Spa Business Insider issue 464

Page 1


Therme Group acquires Erding

Global wellbeing organisation

Therme Group has acquired Therme Erding – a vast 145,000sq ft wellbeing destination located near Munich in Germany.

Recognised as one of Europe’s largest thermal wellbeing complexes, Therme Erding features a 40-pool bathing oasis, 35 steam baths and saunas and 28 indoor and outdoor slides. Founded by architect and entrepreneur Josef Wund in 1999, the facility has become a cornerstone of the European wellness industry.

The acquisition builds on a longstanding relationship between the Wund family and Robert Hanea, CEO and founder of Therme Group.

To finance the deal, Therme Group secured a €320 million (US$336 million, £264 million) funding package from Macquarie Capital's Principal

Finance team. Arranged by Deutsche Bank, this funding is claimed to represent one of the largest singleasset financings in the industry.

With the addition of Therme Erding, Therme Group's portfolio of wellbeing destinations is set to exceed 3.5 million annual visitors.

Hanea said: “As we expand globally, we’re not just growing our portfolio – we’re redefining how cities can integrate spaces that prioritise health, connection, and inclusion, making urban wellbeing accessible to all.”

■ Therme Group has projects underway in Canada, the UK, the US, South Korea and Germany

spa business people

Tributes flow in as industry remembers Lisa Henry Jacobs

The spa and wellness industry is mourning the loss of Lisa Henry Jacobs, a beloved industry veteran and international consultant, who died in November following a battle with cancer.

Based in Boulder, Colorado, Jacobs was a vibrant, wellrespected figure in the luxury spa, wellness and hospitality sectors for more than three decades. Throughout her treatment journey, her industry community rallied around her and launched multiple GoFundMe initiatives to help ease the financial burden of her care.

Jacobs began her career in spa operations, quickly advancing into leadership roles across the US and internationally. In 1999, she settled

Caitlin is a dynamic and respected leader known for her humancentric leadership

Lisa's

genuine warmth made people feel deeply connected to her Blu Spas

in Colorado and embarked on an 18-year tenure with Blu Spas as a senior spa and wellness consultant, collaborating with established brands such as Hilton and Four Seasons.

In 2000, she launched The Collective Well, her own spa consultancy, leading the development of more than 200 spa projects in 20 countries. From 2012 to 2013, she also served as director of North American spa development for ila.

The team at Blu Spas paid a heartfelt tribute to their colleague, saying: “Lisa's magnetic personality and genuine warmth made people feel deeply connected to her. Her intense passion for our industry made her a leading and respected voice.”

MORE >>> http://lei.sr/z2q6R_B

Arch Amenities Group names Caitlin McKenna chief executive officer

Arch Amenities Group, global provider of amenity management, hospitality consulting and recruiting services for commercial and residential properties, hotels, spas, private clubs and pools, has appointed wellness and hospitality figure Caitlin McKenna as new CEO.

“Caitlin is a dynamic and respected leader known for her human-centric leadership, passion for service and innovationdriven growth,” commented Steven Rudnitsky, Arch chair.

McKenna served as chief development officer at Trilogy Spa Holdings and global head at JLL, leading multibillion-dollar strategies for Fortune 500 clients. From 2012-19, she held leadership roles at Hilton focusing on brand and product development.

Barry Goldstein, who served Arch as CEO for the past three years, has been appointed to the new position of chief commercial officer, responsible for business development and customer relationship management.

MORE >>> http://lei.sr/J4N2w_B

BLU SP[AS

The journey has been filled with growth, success and most importantly, amazing people

Kenneth Ryan departs Marriott after 15 years

Seasoned spa veteran Kenneth Ryan has announced he is leaving his role as Marriott International’s VP of global operations for spa, fitness and retail.

“After 15 incredible years with Marriott, I’m stepping into a new season," Ryan revealed. "The journey has been filled with growth, success and most importantly, amazing people – teams, partners and friends who made every moment memorable.”

With nearly 30 years of global experience in the wellness and hospitality sectors, Ryan’s career has been defined by his passion for hotel spa operations.

He began his journey with Marriott 17 years ago, later spending nine years at Accorowned Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.

