Complimentary Services are Getting A Makeover.

A complimentary drink or hot towel is seen as standard across the industry. But as Fresha delved into the current and upcoming trends, they spotted more and more places offering bigger complimentary touches, including addons clients want to pay for.

The beauty and wellness industry is continuously evolving, driven by cultural shifts and technological advancements that reshape customer expectations. Today, a simple complimentary drink or hot towel, once seen as standard in the beauty industry, is no longer enough to enhance a client’s experience.

A new wave of value-adding services is emerging, driven by consumer demands for more thoughtful, curated experiences that go beyond the basics. Fresha, the world’s largest beauty and wellness software, recently partnered with WGSN to publish their first-ever trend report. Based on over 1,000 consumer surveys across three continents and data from 600 million bookings, the report taps into current trends and forecasts the future of the beauty and wellness industry.

Beauty businesses have long been spaces for more than just a treatment

They’re sanctuaries for relaxation and rejuvenation. Traditionally, small complimentary services like tea, coffee, water, or magazines were sufficient to enhance the overall customer experience. However, as consumer preferences shift, expectations have evolved. Customers now seek more personalised and thoughtful touches that make their visit not just a service appointment, but an experience. According to Fresha’s survey, 75% of women and 70% of men are more likely to return when a place offers thoughtful add-ons. These small gestures can significantly impact the overall customer experience, fostering loyalty and encouraging repeat business.

Some businesses have begun experimenting with more creative add-ons

Today’s consumer wants more than a cup of coffee or a magazine to browse through during their visit. For instance, some studios are offering artisanal coffee, fresh pastries, or even cocktails to make the visit feel more luxurious and memorable. Businesses targeting younger demographics have been experimenting with trendy drinks like bubble tea and non-alcoholic cocktails, further elevating the experience.

Add-ons don’t have to stop at refreshments

Beyond refreshments, some studios are expanding their complimentary offerings to include wellness services. In an industry that increasingly values relaxation and self-care, services such as head and hand massages, hot towels, and aromatherapy treatments are gaining popularity. Aveda’s lifestyle spa, for instance, offers clients a free Ayurvedic consultation during their service. These services elevate the experience to a new level, blending beauty with wellness to create a luxurious and therapeutic environment.

Not all add-ons have to be complimentary either Gen Z and Millennials, in particular, are open to paying for premium services that enhance their experience. This creates a new revenue stream, allowing them to offer an expanded range of services without the need to increase prices across the board. The Nail Spa in Dubai has tapped into this trend by offering paid in-chair treatments like aromatherapy and reflexology, giving clients the opportunity to explore services beyond a standard manicure or pedicure. These premium services cater to the growing demand for personalised, self-care-focused experiences.

As the beauty industry continues to evolve, so will add-ons

Beauty and wellness businesses are becoming destinations for relaxation, exploration, and tailored experiences that cater to the modern consumer’s desire for self-care and indulgence. This shift towards more thoughtful and luxurious services reflects broader cultural trends that prioritise wellness, personalisation, and the overall customer experience.

Advancements in booking technology will allow studios to offer even more personalised experiences. Clients will be able to choose add-ons tailored to their individual preferences before they even walk through the door, creating a seamless and highly customised visit. The integration of wellness, relaxation, and personalised care will shape the industry in the future. www.fresha.com

With innovative add-ons and a focus on wellness, studios with advanced booking systems, like Fresha, are well-positioned to meet these evolving needs and continue thriving in the years to come. With personalised consultation forms and an intuitive process for both business owner and client, it’s easier than ever to get to know your clients’ needs, and create the space they’re looking for.

Fresha is the world’s #1 beauty and wellness marketplace powered by all-inone free business software with integrated payments. With over 100,000 partner venues in more than 120 countries, Fresha simplifies business operations and enhances customer experiences. To learn more, visit fresha. com, download Fresha on the App Store and Google Play, or follow Fresha on Instagram and Facebook.