The Emory, the new all-suite hotel in Knightsbridge, which is owned by the Qatari Investment

Authority and managed by The Maybourne Hotel Group, which also operates Claridges. Leading the charge in conceptualising Surrenne is Inge Theron, founder of spa design firm Inge Theron and Associates. Theron also serves as Maybourne’s creative director of spa and wellness across the group’s five other properties in Europe and the US (see p78). She reveals Maybourne has ambitions to own the longevity market and has big plans for the Surrenne brand.

COMMERCIAL CONCEPT

“Surrenne represents a paradigm shift in wellness,” Theron says. “We’ve considered

Surrenne has been hailed as London’s hottest new longevity space

every detail, meaning it’s at the forefront of science, diagnostics and functional medicine, as well as fitness and holistic wellness and preventative medicine.”

Theron is working on a handful of new projects for Maybourne. Each will have a Surrenne and in every case, its core principles of a guest-centric, science-first, evidence-based and results-driven customer journey will shine through, but with a holistic influence.

“The wellness industry is now on the frontline of health and preventing people from getting sick,” she says. “My job at Maybourne has been to create an instantly recognisable

Baz Luhrmann taught me to use design as a medium for storytelling

Inge Theron is the mastermind behind Surrenne

PHOTO:

STELLA BY STELLA MCCARTNEY

Stella McCartney was born to a family of creators – her father is Paul McCartney, The Beatles singer and her mother is the late Linda McCartney, a photographer, vegetarian and animal rights activist.

She’s carved a successful name for herself in the fashion industry, pushing from day one to make the clothing industry more sustainable and ethical.

In August 2022, she launched Stella by Stella McCartney in partnership with LVMH Beauty Division.

The consumer-facing line includes three products – a cleanser, serum and cream – as well as supplements.

In keeping with her eco-fashion approach, McCartney is committed to changing the beauty landscape by delivering “skincare with a clear conscience”. It’s claimed 99 per cent of the ingredients are natural and 85 per cent are traceable to the country of harvest. The products are also recognised as being vegan and cruelty-free.

In addition, packaging has been designed to be easily recyclable and containers are refillable and made from recycled and renewable materials.

McCartney says: “The truth is that everything we create has an impact, the choice we have is how much. It’s our responsibility to minimise this as much as possible, and, as an industry, to be honest and transparent about it.”

Spaces have been designed so just being in them improves people’s wellbeing

The spa launched with the world’s first facial by fashion icon Stella McCartney

SURRENNE SUPPLIERS

Designer: Remi Tessier

Skincare: Stella by Stella McCartney, FaceGym, Dr Lara Devgan and Geneo

Treatment beds: Gharieni

Towels, linen and robes: Frette, Nuno and Jalin

Pools: Oak Pools

Heat experiences: Design for Leisure, Klafs and TechnoAlpin

Fitness: Technogym, Woodway, Hydrow, Hyperice and Peloton

take on longevity that the company can own and roll out around the world.”

Capped at 100 members, annual membership for the London club costs £10,000 (US$12,662, €11,752), with an additional £5,000 (S$6,331, €5,876) joining fee. Hotel guests – both at The Emory and Maybourne’s adjacent hotel, The Berkeley – who aren’t members can also use the facilities on a 24/7 basis.

For members, the essence of Surrenne lies in meeting them where they are on their wellness journey with expert guidance. This starts with a clinical check-up by 3 Peaks Health, a health and lifespan company led by CEO Dr Mark Mihail, who also serves as Surrenne’s medical director.

PHOTO: SURRENNE

PHOTO:

Stella McCartney

I always aim to get the hotel talked about, make visitors happy and make money

Insights gleaned from the checks serve as the foundation for personalised plans created by a team of nutritionists, physicians and head of fitness, Simon Inman, who previously helmed the gym at the Dorchester.

“We’re looking at creating journeys that feel incredibly meaningful,” says Theron, “and we’re focusing on small behavioural changes that happen every time members come into a club, which add up to a huge improvement in the long term. Our job is to send guests back into the world feeling better than when they walked in.”

MULTISENSORY ENVIRONMENTS

Spaces in Surrenne have been designed so just being in them improves people’s wellbeing and she’s partnered with wellness innovation consultancy White Mirror (p84) to do this. The sensory aspects they’ve curated include a ‘golden lightscape’ with

circadian lighting, an ever-evolving soundscape driven by AI and a bespoke smellscape – all, says Theron, are proven to enhance wellbeing.

“We’ve got the data that shows how fragrances influence neural pathways and what’s been so interesting is that the scent has been so well received because it makes people feel good,” she says. “What captivates me most about Surrenne is the moment you step inside, your nervous system naturally begins to unwind.”

STORYTELLING

Theron’s inspiration for these immersive experiences stems from her previous collaboration with Hollywood film director Baz Luhrmann at Miami’s dramatic Faena Hotel (see www.spabusiness.com/faenamiami).

“Baz taught me to use design as a medium for storytelling,” she says. “He always encouraged me to envision the guest experience – close

PHOTO: SURRENNE

Surrenne boasts the UK’s first Tracy Anderson studio, complete with an isokinetic ceiling

THE MAYBOURNE HOTEL GROUP

The Maybourne Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, USA

your eyes, step out of the elevator, what do you smell, hear, see? He instilled in me the importance of crafting moments,” says Theron.

“Now, we’re bringing storytelling into wellness – you need to be confident in what it means to you as a brand and how you want to express that across touchpoints in a consistent and considered way. You can’t build a brand or convince a client of your authority without a compelling story.”

With regards to interiors, Theron worked with star designer Remi Tessier to counterbalance the club’s clinical offering. “Through luxurious interiors and wellness-centric environmental details, Surrenne exudes a delicious, inviting warmth akin to a second home,” she says.

A MEDICAL BASIS

In-house programming includes a medical emphasis with options such as microbiome analysis, chiropractic and epigenetic testing.

Members can peruse an extensive menu of services, ranging from GP consultations, MRIs and blood tests to mammograms with advanced medical interventions – including brain scans, carotid artery ultrasounds, AI mole mapping and liver function tests – available via Surrenne’s partner, OneWelbeck.

“Surrenne transcends the traditional spa experience,” says Theron. “Along with their dayto-day wellness routine, members can seamlessly

The Maybourne Riviera, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France

Claridge’s, London, UK

The Berkeley, London, UK

The Connaught, London, UK

The Emory, London, UK

for health and recovery is key

Theron worked with star designer Remi Tessier on the club

Contrast bathing

PHOTO: SURRENNE

Membership, capped at 100 people, costs £10k a year ... all spaces were snapped up in weeks

access life-saving diagnostic tests. Then, thanks to our partnership with OneWelbeck, we can expedite referrals to specialists within 48 hours, empowering guests to stay ahead in their health journey.”

IMPRESSIVE WELLNESS MENU

Theron believes Surrenne offers one of the most impressive wellness menus in the UK, saying: “We cater for everyone, from those seeking immediate relief to those invested in long-term wellness.”

The spa launched, for example, with the world’s first facial by fashion icon Stella McCartney (see p77). The menu also includes a Korean-inspired 21-step scalp massage and tech-driven GeneoX facial, as well as treatments using products from celebrity plastic surgeon Dr Lara Devgan and Theron’s own facial fitness brand, FaceGym, which she says caters to male clients.

Theron also wants to roll out retreats, saying: “We would send guests wearables, connect with their doctor and arrange for blood tests in their home city, so when they stay with us, we have their results and personalised plans ready.”

Additionally, she has plans for a 12-month schedule of events to help build a sense of community.

CUSTOMER BASE

While a significant portion of Surrenne’s early members were female Tracy Anderson devotees, men quickly followed. The typical member profile ranges from affluent locals to business people, elite athletes and longevity enthusiasts.

“Many of our members are well-versed in longevity and already have a team of doctors and specialists, but because we’re brand-agnostic, our head of medical collaborates with their specialists to complement their existing health journey,” says Theron.

“Despite initial apprehensions around pricing, membership provides access to almost £60,000 (US$76,500, €70,100) worth of treatments and diagnostics a year.” In a testament to this, demand has been “through the roof” and all 100 spaces were snapped up in eight weeks.

According to Theron, membership models are poised to transform the wellness industry

The

as they provide the capital necessary for investment, ultimately enabling the operator to enhance the facility and experience.

HOTELS AND HEALTHCARE

Hoteliers are recognising that hotel wellness destinations can be a major USP and cash generator. “Today, many affluent guests choose their destinations not only for comfortable amenities and F&B but also for access to healthcare, personalised programming and tools for improving wellbeing,” says Theron.