In 2011, Ryan returned to Marriott as senior director of global spa operations. By 2016, he had risen to VP of global operations for spa, fitness and retail.

CONTENTS ISSUE 464

People

Tributes flow in as industry remembers Lisa Henry Jacobs

New territory

Jumeirah debuts in Africa with exclusive island retreat and safari reserve

Research: wellbeing burnout

Wellbeing burnout is an issue according to a Lululemon survey

SPA BUSINESS INSIGHTS

Walk this way

Spa Pilgrimage packages launch across Galicia blending thermal wellness with iconic Camino walking route

Natural perspective

Nature takes centre stage at Balnea Spa + Thermal Reserve’s new lakeside bathing sanctuary in Quebec

Supplier innovation

The latest in products and innovation from Germaine de Capuccini, QMS Medicosmetics, WaverBed, JK Wellness, Kohler and Design for Leisure

Sign up to Spa Business insider: Online: www. spabusiness.com/signup

Email: subs@leisuremedia.com

Tel: +44 (0)1462 471930

Annual subscriptions: International £114, UK £80 and UK students £42. @spabusinessmag

Read Spa Business and Spa Business insider free online: www.spabusiness.com/archive

spa business news

STRATEGY

Jumeirah partners with Thanda Group for African debut

Dubai-based luxury hotel operator Jumeirah has announced a new partnership with Thanda Group, marking its first venture into Africa.

Thanda Group, renowned for its high-end, privately owned hospitality experiences in Africa, has partnered with Jumeirah to rebrand two of its existing properties as Jumeirah Thanda Island and Jumeirah Thanda Safari.

Situated in the protected Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve in Tanzania, Jumeirah Thanda Island comprises an exclusive-use villa, while Jumeirah Thanda Safari is found in one of South Africa’s

INITIATIVES

most luxurious private safari destinations featuring branded residences and a member’s club. Both locations will offer distinctive wellness programming blending Western healing techniques with ancient Zulu practices.

This expansion brings Jumeirah’s global portfolio to 28 properties across the Middle East, Africa, Europe and Asia, aligning with its Mission 2030 strategy unveiled in June 2023.

Upcoming destinations include Bali, the Maldives, China, the UK (London), Italy (Capri), Spain (Mallorca) and Switzerland (Geneva).

MORE >>> http://lei.sr/a9y8k_

Great Spa Towns of Europe hosts inaugural youth project

It was wonderful to welcome our young participants to Baden bei Wien

Chiara Ronchini

Nearly 100 students gathered in Baden bei Wien, Austria, in November to participate in the first-ever youth project hosted by the Great Spa Towns of Europe (GSTE) – a UNESCO World Heritage collective established in 2021.

The GSTE, which includes 11 historic spa towns renowned for their natural mineral springs, launched the initiative to engage the next generation in preserving their shared cultural heritage.

Chiara Ronchini, GSTE secretary general, commented: "It was

This expansion brings Jumeirah’s global portfolio up to 28 properties

initiative is engaing young people

wonderful to welcome our young participants. Their ideas will be invaluable as we ensure our heritage resonates with future generations."

A return exchange is planned for May 2025 in Mariánské Lázně in the Czech Republic.

MORE >>> http://lei.sr/K5y6h_B

■ Jumeirah Thanda Safari
■ The

EXPANSION

Aire to open second NYC bathhouse

Aire Ancient Baths has selected New York City’s Upper East Side neighbourhood for its latest bathhouse, marking its second destination in the city and ninth location worldwide.

Known for revitalising historical buildings into luxurious bathing havens, Aire offers an immersive bathhouse experience inspired by ancient Roman, Greek and Ottoman traditions. Each location features the brand’s signature candle-lit ambience, is infused with orangeblossom scents and offers access

RESEARCH

Wellbeing burnout is an issue, finds Lululemon survey

Eighty nine per cent of people are taking more action than a year ago to improve their wellbeing, according to Lululemon's Global Wellbeing Report 2024: The pressure to be well.

Earlier this year, the athleisure brand commissioned a survey from Edelman Data & Intelligence to provide a glimpse into the worldwide state of wellbeing.

The survey was conducted in 15 markets where Lululemon operates between 22 April – 30 May, 2024, with 16,000 respondents in total, who were asked about their physical, mental and social wellbeing.

to a range of communal and contrast bathing facilities and spa treatments.

