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uniting the world of spas of world the uniting

COVER: CHI, THE SPA AT SHANGRI-LA

COVER: THE SCARLET, CORNWALL, UK ©CHRIS CYPERT ©CHRIS UK CORNWALL, SCARLET, THE COVER: curative thermal medical club hotel resort day destination

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 0   0   0  0   0   0   0  0          Meet the team contributors

READER SERVICES NEENA DHILLON Subscriptions Neena Dhillon has contributed features on spa travel to publications Julie Albone +44 (0)1462 471915 including Viva Espana, Highstyle and International Highfl yer. A Circulation former managing editor of Great Hotels of the World Luxury Spa Collection, she has also written for Velocity and easyJet magazines. Michael Emmerson +44 (0)1462 471932

EDITORIAL TEAM EMILIE FILOU Editor Emilie Filou is a freelance journalist specialising in business, the Liz Terry +44 (0)1462 431385 environment and development issues. She writes regularly about water and the carbon market and is the Maghreb correspondent of Managing editor water magazine Global Water Intelligence. Katie Barnes +44 (0)1462 471925 Newsdesk Sarah Todd +44 (0)1462 471927 RHIANON HOWELLS Rhianon Howells was launch editor of Spa Business and established Tom Walker +44 (0)1462 471934 it as a journal of note. As consulting editor she is closely involved Peter Hayman +44 (0)1462 471938 with its continuing development, while also writing widely on health, Martin Nash +44 (0)1462 471911 fi tness, travel and leisure as a freelance journalist. North America editor Peter Sargent +1 239 949 3394 ANDREA JEZOVIT Andrea Jezovit has written on business, travel and lifestyle for ADVERTISING TEAM publications including Canadian Business, Toronto Life and national Publisher/advertising sales newspaper The Globe and Mail. She recently returned to Toronto Nuzhat Hayat +44 (0)1604 415414 from the UK, where she worked as managing editor of Leisure Media magazines Leisure Management and Attractions Management. Advertising sales Tessa Alexander +44 (0)1462 471903 John Challinor +44 (0)1582 607970 LEONOR STANTON Jan Williams +44 (0)1462 471909 Leonor Stanton is the founder of LLS Consulting, specialising in market and commercial assessments and fi nancial planning in Stephanie Rogers +44 (0)1462 471903 the hospitality and spa sectors. She was previously with Deloitte Advertising production Consulting and Deloitte Corporate Finance. Ed Gallagher +44 (0)1905 20198

WEB TEAM CAROLINE WILKINSON Caroline Wilkinson is a freelance journalist who focuses on writing spa-kit.net/product search engine about the fi tness, spa and wellness industries. She is also a Sarah Todd +44 (0)1462 471927 published photographer and is the features writer of UK consumer spabusiness.com magazine Digital SLR Photography. Michael Paramore +44 (0)1462 471926 Tim Nash +44 (0)1462 471917 Dean Fox +44 (0)1462 471900 THE LEISURE MEDIA COMPANY PUBLISHES Emma Harris +44 (0)1462 471921 Katie Eldridge +44 (0)1462 471913

DESIGN Andy Bundy +44 (0)1462 471924 FINANCE The views expressed in individual articles are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the publisher, Sue Davis +44 (0)1395 519398 The Leisure Media Company Ltd. © Cybertrek Ltd 2010. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording Denise Gildea +44 (0)1462 471930 or otherwise, without prior permission of the copyright holder, Cybertrek Ltd. Registered at Stationers’ Hall 30851, Spa CREDIT CONTROL Business ISSN 1479-912X is available on annual subscription for UK £28, Europe £38, USA/Canada £28, rest of world £38, from the Leisure Media Company Ltd. Portmill House, Portmill Lane, Hitchin SG5 1DJ, UK. Printed by Mansons. Rebekah Scott +44 (0)1462 733477 © Cybertrek 2010 ISSN 1479-912X. Digital edition at www.spabusiness.com/digital

4 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 lasting longer

n this issue we visit The Scarlet, a new eco- ON THE COVER: hotel which has been built in Cornwall in the The Scarlet eco-hotel in Cornwall, UK, UK (see p38) and examine how the team see our report on p38. I behind the project developed the hotel’s PHOTO: © CHRIS CYPERT unique spa facilities and philosophy. THE LEISURE MEDIA COMPANY The hotel has been conceived and developed by three sisters who are second generation hoteliers. Head Offi ce/Europe Offi ce The new venture sits near to the still thriving original Portmill House, Portmill Lane, business, the Bedruthan Steps – a family-focused Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5 1DJ, UK holiday hotel – and has been designed as an adult- Tel: +44 (0)1462 431385 Fax: +44 (0)1462 433909 only luxury retreat which specialises in healing, lifestyle and wellness breaks. In line with this approach, the spa menu has broken with the tradition of one US Offi ce hour time slots for treatments and offers a range of journeys which last four 22311 Piazza Doria Lane, hours or longer. Spa manager Steph Crosby explains: “What we genuinely and #201 Estero, Florida, USA authentically want to offer is the opportunity to truly relax, let go and release Tel: +1 239 949 3394 and that takes more than an hour. When guests book a massage, I explain that we’ve researched how long it takes to get to relaxation levels which benefit you in the long-term and they’re generally interested and happy to book a journey.” This approach holds many attractions. It optimises staff resources, creates better value as a result of the purchasing of larger tranches of time and – done well – can give far more effective results. While The Scarlet has lengthened both treatment and session times, this approach could be extended to many aspects

With many spas half empty at certain times of day, it makes sense to offer longer and more cost-effective treatments during these times, so customers seeking deep healing can put more time by for an effective treatment

of menu design to the benefit of the customer, the therapist and the business. The body takes time to respond to change – for blood flow to be restored and FIND GREAT STAFF FOR YOUR SPA for muscles to unbind and lengthen, for example. There will always be a limit to spa opportunities how much can be achieved in a one hour treatment of any kind and in opting Spa Opportunities, the sister publication for this as a standard time slot, spas are falling in line with the norm, rather than of Spa Business, focuses on recruitment, giving treatments which create optimal results in terms of long-term healing. careers and news and is published every Even the fastest-working therapist can’t deal with all areas of the body in an two weeks. It has a daily website and hour, meaning there will be areas left untouched, undermining the holistic value weekly ezine, as well as being available as of the treatment. I find that in most massages, for example, the arms are often a PDF subscription and on digital turning overlooked. This doesn’t make sense when you consider how much we use pages. To advertise for staff, them and how tension and adhesions within them can have such a detrimental email [email protected]. effect on wellbeing and can lead to other problems such as RSI and tension in web: spaopportunities.com the shoulders, back and neck. However, with all the other big muscle groups to digital edition: spaopportuities.com/digital deal with first, the arms are often simply passed over through lack of time. spa business This problem is exacerbated by the fact that many treatments, although Spa Business is written for investors booked for an hour, are often whittled down to 45 or 50 minutes once the and developers, operators and buyers, changeover and consultation have been taken care of, leaving the customer in designers and suppliers. Readers work in danger of feeling hurried and sometimes even short-changed. all areas of the spa market worldwide. Spa With many spas half empty at certain times of day, it makes sense to offer Business has a daily website, a weekly longer and more cost-effective treatments during these times, so customers ezine, and print, PDF and digital turning seeking deep healing can put time by for more effective treatments which give pages editions of the magazine. longer-lasting results and more profit for the spa – surely a win:win outcome? email: [email protected] web: spabusiness.com Liz Terry editor [email protected] digital edition: spabusiness.com/digital

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[email protected] www.thalgo.com Contents » issue 1 2010 in this issue... spa business uniting the world of spas PHOTO: CHRIS CYPERT

Th e Scarlet eco spa, UK p38 Th e Elysian Chicago p44

Laurence Boulet, Accor, p26

SPA VISION INTERVIEW TAKING YOUR TIME 10 Space-like spa experiences and a 26 LAURENCE BOULET 38 Four-hour ayurvedic journeys waterfall painting specialist from Th e spa development director for Accor are the mainstay at this new eco-spa in tells Katie Barnes about the new Sofi tel the UK. Kath Hudson pays a visit LETTERS and Pullman spa concepts and how she is 14 Industry research is scrutinised refi ning the group’s thalassotherapy arm THE WAY I SEE IT 42 ADAM HORLER NEWS NEWS REPORT An ex L’Oréal and Molton Brown em- 16 Paua becomes South Cosmet- 32GREECE LIGHTNING ployee reveals why he’s thrown off the ics, a mega-development for and an Magali Robathan reveals more about shackles of corporate life illuminating launch for Yas Hotel, UAE ’s €1bn Costa Navarino project AIMING HIGH EVERYONE’S SPA TOURISM 44Neena Dhillon looks at the real- 22 TALKING ABOUT 34HOT SPOT estate success of the Elysian Chicago ADVANCE PAYMENTS ’s thermal spring region is a Is prepayment the best way to deal with popular and aff ordable destination, but it FLOATING IDEAS no shows, or does an up-front deposit could benefi t by attracting a more upscale 48 Th e owner of a Venetian hotel chain deter customers? Katie Barnes reports audience. Leonor Stanton investigates shares her spa vision with Andrea Jezovit

8 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Bauer Palladio, p48 Masseria Torre Coccaro, Puglia p62

Trends: fi sh spa therapy p58 Spa t a g at Co e U ve s ty, US p5

TRAINING PUGLIAN PARADISE 52 CORNELL UNIVERSITY 62Charlotte Senior goes under- Caroline Wilkinson discovers why the ground to visit Aveda’s eco-inspired cave spa degree modules at Cornell are some spa in Puglia, south of the most respected in the industry Did you know FITNESS that you can ASK AN EXPERT 66STRIKING A BALANCE 54ALTERNATIVE WATER Kathy Carter reports on the benefi ts of now receive SUPPLIES balance training and how it can be incor- a FREE Having your own water borehole can cut porated into fi tness programmes subscription to down bills, but what does the installation Spa Business in process involve and what are the overall PRODUCTS its new, greener, pros and cons? Emilie Filou fi nds out 70 Product and equipment launches paper-free, digital format?

