I first became familiar with ISPA (The International
SPA Association) in the mid-1990s when my passion for all-things spa was
growing stronger each day after my first destination spa experience in 1988. I got “hooked” on the many benefits of health
and wellness from that comprehensive weeklong experience.
In 1988, very little information was
available on the subject matter and what was available was found in print in
obscure books and occasional articles in magazines and newspapers. Trying to locate the information on the
subject matter was archaeological in scope, especially given that the terms
“World Wide Web” (www) or “Internet” weren’t even around. I like to think of myself as a spa
trailblazer, although I’m sure many younger types involved in the industry have
never heard of me. But, that’s another
story….
ISPA began in 1991, and over the years, has
become the definitive global organizational force for spas and spa
professionals. In the early days of
ISPA, it had a member category for the press and wanting to immerse myself in
industry aspects of spa, I became one in 1995.
The first ISPA Conference I attended was in 1995 and I was giddy and
delirious in having found, what I thought back in the day, was another calling for me. But that too, is another story…
Since that time, the press membership
category was dissolved, although I think it should be re-instated. To date,
I’ve attended fourteen or fifteen of its Conference; each one has gotten more
impressive than the next.
What follows in this article is a compilation
of some of the recent information on what’s happening at ISPA. I think it’s invaluable for non-industry
types to gain exposure to the inner-workings of such a worthy organization and glean
from the details that spa is much more than a romp in hedonism, and so, I enjoy sharing trade information with the non-trade.
~ The
Heart of ISPA ~
Spas are places devoted to overall well being through a variety
of professional services that encourage the renewal of mind, body and spirit.
Several International SPA Association
(ISPA) member spas are taking that a step further and are focusing on
educational programs, fundraisers, donations and other philanthropic gifts.
(Lynne McNees) |
“Spas
are great at customizing and responding to their customers,”
said ISPA President Lynne McNees. “Consumers feel good about going to
businesses that give back. Spas are successfully doing their part and
supporting the communities that support them. The spa industry has been paying
it forward for years and we are becoming more aware of the good deeds spas and
their providers are doing.”
Eau
Palm Beach Resort & Spa in Lantana, Florida, partners with the United Way of Palm Beach and Habitat for Humanity. In the process
of renovation this year, Eau Spa will
donate everything that still has value in Habitat
for Humanity building programs, according to Owner Eva Hill. The spa also contributed to Family First and Aid to
Victims of Domestic Abuse during the holidays, donating toys and clothing.
“We
chose these charities because they do a great job guiding families to reach
goals, and in the meantime they help them to get through hard times,” said
Carolina Griffith, head of Eau Spa’s children’s beauty at coast program. “It is
very important to give back to the people in need, especially kids.”
The
Club at Las Campanas in Santa Fe, New Mexico, chose a
widespread approach to giving back and developed a philanthropic partnership
with the Santa Fe Community Foundation after
a membership survey demonstrated the spa’s guests’ dedication to the community.
The partnership produced the Las Campanas
Community Fund, a permanent investment of 5 percent disbursed annually to
local charities—as much as 75,000 dollars in 2012. “Our programs are founded
and supported by members and have become integral to our operation,” said Todd Show, Director of Fitness, Tennis and
Spa.
Spa
Shiki at the Lodge of Four
Seasons in Lake Ozark, Missouri,
requires that, upon interview and hiring, each associate understands he or she
must give one complimentary treatment per month to one of four local charities.
The Spa shares its initiatives with
clients and asks for financial help during certain months, such as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. “In
giving I have received so much more back in return: Gratitude, great
friendships, a sense of peace and fulfillment,” said Ann Brown, Spa
Director. “I have also seen it truly change some of the staff’s attitude
about life and being selfless.”
In addition to donating to philanthropic institutions and local
nonprofits, Kurotel - Longevity Center
and Spa and in Gramado, Brazil, also
partners with schools to promote healthier lifestyles. “Health is the greatest asset
that a person can possibly have,” said Human Resources Manager, Deise Cristina
Arend. “In the same way we hope to change bad habits in our customers, we also
believe it is important for the people in our community.”