Aire's new 9,600sq ft wellness space in New York will be housed in a 120-yearold former warehouse, once used by Manhattan’s elite to store their valuables.

The results showed that many people, especially among the younger generations, are feeling the pressure to be well which is leading to wellbeing burnout.

The three main stressors cited were unrealistic societal expectations (61 per cent); conflicting information (53 per cent) and going it alone/ loneliness (89 per cent).

Those who feel the most wellbeing pressure are 55 per cent more likely to experience wellbeing burnout.

>>> http://lei.sr/A9E2J_B

■ A second Aire NYC bathhouse is planned

lesmills.com/hotel-fitness-programs

Walk this way

New Spa Pilgrimage packages have launched across Galicia blending thermal wellness with iconic Camino walking route - Spa Business investigates

■ The Camino de Santiago can be walked through Spain, France or Portugal, but ultimately leads to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia

We hope tourists will enjoy authenticity, nature and culture in a true wellness experience

In the Spanish region of Galicia, 13 thermal springs hotels have come together to create special packages and programmes that combine walking the famed Camino pilgrimage routes with overnight stays and spa treatments.

The programme has been coordinated by the Galician Tourism Agency to highlight two of the area’s most wellknown tourist attractions. Galicia is perhaps best known for its pilgrimage route, the Camino de Santiago, which ends in the capital of Santiago de Compostela and has attracted record numbers of walkers in recent years.

“The Way of Saint James (Camino de Santiago) is the tourist experience with the greatest international projection in Galicia,” said Xosé Manuel Merelles Remy, Galician Tourism Agency director.

“Every year, thousands of pilgrims travel to enjoy a safe and healthy Camino that combines nature, culture and gastronomy. But among all the elements of our natural and cultural heritage that make the destination unique, the thermal waters stand out.”

Located in the northwest Iberian peninsula, Galicia is known as “Green Spain” because of its lush landscapes, but it is also the biggest thermal destination in Spain, with more than 300 hot springs.

■ Packages include days of hiking, cultural excursions and spa treatments

This healthy travel proposal is based on two of Galicia's greatest defining features, the Camino and our thermal spas

Today, more than 20 spa establishments use the thermal water and the 1,500km of Galician coastline is also home to a number of thalassotherapy facilities.

“This thermal and mineral-medicinal wealth is distributed throughout our geography, crossing with the Caminos de Santiago and generating an opportunity for a new o er,” said Merelles Remy. “The Galician Tourism Agency has decided to promote ‘Galicia: Spa Pilgrimage in Spain’ as a healthy travel proposal based on two of our great identifying features, the Camino and the spas, and aimed at the care and wellbeing of the pilgrim.”

The idea had its genesis when architect Mario Crecente, director of Crecente Asociados, heard about the Global Wellness Summit’s 2024 trend on ‘The Power of the Pilgrimage’. He saw an opportunity to connect two

ancient and spiritual forms of travel: the Camino and the thermal spring.

Crecente specialises in thermal tourism and is also involved in the European Historic Thermal Towns Association (EHTTA), as president of the Scientific Committee and he saw that packages for tired walkers to soak their muscles in the area’s rich mineral waters at the end of the day made perfect sense – and would celebrate two of the area’s most special attributes.

“Today the Caminos represent the main attraction for foreign visitors to Galicia,” said Crecente. “But in the Caminos, we have baños, balnearios, termas and caldas, from the beginning of times – Galician spas have roots in the origin of our civilisation. So we suggested that Turismo de Galicia create a concept that connects thermal waters and the Caminos, and a new touristic product was born.”

The o ering

Each of the 13 hotels involved in the initiative has put together a package that highlights its distinctive o ering; there is a Roman spa, a forest spa, a sacred spa, a seaside spa and even a spa island.

At the Hotel Balnearo de Lugo, for instance, an eight-day package includes spa treatments, a visit to the Roman baths, five days of hiking, a visit with the hotel’s medical doctor.

Crecente hopes the o ering will bring a new kind of tourist to the area, one that is looking for wellness on a deeper level.

