Hospitality veteran Barry Sternlicht is bringing back the Starwood Hotels name, rebranding his SH Hotels & Resorts operating group under the iconic brand he originally created nearly 30 years ago.
The new Starwood Hotels is distinct from the original Starwood Hotels & Resorts, which was acquired by Marriott International in 2016 for US$13.3 billion (€12.1 billion, £10.2 billion).
Sternlicht was previously chair and CEO of the original Starwood Hotels & Resorts.
Following the rebranding, Starwood Hotels is gearing up for major expansion, with more than 40 properties across its three brands – including 1 Hotels, Baccarat Hotels and Treehouse Hotels – spanning four continents.
"Reintroducing the Starwood Hotels name is personally very exciting for me," said Sternlicht, founder and chair of Starwood Hotels, an affiliate of his investment firm, Starwood Capital Group.
"It's a tribute to a legacy that millions of people know and trust,
Starwood Hotels says wellness and dining will remain at the core of its guest experience, which will seamlesssly blend sustainability and luxury.
in Portugal will have design by Clodagh
■ Wellness is a key tenet of the rebranded group
spa business people
MSpa International names Deirdre McGuinness new group director spa and wellness - Asia
MSpa International has appointed Deirdre McGuinness as group director of spa and wellness - Asia.
Founded in Thailand in 1999, MSpa is the spa management arm of Thailand-based hotel and spa operator Minor Hotels. The subsidiary operates more than 70 spas globally under its Anantara Spa and Avani Spa brands.
McGuinness will now be responsible for creating the business strategy to develop Minor’s spa and wellness brands globally while overseeing operations with a strong focus on driving commercial performance and enhancing guest experiences.
Our first six months in the market focused on launching with strategic partners
Eric Litman
Deirdre is an accomplished commercial leader with more than 20 years' experience
Minor describes McGuinness as an accomplished commercial leader with more than 20 years of experience in the global luxury hospitality industry, including roles at established brands such as Mandarin Oriental, Gulf Hotel Group, Belmond and Nikko Hotels.
McGuinness transitioned into the wellness sector in 2018 as a consultant for Fast Track and later at Biogenic Wellness, where she honed her brand strategy, product development and commercial leadership capabilities.
Before joining Minor, McGuinness was global commercial director at Maxx Royal Resorts, where she developed the commercial and trade marketing strategy.
MORE >>> http://lei.sr/A8K4w_B
Aescape secures $83m in strategic funding, reveals Eric Litman
New York-based lifestyle robotics company Aescape has announced it has raised US$83 million (€76.5 million, £64.3 million) in a strategic round led by Valor Equity Partners, an early investor in Tesla and SpaceX
“Our first six months in the market focused on launching with strategic partners and introducing fully autonomous robotic massage to consumers, driving both high utilisation and repeat usage rates,” said Aescape founder and CEO Eric Litman.
“With fresh capital, we’re doubling down on these goals, catapulting growth for both our business and our partners as we expand into hospitality, professional sports, fitness and mainstream markets.”
With this latest investment, Aescape’s total funding now stands at US$128 million (€118 million, £99.1 million), enabling the company to scale operations, expand into new markets and grow its partnerships with global brands.
MORE >>> http://lei.sr/S8g4s_B
We worked to meticulously preserve the building’s rich character
Amadeo Serra
Amadeo Serra unveils Aire's second NYC bathhouse
Luxury bathhouse brand Aire Ancient Baths has opened the doors to its newest New York City retreat, marking its second Manhattan location and ninth destination globally.
Known for transforming historic buildings into urban bathhouses, Aire offers an immersive wellness experience inspired by ancient Roman, Greek and Ottoman traditions. Each location features the brand’s signature candlelit contrast bathing facilities and spa treatments.
The new site spans 9,600sq ft across the first three floors of 305 East 61st Street – a landmark building dating back to 1900 that once housed priceless artworks for the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).
“As with all Aire locations, we chose this building extremely carefully," said Amadeo Serra, Aire CEO. "We worked to meticulously preserve the building’s rich character, with exposed bricks, original beams and vaulted ceilings throughout the space.”