TRENDS FISHY BUSINESS FINISHING TOUCH Change the way you read 58 Rhianon Howells takes a closer 74 STROKE OF GENIUS Spa Business magazine look at where fi sh spa therapy originated Research shows that swimming can help SIGN UP ONLINE: and how the trend is spreading globally you live longer than walking or jogging www.spabusiness.com/green

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 9 SPA VISION Innovations, initiatives and ideas in the world of wellness and beyond

SARAH TODD » NEWS EDITOR » SPA BUSINESS Ritz-Carlton’s fi rst eco-friendly he -based ther- Th e Ritz-Carlton property regenerated plastic mal spa within Reiter’s has taken its bottles, while there T Burgenland Resort fi rst step into is also an in-house in Bad Tatzmannsdorf has a eco-conscious design water purifi cation and unique signature treatment in and operations with its latest container system. the form of a massage from a hotel opening in Charlotte, Th e hotel’s 13,000sq ft Shaolin monk (see right). North Carolina in the US. (1,200sq m) penthouse Wellness During the treatment, the Th e contemporary, 146- Center also has an eco-friendly monk kneads, slaps and rolls room property has been philosophy with its eco-based acupuncture points on the Shaolin Monk designed to achieve gold certi- treatments, using Omorovicza body in order to stimulate Massage in fi cation under the Leadership and Laboratory of Flowers the body, drawing on the Austrian spa in Energy and Environmental products: which are said to physical strength for which Design (LEED) benchmark. be 100 per cent organic and the monks are famous. Monks are allowed to stay in One highlight is a green vegan friendly. Th e Shaolin Massage is in- Austria for six months at a time roof – planted with more Th e bi-level centre has four tended to promote blood fl ow, release before returning home to the Shaolin than 18,000 plants – which treatment rooms, two thermal musculature tension and calm the Monastery in Song Shan in the Henan both insulates the building ‘vitality’ lounges, a fi tness nervous system. It has its foundations province of China explore further... and cools the air through the centre, a movement studio and in traditional Chinese medicine. reitersburgenlandresort.at evaporation of water from the a large saline-treated swim- leaves. In addition, selected ming pool and a whirlpool. employee uniforms are made explore further... ritzcarlton. A space odyssey from fabric derived from com usgbc.org/leed

Th e spa at Th e Wynn Las Vegas, us, has partnered with the Zero Gravity Cor- poration (ZERO-G), to off er Aristotle a weekend package where (384bc to 322bc) guests can soar into luxury. “Nature does nothing uselessly” Participants receive spa treatments at Th e Wynn spa explore further... before partaking in a ZERO-G oxfordreference.com experience – fl oating in com- http://plato.stanford.edu plete weightlessness on board G FORCE ONE, a modifi ed Boeing 727-200 aircraft at Las Vegas’ McCarran International Airport. explore further... gozerog.com

Courtesy of technology created by Working exclusively with Precor’s ReRev™, fi tness equipment supplier Harnessing retrofi tted elliptical machines, the Precor’s elliptical machines can energy typical amount of energy captured now deliver human-generated via ReRev’s technology during a energy back to the electrical grid. 30-minute workout will produce 50 Th e technology works by capturing watt hours of clean, carbon-free electricity. the kinetic motion of aerobic exercise and Over the course of 10 hours in a typical gym, converting this otherwise wasted energy into 15 ellipticals can generate energy equivalent to productive renewable energy that feeds back 16 central air conditioners running for one hour. into a building’s electrical system. explore further... rerev.com precor.com

10 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 HIROSHI SENJU, WATERFALL, 2009, NATURAL ON PIGMENTS JAPANESE MULBERRY PAPER

Pick your time to spa at Cucumba

Th e uk-based ‘urban pit stop’ Cucumba has developed an on-demand spa model in the heart of London that off ers a range of treatment times beginning at 10 minutes. Located in Soho, the facility is open seven days a week from 10am to 8pm and apart from Sunday – when treatments are by appointment only – clients can simply visit unannounced if they fi nd they have free time and pick the duration of time they’d Cucumba recently celebrated its like to spend at the facility. fourth birthday and it believes that Treatments have been designed the fl uidity its model, combined with to suit diff erent time frames. Th e its prime location have been key to its 10-minute TopUp options include hand success. Th ere are now plans to open or foot massage or mini facial, all at at a second location in London, as well Chasing waterfalls

£10 (us$17, €111), while the 20-minute as to further extend the company’s on stroke advances research recovery Vampire bat saliva is responsible for PitStops consist of a manicure and a corporate services and develop its One of Japan’s most celebrated contemporary back, neck and shoulders massage, all Organic Cosmetics skincare brand. artists, Hiroshi Senju, has captured the at £20 (us$34, €22). explore further... cucumba.co.uk interest of the hospitality industry with his enchanting paintings of waterfalls. His paintings can be found in locations such Technology that’s used to as the chapel of the Grand Hotel in Tokyo create giant video billboards and the Daitokuji Temple, where Zen philoso- can now, courtesy of a new phy was fi rst developed. technique, be made into fl ex- Senju began his ongoing series of waterfall ible or transparent displays. paintings in 1990. His goal is to give the viewer Th e method – pioneered the experience of the “sound of the roaring by Professor John Rogers water, of the cool mist or smell of the air”. He from the University of Illinois also acknowledges modernism and the role of at Urbana-Champaign in Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko and graffi ti art. the US – is based on Senju divides his time between painting in manufacturing inor- New York and teaching at Kyoto University. ganic light-emitting explore further... sundaramtagore.com explore further... http://stroke.ahajournals.org diodes (LEDs) A bright which allows them idea to be attached to in healthcare from the inorganic version. Th ese created a method that can, materials such as biomedical imaging are brighter and more robust theoretically, enable inorganic rubber or glass. devices to wearable than organic LEDs but are LEDs to be processed in high

Th e LEDs could even be health monitors. more complex to manufacture, quantities allowing “you to made to fi t the curves of a car Th ere are two types of which makes them diffi cult to put lighting sources... where or wrap around the human LED technology – inorganic process in large volumes. you can’t put them nowadays”. body. It is believed that this and organic. Th e majority However, Professor Rog- explore further... has a myriad of potential uses of consumer electronics use ers and his team have now http://rogers.mse.uiuc.edu

Th e Gran Hotel La Florida in Th is follows in the footsteps of Disneyfi cation Barcelona, , has launched Disney which, in June 2008, opened of children’s spa a children’s spa menu based on a second Disney salon for children experiences Disney characters and themes. (pictured) at the Cinderella Castle Th e Fantasia menu includes Sleep- in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney ing Beauty facials as well as Cinderella World in Florida, US. Called the Bibbidi pedicures and is being marketed as “the ideal Bobbidi Boutique, the salon off ers makeover way” for six to 12 year-olds to enjoy a junior ver- packages for young girls and boys. Th e ‘fairytale sion of the spa treatments “while their mother treatments’ are available to those aged three and is being pampered in the spa”. above. explore further... hotellafl orida.com

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Do you have a strong opinion, or disagree with somebody else’s point of view on topics related to the spa industry? If so, Spa Business would love to hear from you. Email your letters, thoughts and suggestions to [email protected]

Segmentation in industry research is crucial for benchmarking

Leonor Stanton, founder, LLS Consulting PHOTO: ISTOCK.COM/MAKSYM YEMELYNOV frequently review industry research example – more detailed for Spa Business and fi nd that while segmentation is vital to I most surveys are interesting, not render the fi gures useful. all are useful in practice. In particular, Consider the diff er- some statistical surveys which could be ences in only one of valuable for benchmarking and guiding the segments such as operations oft en cover too wide a range hotels. Th e variety here of diff erent spa sectors. is immense: spas in Many surveys do segment the industry fi ve-star hotels operate into varying permutations of day spas, signifi cantly diff erently club spas, hotels/resorts, medical spas, from even those at the destination spas, mineral spring spas and four-star level; city-centre cruise ship spas. And in an industry-wide sites usually with a higher survey, logistically, that is probably as far proportion of business as segmentation can go. Further, more clientele will operate dif- in-depth segmentation is probably not ferently to those in resorts predominantly diff erent types of hotels. Th e resulting needed to report on the overall size of the focused on the leisure market; the size of average of all types of hotels/resorts has whole spa market. hotel may aff ect the size of the spa... and limited usefulness. However, when such surveys go on to the diff erences go on. Researchers should be aware that more cover varying issues such as the percent- So, in this example, the percentage specifi c segmentation would increase the age of revenues from diff erent areas in a of revenue from diff erent areas in a spa usefulness of a survey when it comes to spa – treatment rooms or a spa café, for will clearly vary enormously in all these actually running a spa.