“I’m excited by the convergence of scientific rigour and accessibility, which is enabling people to integrate wellness into their everyday lives,” she continues. “I expect a fusion of curiosity and commercial insight to fundamentally transform the landscape for wellness businesses.” ●

■ Megan Whitby gives her impressions of Surrenne, visiting a week after it opened, on p80

PHOTO: SURRENNE

wellness PLAYFUL

Megan Whitby visits London’s chic new wellness club, Surrenne

London’s wellness scene is increasingly competitive, with global operators investing heavily in urban retreats in the capital (see www. spabusiness.com/london). From the moment you step inside Surrenne, the private wellness club at the city’s latest hotel, The Emory, it’s clear a new niche combining health, luxury and playful innovation has been carved out (see p74).

Entering Surrenne at the lowest basement level, I’m struck by the inviting atmosphere where wood-clad interiors, bathed in mellow lighting, are accentuated with copper touches and cosy seating. The health cafe is approached by what seems to be a feature wall filled with bubbling blue liquid.

To my surprise, it’s a secret door which slides aside to unveil an opulent bathing hall with a 22m pool, 24k gold ceiling and mosaic walls twinkling with crystal geodes. Come evening, guests can swim by candlelight while underwater speakers create a soundtrack for their workout. Funky spa robes, striped pink pillows and slippers with bright orange accents add a fun twist.

Around the thermal pool are a sauna and an aromatherapy steamroom with a pink glass portal. The standout feature, however, is a TechnoAlpin snow shower, which provides a refreshing finale to contrast bathing cycles.

TRACY ANDERSON AT SURRENNE

An impressive circular staircase leads to a modern gym with advanced cardio equipment. Up two floors is the temple where devotees of Tracy Anderson can go to work out. Anderson is known for having helped a range of celebrities with their physical transformations, including Jennifer Lopez, Victoria Beckham and Gwyneth Paltrow, who became her business partner in 2008.

Marking the UK’s first studio dedicated to Anderson’s classes, the space – currently booming with music during a class – has been a major draw for members and can be heated to 95˚C with 75 per cent humidity during workouts, which has a number of benefits.

“Sweat encourages the body to release toxins and improves the skin’s elasticity and tone,” says Anderson. “The heat also keeps the muscles warm, ready to move and malleable.

“When you exercise and sweat, you’re utilising the body’s natural cooling mechanism. All it wants in return is new water. Now that’s cleansing!”

STELLA MCCARTNEY’S FIRST FACIAL

A pivotal step in bringing Surrenne to fruition – and defining Maybourne’s longevity and wellness brand – is aligning itself with global experts such as Anderson. On the spa side, this included an exclusive partnership with Stella by Stella McCartney, which saw Surrenne

Whitby is struck by the inviting cosy atmosphere at Surrenne

PHOTO:JACK EMMERSON

offering the world’s first facial using the fashion icon’s skincare products (see p76).

McCartney is a staunch leader in sustainable clothing and ethical fashion and this ethos is echoed in her consumer-facing beauty range based on natural formulas and refillables.

The 60-minute £220 (US$291, €260) treatment, which launched as a one-off pop-up service and has just ended, used McCartney’s beauty products, which are claimed to be 99 per cent organic and 100 per cent vegan. The ritual worked on reflex points, lymphatic drainage and deep tissue manipulation to release obstructions and promote plumpness in the skin.

“Stella is a great friend and it’s inspirational how she’s single-handedly trying to change the [fashion] industry,” says Theron.

“It was important to me that customers who really believe in sustainability had a choice at Surrenne. And we also saw that the gentle, yet still effective, organic ingredients appealed to younger customers and we get a lot of teens coming in with their mums.”

Stella McCartney’s organic ingredients appealed to younger customers

STRIKING SPA

Surrenne’s spa and medical clinic features solar sculptures, soft pink lighting, mushroom artwork and crystals. The spa’s reception and shop retail top-end products ranging from energetically charged perfumes and VR goggles to workout gear and skincare tools. Behind this is a hyperbaric oxygen chamber suite and a diagnostics room.

Eight treatment rooms feature artwork by Damien Hirst and Helle Mardahl, including one double room with two hammam suites clad in white marble.

Attention to detail underpins all aspects, taking the notion of luxury wellness to new heights. Yet the quirky touches temper its exclusivity and invite guests to embrace a life of balance, fun and wellbeing.

A hyperbaric oxygen suite sits next to a diagnostics room

Mellow lighting is used throughout the spa, including the thermal rooms

PHOTO: SURRENNE

NATURALLY COOL DESIGN

TechnoAlpin’s snow technology is not only an eﬀective way to introduce gentle cold therapy into the spa environment, it’s also a powerful biophilic design element that can bring the wonder of nature indoors

The mental and physical benefits of spending time in awe-inspiring nature –from forest bathing to hot spring dipping to watching the Aurora Borealis – are well documented. But while growing numbers of people are out enjoying the latest ‘nature trends’, the fact remains that a significant majority, especially city dwellers, could be spending up to 90 per cent of their time indoors. With great advances in biophilic design – where designers and architects bring natural elements into the built environment – there has never been a better time for wellness facilities to become the places where customers can get a whole range of realistic and beneficial ‘nature fixes’ however and whenever they want.

Giuliana Salmaso, architect and founder of Studio Giuliana Salmaso and an expert in biophilic

Today it’s possible to create indoor environments that rejuvenate almost as much as a walk in the woods

Giuliana Salmaso, biophilic design expert

design, says: “Today it’s possible to create indoor environments that rejuvenate almost as much as a walk in the woods. Our goal is to create spaces where stress-inducing elements are neutralised and regenerative components are maximised.”

These design concepts go way beyond just the introduction of plants and greenery, of course. The Tuscany-based studio recently collaborated with leading snow creators TechnoAlpin Indoor – also based in Italy – to create a multi-sensory biophilic wellness space focused on the cold therapy journey.

The ‘cold with joy’ concept is based around centuries-old contrast therapy, inspired by ancient Roman and Kneipp practices. Salmaso’s design guides visitors through warm and cold elements, different forms of water and snow, making the cold experience enjoyable and accessible without the sudden shock of intense temperature change.

Salmaso says: ”I wanted to capture that feeling of wellbeing, intimacy, happiness and calmness that one experiences when watching snow fall. This was made possible with TechnoAlpin’s technology that generates soft indoor snow, filling different areas of the spa with the enchanting sight of crisp and freshly-fallen snow.”

FRESH POWDER SNOW

TechnoAlpin’s Snowsky is the technology that produces this real snowfall in the middle of a room. For even greater immersion, TechnoAlpin’s Snowroom offers a holistic way for guests to cool down, especially after a sauna or steamroom session, enveloping them in an engaging cavelike atmosphere of cold air and soft snow.

The Snowroom is cooled to -10° C (14°F) and filled with real snow,made from only water and air.

Fresh snow is made every night, so clean powder snow is ready every morning to delight guests. The entire body cools down efficiently and gently: the respiratory tract and lungs, organs and brain cells cool down at a slow pace and the skin is cooled over the entire surface without any damage to the tissues.

Sara Brenninger of TechnoAlpin says: “Snow is the gentlest version of cooling and can be enjoyed by both men and women of any age. The benefits of cold therapy are made accessible to all, without the shock or dizziness that many would like to avoid.”

Snow also ticks many of the right boxes for an effective biophilic design environment. As Salmaso says: “A well-designed restorative space should incorporate as many biophilic patterns as possible. An innovative approach is integrating snow, which provides thermal variability when combined with warm elements such as a sauna.

“The integration of snow in an indoor spa environment covers at least four of the 15 biophilic design patterns. Snow is a biophilic element that designers can use, just like water, plants and animals. It’s fascinating – a form of water – and engages all the senses.”

With advances in technology, indoor snow can become a special highlight for luxury wellness and spa areas – a new way of cooling down that guests will remember. l

More: www.indoor.technoalpin.com

PHOTO: GIULIANA SALMASO

The ‘cold with joy’ spa concept combines different forms of water, including falling snow

SCIENCE FICTION

Julie Cramer finds out why having a dedicated research lab enables innovation consultancy White Mirror to create compelling wellness narratives

One of our guiding principles is founded on the concept of ‘experience as medicine’

O“ne of our guiding principles is founded on the concept of ‘experience as medicine’. How can we create immersive environments that also become therapeutic environments?” says Ramy Elnagar, co-founder of wellness innovation consultancy White Mirror. The company, which has a creative studio in London and a neuroscience lab in Lisbon, has been involved in many next-level projects focused on technology-driven art, science and music since its formation four years ago. These include producing spatial audio production for Apple Music designed to modulate the nervous system, sensory design for Surrenne, London’s newest wellness club (see p74) and anti-inflammatory soundscapes to enhance Dr Barbara Sturm’s skincare rituals. The team behind these concepts includes co-founder Tom Middleton, a wellness music pioneer

and sleep science coach who’s performed on global stages with stars such as Lady Gaga and Mark Ronson (see p86). Elnagar is a hybrid business strategist with a background in virtual and augmented reality and AI. Research director Francisco Teixeira is a neurotech consultant who oversees the company’s Portugalbased research lab, where clients can validate their products and services before taking them to market. Meanwhile, artistic director Arianne Amores focuses on creating stunning visual concepts for brands. Elnagar had his own tech company before meeting Middleton at a sleep conference. Soon after, the idea for White Mirror was born.