People
MSpa International names Deirdre McGuinness new group director spa and wellness - Asia
New territory
BodyHoliday to debut in Europe with €158m wellness retreat in Portugal
Research
Genes play a greater role in obesity than previously thought, concludes University of Cambridge research
SPA BUSINESS INSIGHTS
Into the wild
Aldar unveils plans for The Wilds –a new Dubai wellness community inspired by Mother Nature
Healing space
First glimpses revealed of Malta’s premier integrated wellness hotel
Supplier innovation
The latest in products and innovation from Saltability, Voya, Sommerhuber, Kemitron and Studio Apostoli
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spa business news
GROWTH
BodyHoliday to debut in Europe with €158m retreat in Portugal
Luxury wellness brand BodyHoliday is expanding into Europe with a five-star health and fitness retreat on Portugal’s East Algarve coastline.
Set to open in 2027, the €158 million (US$165.9 million, £131.1 million) – at yet unnamed –BodyHoliday Algarve will be located near the unspoiled beaches of Praia da Lota.
The 220-key resort will be a sister destination to the operator’s flagship in St Lucia and mark BodyHoliday’s first European outpost.
Guests will have access to a 50-treatment-room spa, gardens, a clubhouse, five dining outlets
TECHNOLOGY
and a gym designed for Pilates, spinning and yoga. The retreat will also feature an indoor pool, three outdoor pools and direct beach access. Design will be by Clodagh.
BodyHoliday is looking to attract visitors from the US, Canada, UK, France, Germany and Italy.
Construction is set to begin this year, with backing from the local municipality of Vila Real de Santo António (VRSA).
Álvaro Araújo, president of the Municipal Chamber of VRSA says the project “will transform VRSA’s tourism landscape”. MORE >>> http://lei.sr/e8K9V_B
Technogym unveils new Healthness concept
The ability to predict disease before it occurs will be the greatest revolution of our time
Nerio
Alessandri
Technogym founder, Nerio Alessandri, has unveiled his trademarked 'Healthness' concept at the recent Technogym 25th Wellness Congress.
The new word joins the company's lexicon which includes its strapline as 'The Wellness Company'.
Healthness leverages wellness data collected over 30 years on Technogym's Mywellness Open Platform, blending it with data from Technogym Checkup – an assessment station based on AI that analyses psycho-physical and cognitive parameters.
This project will transform VRSA’s tourism landscape
Álvaro Araújo
“The ability to predict disease before it occurs will be the greatest revolution of our time,” said Alessandri.
“Healthness leverages wellness and takes this vision even further by making prevention programmes tangible, thanks to data and AI."
MORE >>> http://lei.sr/s8Q9H_B
■ The project is already on-site
■ Nerio Alessandri at the Healthness launch
Life Time invests in recovery
US healthclub operator, Life Time, has started the rollout of cold plunges to more than 70 of its clubs in response to customer demand.
In a recent survey conducted by the operator, more than 43 per cent of the 1,000 respondents said they'd like to try ice baths and cryotherapy as a recovery practice.
“Cold water therapy is one of the most effective ways to recharge,” says Danny King, director of recovery and performance.
“By spending just 30 seconds in a cold plunge you can boost your RECOVERY
RESEARCH
Genes play greater role in obesity
Research from the UK's University of Cambridge suggests genetics play a major role in obesity, limiting individual control over weight.
The Study Into Lean and Thin Subjects involved 2,000 healthy, thin people (defined as having a BMI of less than 18 kg/m2) with no medical conditions or eating disorders. Saliva samples were also used for DNA analysis and compared with samples from severely obese people and normal weight controls.
Several known genetic variants that play a role in obesity were discovered, as well as new genetic regions involved in severe obesity
energy, improve your sleep and build mental resilience. By integrating this into Life Time's offerings, we further solidify our position as the premier holistic destination for health and wellness.”
and some involved in healthy thinness. The researchers added up the contribution of the different genetic variants to calculate a genetic risk score. The thin people had fewer of the genetic variants that are known to increase a person’s chances of being overweight.
Lead researcher Dr Inês Barroso stated: “The genetic dice are loaded against obese people,” reinforcing that weight is largely influenced by inherited factors.