Surveys with less than a 5 per cent response are not ‘research’

Julie Garrow, managing director, Intelligent Spas

’m increasingly concerned about the professional market research principles. or the study may not have succeeded volume of content circulating within Th is includes creating clear objectives, due to a lack of responses. Such content I the spa industry which is labelled as quantifying the population, qualifying is not reliable research and, consequently, ‘research’. Many such articles are promo- participants and implementing a sound should not be released, circulated, pro- tional vehicles used to sell consulting or methodology. Each time research fi ndings moted or used. other services. Spa operators and other are released, this information should be Professional market research is too ex- businesses need to be careful they are not made available and the description of pensive to conduct for results to be simply misled by content tagged as research and the methodology, survey response rates given away for free to non-participants. should confi rm the reliability of any infor- achieved and the related sample size as Any ‘research’ which is free is most likely mation they use to make business decisions. a proportion of the survey population a marketing campaign. Conversely, just Two key guidelines to help operators should be disclosed so the readers may because you pay more does not mean the identify the diff erence between profes- accurately interpret the results. research is of higher quality. sional research versus promotional Five per cent is typically considered a content include disclosure and price. reliable sample size in industry research To initiate standards for industry research Market research is a science, therefore, terms. If this information is not provided, practices, Intelligent Spas has developed a industry studies and benchmarking the content was probably not produced by guide for accurately reading and reporting statistics should be developed based on conducting professional market research, spa statistics. Details www.intelligentspas.com.

14 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 The Largest International Trade Fair for Beauty Products, Cosmetics and Perfumery in the Middle East

June 1 – 3, 2010 Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, UAE

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Sales representative UK Tara O’Brien Tel: +44 (0) 1784 415950 www.beautyworldme.com News update SARAH TODD » NEWS EDITOR » SPA BUSINESS news update

Paua becomes South China Cosmetics

The Hong Kong-based Paua Group – formed in 2004 by Lucy Whittaker and Frederique Deleage – has been placed into voluntary liquidation as a conse- quence of being adversely impacted by the recent global downturn. New investors acquired certain parts of the distribution and spa op- erating business of Paua Group and have relaunched the business as South China Cosmetics (SCC). SCC will distribute the Elemis and Murad skincare brands in Hong Kong and Macau, as well as operating three spas in Hong Kong. There are also plans to expand into mainland China.

VillaVilla MilMilocerocer was builtbuilt in 19341934 andand itsits frfrontont facesfaces thethe pinkpink sandsand ofof thethe MilMilocerocer beachbeach Spa consultants form Montenegro resort nears completion strategic partnership Spa and wellness consultants Anni Amanresorts has revealed further details opment of a luxury spa off ering on the Hood and Nancy Nemer have joined about an ongoing restoration project on resort’s Queen’s Beach. Th e spa will be forces to collaborate on new spa de- the Adriatic coastline of Montenegro. next to Villa Milocer, which also boasts a velopments around the world. Called Aman Sveti Stefan, the resort front facing a pink sand beach. Hood served as group director of will incorporate both the historic 15th When complete, the Aman Sveti Stefan spas for the Jumeirah Group in Dubai, century island of Sveti Stefan and Villa site will feature 55 guest bedrooms and UAE, while Nemer is the founder of the Milocer, a summer residence built in 1934 suites – 47 of which are located on the US-based consultancy Red Cashew. surrounded by more than 800 olive trees island of Sveti Stefan – six suites within The partnership is designed to offer on 32 hectares (79 acres) of woodland. Villa Milocer and two one-bedroom a comprehensive, high-level menu of Th e fi rst development phase of Aman Queen Marija Suites. services to the global market. These Sveti Stefan, which opened in December Amanresorts’ latest off ering, Aman- will include creative brand develop- 2008, included six suites of the Villa Mi- giri, opened in October 2009 in Utah, in ment, strategic planning and fi scal locer. Th e second, and fi nal, phase, will the. Th is property boasts the group’s sig- responsibility – all helping to stream- open in mid-2010, followed by the devel- nature Aman Spa brand. line a project’s cost and delivery.

Mega-development for Red Sea coastline

A large, private mixed-use development A range of Egyptian-themed treat- is to be built on the Egyptian coast in the ments will be available at the spa, Red Sea destination of El Gouna. including massages, body wraps and Called Ancient Sands, the residential hydrotherapy. In addition to this will be and golf resort will consist of a large spa steamrooms and a whirlpool. and a fi tness centre, swimming pools, an Located very near to the coastline and estate house, restaurants and bars. marina, Ancient Sands will be built by Th e spa will be focused on ancient a subsidiary of the Swiss-based com- Egyptian traditions of balance and har- pany Orascom Development Holding mony. It will feature stone walls and is to in conjunction with golf and real-estate be designed around an open light well, specialists IFB Resort Developers. Th e which is intended to bring natural light fi rst phase of the property is scheduled to Ancecien tSat San dswds will be located ocated in El Goun a into the facility. open in December 2011.

16 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Senior management changes at Six Senses

Alasdair Junor has been appointed as chief operating offi cer (COO) for Six Senses Resorts & Spas, in Bangkok, replacing outgoing COO Jamie Waring. Junor will relocate from his previ- ous role as managing director for Six Senses in Europe, Middle East and Africa, based in Dubai, UAE. His duties will include overseeing all operational aspects of resorts man- aged within the Six Senses portfolio.

Th e h amm am ar ea featu res d iff us io ns o f ma rine sa l ts, n egati ve i on s an d i odin e fr agr an ces Greg Payne leaves Villa Thalgo opens in prime location InterContinental Skincare brand Th algo has unveiled its Th ere are three main parts to the spa: Greg Payne has left the InterConti- global fl agship spa in the heart of the an Energising Area, with a fi tness centre nental Hotels Group (IHG) after the 16th arrondissement in Paris, France. and aqua gym; a Recreation Area, cen- company undertook a major restruc- Th e €3m (us$4.4m, £2.7m) Villa Th algo tred around a pool lounge and terrace; ture of its management and operations has been built within a space that was and a Recreation and Treatment Area, team in the Asia-Pacifi c region. originally a bank vault. which hosts a hammam, 12 treatment Commenting on his fi ve-year ten- Water is the key design thread of this rooms and a rest room. ure at IHG, Payne said: “We have 8,600sq ft (800sq m) ‘marine haven’, Completely supplied by Th algo, equip- gone from operating fi ve to 35 spas in which was created by sister company ment includes the Th algoskin Expert Asia-Pacifi c. It’s been an outstanding Th algo Spa Management and THPS Glo- micro-dermabrasion machine and the journey, I am very proud of our ac- bal Design, an independent architect. iPulse anti-cellulite machine. complishments and I wish them well.” Other materials used include wood Signature therapies include marine Payne will be taking a short break and stone and the overall eff ect is a luxu- hammam treatments, a restorative mas- to travel before he launches a new in- rious, holistic atmosphere. sage and an energising bamboo massage. dependent chain of spas in early 2010 that will feature in tropical resort desti- nations around the world.

2010 board members announced at ISPA

The International Spa Association (ISPA) has revealed its 2010 board of directors, including four fresh faces. For the second year, chair Jean Kolb will lead the board. The four newly Th e mountainous region of Bernese Oberland will provide a backdrop to the spa elected members are: Dr Kathryn Dundas, the CEO of Sublime Energy Construction begins at Adelboden Baths Medical Spa; the group director of spa for the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Work on a spa resort in the Bernese 11,850sq ft (1,100sq m) will be water fa- Andrew Gibson; Ella Stimpson, spa Oberland region of is to cilities. Th e Alpine Bath will include director at The Broadmoor, Colorado; begin in early 2010, with the facility 15 treatment rooms, 21 mineral water and Paul Schmidt, the owner of design opening by 2013. swimming pools and a medical wellness company Living Energy Design. Th e Adelboden Alpine Bath will centre, as well as a restaurant. Each member volunteers their time combine a health spa and a hotel with Th ere will also be a 91-bedroom hotel, to help to lead the association and panoramic Alpine views. Th e spa will continuing the development’s core develop plans for enhancing member- cover 61,350sq ft (5,700sq m), of which themes of water, health and meditation. ship and boosting the spa industry.