“I often meet pilgrims who have walked the Caminos and when I ask them about their experience, they always use the same word: ‘transformative’,” he said. “We hope tourists will enjoy authenticity, nature and culture in a true wellness experience that has that intangible value of being transformative,” he said. ●

ARNOIA
ALDARIA HOTEL BALNEARIO

spa business insights

■ The initial phase of the CAD$30 million project is focused on transforming the spa into a multi-purpose wellness complex

Natural perspective

Nature is taking centre stage at Balnea Spa + Thermal Reserve’s new lakeside bathing sanctuary

in Quebec

Aluxury Canadian day spa nestled in a 600-acre protected forest reserve in Quebec has recently been elevated with a new two-floor wellness facility, designed to inspire reconnection with nature. Since launching in Bromont in 2005, Balnea Spa + Thermal Reserve has positioned itself as a wellness retreat committed to immersing guests in the beauty of its surroundings. The centrepiece of the new facility is a

modern outdoor spa terrace, featuring a 25-person infinity thermal bath equipped with whirlpool jets and built-in benches. Overlooking Lake Gale and the forest, the space has been designed to reflect Balnea’s commitment to nature-focused relaxation.

On the lower level, a beach-inspired relaxation room with floor-to-ceiling windows o ers guests sweeping lakeside views. With a soft sand floor, the wood-clad room is claimed to encourage visitors to unwind and

immerse themselves in a soothing, nature-centred ambience.

MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects led the design of the new facility, creating a space that seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape, echoing the textures and forms of the nearby Appalachian Mountains.

Additional upgrades also include the introduction of advanced wastewater treatment facilities and biomass heating, reinforcing Balnea’s dedication to sustainability.

JAMES

The bigger picture

The launch of the new extension marks the beginning of phase one of Balnea’s ambitious CAD$30 million (US$21.5 million, €20.3 million, £16.8 million), multi-year expansion project.

Supported financially by the Quebec Ministry of Tourism through the Tourism Industry Recovery Assistance Program (PARIT), the project commenced in 2023 and is set for completion in 2027.

Expected to be fully completed by Q2/ Q3 of 2025, phase one also includes

Every aspect is crafted to awaken the senses and elevate our guests' wellbeing

additional changing rooms, an expansion of the adjacent Beatnik Hotel and the creation of an organic microfarm to supply Balnea’s Lumami restaurant, with a second dining venue also in the works .

“This installation merges innovation, sustainability and architectural excellence,” said Denis Laframboise, president of Balnea. “Every aspect is crafted to awaken the senses and elevate our guests' wellbeing, o ering an immersive experience that draws from the richness of nature.” ●

■ The new facility has been designed by MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects
MAXIME BROUILLET
JAMES BRITTAIN JAMES BRITTAIN
JAMES BRITTAIN

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

l Marriott Edition Como Lake, Italy

l Three Six Senses in Europe

l Baccarat Florence, Italy

l Raddison Blue, Florence, Italy

We push the boundaries of wellness to create unforgettable experiences

Stefano Cattaneo, director, Myrtha Wellness

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 leverages more than 60 years of expertise to craft bespoke solutions
Myrtha’s solutions immerse guests in a state of sensory bliss
PHOTO: MYRTHA WELLNESS
MYRTHA WELLNESS: latest projects
PHOTO: MYRTHA WELLNESS
PHOTO: MYRTHA WELLNESS

SUPPLIER NEWS

Suppliers tell Spa Business insider about their latest product, design and technology launches

■ Klafs develops, designs, manufactures and sells premium wellness products

Kohler partners with DFL to introduce Klafs products to US and Caribbean

Kohler Co. is poised to strengthen its presence in the wellness industry by introducing Klafs – a renowned German manufacturer of premium saunas, steamrooms and hydrothermal wellness solutions –to the US and Caribbean markets.

To spearhead this launch, Kohler has partnered with hydrothermal specialist Design for Leisure (DFL), naming it the exclusive distributor and installation partner for Klafs products in custom commercial hospitality projects across these regions.

DFL has already been designated as a preferred Kohler partner for custom residential projects in these regions.

“DFL has a strong record within the wellness industry and we look forward to aligning our joint goals for the US launch of Klafs products,” says Bonnie Choruby, president of Luxury and Wellness Brands at Kohler.