~ Media
Matters ~
Cultural traditions are deeply rooted in many countries’
language, religion, food and art. Some of these traditions were apparent at the
recent ISPA Media Event. Spas from
around the world highlighted their newest treatments, many of which stemmed
from historic customs.
“It
is important to remember that spas are not only committed to physical renewal,
but also that of the mind and spirit,” said ISPA President, Lynne McNees. “Spas
are dedicated to the restoration of the whole person. At this year’s ISPA Media
Event we see spas incorporating all components of this shared mission, by way
of cultural touches, into their spa experiences.”
~ Culture & Heritage Treats ~
Unique healing techniques and religious practices are often
defining cultural characteristics. At the ISPA
2014 Media Event, spa properties founded in distinct cultural traditions
showcased treatments that draw inspiration from these native rituals.
Mandarin
Oriental Hotel Group tapped into their roots by offering
Chinese medicine inspired Calm Mind
Guided Meditation, to offer calm mind therapy.
Mii
amo offered Hozhooji, the Mii amo Blessing, which uses a
turquoise clay in massage therapy to reduce stress and awaken positive energies
within the body, mind, soul and spirit.
Mukul
Beach, Golf & Spa shared the healing power of Nicaraguan
volcanic clay used as a body mask in their Six
Spa Sanctuaries treatment.
Omni
Hotels and Resorts demonstrated their Grove Stone Healing Hand Treatment, keeping the historic tradition
of massage fresh.
~ Food Treats ~
Food is a simple way to bring people together to share in a
culture. At this year’s Media Event,
many spas used food ingredients as a means of tying a native tradition to a
classic treatment.
Massage
Envy Spa treated guests to a spa cuisine, Sugar Foot Therapy.
Mayo
Clinic Healthy Living Program discussed the link between diet
and overall health and showed that healthy cooking is easy with a healthy food
prep demonstration.
Miraval
Resort & Spa gifted their new cookbook, “Miraval’s
Sweet & Savory Cooking" to attendees.
Rancho
La Puerta’s Salsa y Salsa combined a salsa tasting and a salsa
dancing class offering a peek into what guests can experience at their
property.
The
Essex Resort and Spa mixed up a refreshing summer treat for
the media with their Watermelon
Vodka-tini Hand Treatment.
The
Lodge at Woodloch partnered with Dogfish Head Brewery to create beer-inspired spa treatments.
The
Spa at the Hotel Hershey incorporated their signature ingredients
into their Chocolate Spa Eye Refresh Treatment.
Travaasa
Experiential Resorts demonstrated their Blender Bike which channels physical energy created during a
workout to power a blender for a fresh smoothie.
~ Water Treats ~
Water is a founding component of the spa industry. Many exhibiting spas at this year’s event
tied this element into native and water-based practices.
Aspira
Spa showcased their Sacred
Waters Massage and discussed how indigenous traditions can inspire spa
experiences.
Jason
Hydrotherapy offered their MicroSilk Treatment, an oxygenated bath that
benefits the skin.
The
Spa of the Rockies demonstrated their Mineral Spring Water Therapy that showcases the property’s 125-year
history of mineral-based treatments.
~ Body Treats ~
A healthy body is encouraged as part of an overall healthy mind,
body, and spirit. These companies showed attendees the latest trends in keeping
your body healthy.
Hilton
Head Health showed how one could perform MyoFascial Release techniques on themselves.
Matrix
Fitness showcased their 7xi
Console, equipment that allows you to be connected while exercising.
Tiger
Tail USA demonstrated their signature Tiger Tail, a hand held rolling device designed to roll over
muscles, relieving soreness and tension.
ResortSuite
was the software provider facilitating all appointment scheduling online prior
to the event. Each attendee also received a Haiku tote bag, sponsored by SpaWeek.
~ By
The Numbers ~
The ISPA 2014 U.S. Spa
Industry Study “Big 5” statistics reveal positive trends in 2013 that will
continue to stimulate the economy and generate revenue in the United States in
the months ahead.