He says: “Tom was performing music but wanted to focus on creating ‘music for purpose’. He’s a very kind soul who’s all about helping people. I was having my own purpose crisis and grappling with how we could create ‘tech for good’. We knew we had to work together.”

Projects include a relaxation experience by Pixel Artworks

White Mirror’s Tom Middleton, Francisco Teixeira and Remy Elnagar (left to right) PHOTO:

We look at how art, science

and

music

open

up people so they can feel more … and become healthier as a result

VIRTUAL FOREST BATHING

With the wellness industry based on putting the human first, it’s fitting that White Mirror’s recent project with Thermengruppe Josef Wund in Germany brings these multisensory levels of technology into the spa environment.

In collaboration with art collective Marshmallow Laser Feast (MLF) and experience designers TheLoveTriangle, White Mirror created Lupuna, an immersive virtual forest bathing experience for Therme Euskirchen near the city of Bonn.

Elnagar says: “Thermengruppe is passionate about bringing science and nature together and studying the effects of the biophilic environment on human wellbeing. They also understand the need to embrace technology to meet the expectations of an evolving wellbeing audience, who want far more than saunas and steamrooms.”

Lupuna, named after the majestic South American tree, takes you through 24 hours of the Amazon rainforest in 24 minutes. Elnagar explains: “You step into a waterfall that opens up as you approach, leading to a room filled with rain. The space

TOM MIDDLETON ON AUDIO-THERAPEUTICS

The research lab tests people’s psychophysiological responses to products and experiences

White Mirror co-founder Tom Middleton, who’s working towards a masters in the neuroscience of music, tells Spa Business: “Throughout my early career, I observed the health benefits of music beyond entertainment. If intentionally designed, it can be functional, therapeutic and transformational.

“For example, audio-hypnotics can help people sleep, audio-analgesics are for pain mitigation and audio-anxiolytics reduce anxiety, while audionootropics are intended to enhance performance, focus and flow.”

The concept of salutogenic design, which focuses on health-promoting results, really resonates with Middleton. “We can design music and sensory experiences with both an intention and outcome in mind and working closely with researchers, we can measure and improve the effects.”

He highlights the expansion of the field, pointing out that over 25,000 papers have been published on it over the past 40 years. “This demonstrates the significant potential of sound and music in improving human health,” he says, citing Einstein’s belief that the medicine of the future will be frequency-based.

Middleton is an award-winning composer and former DJ

features 360-degree surround sound with detailed recordings from the Amazon. Using spatial sound design, you’ll hear everything from the buzz of a mosquito passing close by to raindrops falling.

“Next, you lay down on custom-designed lily pads. Overhead projectors display images ranging from wideangle shots of towering trees to close-ups of the Queen of the Night, a flower that blooms just before dawn once a year. The space is carefully designed to engage and instil calm without overwhelming the senses.”

RESEARCH METHODS

Behind the creation of such multi-layered immersive environments is research that monitors effects like reduced stress, greater relaxation, deeper sleep and enhanced sense of wellbeing.

Elnagar says: “Our lab examines psycho-physiological effects, such as heart rate, breathing patterns, brain activity, emotional arousal and galvanic skin response while the experience is happening. We also monitor how people feel before and after, using biometrics as well as pre- and post-questionnaires.”

White Mirror also recently facilitated a relationship between Thermengruppe Josef Wund and the International Arts and Minds Lab (IAMLAB) neuroaesthetics team at Johns Hopkins University in the US. This has resulted in ongoing research looking at what it is about light, sound and vibrations that make us feel good. The findings are due to be published by the end of this year, explains Elnagar.

Heart rate, brain activity and emotional arousal all are measured

White Mirror created Lupuna, an immersive experience at Therme Euskirchen

PHOTO: WHITE MIRROR

We hope to develop a sensory playbook to share across industries

“From this, we hope to develop a sensory playbook to share across industries,” he adds, “to help us all deliver more intentional wellness-orientated spaces.”

AWE-INDUCING EXPERIENCES

One thing that the wider wellness community, including spas and gyms, has seen since the isolation of lockdown is people’s increased desire for more meaningful social engagements, which is something that White Mirror’s work seeks to address.

Elnagar says: “We look at how we can use art, science and music to open people up so that they can feel more and become healthier as a result.

Part of that, he says, is creating wondrous experiences. “We’re in the business of creating awe. Awe is what makes us feel so small when faced with the spectacles of nature, like witnessing the Aurora Borealis.”

Research shows that experiencing awe can have profound mental and physical health benefits –reducing stress, enhancing wellbeing and even improving immune function. “To achieve that [awe],

we need to perfect our sensory tools,” says Elnagar. “Take spatial sound, for example. As humans, we listen in the spatial sense, not stereo or mono and we feel present when we hear that in that natural way. Our brains don’t have to work to decode anything.”

Spatial sound can change our behaviour, he explains, making us feel calmer and less stressed, so it can have many applications for wellness.

Elnagar sees it as being particularly useful in creating mood-enhancing sensory points in so-called dead areas, such as corridors and bathrooms.

With a growing tech toolkit of sensory approaches, which expand into areas such as aromachology, vibro-acoustics and photo-biomodulation, he’s hopeful that White Mirror’s projects will become ever-more impactful in the future. ●

Calm commissioned White Mirror to develop soundscapes for its app

Room to Breathe blends rhythmic breathing exercises with soothing visuals and music

PHOTO: WHITE MIRROR

Britta

Talise

Palas

ProLuxe

POTENT

partnership

A new anti-senescence serum from Biologique Recherche offers transformative results and raises the bar in anti-ageing skincare when combined with its iconic collagen formula

After nearly 50 years, Biologique Recherche has solidified its reputation for premium, high-performance skincare with its unique, clinical approach that consistently delivers both immediate and enduring results.

The latest innovation from the leading French skincare authority – Sérum Progeskin – represents the forefront of skin biology expertise, addressing one of the primary causes of skin ageing: cellular senescence.

INNOVATIVE DEFENSE

Derived from the Latin “senescene” meaning ‘to grow old’, cellular senescence is a state where cells cease to divide but remain metabolically active. This process accelerates with natural ageing.

Typically, cellular senescence occurs in response to damage, allowing tissue regeneration and the removal of dead cells. However, in ageing, damage often surpasses the repair capacity, leading to an accumulation of senescent cells.

These cells contribute to a pro-inflammatory environment that fosters age-related diseases and visible signs of ageing, such as thinning skin, flattened dermal-epidermal junctions, wrinkles, reduced elasticity and pigmentation issues.

The R&D teams at Biologique Recherche have focused on two key proteins involved in this process, firstly, Progerin, a protein that accumulates with age, disrupting cell regeneration, extracellular matrix integrity and inflammatory responses. This leads to thinning skin, wrinkles and loss of subcutaneous fat, resulting in a gaunt

The new formula is applied to the face, neck and décolleté

Sérum Progeskin and Sérum Collagène Originel work in synergy to preserve the skin’s natural youthfulness

Dr Philippe Allouche, Biologique Recherche

appearance typical of chronological ageing and secondly, Klotho. This is known as the ‘youth protein’ and maintains proper cell function by enhancing skin resistance to oxidative stress and blocking ageing pathways. Unlike progerin, klotho supports skin health and delays cell senescence.

Sérum Progeskin’s formula targets these proteins to combat ageing. Designed to be used around the face, neck and décolleté, it leaves the skin firmer, plumper and more toned, visibly reducing wrinkles and fine lines for a rejuvenated appearance.

Sérum Progeskin features a cutting-edge blend of two active ingredients: Progescence, which decreases progerin synthesis, reducing senescent cell accumulation over time and Pro-KL which activates klotho protein, supporting cellular metabolism and promoting skin cell longevity.

POTENT PARTNERS

For enhanced anti-ageing results, Biologique Recherche has paired Sérum Progeskin with its renowned Sérum Collagène Originel. This powerful combination addresses established wrinkles and preserves youthful skin.

Launched in 2022, Sérum Collagène Originel targets four primary types of collagen using Type 0 Collagen, silene extract, green microalgae, and soy glycopeptides. Type 0 Collagen, derived from marine jellyfish, is

the purest form of collagen, representing the original protein in its raw state.

Working with a marine biotech specialist, Biologique Recherche’s R&D team extracted this ancient collagen to re-densify skin, making it tighter, smoother and plumper, while significantly reducing wrinkle length.

Sérum Collagène Originel specifically addresses established wrinkles, while Sérum Progeskin targets cutaneous ageing. Together, they provide a potent anti-ageing skincare solution.

Dr Philippe Allouche, co-chair and head of creation and R&D at Biologique Recherche, comments: “Sérum Progeskin and Sérum Collagène Originel work in synergy to preserve the skin’s natural youthfulness, delivering a firm and radiant complexion.”