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 17 MarketingNews update

Goldeneye to open in late 2010

The Island Outpost Group is to open and manage a number of luxury villas, beach cottages and a spa at Ian Flem- ing’s former residence, Goldeneye, in the village of Oracabessa in Jamaica. Launching in September 2010, Goldeneye also includes the origi- nal three-bedroom Fleming House – where the author wrote 17 of his fa- mous James Bond adventures. Island Outpost is run by music industry mogul and Island Records founder, Chris Blackwell. Other Jamai- can properties in the group’s portfolio include The Caves Hotel in Negrill.

e esota dspaw bea tega pato a a ge c $00 deveop e t Indigenous Spa at Sparkling Hill spa property for Vermont La Selva Jungle Lodge Further details have been revealed about Focusing on whole body wellness, spa A wellness facility has opened at an the development of the Sparkling Hill therapies will comprise mud wraps, hot eco-boutique, La Selva Jungle Lodge, Resort and Wellness Hotel, which is stone massages, refl exology and aro- in the Amazon jungle of . scheduled to open in March 2010 in the matherapy as well as a range of medical Built in a renovated building, The In- city of Vernon, BC, Canada. treatments. On top of this, resort guests digenous Spa features two treatment Th e 152-bedroom Wellness Hotel will will we able to have consultations with rooms and shower facilities, includ- be an integral part of a larger ca$100m doctors and nutritionists. ing a large stone tub where guests are (us$94.5m, €63.5m, £56.3m) resort devel- Speaking about the new property, the doused in tepid water, infused with opment being built on the pinnacle of a president and CEO of Sparkling Hill Amazonian herbs as part of the signa- rock overlooking Lake Okanagan. Resort, Hans-Peter Mayr, said: “Our phi- ture Rainforest Shower experience. Th e 35,000sq ft (3,250sq m) spa facility losophy is to focus on our guest and what Other natural rainforest ingredients has taken its inspiration from European they need to do to relax and rejuvenate. are used in the spa’s washes and oils, traditions and will feature a menu with We will be dedicated to helping them which the owners eventually hope to more than 100 treatments. achieve their vision of wellness.” develop as a commercial product line. La Selva Jungle Lodge was founded in 1984 by eco-explorer Eric Schwartz. 2010 debut for ESPA facility at Yas Hotel South African reserve A 15,050sq ft (1,400sq m) spa is to open to gain luxury new spa in January 2010 at the Yas Hotel in Abu Dhabi. Th e ESPA at the Yas Hotel will A spa will open at the Gondowana cover two fl oors with 10 treatment rooms Game Reserve on the Garden Route in on the upper level and a hammam below. in March 2010. Designed by Heidar Sadeki of Ri- It will be built in a style reminiscent chardson Sadeki architects, the spa is to the homes of the Khoisan – the re- intended to off er a modern and minimal- gion’s indigenous inhabitants – and ist feel. Th e hammam, for example, will will have two treatment rooms as well be housed in a cylindrical room called as an outdoor treatment space. Th e Rotunda, with stone furnishings sur- Products will include extracts of rounding a central column. ExteriorExteriorofthenewYasHotelinAbuDhabi of the new Yas Hotel in Abu Dhabi fynbos, vegetation which is found in Th e hotel, one of 20 opening on the abundance on the reserve, as well as us36bn (€24bn, £21.5bn) Yas Island de- It also showcases some of the world’s a other local ingredients. velopment, launched this November and most advanced architecture including The reserve is set to further expand is the fi rst site operated by Abu Dhabi’s a 5,000 LED-panel gridshell. Th e panel its wellness offering in the future to Aldar Properties. It consists of two build- features diff erent shades of light, which include a range of health packages ings, connected by a bridge overlooking illuminate the hotel to make it the largest comprising hiking, yoga, spa treat- Yas Marina Circuit, an F1 racing track. colour LED displays ever. ments, and indigenous spa cuisine.

18 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Dusit International to expand into

Thailand-based hospitality group, Dusit International, has announced its expansion into India with the opening of fi ve hotels and resorts by 2013. The plan is to pilot the company’s fi rst-ever Dusit Devarana hotel – the most luxurious of the brands in the Dusit portfolio – outside . The fi rst hotel, Dusit Devarana New Delhi, will feature a Devarana Spa and is expected to open in May 2010.

Th e hi stori cdstc distill er ywasbuy was buil tattt at th eee en dod of th e 1 9th cen tuyatury an d h asacasteas a castle-li ke f açade Debut for spa at Garrigae begins former distillery revamp La Résidence d’Angkor French developer Garrigae Investisse- Treatments will be performed using A luxury spa offering has launched ments has revealed plans for a mixed-use organic products including extracts from at La Résidence d’Angkor hotel in redevelopment of a 19th century distill- geranium, sage, calendula, grapes, laven- Siem Reap, Cambodia. ery in the medieval town of Pézenas. der and olive oil. The Kong Kea Spa, meaning ‘water Garrigae’s original plans underwent Th ere will be three areas to the proper- for the god’, is located in a brand new optimisation in response to the current ty. Th e fi rst will comprise 38 apartments wing of the boutique city resort, in the market conditions, and now include 49 and will become the heart of the resort quietest area of the property. freehold apartments, as well as a resort and the hub for the Garrigae services The 5,100sq ft (500sq m), two-sto- and spa, which will open in 2011. – including the reception, a bar, a wine rey spa has six treatment rooms on Th e 1,400sq ft (130sq m) Mediterranean cellar and a Mediterranean garden. the ground fl oor and eight spa suites Spa will be built around a courtyard with Th e second area will feature a further on the fi rst fl oor. olive trees and a fountain. It will boast 11 luxury apartments, converted from Its design focuses on water ele- three treatment rooms and an outdoor period houses while the third area, Th e ments throughout, from bridges at the swimming pool. Mansion house, will consist of 11 suites. main entrance to oversized aquariums in the reception and illuminated water walls in each of the treatment rooms.

Plans unveiled for Yorkshire property

Plans for a £100m (US$168.1m, %113.1m) hotel and spa at Flaxby Park Golf and Country Club in Yorkshire, UK, have been revealed by developer, The Skelwith Group. Th e property on the Tetiaroa atoll is encircled by coral reef The proposals for the club – which fi rst opened in 2004 and is hoping to Work begins on The Brando eco-resort submit a bid to host the 2022 Ryder Cup – include a 303-bedroom hotel An eco-resort encircled by a coral reef is the 13 islands in 1965 – will feature 47 and a 27-hole golf course. being built on the Tetiaroa atoll, located bungalow villas with plunge pools, a On top of this, there will be a large 35 miles from Tahiti in . swimming pool and a large wellness area. spa built in partnership with Elemis, Construction of the retreat is now Th e resort is being developed by Rich- with at least 16 treatment rooms. The under way following offi cial authorisa- ard Bailey, a friend and business partner spa will also feature a heat experi- tion of the development by the Tahitian of Brando. Bailey, the chief executive of ence area, which we be designed and government. Th e Brando – named aft er Tahiti Beachcomber sa, already owns entirely fi tted out by hydrothermal the late Marlon Brando who purchased four resorts in the region. specialist Dalesauna.

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 19 MarketingNews update

DIARY DATES

25-28 February 2010 SPATEC NA Spring 2010 A three-day forum of one-to-one meet- ings and networking opportunities between operators of US-based spas and suppliers. Taking place in Key Bis- cayne, Florida, US. T: +1 603 529 0077 www. mcleaneventsinternational.com

1-3 March 2010 Professional Spa A strategic and practical focus on the key areas of the international spa market. To Th e resort and spa will represent Emirates’ largest international investment to date be held at London’s ExCeL venue in the Docklands, UK. 2012 opening for Emirates Cap Ternay T: +44 20 7728 4218 www. professionalbeauty.co.uk Emirates Hotels and Resorts group is to Th e resort will comprise a Timeless open a conservation-focused property in Spa with eight rooms for beauty treat- the in late 2012. ments and hydrotherapy, as well as a 13-15 March 2010 Featuring two areas and representing a gym. Accommodation will include 13 wa- Mondial Spa & Beauté us$253m (€170.2m, £150.6m, ) investment, ter-bungalows as well as 27 two-bedroom A spa and beauty exhibition held in the the Cap Ternay Resort will be situated in villas. Th ere will also be one of the larg- Palais des Congrès in Paris. The event a protected area on the island of Mahé. est swimming pools in the Indian Ocean, also includes free bilingual spa confer- Th e fi rst area will be a private resort covering nearly six acres (two hectares) ence sessions, chaired by experts. located on the forested slopes of the of cascading pools, lap pools and private T: +33 4 93 06 26 26 Matoopa peninsula, overlooking the inlets as well as a lazy river. www.msbparis.com marine reserve of Baie Ternay. It will Th e second area, a development, on have 110 acres (45 hectares) of protected Anse Souillac beach, will focus on water- nature reserve, with 1,312ft (400m) of based activities, and include a small 18-20 May 2010 private beach nearby. marina and a yacht bay. The Hotel Show Hospitality and spa-orientated trade show – focused on interior, design and security products and services – taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre in Dubai, UAE. There will also be a Hotel Spa event geared towards generating sales oppor- tunities for spa suppliers and buyers. T: + 971 4 438 0355 www.thehotelshow.com

16-19 May 2010 The Global Spa Summit The 2010 GSS will be held at the Çıragan Palace Kempinski Hotel in Istanbul, coup e s su te at t e augu a So S o do , u . It will attract top-level business executives, who have an interest in the Third So SPA debuts at Sofi tel sap industry, from all over the world. T: +1 212 716 1199 Following the launch of its social spa-ing across its Sofi tel portfolio with open- www.globalspasummit.org wellness concept in London, UK, and ings scheduled for Vienna, , Abu Marseille in France, the third So SPA by Dhabi, Mumbai, and Bangkok. Sofi tel (see p26) has launched in Morocco. Th e fi rst £2.3m (us$3.9m, €2.6m) So 1-3 June 2010 Th e 800sq m (8,600sq ft ) facility at SPA had its soft opening in July 2009 Beautyworld Middle East Rabat Jardins des Roses opened this at the Sofi tel London St James. Cover- A trade show for cosmetics, beauty prod- October and includes a fi tness centre, a ing 4,200sq ft (400sq m), the spa was ucts, fragrances and the wellness and hammam, a whirlpool, an outdoor heat- designed by Sparc Studio with input spas industry in the Middle East region. ed swimming pool and a sauna. from consultants Spatality. Products and T: +971 4 3380 102 Sofi tel Luxury Hotels will continue to equipment were supplied by Carita, Cinq www. beautyworldme.com roll out the So SPA concept worldwide Mondes and Dalesauna.