The total number of spa visits climbed to an all-time high in
2013, reaching 164 million (2.5 percent increase on the previous year).
Combined with a 2.5 percent increase in total revenue per visit, total revenues
generated by spas in 2013 rose to $14.7 billion, an increase of over five
percent on the 2012 level. Nearly 350,000 individuals are employed by the
spa industry nationwide, close to a two percent rise from the previous year.
ISPA
President Lynne McNees commented on the positive growth:
“We
are excited to see a continued positive growth trajectory and a record-setting
number of 164 million spa visits achieved in 2013. It’s even more
refreshing to hear that our members are also experiencing these trends within
their spas. This year marks the 15th
anniversary of the initial launch of the ISPA industry study in 1999.
Since that time the size of the U.S. spa industry has soared from an estimated
4,140 spa establishments in 1999 to 20,180 in 2013. Over the past fifteen years, ISPA has
captured the changing landscape of the spa industry through its annual industry
study including the five-fold increase in the number of spas. Today’s consumer has greater access to spas
and more choices than ever before.”
According to Colin
McIlheney, PwC Global Research Director:
“What
we are seeing with this year’s study is the reflection of continued growth. With
the key indicators, including total revenue and spa visits increasing, this
study highlights the positive trend across the board in the industry. The
respondents to the survey also expressed confidence that growth will continue
in the coming months."
The complete study, funded by The International SPA Association Foundation and conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), will be
released on September 30, 2014.
~ Noteworthy ~
ISPA
has announced this year’s ISPA Innovate
Award winners. Due to the success in 2013, ISPA has expanded the ISPA
Innovate Awards to now encompass three categories: business practices,
experiences and products.
“Innovation
is the driving force behind growth in the spa industry,” said ISPA President
Lynne McNees. Recognizing the innovation that is occurring within ISPA’s
membership will encourage and inspire future ideas.”
Business
Practices Innovate Award winners:
COOLA Suncare, located in San Diego, Calif. represented
by Chris Birchby, founder and chief executive officer, focusing on “mobile POS
for products and spa poolside.”
East Village Spa, located
in Des Moines, Iowa represented by Cassie Sampson, owner, focusing on
“employees with disabilities find perfect spa employment.”
Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa, located
in Corona, Calif. represented by Brad Jensen, operations manager, focusing on
“leadership development process ensures employee’s performance success.”
SpaEquip Inc., located in Calistoga, Calif.
represented by Philippe Therene, founder, focusing on “the gift of spa
experiences for all.”
The Spa at the Breakers, located
in Palm Beach, Fla. represented by Amy Retay, director of spa operations,
focusing on “measurement tool to reward service provider’s performance.”
Experiences
Innovate Award winners:
Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, located
in Tallebudgera Valley, Queensland, Australia represented by Tracy Willis,
marketing and public relations director, focusing on “sensory spa experience
with live drumming.”
Montage Resort & Spa, located in Laguna Beach, Calif.
represented by Michael Conte, spa director, focusing
on “hand crafted experiences with organic garden ingredients.”
Ojai Valley Inn & Spa, located
in Ojai, Calif. represented by Gloria Ah Sam, spa director, focusing on “safe
treatment modifications for oncology spa guests.”
Spa Gregorie’s, located in Newport Beach, Calif.
represented by Amanda Manwaring, spa manager, focusing on “inspirational
letters inspire spa guests to pay it forward.”
The Spa at Pinehurst, located
in Pinehurst, N.C. represented by Jennifer Roche, spa director, focusing on
“contemplative sand painting: a mindful group workshop.”
Product
Innovate Award winners:
Belmond the Inn at Perry Cabin, located
in St. Michael, Md. represented by Denise Haddaway, spa director, focusing on
“honey-based, all natural bee products.”
Body Bliss, located
in Sedona, Ariz. represented by Nick James, owner, focusing on “technology that
makes authentic aromatherapy truly personal.”
Mio Skincare, located
in Hunington Beach, Calif. represented by Mara Stern, marketing, focusing on
“liquid yoga restorative bath soak treatment.”