ABOUT BIOLOGIQUE RECHERCHE

The science-led brand formulates its products without artificial fragrances in its own laboratory in France. Biologique Recherche is the partner of choice for exceptional spas, medical spas and premier luxury hotels in over 80 countries. Biologique Recherche has its own flagship Ambassades in Paris, Rome, Brussels, Stockholm, Shanghai and Los Angeles. l More: www.biologique-recherche.com/en-gb

Progescence® and Pro-KL® are trademarks of Biologique Recherche

Sérum Progeskin’s formula combats signs of ageing PHOTO:

Olympus Real Estate

California’s renovated Murrieta Hot Springs reopened in February

The company behind the redevelopment of The Springs Resort in Colorado and Murrieta Hot Springs Resort in California is leading the way for a new era of thermal spas in the US. Jane Kitchen talks to its team about how they’re bringing wellness to the forefront of their efforts

While developing senior living communities, David Dronet became very aware of the concept and importance of healthspan versus lifespan, particularly in our older years. But he soon realised that his own healthspan wasn’t on a good trajectory: he was travelling and working too much and spending far too much time away from his young family.

Determined to focus on his wellbeing, in 2016, Dronet sold his development company for over US$40 million (€36 million, £30.3 million) and purchased The Springs Resort in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, with its 25 thermal pools and 79 guestrooms. Olympus Real Estate Group was formed.

Dronet redeveloped The Springs Resort, bringing on board industry veteran Sharon Holtz as VP of wellness and hiring Dr Marcus Coplin, a balneology expert.

Then, in 2022, Olympus bought the 46-acre Murrieta Hot Springs in California for US$50 million (€51 million, £44.4 million).

Originally developed in 1902 as a health retreat, it had fallen into disrepair and closed to the public for the last 27 years.

Olympus spent 18 months renovating the property, which reopened in February. It now includes over 50 geothermal pools and water features, a full-service spa and a revamp of the resort’s original bathhouse.

Olympus is also planning a major expansion at The Springs Resort, doubling the number of pools, adding 78 bedrooms and introducing a two-storey geothermal-inspired spa. It’s expecting to complete the work in Q2 2025.

Both projects total US$125 million (€112.7 million, £94.7 million) in construction costs.

“All of these offerings are guided by our overarching vision to create health and wellness destinations that are approachable, well-rounded and focused on improving the wellbeing of our guests,” says Dronet.

The trio leading the wellbeing charge at the two resorts talk to Jane Kitchen.

David Dronet

MANAGING PARTNER

Are hot springs experiencing a renaissance in America?

Hot springs have been central to healing around the world for thousands of years. As Americans, we’ve witnessed how our overstimulated, overprocessed and short-cutsto-health culture has affected our lives. The simple and direct impact that soaking your body in natural thermal mineral water has on relaxation, health and sleep is undeniable. We recognise that hot springs destinations in the US are barely scratching the surface of how they can aid the health and wellbeing of our communities. They give everyone an opportunity to care for themselves in an easy and approachable way. At the same time, we get to connect with others and escape our hectic lives. It’s a healthy dose of nature that we all need.

Who visits your properties?

Our customers are diverse, but we’ve seen the greatest growth among guests who are looking to unplug from their busy lives and who prioritise health and wellbeing. These customers range in age from 25 to over 65, and we’ve seen growth in all age segments, including families with young children. More than 80 per cent of our visitors travel from over 200 miles away.

Hot springs in the US are barely scratching the surface of how they can aid our communities

What’s your development philosophy?

At both properties, we’ve created well-rounded offerings that complement our thermal waters in four key areas: physical and mental revitalisation, nutrition, sleep and physical activity. Our environments allow people to rest, recover and leave feeling recharged. To accomplish this, we built F&B offerings in Pagosa and added wellness professionals who could create exceptional programming such as guided cold-plunging, mud bathing, guided hikes and dozens of wellbeing classes.

What are you most proud of?

The team that’s driving these resorts. From the beginning, we’ve focused on our employee wellbeing. It’s only by putting our team first that we’ve seen remarkable growth in guest satisfaction and are considered a top hot springs destination.

Why do you have a VP of wellness as well as a medical director?

It’s very important to us that we create real, science-backed services and avoid the well-washing that we see all too often. So it was paramount that our team consisted of passionate and experienced professionals in the fields of nutrition, exercise physiology and massage therapy, as well as a medical doctor who could oversee our programming to ensure it was efficacious and comprehensive.

What are your future plans?

We’re currently focused on creating excellent experiences at our two resorts, but given the strength of our team, if the right opportunity presents itself, we will not hesitate to pursue new opportunities.

More than 80 per cent of visitors travel from over 200 miles away

Olympus’ site in Colorado is undergoing a major expansion

Dr Marcus Coplin

MEDICAL DIRECTOR

What’s your background in balneology?

My training in medicine includes a specialisation in integrative therapies. A major aspect of this is using hydrotherapy and physiotherapy to treat a variety of conditions beyond aches and pains.

In 2012, I undertook a research sabbatical through Europe that led to intensive training at several geothermal resorts and rehabilitation clinics. My understanding of what was possible through thermal mineral bathing as part of a larger care plan was forever changed. When I returned home, I joined the Balneology Association of North America as a founding board member. We aim to spread information about the therapeutic use of geothermal mineral waters.

What does your role at Olympus entail?

Originally, my role was to ensure its programmes had a firm and rational grounding in the science and practice of balneology. Now, I also work

The greatest growth has been in guests looking to unplug from their busy lives

Our programmes have a firm and rational grounding in the science of balneology

across the resort to ensure everyone has an understanding of what it is we do and what the water is capable of providing our guests.

Our goal has always been to provide a self-guided health and wellbeing experience for guests. We’ve largely done this through educational prompts about why hot springs are good for them and how they can maximise the benefits. We’re now going to go deeper by providing two to three-day stays focused on themes such as sleep, burnout and detoxing.

How are you communicating the benefits of hot springs to guests?

The best thing about my job is that I only have to help people get in the water and let the experience speak for itself. When people feel what regaining their health is like, providing them with a scientific foundation for why it’s occurring firmly plants the concept in their reality – and they come back again and again.

Guests often improve their wellbeing without even realising it, just by trying the experiences

Sharon Holtz VP OF WELLNESS

What responsibilities does your job include?

I oversee the creation and execution of wellness aspects of programming, community events, F&B, spa, guestroom enhancements and the overall expansion at both the Olympus resorts.

It’s about weaving wellness into all guest touch points and finding ways to improve the quality of our guests’ lives while they’re with us and when they return home. It’s about encouraging our guests to explore new things, connecting with nature and those around them and experiencing aspects of wellness that are approachable and tangible. Often, guests improve their wellbeing without even realising it, simply by engaging in the activities we offer. The most important thing is for them to feel the difference when they leave.

You’ve mostly worked in traditional spas – what appealed to you about a hot springs destination? Being able to work with geothermal mineral water was very alluring. It’s so powerful and has such a profound impact on people’s wellbeing. Hot springs are more accessible to a wider demographic than luxury spas –one of my favourite things is seeing multi-generational groups or families taking to the waters together. Soaking in hot springs is a way for people to improve their sense of wellbeing in a relaxing environment that creates a sense of connection with nature and those around them. I enjoy meeting people in pools who seem like they’re old friends, only to find out they’ve just met. That is the power of the water and what people are being drawn to.

We want guests to explore new things, to connect with nature and those around them

What work are you most proud of?

There’s so much to be excited about. Bringing Tibetan singing bowls into the geothermal water was profound. We tried it out of curiosity and were surprised at how powerful the experience was compared to in a studio or outside. The synergy of the bowls and the water gives an amplified effect.

At Murrieta Hot Springs Resort, we have a traditional Kneipp walk modelled after the original therapy prescribed in the Bavarian rivers over 150 years ago and it’s extraordinarily therapeutic. The opening weekend saw queues of people excited to feel its benefits.

The historic springs at Murrieta as a whole have been wonderful to programme. Collaborating with Dr Coplin, our medical director, has been such a gift. His passion for using water for improved health is inspiring. ●

Water creates a sense of connection, says Holtz

PHOTO: IVESTER CREATIVE

PHOTO: BRI AMATO

MAKING MAGIC

From Olympic pools to unforgettable wellness experiences, Myrtha Wellness creates aquatic masterpieces

Founded in Italy in 1961 by visionary Giorgio Colletto, Myrtha Pools has become a trailblazer in the aquatic industry, evolving into a globally recognized brand and serving as an official supplier for the Olympic Games since 1996.

Recently showcased at the Paris Olympics, Myrtha’s commitment to excellence goes beyond competitive swimming, extending into the realm of luxury wellness to transform luxury hotels, resorts and spas into sanctuaries of wellbeing.