20 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Can you afford to miss it?

Hotel Spa at The Hotel Show brings the region’s spa community together to discover the latest equipment, suppliers and trends in this fast-growing, profitable industry.

Sharon Barcock Spa Director, Mandara Spa, The Monarch Dubai Vice President, Middle East Spa Association

18-20 MAY 2010 Book now! DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE Everyone’s talking about... advance payments PHOTO: ISTOCK.COM/SERGEY TUMANOV

KATIE BARNES » MANAGING EDITOR » SPA BUSINESS

recently booked a spray tan at to expect a customer to put down a my local beauty salon and was Many operators are payment in advance? Aft er all, someone shocked, and immediately defen- introducing prepayment booking a table at a restaurant wouldn’t sive, when asked to pay for half policies for treatments expect to pay for a portion of their meal Iof the service on the spot. ‘Why would before they’ve eaten it. they not trust me?’ I wondered. to deal with ‘no show’ In some cases, operators – such as Th e owner explained that she’s been customers. But how are Spa Montage in California – even ask forced to take this precaution as there they doing this without guests to give their tip/gratuity on arrival, are days when she thinks the salon has alienating clients? before having a treatment. Spa Montage back-to-back appointments – so she declined to comment in this feature, but turns clients away – only to have cus- previously told Spa Business (SB05/3 tomers not turn up. In light of the global or not this is enforced is a moot point. p105) that asking customers to sign for downturn, she said, people become Research for this feature revealed that a a bill (which includes a service charge) even more unreliable as they make an deposit (usually around 50 per cent of at the very start of an experience allows appointment and then decide nearer the the total cost) for group spa bookings them to fully relax during the treatment. time that they can’t justify the expense. or week-long packages is becoming the Is this taking things a step too far? Th is experience throws up a question. norm. Richard Carlson, owner of the Is charging customers for all or part How much of a problem are ‘no shows’ Birdwing destination spa in the US says of a treatment up-front an eff ective for a spa business? What percentage of charging up front is something that all way of dealing with no shows? Do customers miss appointments and how destination spas do, due to complexity people still miss appointments anyway? do operators handle this? of packages (see opposite). And, how do operators introduce such a It’s standard practise for spas to Yet when it comes to individuals or policy without alienating clients? have a cancellation policy and whether a one-off service, is it really acceptable We investigate the issue.

22 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 advance payments

e’re a destina- practice – it’s never been tion spa and we RICHARD CARLSON a problem in my 25 years W off er complete Owner, Birdwing Spa, here and I’ve never heard packages that comprise spa a criticism from staff of Minnesota, US services, fi tness activities, guests not turning up. lectures and workshops, It’s diff erent for a day spa spa cuisine meals and operator because they only lodging. Ninety-nine per cent of our the visit. We could never be secure in the off er individual services, so can be much guests stay overnight on property. commitment of a reservation otherwise. more fl exible: they have the ability to fi ll in We charge a us$100 (€67, £60) advance Th ere are many components to our off er- a cancellation at the last minute. payment for day spa packages or an ings – including food, rooms and various Although I can see why a day spa might overnight stay. Th is goes up to us$150 services and classes – and if a guest didn’t introduce a prepayment policy, asking for (€101, £89) for a weekend spa break and show up it would impact on all of these, a tip before service isn’t a good idea. We us$300 (€202, £179) for anything that is our overall scheduling and ultimately our have a no tipping rule and guests seem to longer than that. entire staff force. Plus there is a direct cost appreciate that, but consequently we pay Charging a deposit is something we’ve for everything that is pre-booked. For our therapists more to compensate. done from day one. I’ve been an offi cer example, our therapists are booked in ad- Day spas should also be wary of off end- for the Destination Spa Group and was vance and are paid per treatment. If there’s ing regular customers when introducing also a board member of ISPA and from a cancellation, we still pay our therapists a prepayment policy. Th ere’s a certain my experience all destination spas ask for half of the treatment price and the deposit amount of discretion here, for example, a prepayment. Most of them charge up we charge doesn’t even cover that. we might consider waiving the deposit for to half of the total beforehand and some- In our particular facet of the spa a repeat guest if we know it will make a times take the full balance a week prior to business, paying in advance is accepted diff erence between them booking or not.

Birdwing Spa, set within a 300-acre “There’s a certain amount of discretion. We might consider wildlife preserve, opened in 1984. It has 15 waiving a deposit for a repeat guest if we know it will guestrooms and six treatment rooms. It makes its prepayment policy clear in its make a difference between them booking or not.” brochure, registration forms and online. Details: www.birdwingspa.com

don’t understand how ber that if they’re going to day spas can run a KEELEE LAMB stick to their appointment I business without ask- Managing director and co-owner, then asking for an up-front ing for advance payments. charge shouldn’t be a Heaven Beauty, Hitchin, UK We introduced our problem! You have the odd policy soon aft er opening person who needs a bit because we had so many more talking around, but clients – about 30 to 40 per cent – that We normally ask for 50 per cent of the on the whole people do understand. weren’t turning up. At one point we even treatment price in advance. Th is applies to If someone doesn’t want to pay in thought it might have been a rival business all treatments, even something as small as advance, they would either have to phone playing a prank. an eyebrow tint. Th e customer loses that up on the day or come in on the off chance All of our therapists work on com- deposit if they cancel less than 24 hours that there might be a free slot at the time mission, so if their clients miss an before the appointment time, or if they they want, which is unlikely. If someone appointment they don’t get paid. miss it altogether. refuses to pay, I’d rather not have their Some people think ‘oh it’s only a 15- Our prepayment policy is detailed on business because they’re more likely to let minute eyebrow shape’, but that 15 minutes our treatment menu and our website. We you down anyway. can cut into an hour so we can’t then book also try to explain our policy in person: Although we still have a couple of a facial for that time slot. If the person either face-to-face if a customer comes people who may miss their appointment, having the eyebrow shape then doesn’t into the salon, or over the phone. despite paying a deposit, we usually fi nd show up we’ve eff ectively lost two appoint- We take the payment upon booking and that if a customer makes a payment in ments in one go. make a note of this on our system. Some advance, then they’re more likely to stick At the end of the day, if you’re running of our regular clients have a £20 (us$34, to the arrangement. Introducing the policy a business you can’t have customers not €23) running deposit to save them having made a huge diff erence to our business. turning up. In the UK, if someone misses to pay each time they re-book. If we know a dentist’s or doctor’s appointment, they the customer well and know that missing Heaven Beauty Salon & Laser Clinic in still get billed. I used to work in day spas an appointment was a genuine emergency, Hertfordshire, UK, launched fi ve years in London, where we always asked for then we would not take that money. ago. It features six treatment rooms and payment up front, so I didn’t see a big Most clients are absolutely fi ne when we specialises in cosmetics, lasers and skincare. problem introducing it here. explain our policy – you’ve got to remem- Details: www.heaven-beauty.com