“This is an area of growth for Kohler as this market embraces experiences and solutions that drive toward healthier, more sustainable lifestyles.”

■ Don Genders, founder and CEO of DFL

Don Genders, DFL founder and CEO, added: “Kohler’s acquisition of Klafs marks a significant milestone in the hydrothermal industry, reflecting the rapid growth this sector is undergoing in the US.”

MORE ON spa-kit.net http://lei.sr/6D4k3

KLAFS
KLAFS

EXPANDING THE BOUNDARIES OF SPA + WELLNESS

From new-builds to full-scale renovations, our portfolio of award-winning projects spans the luxury hospitality, residential and private club continuum.

THE SPA AT THE LITTLE NELL
HALEHOUSE SPA AT STANLY RANCH
KILOLANI SPA AT GRAND WAILEA
KILOLANI SPA AT GRAND WAILEA

SUPPLIER NEWS

QMS' new collection harnesses power of bioidentical vegan collagen

QMS Medicosmetics has introduced its new Precision Care antiageing collection infused with COLLAgen3D, an advanced vegan collagen ingredient developed through yeast fermentation, designed to closely replicate the structure of human collagen.?

■ Rowan Hall-Farrise, QMS international brand ambassador

JK Group launches HydroSpa lounger

JK Group has unveiled the new HydroSpa lounger combining a top-to-toe hydromassage with infrared heat therapy to enhance circulation, relaxation and wellbeing.

COLLAgen3D is formulated to slow collagen breakdown, stimulate new collagen production and protect against UV-induced oxidative stress.

According to QMS international brand ambassador Rowan HallFarrise, the ingredient’s skin-identical properties and micro-molecular structure allow for optimal absorption, maximising effectiveness while minimising allergy risks.

She adds: “QMS is constantly looking to technological innovation to maximise the efficacy of its products. Rather than following trends in skincare, we prioritise supporting the needs of all skin types.”

Complete with a serum, a face cream and a mask, the Precision

James Blower, MD of JK Wellness, describes it as "a highly versatile and luxurious addition to our range," adding that it's "intuitively designed, visually appealing and highly effective."

The lounger features a 300-litre water tank, filled only once and chemical-free, allowing both full and targeted massages. It can be programmed via a smartphone app, enabling users to adjust the intensity, direction, style and duration of the hydromassage while floating weightlessly and

■ The line is comprised of a serum, a cream and a face mask

Care range made its debut at luxury UK destination spa and hotel, The Grove, earlier this quarter. It is being showcased in two exclusive new 80-minute facials.

MORE ON spa-kit.net

http://lei.sr/9F2u3

■ The hydromassage bed is adjustable through an app

dry over a bed of water. A ‘hold’ feature also allows guests to focus on specific pain points.

Sessions range from 15-30 minutes and the lounger includes four standard programmes.

MORE ON spa-kit.net

http://lei.sr/n2d5d

WaverMat unveils touchless gravity wave treatment mat

WaverBed has announced the launch of WaverMat, a touchless, plug-and-play wellness solution designed to enhance guest experiences and drive profitability for spa owners.

Drawing on the principles of acoustic resonance and vibration therapy, WaverMat has been realised to offer a rebalancing wellness ritual which helps users to unwind and induces deep brain relaxation.

Positioned on treatment tables underneath clients, the mat emits therapeutic frequencies to encourage relaxation, mimic the sensation of zero gravity and stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.

Proposed benefits include improved sleep quality, reduced cortisol levels and alleviation of muscle tension and chronic pain, with both immediate and lasting benefits for 8-10 hours.

Mark Baird, CEO of WaverLabs, said: “WaverBed enhances guest wellness and opens new revenue streams for spa owners. We’re

working with select hotels to bring WaverBed technology into guest rooms and spa spaces.”

The WaverMat also offers an opportunity for retail sales with an at-home version, allowing guests to continue their wellness journey beyond their spa visit.

■ The mat harnesses the power of acoustic resonance http://lei.sr/j3T3S

MORE ON spa-kit.net

Germaine De Capuccini launches Retinight serum

Germaine de Capuccini (GDC) has developed a new pro-ageing night serum called Retinight. Designed to push the boundaries of traditional retinol treatments, Retinight was created to offer all the benefits of retinol such

■ Ana Gonzálvez, global technical director

as reducing fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, but without the irritation.