■ Life Time has invested in cold plunges
spa business insights
Into the wild
A new wellness community inspired by Mother Nature is set to arrive in Dubai in 2029 – introducing The Wilds
The Wilds will become the most sought-after green development in the emirate
UAE developer Aldar has announced plans for The Wilds, a new wellnessfocused community coming to Dubai, designed to immerse residents in nature while promoting sustainability and wellbeing.
Developed in partnership with Dubai Holding and set for completion in 2029, the project will combine premium residences with green spaces to create a living environment that supports both healthy living and biodiversity.
The Wilds aims to redefine what it means to live in harmony with nature, o ering families and young people a tranquil environment surrounded by greenery and wildlife.
Claimed to be a first-of-its-kind in Dubai, the property will host a wide range of wildlife within a residential setting. It will focus on the safe integration and retention of various species, alongside native plants within a woodland sanctuary.
Features such as ponds, expansive lawn areas and dry stream habitats will enhance the landscape, while manmade bird nests, bee-keeping zones, and duck houses will further contribute to the community's commitment to sustainability.
Jonathan Emery, CEO of Aldar Development, said: “We’re extremely
ALDAR
A design masterpiece inspired by Mother Nature, The Wilds is a place where people and nature will live and grow together
excited to introduce The Wilds, our third residential community in Dubai and one that will become the most sought-after green development in the emirate.
“A design masterpiece inspired by Mother Nature, The Wilds is a place where people and nature will live and grow together, where children are encouraged to be curious in an environment that will not only nurture their health, wellbeing and development, but also help them understand their responsibility to protect the environment for future generations.”
Key features and wellness o ering
A striking architectural feature of the development will be The Nest, a signature community pavilion that integrates seamlessly with the natural environment, serving as a visual landmark and gathering space for residents.
For the youngest residents, The Nest will house a curiosity area
dedicated to wildlife observation and environmental learning.
For those seeking relaxation, the development will feature shaded wellness pavilions, meditation spaces, resort-style swimming pools and cocoon hammocks. Walking and cycling trails will weave through the master plan, inviting residents to explore and unwind in natural surroundings.
Adventure seekers and sports enthusiasts will also be able to enjoy modern fitness zones, exercise decks, as well as tennis, padel and basketball courts.
Prime location
Situated along the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road opposite Global Village, The Wilds will be set within one of Dubai’s most up-and-coming a uent areas.
Featuring almost 1,700 homes, including five- and six-bedroom mansions
designed by renowned Lebanese architect, Nabil Gholam, every home will be surrounded by eco corridors and green spaces that provide privacy within nature.
An international branded school will be a community cornerstone, featuring outdoor learning spaces and eco-focused facilities that complement the community's commitment to environmental education and sustainability.
Residents’ daily needs will be served by a retail hub at the community entrance, along with clubhouses, a nursery, a clinic and two mosques.
The family-centric community has been designed as a living classroom for children with incidental play areas, splash pads and shallow streams encouraging exploration within nature. With inclusivity at its core, the community will also provide adaptive play areas for people with disabilities. ●
■ The vision for The Wilds is a residential community where nature is part of everyday life
■ Verdala Wellness will be home to a 1,500sq m spa
Healing space
First glimpses have been revealed of Malta’s premier integrated wellness hotel
Anew five-star wellnessfocused hotel is taking shape in Rabat, Malta, set to become the island’s first fully integrated wellness hotel.
Developed by industry consultancy Spa Connectors, Verdala Wellness Hotel is on track for a May launch.
The 46-key hotel and its adjacent residences are part of AX Group’s redevelopment of the former Grand Hotel Verdala, which originally
opened in 1971. The project aims to introduce a wellness-led approach to hospitality, with facilities designed for both individual wellbeing and group retreats.
Speaking exclusively to Spa Business, Kathryn Moore, managing director of Spa Connectors, describes the wellness hotel’s concept as a space for personalised wellbeing.
Verdala Wellness' key features will include a 1,500sq m spa, immersive audio-visual rooms, intra-venous
drip lounges, a range of contrast therapy areas, a modern gym and multiple movement studios.