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 23 Everyone’s talking about... advance payments

he majority of our includes about 20 per cent clients are happy SRI IDA MULYANI of the services we off er. T to pay in advance Spa manager, Bimasena Spa, Th is policy is clearly once we’ve explained the stated on our website and situation to them. First, we Jakarta, we also tell customers emphasise how important about it when they come their custom is and then in to make a reservation or go into detail about how a special time has customers comprise Bimasena members when they phone up to book. been allocated for their treatment. and guests of Th e Dharmawangsa, a I think it’s reasonable to expect custom- I think that an up-front charge may hotel in the same compound. We enforce ers to pay if you’re a busy spa like us – not deter some people as they fi nd the proce- a standard cancellation policy for both only were we losing revenue when clients dure too complicated. If clients are put off members and hotel guests. missed a booking, we were also turning by this, then they probably aren’t really in We introduced our advance payment down other people because we thought all need of a spa treatment. We feel that those policy seven years aft er opening because of our therapists were busy. Some guests clients who just don’t want to pay aren’t no shows were becoming a problem: up to still miss appointments despite paying, yet serious about having a treatment at all. 40 per cent of day spa customers were not it’s really a very minimal number. Th e prepayment policy applies to day turning up for bookings. spa guests, who account for 30 per cent Under the policy, day spa guests are Bimasena Spa opened in 1997 and has 13 of our business. As our spa is located in required to pay a deposit of 20 per cent treatment rooms. It’s located in the pres- the compound of Bimasena – the mines on any treatment which costs more than tigious residential area of Kebayoran Baru. and energy society in Jakarta – our other idr500,000 (us$53, €36, £32), which Details: www.bimasena.co.id PHOTO: ISTOCK.COM/WEBPHOTOGRAPHEER SIMON WINTERS Senior reservations executive, Utopia Spa, Rowhill Grange, UK

ur spa is very popular. We’re to advance payment], however, I could nearly always fully booked at the imagine that customers who didn’t show O weekend and have a waiting list up would argue that they weren’t aware of of people who haven’t been able to get in. charges for missed appointment. Th ere’s Paying up-front confi rms a treatment no mistaking that on our system. on our computer system and ensures that Under our policy, a £100 (us$168, €113) those who have booked are guaranteed a deposit per person is required for our time slot. Plus, if we didn’t have an ad- Leisure Escape or Spa Escape packages vance payment policy our weekends which start at one night. In addition, we could go terribly wrong: appointments take the full balance – from hotel and could be missed at the last minute and day spa guests alike – for any individual we might not be able to fi ll them despite spa treatment which are booked, even for having a waiting list. something like a manicure. What I would also say is that prepay- Th is has been the policy at Rowhill ment saves customers having to worry Grange for 15 years now, ever since the charge in writing, so we send out a copy of about bringing money with them – they current owners came on board. our terms and conditions in our confi rma- can relax in their swim suits and bath Th e prepayment details are clearly out- tion letters. We don’t lose any business due robes all day with the knowledge that they lined on our website and treatment menus. to our advance payment policy as we have won’t be inconvenienced again because We also inform people verbally over the such a loyal following. everything is already paid for, although we phone when we take a booking. If guests give us 24 hours or seven wouldn’t considering introducing a pre- I would say about 80 per cent of people days notice, when cancelling individual service tip because we don’t feel that that have their cards out, ready to pay. A lot services and packages, respectively, they should be compulsory. of our business is generated by word of can transfer their treatments to another Of course the policy does also stop mouth, so clients expect to pay in advance. suitable time. In this case their money people missing appointments: we don’t Th e rest may query why we have the goes into a holding account until some- have a problem with no shows at all. If we policy, but are usually fi ne once we’ve thing is re-booked. Or they can cancel the only had a cancellation policy [as opposed explained. Yet they do like to have the treatment altogether.

Utopia Spa is the wellness brand for “If we didn’t have an advance payment policy our weekends Alexander Hotels, which has three boutique properties in the south of . Th e spa could go terribly wrong: appointments could be missed and at Rowhill Grange has 14 treatment rooms we might not be able to fi ll them despite having a waiting list.” and was refurbished in 2007. Details: www.alexanderhotels.com

24 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Discover bright ideas at the UK's leading beauty event

: Meet and buy from leading skincare, nails, tanning, : Be inspired at free expert-led masterclasses equipment and salon supplies brands : Test your skills at the International Nail : Discover inspirational new products and ideas Competition : Benefit from exclusive show discounts : Free entry to all beauty professionals and students Register for free entry at www.professionalbeauty.co.uk/london/ticket Priority code: ESpaBusiness Interview KATIE BARNES » MANAGING EDITOR » SPA BUSINESS

Laurence Boulet

Th e spa development director for the French-based hotel group Accor heads up two new spa concepts and a thalassotherapy brand, and will oversee 11 international openings within the next year. She tells us more

pbeat, enthusiastic and with world by adding a wellness facility, the development and communication posi- a sense of fun is how I would brands that are truly focused on spa are tions with brands such as Givenchy. describe Laurence Boulet, the Sofi tel, which unveiled its new So SPA Her love of spa fi rst blossomed while spa development director for concept in 2009 and Pullman, which is on working for the LVMH group (which owns theU French-based hospitality group Accor. track to reveal its branded concept Fit & the Givenchy brand) in Japan, where she Maybe it’s these traits that help to keep Spa Lounge by mid 2010. discovered onsen, the country’s traditional Boulet motivated in her challenging role at In addition, Accor Th alassa – to be hot spring bathing facilities. “I had an the helm of all new spa developments for relaunched as Th alassa Sea & Spa in Janu- onsen near my place and while people this multinational company. ary – owns and operates 17 destination spa could have a massage, they mostly went Accor has 14 hospitality brands and of facilities around the coast of France. for relaxation baths and sauna. Surpris- these, fi ve off er spas (see p28). As part of ingly, it was also a place to socialise – the the company’s ongoing investment pro- A PASSION FOR ONSEN equivalent of a French café.” gramme, an additional 11 properties will Boulet was born and educated in France. Th is passion eventually led her back get new spas in 2010. For the past 15 years she has mostly been to her home country, where she joined While the Mercure and MGallery hotel working in the Asia-Pacifi c region within Accor in July 2008. “My role is like an groups may occasionally dip into the spa the luxury retail sector, holding executive in-house spa development consultant,” says Boulet. “I, and my team, support hotel management throughout a spa project, advising on layout and technical decisions, supervising construction and helping with hiring and pre-opening training.” Boulet has two people working along- side her in the spa development division, but the team regularly has support from the group’s spa specialist arm, Th alassa Sea & Spa, which operates 17 destination spas and owns 12 of them. Because of this ex- pertise, Th alassa works like a consultancy within Accor: providing standard operat- ing procedures (SOPs), HR and technical guides for hotel spas.

FRENCH ELEGANCE Th e main focus for Boulet at present is the rollout of the new So SPA by Sofi tel concept. “It takes up about 95 per cent of my time,” she says, “because spa is so important to the hotel’s brand identity.” Over the past two years, Sofi tel has been Th e inaugural site for Accor’s social spa-ing concept, S0 SPA, debuted in London in 2009 repositioning itself as a luxury chain by

26 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 PHOTO: ©JOËL BILETTA LIBRE DE DROI LIBRE DE BILETTA ©JOËL PHOTO: selecting the top 150 of its 200 properties It took two years and a joint eff ort PERSONAL FILE and renovating them. Th e remaining 50 between Sofi tel’s marketing team have been repositioned within Accor’s and international consultancy Laurence Boulet portfolio and rebranded. Spatality to develop So SPA What’s your favourite book? Part of this strategy was to shake Oscar et la Dame Rose by Éric-Emmanuel up Sofi tel’s spa off ering. “Th e previous Now, the new So SPA opera- Schmitt. It’s about giving hope concept [LeSpa] was fi ve years old,” says tion is pushing the Sofi tel brand What’s your favourite place? Boulet. “Th e spa market has evolved a forward again. A major diff erence My heart is happiest in a Japanese onsen lot since then.” It took two years – and a between the two concepts is What’s the best spa you’ve ever been collaboration between Sofi tel’s marketing the use of space and more pre- to? Pen Zan in Hakone near Tokyo team and the international consultancy cisely the social space, as Boulet What’s your favourite spa treatment? Spatality (sb08/1 p22) – to develop So SPA. explains: “Spas are not just sanctu- A massage and Vichy shower Th e brand is underpinned by French aries any more – places where you How would you describe yourself? elegance. Th e menu pays homage to the meet in the dark.” Th is is why the Creative, enthusiastic and adaptable French gourmet restaurant concept, off ering So SPA Tea Bar has been intro- How would your critics Les Entrées: 30-minute services and Les duced: “Th is isn’t just where you describe you? Too direct Plats Principaux: 60-minute body massages wait for your treatment, or relax What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been and facials. Th e staple product houses aft erwards. It’s really a socialising given? It’s more a saying: ‘Reasonable people include Carita, Clarins and OPI, while Cinq space for networking and ladies’ have lasted, enthusiastic people have lived’ Mondes and L’Occitane are also brought in spa parties, for example, which are Who do you admire most? Richard Branson, depending on location. “We wanted to work popular in Europe.” because he has built an empire from nothing with French international cosmetic partners Th is social element ties in because of the roots of Sofi tel,” she says. neatly with the brand’s lighthearted In addition, the aim is to have at least approach which is epitomised by one member of the spa team from France. Les Desserts, a section on the treatment products, which are available for purchase. “It’s important that the spa manager is menu where guests can either indulge in a “It’s a discovery process, which is an local where possible, because they will Martini & Manicure or a Pint & Pedicure. excellent way to let the customers choose understand the market,” says Boulet, Th e social space also has an emphasis naturally,” says Boulet. “We want to build “But we like the assistant spa manager on retail – a ‘discovery bar’ includes tester a relationship between the butler and the to be French so that they can handle the stands, while illuminated display units client, and lots of coaching is involved training aspects [from head offi ce and the surround the Tea Bar for guests to peruse. because the explanation of the product is product companies].” Guidance on products is given by a spa very important in the success of the visit.” butler, a role created by So SPA to person- SOCIAL BENEFITS alise the visitor’s experience. Th e butler SO SPA ROLLOUT ‘Frenchness’ has been at the heart of welcomes guests and asks them to choose In line with Sofi tel’s repositioning, Boulet Sofi tel’s spa off er since Alain Massaza cre- their preferred fragrance for the treatment describes the So SPA clientele as high-end ated LeSpa in 2003 (sb09/3 p41). He left room, along with the temperature, the pres- and affl uent. Around 60 per cent of guests the company in October 2008 and Boulet sure of their massage and the music. visit during their leisure time and 40 per says his legacy has been “to standardise Once the treatment is over, the butler cent while travelling on business, although the spa product and SOPs”. then outlines the music, fragrance and this does vary a little depending on location.

