Spa Trends 2009
"In this economy, people are watching their money, plain and simple. Spa professionals are listening to the needs of customers and creating specialized treatments. Whether it's a 30-minute pick-me-up massage on a lunch hour, or soothing those worked-to-the-bone Wi-Fi fingers, it's all about meeting the demands of consumers," says ISPA President Lynne McNees.
- Customized Treatments:
In addition to 30-minute facials and massages, spas are listening to
the demands and desires of their customers. So whether you're looking
to combine a series of treatments or have one tailored to fit your
needs (i.e., Wi-Fi massage), talk to your spa about how it can best fit
into your lifestyle.
- Mind, Body & Spirit:
Consumers are looking to spas to recharge not only their body, but
their spirit and mind as well. Many spas are increasing self-discovery
services like ropes courses, art classes and other learning activities
that help consumers to stop, be still and focus on themselves.
- Family-friendly Resort Spas: In
an era where we're all moving at warp speed, more and more people are
looking for spas that cater to families. These spas are responding to
the need for families to communicate and spend time together, whether
it's flying through the air on a trapeze or attending family yoga.
- Organic Spas:
More spas than ever before are offering environmentally friendly
products and services, but that's not all. Many feature outdoor
treatments and eco-friendly facilities, as well as treatments that
highlight indigenous plants and the environment in which the spa is
located (i.e., seashell body treatment and blueberry body wrap).
- Spa Credits: In
this economy, the smart traveler is the one who de-stresses at the
hotel spa after a long flight. Hotels are looking to entice travelers
and increase bookings by offering free treatments or spa credits when
booking a room.
- Spa Memberships: Similar
to a gym membership, it allows spa-goers to experience spas at a lower
cost. A 12-month membership could include unlimited use of the
facility, a treatment a month and discounts on additional monthly
services.
- Half-day Spa Vacations:
With people watching every penny, many are canceling their expensive
vacations and instead turning to spas. Transform your morning or
afternoon into a full-blown escape with a massage, facial and pedicure.
- Dental Spas: Your annual
cleaning just got more relaxing. The American Dental Association says
about 50 percent of U.S. dentists are providing spa amenities at no
additional charge. With hand massages, paraffin wax dips and
reflexology, you'll never dread the drill again.
- Tried & True: Consumers
are moving away from the trendy and seeking treatments with proven and
tangible results. They're getting back to basics, focusing on core spa
services like deep tissue massage and clarifying facials.
- Increased Spa Amenities:
Turn a 60-minute service into an entire afternoon of rejuvenation by
taking advantage of the spa's amenities. After your hot stone massage,
take a plunge in the pool, sit in the sauna or cool down in an ice
room; today's spas encourage loitering.
ISPA represents 3,200 members, both spas and product companies, in 83 countries. For more information please contact:
http://www.experienceispa.com