Myrtha Wellness, the brand’s dedicated division, leverages more than 60 years of expertise in crafting bespoke pools, wet areas, and thermal cabins for prestigious clients such as Six Senses, St. Regis, Ritz-Carlton, Jumeirah and Rosewood.

Blending the elegance of Italian design with cuttingedge technology, the team collaborates and consults closely with international architects, interior designers and consultants to create distinctive wellness offerings that set their clients’ spas apart from the competition.

Fusing Italian elegance with cutting-edge technology, Myrtha Wellness collaborates closely

with leading architects, interior designers, and consultants to create distinctive wellness experiences that set its clients apart in a competitive market. From New Zealand to the Middle East, Myrtha Wellness brings a pioneering spirit and deep passion to every project, creating solutions that elevate guest experiences and deliver unforgettable, sensory-rich journeys.

WHAT’S ON OFFER?

Drawing inspiration from nature, Myrtha Wellness crafts immersive experiences that invite guests to connect with the elements and indulge in sensory bliss.

From vitality and plunge pools to floating and therapy pools, Myrtha Wellness offers an array of options for operators and owners to create their perfect wellness environment.

Wet thermal cabins, including steamrooms, hammams, frigidariums and invigorating showers, add to the experience, while dry thermal cabins such as Finnish and herbal saunas, salt and relaxation rooms and unique outdoor cabins can rejuvenate guest’s body and mind.

Myrtha works with a roster of prestigious clients around the world

Myrtha leverages more than 60 years of expertise to craft bespoke solutions

We push the boundaries of wellness to create unforgettable experiences

Stefano Cattaneo, director, Myrtha Wellness

l Marriott Edition Como Lake, Italy

l Three Six Senses in Europe

l Baccarat Florence, Italy

l Raddison Blue, Florence, Italy

l Six Senses in Middle East

l Jumeirah in Switzerland

l Marriott Ritz Carlton, St. Regis and Autograph collection in Middle East

l Accor Morgan’s Original in Middle East

l Accor MG Gallery Reine Margot, Paris, France

Stefano Cattaneo, director, said: “Myrtha Wellness is not just a collection of products; it’s a philosophy. It’s about pushing the boundaries of wellness, creating unforgettable experiences and unlocking the full potential of sensory immersion.

“We pride ourselves on creating captivating multi-sensory playgrounds where every sense comes alive as water, ice and steam merge with mesmerising lights and enchanting aromas.”

SUSTAINABILITY CREDENTIALS

Sustainability is a priority and every product is designed with this in mind, contributing to the eco-friendliness of buildings scheduled for LEED, BREEAM and Green Star certifications.

Myrtha’s solutions emphasise integrative processes, water efficiency, optimised energy usage, reduced CO2 emissions and innovative material resources – all while ensuring superior indoor environmental quality. l More: www.myrthawellness.com

Myrtha’s solutions immerse guests in a state of sensory bliss

PHOTO: MYRTHA WELLNESS

MYRTHA WELLNESS: latest projects

PHOTO: MYRTHA WELLNESS

Social media is crucial to how spas communicate with existing or potential clients

SOCIAL INFLUENCE

How are spa software suppliers helping operators to manage their social media profiles and make them stand out? We take a look

Last year, Zenoti revealed a tool that converts casual online visitors into paying customers, expanding a spa’s reach like never before. That tool is Social Booking, which enables spas to integrate a ‘book now’ or ‘schedule’ button into Google search results as well as social media pages. A top hair salon client of ours gained more than 9,000 bookings from social media in six months after introducing Social Booking and on average, it generates an extra US$12,000 (€10,786, £9,094) in monthly revenue. When a guest spots a tempting treatment or can’t-miss promotion

mid-scroll, they can go from ‘I want that’ to ‘appointment confirmed’ with just a few taps on their smartphone.

An aspect of the tool I’m particularly proud of is the seamless streamlining of scheduling as it instantly integrates into a spa’s real-time booking system.

Social Booking amplifies the brand’s marketing effectiveness because more bookings through social media and Google translate to a larger online presence, wider audience reach, more followers and reviews and higher guest ratings

By integrating Facebook Pixel and Google Analytics, Zenoti also enables spas to gain valuable insights about their online audience and further personalise marketing campaigns.

One Zenoti client gained more than 9,000 bookings from social media in six months with our new Social Booking tool

PHOTO: ZENOTI

Sudheer Koneru

Zenoti

Sudheer Koneru

Operators can now create video ads on Instagram using Phorest

Ads Manager

Edyta Laveryd Phorest

In July, Phorest launched an update to its Ads Manager giving it the ability to create video ads on Instagram, including stories and reels.

Video ads are critical in social media advertising and this new feature allows operators to showcase their work, environment and team spirit in a way that promises higher engagement rates and a stronger connection with audiences.

Only a year old, our Ads Manager provides hundreds of advertising templates which have been designed by marketing experts and even captivating AI-written captions are available. Its intuitive targetting options, enable spas to leverage client data to ensure messages reach the right audience.

So far, operators have seen an average of 161 existing client bookings per campaign over 11 days and an average of 10 new customers over nine days – we think that demonstrates remarkable success and expect even higher conversions with video added in.

Phorest says its new video ad feature will generate even more bookings

Vagaro has introduced a Social Media Integration tool which gives spas the opportunity to add a ‘book now’ button on their Facebook and Instagram pages. This links to the business’ booking page, enabling customers to schedule

appointments or classes without leaving the social media platform. With many operators using social media pages as online portfolios, being able to book directly on these pages facilitates more bookings and an improved customer experience – which research shows

increases the likelihood of client loyalty and recurring revenue. l

Vagaro’s Social Media Integration tool enables customers to book appointments directly from Facebook and Instagram

PHOTO: PHOREST

Edyta Laveryd

PHOTO: PHOREST

Charity Hudnall Vagaro

PHOTO: VAGARO

Charity Hudnall

A longer life for skin

Created to combat the visible signs of ageing, Comfort Zone’s latest range revamp is based on the company’s pioneering research into cutaneous cellular longevity

Comfort Zone’s powerful approach to skin health and beauty through the new Skin Regimen/Lx is backed by more than a decade of scientific research into the primary factors that cause skin to age prematurely. Since 2012, the research laboratories at Italian B Corp product house Comfort Zone have been at the forefront of studying the impact and response to environmental and biological stressors, such as UV radiation, urban pollution and the hormone cortisol, which can lead to cutaneous skin problems such as dullness, dryness and premature wrinkles.

Comfort Zone’s research laboratories have been at the forefront of studying the exposome, the combination of internal and external factors that accelerate skin ageing

Eve Merinville, R&D director, Comfort Zone

Skin Regimen/Lx combines high-tech ingredients with Comfort Zone’s proprietary Longevity Complex which has been enhanced with the inclusion of a powerful antioxidant – an extract from myrtle –which is harvested from the Italian countryside, where it’s grown according to Comfort Zone’s regenerative organic agricultural practices.

The efficacy of the Longevity Complex has been rigorously tested with innovative, advanced in vitro tests* by an independent laboratory monitoring the behaviour of fibroblast dermal cells when interacting with this exclusive synergy of organic botanical extracts and carnosine.

Cells aged 20, 35, and 50 years were exposed to UV radiation, urban pollution and cortisol, with the enzyme ß-galactosidase serving as a key longevity marker.

Results show the Longevity Complex significantly mitigates the ageing effects of common everyday stressors, delaying the speed of the ageing process by as much as 80 per cent*

CLINICALLY TESTED THREE-STEP ROUTINE

These findings have been further supported by independent clinical and dermatological testing of the three ‘Hero Products’, namely the Skin Regimen/Lx Detox Cleanser, the Ha4 Jelly Serum, and the Tripeptide Gel Cream which are designed to work together.

The Detox Cleanser effectively cleanses away impurities and pollution. The HA4 Jelly Serum deeply hydrates and revitalises the skin, while the Tripeptide Gel Cream firms and enhances skin tone.

After the four-week test period, users reported experiencing a comprehensive improvement in several key areas of age-related skin problems.

Eve Merinville, R&D director, Comfort Zone

In the mix are hyaluronic acid, retinol , vitamin C and gluconolactone

SKIN REGIMEN

l Customisable three-step routine with proprietary Longevity Complex

l Vegan formulas

l With up to 99.5 per cent of natural-origin ingredients

l 100 per cent natural fragrance

l Plastic Net Zero and CO2 offset packaging

The 40 test subjects reported better skin hydration, increased skin firmness and elasticity, improved smoothness and luminosity, with instrumental tests confirming a 15.5 per cent reduction in wrinkle depth.

The three-step routine – detox, power, treat –can be further customised by selecting additional concentrated formulas from the complete range, which features cleaners, masks, serums, vials, moisturisers and must-have urban SPF.

PRO LONGEVITY FACIALS

Skin Regimen/Lx professional longevity facials are available at Comfort Zone partner spas and pharmacies, combining highly concentrated proprietary lifting peels,

Comfort Zone’s new Skin Regimen range includes 14 longevity skincare products

masks and serums with intensive massage techniques and innovative tools that support re-oxygenation and muscle repositioning.