Programming
The spa will o er areas for independent relaxation, structured workshops and group activities, while bespoke wellbeing programmes will combine modern wellness practices with Mediterranean herbal healing traditions and cultural experiences.
Partnerships with etablished industry brands including Gharieni, Seed to Skin and Biologique Recherche will support the wellness o ering.
In addition, a team of visiting and resident practitioners will o er expertise in alternative therapies, meditation, fitness innovation and advanced skincare.
Verdala Wellness will also host thirdparty retreat facilitators, providing support during their residencies.
The spa will o er areas for independent relaxation, structured workshops and group activities
Additional activities
Complementing the wellness o ering, Michelin-starred chef Victor Borg will lead the hotel's F&B concept, crafting nutrient-rich meals that align with its health-driven philosophy.
Outdoor experiences will further enhance the retreat, with activities including things such as beachside yoga lessons, scenic hiking excursions, ocean swimming sessions and educational Mediterranean herb workshops. ●
■ Verdala Wellness Hotel will launch in May 2025
SPA CONNECTORS
10 – 13 APR 25 Exhibition
SUPPLIER NEWS
Suppliers tell Spa Business insider about their latest product, design and technology launches
■ The set features a hand-carved Himalayan salt
Saltability unveils Massage Kit for spa treatments and retail sales
Saltability, a Himalayan salt wellness product supplier, has developed a new Mini Massage kit designed to deliver a calming spa experience in both professional spa settings and at home, enhancing personal wellness routines.
The set features a hand-carved Himalayan salt heart stone and laminaria oil derived from sea kelp, offering a complete, luxurious wellness experience.
The heart stone, with its unique pointed edges and rounded sides, is ideal for massaging trigger points,
relieving tension in areas like the shoulders, neck and lower back.
According to Saltability, the included oil offers multiple benefits:
• Hydrates and rejuvenates the skin, leaving it soft and smooth after each use.
• Detoxifies by drawing out impurities while enhancing the natural properties of the salt stone.
• Soothes and relaxes, complementing the calming effects of the massage for stress relief.
“The Mini Massage Kit serves as an excellent retail item for spa owners, enhancing treatment options,” said
■ Ann Brown, Saltability founder and CEO
Ann Brown, Saltability founder and CEO. “Ideal for relieving everyday muscle tension, the kit allows clients to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of both the salt stone and oil in the comfort of their own space.”
heart stone, paired with laminaria oil
Voya kicks off in-depth research study to unlock healing potential of seaweed
Sustainable Irish marine wellbeing brand Voya has undertaken a new twoyear-long research project to further understand the ‘superpowers’ of Irish seaweed. This initiative is part of an innovation partnership with Shannon ABC, which has secured €1 million (approximately
■ Mark Walton, Voya co-founder
US$1.03 million or £832,000) in funding from Enterprise Ireland.
The research focuses on understanding the benefits of Irish seaweed for skincare and overall wellness.
Through this project, Voya intends to improve the sustainability and effectiveness of its seaweed harvesting methods by developing advanced technologies for more sustainable extraction of seaweed molecules.
By perfecting these processes, the research aims to unlock the full potential of Irish seaweed for applications in areas including menopause, perimenopause, skin brightening and microbiome health.
Studio Apostoli creates outdoor furniture range
Wellness Therapy is a new indoor and outdoor furniture collection designed by Italy-based architecture and design firm Studio Apostoli for Varaschin.
Designed for spas, hospitality spaces and residential settings, the range includes a chaise longue, single and double beds, and a multifunctional side table.
The collection, created for use in gardens, by the pool or on a terrace, is anchored by a contemporary take on the classic sun lounger which can also be transformed into a chaise lounge. It features soft, flowing lines and subtle details intended to balance functionality and aesthetics.
The gently contoured shell follows the shape of the body to provide ergonomic support,
■ The seaweed study is due to conclude by Q3 of 2027
Voya co-founder, Mark Walton, commented: “The realworld evidence we gain from in-vivo testing is crucial for building consumer trust.”