Osea Skincare, located
in Malibu, Calif. represented by Jenefer Palmer, chief seaweed officer,
focusing on “skin and body-care made like fine wine.”
ResortSuite, located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada
represented by Frank Pitsikalis, founder and chief executive officer, focusing
on “spa guest check-in and questionnaire tablet app.”
~ Spa’s Generosity ~
The global spa community will provide food for 17,000 hungry
children by attending the 2014 ISPA
Conference & Expo. All attendees will receive a ResortSuite sponsored FEED Bag. The proceeds for each bag
supplies ten meals for the World Food Programme.
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to give back as a part
of our annual event by partnering with FEED
and ResortSuite,” said ISPA President Lynne McNees. “FEED’s initiative to provide meals to children through the World Food Programme is a valuable
contribution that we are now able to share with our industry. We are proud to
work with ResortSuite, a longtime
supporter of ISPA and the spa
community.”
“ResortSuite is
thrilled to be associated with FEED
and support this meaningful cause at the ISPA
Conference & Expo this year,” said ResortSuite founder and CEO, Frank Pitsikalis. “We have been
involved with ISPA for many years and
are honored to make a direct contribution to those in need through our
sponsorship.”
ResortSuite
is a hospitality software company used by some of the most prestigious spas,
clubs, hotels and resorts in the world. All ResortSuite software is
“guest-centric” in technology design, allowing hospitality properties such as
spas, clubs, golf courses, ski lodges, and more to be run more efficiently.
FEED
is a social business with a mission to create good products that help feed the
world. Founded in 2007 by Lauren Bush
Lauren, after Lauren traveled
around the world and witnessed the effects of hunger first hand as a student
ambassador with the World Food Programme.
Every product sold has a measurable donation attached to it. FEED has been able to provide more than
84 million meals globally through the WFP and Feeding America. FEED has also supported nutrition
programs around the world, providing more than three and a half million
children with Vitamin A supplements through UNICEF."
Lauren said, "I am so appreciative of ISPA and ResortSuite for
their decision to make a huge difference in the lives of children and families
around the world through giving FEED
bags at the ISPA Conference & Expo.
It's exciting to know that everyone will leave with a bag that gave 10 meals,
and that collectively, 1,700 meals were donated. On behalf of FEED, thank you!"
~ In Closing ~
The International SPA Association is the spa industry’s leading
professional organization. By visiting
its website, you can familiarize yourself with invaluable information about the
organization, including obtaining more information on the spas mentioned above
in the “Spa-Goers” drop down. The 2014
Annual Conference & Expo will be held this October 13-15th at
the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. The event
usually draws several thousand attendees from around the world, and features
extensive continuing education workshops, keynote addresses, special events,
presentations, and an Expo area with hundreds of spa service and product
providers. Lastly, it is with regret that finances prevent me from joining
ISPA at its upcoming Conference again this year. I’m sure it’ll be another stunning success! http://experienceispa.com
That’s it for this edition. Until the next one, remember to take care of
yourself and those you love.
By Terry Herman
TERRY HERMAN is a recognized expert in the
industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management,
operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In the 1990s, she
authored an extensive "Glossary of Spa Terminologies" and holds two
copyright registrations. Consumer and trade publications have also
interviewed her as an expert. She also
conducted an extensive nationally broadcasted interview tour on aspects of
creating an at-home spa, interior design, music, stress and time
management. Her work has been published
extensively in print and digital in both consumer and trade publications.
In addition to writing, reviewing and being interviewed as an expert, she is
also a management consultant and motivational speaker. She also served on the International Advisory
Board for the former EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness; the
Advisory Board was comprised of ten international experts in various fields of
wellness and spa. She also served as a
Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz. Her social
media outreach includes Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Cision Seek or Shout,
Plaxo, Red Room, Pinterest, and Tripatini.
Be sure to read her
food, wine and
culinary digital magazine, TERRY’S
SECOND HELPINGS. You
can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com.
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(Photo credits as represented by the specific brand.)