The new Longevity Vitaminic with vitamin C mask encourages collagen production and glow; the Longevity Peel deeply renews and firms and the Longevity Detox ensures deep purification, thanks to charcoal and clays.

As with all Comfort Zone’s products, formulas are vegan, with an all-natural fragrance, fully recyclable packaging and carbon-neutral status. l More: www.spabusiness.com/czsr

Longevity Complex™ is a trademark of Comfort Zone

*Independent laboratory in vitro test on frbroblasts, ß-galactosidase quantification.

For more insight, or to get in touch with the companies featured, visit www.spa-kit.net and type in their keyword

Product innovation

Spa and wellness industry suppliers tell us about their latest product, treatment and equipment launches

Wellscape’s AI naturescapes will revolutionise interiors, says Brian Paris

Industry figure Brian Paris has collaborated with a team skilled in creating settings for film and TV to launch a company which can install advanced immersive visual environments in any area of a spa, fitness centre or hotel.

Wellscape uses AI and highresolution LED panels to bring healing spaces to life with nature, light, scent and soundscapes – some of which will be composed by wellness music provider Myndstream.

Paris says its eye-catching visuals can dynamically respond like natural environments, seamlessly transitioning through seasons and day-to-night cycles.

Partners will have access to a library of content – ranging from starry skies, desertscapes and mountain ranges to expansive lakes and dense forests – but Wellscape can also create custom settings.

“These environments not only captivate the senses but promote relaxation, enhance mood and foster a deeper connection with nature and healing,” says Paris, adding that they’d work particularly well in spaces lacking natural light, such as underground spas.

It replaces the noisy low-resolution images of traditional projection methods – Brian Paris

“The panels can be installed on walls, ceilings, windows and even floors,” Paris explains and says Wellscape replaces the noisy low-resolution images of traditional projection methods with “seamless, high-definition visuals”.

spa-kit.net keyword:

http://lei.sr/2B4f3

PHOTO: BRIAN PARIS

Wellscape

The high-res LED panels can be used on walls, ceilings, windows and even floors

Paris is working with a team that creates VR settings for film and TV

PHOTO: WELLSCAPE

Our ‘total visibility’ concept helps people feel more comfortable

Alexandru Harbuzaru

Zeugma tackles HBOT capsule claustrophobia, says Alexandru Harbuzaru

HPO Tech, a Turkish company specialising in hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), is rolling out its hero product globally after meeting regulations set by countries such as the US, UK, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Malaysia and Hong Kong.

The Zeugma HBOT pod features a medical-grade system to monitor breathing patterns, providing pure oxygen and removing exhaled

Velum water curtain brings dynamism to pools, says Aquaform’s Alberto Moretti

“All too often spa water features are relegated to simple showers which are barely visible and lack any specific function,” says Alberto Moretti, general manager of Aquaform. “While water is often associated with health, it can be a source of great enjoyment and Velum can make it the star of any project.”

Velum, Moretti says, is a customisable multisensory water curtain that sits above a pool – covering certain parts or the whole area – to transform the bathing experience into an engaging and immersive one.

The innovation, which pumps and recycles water from the pool, features different kinds of jets and can also be equipped with coloured

air through an exhaust valve, ensuring no CO2 build-up.

But what really makes it stand out is its stylish user-centric design. “Our ‘total visibility’ concept helps people feel more comfortable and connected with their exterior and assistants,” explains chief business development officer Alexandru Harbuzaru.

With claustrophobia a major issue in hyperbaric chambers, Zeugma

It can make users feel like they’re in a thunderstorm, or surrounded by ethereal mist –

Alberto Moretti

lights and sound systems. It can simulate sunlight and water reflections, explains Moretti, or make users feel like they’re in a thunderstorm or surrounded by ethereal mist.

“Whether for relaxation or entertainment, Velum can be used to craft truly unique environments,” he concludes.

has large side and front windows and feels less confined. It also features an adjustable recliner seat, rather than a typical HBOT bed, for extra comfort.

In addition, mirrored software controls mean sessions can be set up by users inside the chamber or assistants on the outside.

spa-kit.net keywords: HPO Tech

http://lei.sr/4K5k6

spa-kit.net keyword: Aquaform

http://lei.sr/5v6W2

Velum sits above pools to transform bathing experiences

PHOTO: AQUAFORM

The stylish, user-centric design is a USP

PHOTO: AQUAFORM

Phillip Rock talks Frimas – Klafs’ threelayer Arctic cold therapy experience

“Klafs has developed a new way for people to cool down,” says Philip Rock, Klafs CEO, announcing the company’s Frimas Ice Steam Bath and explaining that it “combines various forms of water, innovative technologies and aesthetic design to gradually immerse users in the cold”.

Frimas is cooled to 0-5°C by Arctic-inspired ice walls that generate fine ice steam infused with a refreshing mint aroma.

It’s recommended guests spend up to 10 minutes in the room which also features Klafs’ Holli snow and steam shower which produces a flurry of ice crystals and

We’ve developed a new way for people

to cool down – Phillip Rock

cool, moist air. Ice fountains come as optional extras.

Frimas has been built with an intelligent air circulation system to optimise energy use, designed so cabins reach near-freezing temperatures quickly and efficiently.

Kenneth Benning showcases La Clinique du Caviar’s pro spa range

Caviar, a symbol of luxury, is claimed to be a potent ingredient for achieving a healthy complexion according to Swiss-based skincare specialist Caviar Biotec.

The company has just revealed its La Clinique du Caviar collection – an oil, a supplement and two protein extract powders. Biotechnology has been used to perpetually regenerate caviar stem cells for the products which, it says, avoids harm to sturgeons.

The launch is complemented by 13 spa protocols – ranging from facials, hair treatments and body rituals to massages, eye treatments and hand and foot therapies.

Founder and CEO Kenneth Benning believes caviar plays a crucial role in delaying skin ageing by delivering essential nutrition at the cellular level. He says: “It

spa-kit.net keyword: Klafs

http://lei.sr/N3u8X

The new line includes an oil, a supplement and protein extract powders

accelerates protein synthesis, repairs and renews damaged cells and stimulates collagen production, thereby enhancing skin complexion and texture.”

spa-kit.net keywords: Clinique Caviar

http://lei.sr/n5p2N

Caviar accelerates protein synthesis and stimulates collagen production – Kenneth Benning

PHOTO: KLAFS

Fine ice steam is infused with a mint aroma

Anthony Joshua backs Monk’s smart ice baths

Cold water therapy supplier Monk, which counts professional boxer Anthony Joshua as one of its high-profile investors, claims it’s created one of the first smart ice baths.

Founder Laura Fullerton says the bath is built for indoor or outdoor use. It connects with an app which acts as a cold water therapy coach, providing guided plunges and programmes tailored to the user and their goals – whether that’s muscle recovery, mental health or a stress reset. Joshua says the innovation helps him “be a better athlete and human”.

Priced at £5,995 (US$7,703, €7,119), it also has the capacity to integrate with 40+ wearables and features a self-cleaning ozone filtration system and remote temperature control.

Monk was founded in 2021 and is driven by a collective

of athletes, biohackers and tech entrepreneurs. Fullerton says it “allows businesses to be at the forefront of alternative wellness”.

The bath connects with an app, which acts as a cold water therapy coach

Rowan Hall-Farisse shares QMS’ new vegan collagen range

spa-kit.net keyword: Monk

Laura Fullerton

http://lei.sr/D7x8X

QMS Medicosmetics has launched an anti-ageing collection, consisting of a moisturiser, serum and face mask.

Precision Care, it says, is supercharged with COLLAgen3D, a new vegan ingredient produced through fermenting yeast, which is believed to be identical in structure to collagen found in human skin. The ingredient is designed to slow collagen degradation, stimulate its production and protect against UV-induced oxidative stress.

Rowan Hall-Farrise, QMS international brand ambassador, says COLLAgen3D’s skinidentical properties and micro-molecular structure ensure optimal absorption, boosting

Precision

Care

exemplifies our commitment to supporting the needs of all skin types

Rowan Hall-Farisse

effectiveness while minimising the risk of allergic reactions.

following trends in skincare, we prioritise supporting the needs of all skin types.”

She adds: “QMS is constantly looking to technological innovation to maximise the efficacy of its products. Rather than http://lei.sr/R0J9Q

spa-kit.net keyword: QMS

PHOTO: QMS MEDICOSMETICS

The collection consists of a cream, serum and mask

PHOTO: QMS MEDICOSMETICS

PHOTO: JAMIE JAMES

Boxer Anthony Joshua says the bath makes him a better athlete

Nature’s defense to defy daily challenges.

A more radiant complexion as if revived for of users.*

The intricate finishes add a touch of ‘rustic bling’ Clodagh

Clodagh creates biophilic designs for Oakworks

Renowned spa designer Clodagh has brought a touch of ‘rustic bling’ to Oakworks by creating a furniture collection featuring biophilic patterns.