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 27 Interview

A typical facility will range from 400 in Morocco in October 2009 (see p16). male-orientated club atmosphere. Th ere to 800sq m (4,300 to 8,600sq ft ) and will Overall, the aim is for 70 per cent of will also be a strong focus on technology include a reception and Tea Bar as well Sofi tels to have a spa. Th ere are eight open- and effi ciency. A dry fl oat combined with as a manicure/pedicure area and at least ings scheduled over the next 12 months, luminotherapy and oxygen breathing will be one treatment room with an ‘iconic bath’ with three So SPAs planned for Vienna, off ered to help jet lag recovery, for example, – including cedar and fl oatation tubs – as Casablanca and Mumbai. while massages will range from short 30- the central focus. Most will also feature a minute sessions up to 90-minutes. fi tness area branded as So FIT. BUSINESS TIME Th e most important aspect of the off er- Th e fi rst So SPA had its soft opening in Elsewhere, Boulet has been developing a ing is the tie-in with fi tness. Th ere will be July 2009 at the London Sofi tel St James, new concept for Accor’s Pullman hotels. a series of combined fi tness and therapy UK. Around £2.3m (us$3.90m, €2.6m) was Th ese upscale facilities mainly cater for packages, structured according to the time spent on the 260sq m (2,830sq ft ), three- business travellers who represent 55 per of day or the client’s internal body clock. storey spa which is housed in a Grade cent of rooms nights and 70 per cent of “Th e Morning Up & Act might include a II-listed former bank. “Th e feedback is that revenue. Th e concept – Fit & Spa Lounge – soft scrub [and a not-so intense workout],” people really enjoy the quality of service has been developed in-house over the last says Boulet, “whereas a midday Keep Awake and that the experience is not just limited 18 months with the Pullman team. “We treatment will be far more stimulating.” to the treatment rooms,” says Boulet. wanted something masculine, because A typical facility will range from 300 to Another So SPA, covering 600sq m Pullman’s customers are mostly male busi- 500sq m (3,230 to 5,380sq ft ) and the idea (6,460sq ft ) launched in July at Sofi tel ness travellers and groups,” says Boulet. is to introduce spas to about a third of all Marseille Vieux Port, in France, while a Th e new concept will have a socialis- hotels, with the fi rst facility opening at the third 800sq m (8,610sq ft ) facility debuted ing lounge linked to a fi tness area with a Pullman Jumeirah Lake in Dubai in the second quarter of 2010.

SEA CHANGE You’d be forgiven for thinking that han- dling the rollout out of two international spa concepts would be more than enough for one person, but Boulet has another string to her bow having just taken on the role of strategic marketing director for Th alassa Sea & Spa. “It’s exciting to work on spa and thalassotherapy, the two are becoming closer and are combining pleas- ure, wellness and effi ciency,” she says. Her goal for Th alassa is to redefi ne and strengthen the off er domestically – the majority of the destination spas are in France – by introducing more of a spa service philosophy, alongside the well-proven health benefi ts of seawater treatments, and then develop the concept Sofi tel Zallaq Th alassa Sea & Spa in Bahrain is hailed as the fi rst seawater spa in the Middle East internationally. “We already have our ex-

ABOUT ACCOR

ccor, the French multinational Spa brand Mercure: three- and four-star corporation, is listed on the French Th alassa Sea & Spa: owner and hotels (671 hotels)* Astock exchange and in 2008 reported operator of three hot spring and 14 Suitehotel: three-star suites a net profi t of €575m (us$860.8m, £511.6m). thalassotherapy destination spas* in Europe (26 hotels) Employing 150,000 people, the group has two core businesses: Accor Services, Luxury brand Economy brands which oversees employee voucher and re- Sofi tel: fi ve-star luxury hotels (126 hotels)* All Seasons: two- to three- ward schemes for 430,000 companies; and star hotels (60 hotels) Accor Hospitality which comprises more Upscale brands Ibis: two-star hotels (831 hotels) than 4,000 hotels worldwide and accounts MGallery: boutique hotels with for 75 per cent of the group’s revenue. three and four stars (26 hotels)* Budget brands Of the properties to follow, 22 per cent Novotel: four-star hotels (392 hotels) Etap Hotel (399 hotels) are fully owned by Accor, while 21 and 15 Pullman: fi ve-star hotels primarily aimed Formule 1 (361 hotels) per cent are on fi xed lease and variable at business travellers (40 hotels)* Motel6 (968 hotels) lease agreements respectively. Another 22 Studio6 (52 hotels) per cent are managed by Accor and the Mid-scale brands Unbranded hotels (55 sites) fi nal 20 per cent are franchised. Adagio: apartment hotels (24 hotels) * Brands with spas

28 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Work is currently underway on the renovation of Th alassa’s 5,000sq m fl agship property in Quiberon in north-west France

pert teams and fabulous and central activity. We coastal locations,” she don’t choose the hotels, says. “Now we need to “It is exciting to work on both spa and thalassotherapy we choose the site for a evolve our customer projects, the two concepts are becoming closer and seawater spa and then service based on the three build a hotel. ” Ts: time, talk and touch.” are bridging the gap between pleasure and wellness.” Boulet also feels there’s STAYING CREATIVE a “tremendous opportuni- So, what else does the fu- ty” to highlight the many ture hold for Boulet? She benefi ts of seawater treatments which can to off er leading programmes, whether certainly doesn’t rule out creating more help everything from basic metabolism to it’s anti-ageing, slimming, detoxifi cation spa concepts and admits that she already easing respiratory problems and improving or nutrition.” has a “very clear idea” for what a Novotel the health of the circulatory and cardiovas- Th e division has two projects in the off ering would include. In terms of new cular systems, muscles and joints. pipeline for 2010. Due to open in June, is markets, she says Asia and the Middle East “Providing effi cient, health-driven the Sofi tel Zallaq Th alassa Sea & Spa in look particularly promising: “in that part services, along with a pleasurable spa expe- Bahrain, which will be the fi rst seawater of the world [spa] is really an expected rience is a growing trend,” she says. “Th ere’s spa in the Middle East. Th e 2,000sq m part of luxury hotel facilities.” an open market for a reinvented thalasso- (21,530sq ft ) spa will boast 14 treatment She believes the challenge in Europe is to therapy off ering based on pampering, time rooms, eight of which will be dedicated reignite interest in spa traditions, although and personalised wellness packages which to thalassotherapy, and two multi-station there are issues in areas like personnel costs are built on four pillars: seawater treatment, hydrotherapy pools. Later in the year will when it comes to developing new spas. massage, fi tness and nutrition. be the opening of Sofi tel Agadir Th alassa Although quality and standard of “We’ve started the evolution of our off er Sea & Spa in Morocco. service is one problem she foresees, this year [2009] by providing more time Two other new projects include the over- especially when it comes to managing an for our thalasso treatments and by com- haul of the 5,000sq m (53,820sq ft ) thalasso international network of spas, Boulet is mencing the renovation of our fl agship spa centre in Quiberon, which is scheduled to also adamant that creativity is another at Quiberon, north-west France. We’re also re-open in 2011; and a hotel and health and challenge. “It will be more important than introducing new methods, equipment and spa centre for Paris City Council – an ambi- ever to keep up with creativity. Clients are working with experts. Our slimming pro- tious upgrade of the city’s 1930’s Molitor becoming more demanding as they expe- gramme, for example, is being developed Pool – which is due for completion in 2012. rience spa and as competition increases. in conjunction with a renowned biology On picking partners for Th alassa, Our strategy will be to constantly renew research centre, which is exciting. We want Boulet says: “Seawater is the main priority the off er and to always fi nd new ideas.” ●