The formula is powered by liposomal retinal – claimed to offer superior efficacy for immediate results with less irritation than retinol – to rejuvenate the skin while users sleep.

Ana Gonzálvez, global technical director of GDC, said: “Compared to retinol, retinal is a formulaic powerhouse ingredient as it can easily be converted to retinoic acid, thus offering a more effective and more immediate alternative.”

MORE ON spa-kit.net http://lei.sr/C9Z6h

■ Retinight's star ingredient is liposomal retinal

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

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

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.
The new slippers
BC Softwear has ensured a luxury feel is maintained PHOTO: BC
PHOTO: BC SOFTWEAR.

WEB ADDRESS BOOK

Connect with spa organisations from around the world. We welcome your entries – write to spateam@leisuremedia.com

Asia-Pacific Spa & Wellness Coalition (APSWC)

■ www.apswc.org

Association of Malaysian Spas (AMSPA)

■ www.amspa.org.my

Australian Hot and Mineral Springs Alliance

■ www.bathing.org

Australasian Wellness Association (ASWELL)

■ https://aswell.au

Bali Spa and Wellness Association

■ www.balispawellness-association.org

Brazilian Esthetics & Spas Association

■ www.abesbrasil.com.br

Bulgarian Union for Balneology and Spa Tourism (BUBSPA)

■ www.bubspa.org

Association of Spas of the Czech Republic

■ www.jedemedolazni.cz

Estonian Spa Association

■ www.estonianspas.eu

European Historic Thermal Towns Association

■ www.historicthermaltowns.eu

European Spas Association

■ www.europeanspas.eu

Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT)

■ www.fht.org.uk

Federterme

■ www.federterme.it

FEMTEC (the World Federation of Hydrotherapy and Climatotherapy)

■ https://www.femteconline.org/m

French Spa Association (SPA-A)

■ www.spa-a.org

German Spas Association

■ www.deutscher-heilbaederverband.de

Global Wellness Institute (GWI)

■ www.globalwellnessinstitute.org

GSN Planet

■ www.gsnplanet.org

Hot Springs Association

■ https://hotspringsassociation.com

Hungarian Baths Association

■ www.furdoszovetseg.hu/en

Hydrothermal Spa Forum

■ www.hydrothermal-spa-forum.net

Icelandic Spa Association

■ www.hlsi.is

The International Medical

Spa Association

■ www.dayspaassociation.com/imsa

International Sauna Association

■ www.saunainternational.net

International Spa Association (ISPA)

■ www.experienceispa.com

Irish Spa Association

■ www.irishspaassociation.ie

Japan Spa Association

■ www.j-spa.jp

Latin American Spa Association

■ www.spalatinoamerica.com

Leading Spas of Canada

■ www.leadingspasofcanada.com

National Guild of Spa Experts Russia

■ www.russiaspas.ru

Portuguese Spas Association

■ www.termasdeportugal.pt

Romanian Spa Organization

■ www.romanian-spas.ro

Salt Therapy Association

■ www.salttherapyassociation.org

Saudi Arabian Wellness Association

■ www.saudiwellness.org

Sauna from Finland

■ www.saunafromfinland.com

Serbian Spas & Resorts Association

■ www.ubas.org.rs

South African Spa Association

■ www.saspaassociation.co.za

Spanish National Spa Association

■ www.balnearios.org

Spa and Wellness Association of Africa (SWAA)

■ www.swaafrica.org

Spa & Wellness Association of Canada

■ www.spaandwellnessassociationofcanada.com

Spa Association of India

■ www.spaassociationofindia.in

Spa Industry Association

■ www.dayspaassociation.com

The Sustainable Spa Association (SSA)

■ www.sustainablespas.org

Taiwan Spa Association

■ https://www.twspa.tw/

Thai Spa Association

■ www.thaispaassociation.com

The UK Spa Association

■ www.spa-uk.org

Touchless Wellness Association

■ www.touchlesswellnessassociation.com

Ukrainian SPA Association

■ www.facebook.com/UASPA

Wellness Tourism Association

■ www.wellnesstourismassociation.org

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.