Clodagh is known for her love of nature, feng shui and wabi-sabi and has channelled these approaches with two new intricate finishes.

Graphic and pointillist, the Canopy motive features abstract patterns inspired by the shadow

and light effects at play in treetops. Meanwhile, Leaves & Shade is reminiscent of autumn leaves on the forest floor.

Both can be engraved onto the Clodagh Lounger, Prema table or Trolley by Oakworks in either a walnut or grey wood design.

The Lounger, with a plush top, offers a zero-gravity-esque curve and tilt and takes its lead from NASA design principles. Prema is an ergonomic massage

table and the Trolley offers customisable storage with optional extras such as expandable work surfaces and towel warmers.

Both patterns are intended to transform the furniture into “a stunning work of art … and to enhance the calming, relaxing environment offered in the best spa experiences”.

Chloë Luxton reveals expansion plans for Bramley Skin spa brand

British apples, wildflowers and sustainability are at the heart of Bramley Skin, a new spa brand founded by Chloë Luxton, a former product development expert at Cowshed. An extension of the Bramley hotel amenity line, Bramley Skin introduces 24 professional products. Its spa menu, inspired by the British countryside, offers 13 treatments infused with native flowers and herbs, designed to “reconnect guests with the sights, sounds and scents” of wild meadows.

Bramley Skin is targeting boutique-sized properties around the world and has already secured partnerships

We reconnect guests with the sights, sounds and scents of the British countryside – Chloë Luxton

with eight select hotels across the UK for its launch.

Luxton comments on the brand’s spa debut: “By blending our unique apple concentrate with essential oils and nature’s most potent, science-backed ingredients, we deliver longlasting results. We’re thrilled to bring our restorative treatments to spas.”

http://lei.sr/3Q0U9

spa-kit.net keyword: Oakworks

http://lei.sr/c3h2l

PHOTO: BRAMLEY

The collection includes 24 products and 13 treatments

spa-kit.net keyword: Bramley

The Clodagh Lounger engraved with the Canopy pattern

PHOTO: OAKWORKS

PHOTO: CLODAGH

BC SoftWear’s new spa slipper is fully biodegradable while maintaining a luxury feel, says Barbara Cooke

Providing guest slippers is a spa amenities staple, but it’s not always easy to ensure they’re sustainable – an issue which is increasingly demanding attention in the spa industry.

BC SoftWear has now given the spa slipper a sustainable makeover, with a new design featuring Npulp straw soles.

“We’ve never before seen such high demand from spas for a more sustainable option for their spa slipper,” says Barbara Cooke. BC SoftWear’s founder and CEO explains: “BC SoftWear launched a completely biodegradable, coir-soled slipper three years ago – they’re made from all natural fibres, are completely plastic free and 100 per cent biodegradable. But we were aware they weren’t as luxurious as the five-star spa community required.”

In response, BC SoftWear went back to the drawing board and has now created a brand-new take on luxury sustainable spa footwear. In its new slipper, the coir sole has been replaced with a unique new sole – made from compressed straw – called Npulp.

THE NPULP REVOLUTION

Npulp is a straw-based paper, manufactured through a revolutionary new process that uses an enzyme to digest the straw and turn it into pulp. This eliminates the need for harsh chemicals, while also minimising water and energy consumption. The only ingredients are straw, water and the digestion enzyme.

The Npulp soles in BC SoftWear’s new slippers are both compostable and biodegradable. The sole is also anti-slip – more so than many other biodegradable slippers – as well as water resistant, which is a plus for spas with wet areas.

Npulp also has an OK Compost Certificate from the raw material

The new slippers are anti-slip and biodegradable

We’ve never seen such high demand from spas for a more sustainable option

Barbara Cooke

supplier which not only identifies the raw material as biodegradable, but also the NPulp manufacturing technique as non-chemical, low-energy and pollution free.

“While this feels like a standard sole, our new slippers make much less of an environmental impact,” says Cooke. “The soles offer considerably better anti-slip protection and are water resistant– a vital consideration for spas looking to provide their guests with footwear that’s suitable for wet areas. BC SoftWear was one of the first suppliers to bring out a biodegradable slipper several years ago, so it’s no surprise we continue to evolve to even better, more environmentally-friendly materials.” ● More: www.bcsoftwear.com

spa-kit.net keywords: BC Softwear

PHOTO: BC SOFTWEAR.

BC Softwear has ensured a luxury feel is maintained PHOTO:

Our clinical treatments come in a pre-dosed format, which helps retain their integrity and effectiveness

Myriam Sayer, VP, G.M. Collin

Clinical excellence in skincare

With laboratories based in Montreal, G.M. Collin’s highly researched derma-corrective treatments have been helping skincare professionals deliver exceptional and exclusive results worldwide for many decades. We talk to VP Myriam Sayer

What’s

your most popular clinical treatment?

It’s our signature Collagen 90+, which was developed at the start of the G.M. Collin story in 1957. Parisian dermatologist Dr Eugène Lapinet joined forces with Monique Moreau, an awardwinning aesthetician, with the shared mission of identifying the youthful elements at the core of skin. They based their research on the need to stimulate the production of collagen, an essential protein in the fight against skin ageing. They created their first ‘collagen pellicle’ (coating), an intensely rejuvenating mask applied to the face, which is considered the first generation of the Collagen 90+ clinical treatment. Exclusive to G.M. Collin, this concept combines a pure lyophilised native collagen pellicle with selected biotech ingredients in formulations designed to optimise the performance of the mask.

What other clinical treatments do you offer?

We have five more core offers. The first of our 60-minute treatments is Sea C Spa, involving a powerful vitamin C antioxidant serum, seaweed and organic mud application. Our 60-minute Hydrolifting session provides visible lifting and firming, and flowing massage techniques, while the 60-minute Botinol is an innovative and noninvasive treatment, focusing on expression lines to provide instant and long-lasting visible results. Finally we have a five-step, 50-minute Oxygenating facial treatment, and a 45-minute Algomask session to target dehydrated and sensitive skin.

How are your clinical treatments supplied to the spa?

Our clinical treatments come in a pre-dosed format, which helps retain the full integrity and effectiveness of the formulas. The pre-dosing also simplifies the treatment protocol for skincare professionals, as quantities are already pre-measured and they simply need to follow the steps. This also makes inventory easy to manage, and allows for a standardised application to deliver exceptional results every time. These treatments contain powerful formulas exclusive to professional use that are not sold in retail format, differentiating the professional offers and bringing an added value to our treatments for the consumers.

What’s the key to the company’s success?

Each formula is the culmination of years of research and development to obtain the most effective skin care solutions on the market. Authenticity is also essential for us: we always ensure the

products deliver on their promises. During the development of each formula, we ensure that the results surpass the benchmark established, otherwise we don’t launch it and go back to re-formulating.

Why should spa and wellness operators partner with G.M. Collin?

We believe the strong collaboration between our team and skincare professionals is what enables us to achieve excellence in dermo-corrective skincare. With our Support 360° programme, we put a team of dedicated professionals at the service of our spa partners to support all business development needs every step of the way. Our support also includes business development, customer service, complete training and development, dynamic marketing and web support.

What makes the company stand out?

Since the very beginning, G.M. Collin products have been developed with results in mind, which is why we’ve created our clinical evaluation department, comprised of dermatologists, biologists and skincare experts. This department specialises in evaluating and measuring the performance of each formula, qualitatively and quantitatively. The efficacy and tolerance of each product are confirmed by these rigorous clinical studies, conducted from a pool of thousands of volunteers. We’re very lucky to do this from our own laboratories in Montreal, a very diverse city, which allows us to have volunteers from all skin types and skin ethnicity and test in all types of weather. l More: www.world.gmcollin.com

The efficacy each product is confirmed by clinical testing

PHOTO: G.M. COLLIN

Whitby,

At your service

We reveal some of the latest, most thought-provoking spa and wellness treatments, programmes and experiences from around the world

Sacred River Spa, Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, Indonesia

90 minutes

IDR2,6 million (US$169, €152, £128)

Synthesis Organics gets intra-oral

When Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan reopens its spa after a major overhaul in October, one of its star treatments will be a facial that involves manipulating the inside of the mouth.

Known as a buccal, or intro-oral, massage, the technique is designed to improve circulation, boosting blood flow and lymphatic drainage to redefine facial contours and is also believed to help release stored emotions. It will form one half of a brand-new 90-minute therapy by Synthesis Organics, which includes a cleanse, enzyme exfoliation, scalp massage and LED light therapy too.

The treatment also features the brand’s signature opening and closing protocols: aura cleansing, gold tuning fork sound healing, breathwork rituals and harmonising soundscapes.

Based in Byron Bay, Australia, Synthesis Organics is a certified organic skincare and treatment brand, which is launching a sustainable HQ and manufacturing plant dubbed ‘eco factory in the forest’. The company debuted at Peninsula Hot Springs in 2016 and is eyeing global expansion.