MORE ON spa-kit.net
http://lei.sr/5E9A0
■ The minimalist range features four products
while a thin headrest cushion enhances comfort. High-density padding reinforces the seating position, creating a sense of lightness, supported by a slender, minimalist frame.
MORE ON spa-kit.net
http://lei.sr/W6l6f
VOYA
VOYA
Kemitron revamps Technico VaporSystem
Kemitron has refined the Technico VaporSystem to maximise the benefits of salt inhalation therapy in spas, wellness centres and salt climate chambers.
Unlike dry salt systems, which can cause irritation, dehydration and allergic reactions due to undiluted salt particles, Kemitron’s liquid saline mist technology is designed to provide a gentler and more effective alternative.
The system is designed to replicate the consistency of coastal air, delivering a hydrating, non-irritating fine salt mist that gently soothes the respiratory system.
The Technico VaporSystem’s key functions include automated salt solution dosing, the production of an ultra-fine salt mist, self-cleaning technology, precise fragrance infusion, flexibile installation options, international compatibility and optional legionella flushing capabilities.
According to Kemitron, the effectiveness of halotherapy depends on the quality of the salt solution.
■ The system replicates the qualities of salty coastal air http://lei.sr/S1n0r
In response, the brand offers its own Salt Solution – a ready-to-use, stabilised saline formula. Free from contaminants, it prevents crystal formation and bacterial growth, to ensure safe, maintenancefree operation within the Technico VaporSystem.
Austrian ceramics specialist Sommerhuber has introduced Mono, a sleek and maintenance-free wetroom seating solution designed for ultimate comfort and relaxation. Mono is crafted from smooth, heat-retaining ceramics that emit
■ Christian Sommerhuber company owner
long-wave infrared radiation, said to promote well-being, boost circulation, ease muscle tension, and support the immune system.
At 72cm wide, it serves as a single seat for defined personal space or combines into a spacious bench configuration.
Company founder, Christian Sommerhuber, commented: “Featuring soft, curved edges and a striking high backrest, the contemporary design is available in 15 different glazes, offering versatility to suit various interiors.”
MORE ON spa-kit.net
http://lei.sr/V4p5o
■ The Mono seat can be configured in either single or bench formation
Iyashi Dôme spotlights Oteire, the next-generation infratherapy solution
As the wellness sector continues to rapidly evolve, spas must continue to innovate to stay competitive and attract returning clients. Modern consumers demand solutions that blend cutting-edge technology with proven results, and Iyashi Dôme is rising to the challenge by redefining industry standards.
Rooted in Japanese tradition, Iyashi Dôme’s infratherapy technology has conquered minds by offering a unique experience of detoxification, slimming and relaxation since 2004.
Now, the sauna specialist has raised the bar and unveiled the Iyashi Dôme Oteire, an advanced infratherapy device designed to elevate traditional manual treatments.
By integrating gentle infratherapy with hands-on protocols for the face, arms and hands, the Oteire experience creates a unique synergy that surpasses conventional beauty practices. This innovation allows wellness practitioners, therapists and beauticians to expand their service offerings while maintaining their practical expertise, transforming routine sessions into complete, multi-sensory experiences.
The Oteire marks a significant step forward for spas, wellness facilities and beauty salons aiming to enhance their professionalism and move into the premium market. Its advanced technology enables salons to deliver
highly personalised treatments while ensuring long-term profitability, thanks to its sustainable design.
“The relationship between wellness and technology is evolving and practitioners must adapt to meet the demands of a more discerning clientele,” says Shogoro Uemura, founder of Iyashi Dôme. “Our mission is to support beauticians in this new era, where technology enhances manual care to deliver an unparalleled well-being experience.”
With Oteire, spas and beauty salons are entering a new chapter where technological innovation meets human expertise, setting a new benchmark for the future of beauty and wellness. l More: www.iyashidome.com
The relationship between wellness and technology is evolving and practitioners must adapt
Shogoro Uemura
spa-kit.net keyword: Iyashi Dôme
PHOTO: IYASHI DÔME
The technology can be paired with treatments for the face, arms and hands
The Oteire model allows for multi-layered treatment experiences
PHOTO: IYASHI DÔME
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)