The buccal massage involves manipulating the inside of the mouth

PHOTO: SYNTHESIS ORGANICS

Zulal launches nighttime rituals

From floating meditation at sunset to evening singing bowl sessions, stargazing and full moon yoga, Zulal Wellness Resort in Qatar is presenting a host of nocturnal wellbeing experiences at cooler times of the day.

Average daytime temperatures in the region sit above 30˚C

Ne,

VND1.7 million (US$68, €61, £53) per guest

from May to September, soaring to 37˚C in July, which has prompted the resort to curate a range of nighttime offerings.

The sessions last from 30-50 minutes and have all been designed to reduce cortisol levels, promote better sleep quality and enhance overall wellbeing.

A range of specially blended teas and an apothecary sleep blend have also been

created to ease guests into a peaceful slumber.

The nighttime sessions can be experienced on their own or added to any of Zulal’s retreats and programmes.

This launch dovetails into growing demand for coolcationing and the rise of nocturnal societies, which Spa Business has flagged as a trend to watch (see www. spabusiness.com/coolcustomers)

Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som, Qatar

30 minutes (for floating meditation, the shortest experience) QAR125 (US$34, €31, £26)

Paid-for bathing experiences in guestrooms is a growing trend

Resort cashes in on guestroom bathing rituals

Vietnamese retreat The Anam Mui Ne is leveraging the demand for wellness outside of the spa by creating – and charging for – an eight-step in-room bathing ritual.

Each guestroom boasts a free-standing clawfoot bath. To make the most of the feature, The Anam Spa’s therapists designed a self-guided experience which includes a homemade sea salt body scrub, a soak enriched with fresh oranges, flowers and essential oils, a nourishing hair treatment and a revitalising Sothys facial mask.

Elsewhere, leading spa brands

Aromatherapy Associates and ESPA have both just revealed branded in-room bath packages. See www.spabusiness.com/aabath and www.spabusiness.com/espabath.

Spa Business expects more resorts to follow suit, by turning simple, low-cost offerings into profitable experiences – much like the way paid-for programmes in hydrothermal facilities have already caught on.

The Anam Mui

Mui Ne, Vietnam

The rituals tap into the notion of nocturnal societies

60 or 90 minutes

£150 (US$198, €178) or £200 (US$264, €238)

Mushroom body treatment and soundscape crops up

OTO, known for its professional skincare and beauty lines based on CBD extract, has created one of the world’s first mushroom-based spa treatments.

The Kinoko Ki ritual is based on OTO’s Mushroom Ki Oil, a blend of maitake, reishi, cordyceps and chaga mushrooms. The mushrooms are all native to Japan – Kinoko Ki translates as ‘mushroom life force’ in Japanese.

The oil is massaged into the face and body, following myofascial release around the spine, body brushing and gentle exfoliation. Tuning forks reset the body’s energy before the treatment concludes with a shiatsu massage using mushroomshaped quartz and onyx spheres.

Sessions are performed to a soundscape created by Justin Wiggan, which translates the electrical impulses and frequencies of the mycelium network into a soothing acoustic environment (see www.spabusiness.com/justinwiggan).

The star ingredient is OTO’s Mushroom Ki Oil that’s based on a blend of four Japanese fungi

PHOTO: OTO

JOIN W3SPA EMEA IN MALTA

Representing the next generation of hosted buyer events, connecting global wellness suppliers with buyers from luxury resorts and spas through scheduled one-on-one meetings, networking activities, community, and purpose.

W3Spa EMEA

3-6 June 2025 • Hilton Malta

Set on the seafront in Saint Julian’s, the Hilton Malta is a luxury 5-star resort. Reimagine how your business can grow waking up to panoramic views of the Portomaso Marina and the Mediterranean Sea. Connect with like-minded professionals within the resort’s versatile indoor and outdoor event spaces, against a backdrop of the Hilton’s modern decor and Malta’s clear blue seas. Conveniently located just minutes from the ancient capital city of Valletta, the Hilton Malta is the perfect venue for business meets wellness.

This event was truly special, as it brought together influential figures in various industries. It was characterized by its considerate nature, fostering an intimate atmosphere that revolved around genuine human connection. It is through these meaningful connections that strong personal and professional relationships are nurtured and formed.

Bodina Qureshi, Director of Spa and Wellness, Minor Hotels

There couldn’t have been a more well executed and attended event for GAIA Skincare to debut to the wider EMEA region. Strong industry relationships were made and a real feeling of community within the industry.

Jessica Scullion, Head of Sales, GAIA Skincare

Contact our team today!

Stephen Pace-Bonello Event Director

+356 9945 8305

stephen@weworkwellevents.com

www.weworkwellevents.com

Doctor-led sports medicine retreats target luxury market

Dr George Bownes, a sports medicine consultant who’s worked with elite athletes such as premiership footballers and Olympic competitors is targeting luxury spas and resorts with what he’s calling a first-of-its-kind approach.

Drawing on 15-plus years of experience, Bownes has created Citius Retreats based on his understanding of the life-changing benefits that come from doctor-led programmes which focus on enhancing athletic performance, injury prevention and supporting injury recovery. He’s blending this with wellness, tapping into his network of practitioners and fostering a community where guests can connect and share experiences.

One of his first partnerships is with Six Senses Ibiza, where a series of four-day retreats will include activities such as coastal hikes, paddleboarding, cold-water therapy and workshops on recovery and nutrition. Guests will also benefit from physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, mindfulness practices, massages and cryotherapy.

Four days

£6,500 (US$8,460, €7,683)

Four days

THB37,124 (US$1,077, €973, £830)

Locals teach Balinese massage and wellness traditions at YTL resort

YTL Hotels has curated a retreat for those eager to immerse themselves in Balinese culture, wellness and the arts.

Each day will begin with a yoga session to set a positive tone. Guests will then dive into learning the time-honoured techniques of Balinese massage under the guidance of local therapists, master the art of brewing Jamu (traditional Balinese herbal remedies) and craft handmade candles and boreh – a body scrub made from local spices. The retreat also provides a chance to connect with Balinese traditions through Kecak dance – which blends music, storytelling and movement – and by learning to play the traditional Balinese gamelan instrument. ●

Six Senses Ibiza, Illes Balears, Spain

Dr George Bownes

Programmes focus on athletic performance and injury prevention

PHOTO: CITIUS RETREATS

Spa Village Resort Tembok Bali, Indonesia

PHOTO: YTL

Guests will master the art of brewing Balinese herbal remedies

SUITE

DREAMS

Sofitel commissions a scientific study to analyse traveller’s sleep

Global hotel brand Sofitel has partnered with researchers at Paris City University to understand better how people sleep when staying away from home.

The study, published in the Journal of Sleep Disorders and Therapy*, specifically looks at what conditions help travellers to minimise the ‘first-night effect’.

The first-night effect occurs when people go to bed in an unfamiliar place for the first time and their brains display heightened activity even after they close their eyes. Sofitel identified this as a widespread issue, given that 45 per cent of its guests only stayed for one night last year.

SPECIAL SLEEP ROOM

The sleep quality of 49 participants – based on duration, depth, regularity, interruptions, time to fall asleep and the wake-up phase – was first measured at home using a sensor under the mattress. Respiratory and cardiac rhythms were also recorded.

The same metrics were then observed for one night in a specially fitted-out room at Sofitel Paris Arc de Triomphe. The experience included a box spring mattress, topper, comforter and extensive selection of pillows – features that Sofitel has been offering in its MyBed experience since 2003.

On top of this, it took into account a host of other variables, including:

l a food menu with meals that avoid excess fat, salt, sugar and spice

l a pre-sleep meditation session and herbal tea

l an essential oil pillow spray

l a lip balm

Quality of sleep was 13.7 per cent higher [for hotel guests] than at home

l warm socks

l a silk sleep mask to provide total darkness

l calming white and pink noise generators during the process of falling asleep

l an optimal room temperature of 18˚C

l and silicone earplugs

EXTRA SHUT-EYE

On average, the participant’s sleep quality in the hotel room was 13.7 per cent higher than at home. They had 65 minutes extra shut-eye and 64 per cent fell asleep within 30 minutes.

Drawing on the study findings, Sofitel started phasing in new sleep rituals in its 120-plus hotels globally in July.

The offerings include light meals formulated to help guests fall asleep quicker, bespoke treatment protocols to improve sleep quality, relaxing playlists curated specially for the brand’s hotels and precise lighting and temperature adjustments. l

*Alkobtawi, M et al. Enhancing First-Night Sleep Quality in Hotels: A Preliminary Study Utilizing Withings to Measure Sleep Patterns at Home and in Hotel Settings. Journal of Sleep Disorders & Therapy Issue 1, 2024

Sofitel has used the findings to create some new sleep rituals

PHOTO: ACCOR_SOFITEL