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 29

News report ."("-*30#"5)"/t+063/"-*45t41"#64*/&44

Greece Lightning

ristine beaches, lush olive groves, rugged moun- Costa Navarino, a €1bn, P tains and the backdrop of a sea so blue 100 per cent emission-free it almost takes your breath holiday and spa resort, away. Th is is the Messinian Peninsula in the Pelopon- is aiming to change the nese area of Greece, and it’s easy to see why Vas- face of Greek tourism. silis Constantakopoulos, founder of Athens-based We fi nd out more developer Temes SA (Tour- ist Enterprises of Messinia), is so passionate about his homeland. Greece]” says Constantakopoulos. “Costa of restaurants and bars. Th e 445-room Constantakopoulos, who made his Navarino and other investments like it will Westin, meanwhile, will also boast four fortune in the shipping industry, has spent bring about big changes.” speciality restaurants and a range of bars. the past two decades buying land in order Both hotels off er low-rise villa style ac- to turn his vision for Costa Navarino into PHASE ONE commodation and use traditional Greek reality. It is a truly ambitious project. A Costa Navarino will eventually consist of architecture as inspiration. €1bn (us$1.5bn, £892m) resort covering four separate resorts. Th e fi rst two – Nava- Th e spa, which opens in May 2010, more than 10 million sq m (108 million sq rino Dunes and Navarino Bay – are due to boasts kinesiotherapy, thalassotherapy and ft ), it will feature 3,000 hotel rooms and open in May 2010 and 2012 respectively. fl oatation pools, 38 indoor and six outdoor suites, seven signature golf courses, six Navarino Dunes will cover 1,300sq m treatment rooms, and a range of light thalassotherapy centres and spas, a marina (14,000sq ft ) and will feature a 4,000sq m therapies and heat experiences, including and conference facilities. (43,000sq ft ) standalone spa and thalas- ice-grotto rooms, mist showers and herbal What’s more, Constantakopoulos has sotherapy centre, two hotel developments saunas. It will off er a range of Eastern and pledged that Costa Navarino will be the by Starwood Hotels and Resorts – Th e Greek treatments including therapeutic fi rst 100 per cent emission-free resort in Romanos and Th e Westin – a 2,000 capac- olive oil treatments based on ancient the world, and will lead the way in a new ity conference centre, a signature 18-hole local practices. Th e spa operator has been era of more sustainable tourism for Greece. golf course, a private beach and a central signed, but not named. “Messinia – and most of the Peloponnese entertainment village. +VTUBGFXNJMFTEPXOUIFSPBE /BWB – has been lucky not to succumb to the Th e Romanos, a Luxury Collection rino Bay will cover 1,400sq m (15,050sq anarchic development seen elsewhere [in hotel, will feature 321 rooms and a range ft ) and will feature two luxury hotels – the fi rst operated by Banyan Tree and the other operator yet to be announced – and an 18-hole golf course. Navarino Bay’s buildings will be ‘earth sheltered’ – embed- ded in the site’s natural terrain with ‘living roofs’ made from plants. Th is will reduce energy consumption and provide natural cooling and insulation. Th e Banyan Tree Costa Navarino – Ban- yan Tree’s fi rst hotel in Europe – is due to open in 2012 and will consist of 117 villas and three restaurants. Th e Banyan Tree Spa will comprise 10 indoor and four outdoor treatment pavilions, hydrother- mal facilities, fi tness training rooms and an indoor swimming pool. Th e treatments Th e resort investment will be funded by a combination of equity, debt and government funds will be traditionally Asian in focus.

32 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Th e €1bn resort will cover more than “Costa Navarino will create a signifi cant number of new 10 million sq m and feature 3,000 hotel rooms and suites as well as six business opportunities, providing substantial motivation, thalassotherapy centres and spas especially for young people, to remain in their homeland”

Th e fi nal two resorts, Navarino Hills and communications director of Temes SA. Hotels and golf courses are notoriously and Navarino Blue, are not yet under “Although there are many opportunities to water-hungry so, to meet this demand, construction. Temes SA is still looking for enjoy the sport throughout the Mediter- two reservoirs have been built which will operators for these developments. ranean, the same cannot be said about store some of the excess run-off from Greece. We decided to change this. nearby rivers. Th e resorts will also use IMPACT ON LOCAL ECONOMY As for the local economy, Constantako- recycled water and collected rainwater. Th e huge €1bn investment – which doesn’t poulos estimates that 750 new jobs will be A replanting programme has seen 5,500 include the cost of the land – is being created initially, rising to 1,200 once phase native olive and fruit trees uprooted and funded by a combination of equity, debt one becomes operational. Temes SA has temporarily relocated nearby, ready to be and government funds. pledged that Costa Navarino will recruit re-established on site. Organic fertilisers As the largest tourism development in mainly from local communities, and will are being used in all green areas and Greece, Costa Navarino has been debated also use local products and services as comprehensive waste management and in parliament with both of the main much as possible. recycling programmes will be run. political parties voting in favour of the Papatsoni says: “Costa Navarino will Temes SA is working with environmen- project. Th e development fi ts well into the create a signifi cant number of new busi- tal organisations including the Hellenic plan of the Greek government to move the ness opportunities, providing substantial Ornithological Society to monitor and country away from mass tourism towards motivation, especially for young people, to protect local wildlife. Th e developer has higher quality tourism, and also to try to remain in their homeland.” also teamed up with the Bert Bolin Centre attract tourists to Greece year round. for Climate Research at Stockholm Uni- One of the problems faced by the Greek ECO MEASURES versity to build a research centre at Costa tourism industry is the seasonal nature of Costa Navarino’s electricity needs will Navarino, which will study the Mediter- its off er, with 70 per cent of tourists visit- be met by solar power – the developers ranean climate and environment. ing between May and October. Temes SA have applied for a permit for a 22MW No-one can accuse Constantakopoulos is determined to ensure Costa Navarino photovoltaic system to be hidden in the of not thinking big with Costa Navarino. will attract visitors throughout the year mountains – and a geothermal installation His vision is for a truly sustainable, luxury with ongoing activities including water will be installed under the Dunes golf resort that enables visitors to enjoy the sports, rock climbing and especially golf. course to provide cooling and heating local area while building infrastructure to “Golf has become an increasingly for the resorts. A cooling system using help Messinians to stay in their homeland. important part of luxury tourism world- technology based on seawater circulation Only time will tell whether he manages to wide,” says Marina Papatsoni, marketing is currently under development. achieve all of his aims. ●

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 33 Spa tourism

Arapey thermal springs

ALL PHOTOS, STATISTICS & MAP: MINISTERIO DE TURISMO Y DEPORTE DE URUGUAY HOT SPOT

TOURISM IS WARMING UP IN URUGUAY’S THERMAL SPRING REGION. WE TAKE A LOOK AT THE INDUSTRY AND ITS DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL

LEONOR STANTON » CONTRIBUTING EDITOR » SPA BUSINESS

ormerly known as the ing between 9 per cent and 11 per ‘Switzerland of South cent of incoming visitors. America’, Uruguay’s 3.4 F million inhabitants today Termas del Arapey LITORAL TERMAL enjoy a relatively high standard of It was in 1940 that the thermal living – the country was ranked springs in Uruguay were dis- third among those in South Termas de Salto Grande covered by chance when the America (50th worldwide) in the Uruguayan Geological Institute 31 United Nations Human Develop- was drilling for oil in Arapey: a ment Report 2009, which looks at Salto Termas de Daymán small town near the River Uruguay country development according to and the west coast (see map left ). life expectancy, educational attain- Today, the six main thermal desti- Termas de San Nicanor ment and per capita GDP. nations are Arapey, Daymán, Covering 176,215sq m (68,037sq Salto Grande, San Nicanor, 3 miles), it is the second smallest Guaviyú and Almirón, which country in South America, yet are located in the north-west of according to the nation’s ministry the country in two regions: the of tourism (Ministerio de Turismo Termas as de Guaviyú Department of Salto and the De- y Deporte) it attracted 2 million partment of Paysandú. Th e water overseas, or incoming tourists, and for the spa towns comes from the Rio Queguayy Grande 366,000 cruise ship passengers, Acuífero Guarani groundwater generating just over us$1bn reserve and the temperatures (€669.6m, £595.6m) in 2008. range from 39 to 45˚C. When taken together, overseas and Paysandú Guichón Arapey, a peaceful small town, domestic tourism represent 6 per is the most northerly of all the Termas de Almirón cent of the country’s GDP. thermal springs and it features a Uruguay’s tourism product variety of municipal thermal pools. consists of beach and sun destina- Th e town off ers a mix of private tions, thermal springs or ‘litoral termal’, Th e six thermal resorts are in the regions of and municipally-owned and operated ac- cultural and historical sites, business/ Salto and Paysandú in north-west Uruguay commodation units; seven in total which meeting venues, ecotourism developments, off er 1,906 bed spaces and 5,500 camping sites for sports enthusiasts and cruise ship However, the largest single destination for pitches. Th e largest unit is the privately- passengers. When grouped together the overseas tourists was the capital Monte- owned, all-inclusive Arapey Hotel & beach and sun destinations (Punta del video: pulling in 34 per cent of overseas Th ermal Resort with 412 bed spaces and its Este, Costa de Rocha, Costa de Oro and visitors in 2008. Th e thermal springs have own, extensive thermal pools. Piriápolis) drew in 43 per cent of overseas consistently been the third most important Daymán is a busy resort, but it has been visitors in 2008 (see Table 1 opposite). destination in Uruguay since 2005, deriv- developed haphazardly. While the 10 main

34 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Th e privately-owned Arapey Hotel & Th ermal Resort boasts extensive thermal pools

Table 1 | Destination of Overseas Tourism in Uruguay Montevideo Punta del Este Litoral Termal Colonia Costa de Rocha Costa de Oro Piriápolis Otros Transito 2005 36% 28% 11% 6% 3% 3% 3% 6% 5% 2006 38% 28% 10% 5% 3% 3% 3% 5% 4% 2007 38% 31% 7% 6% 3% 4% 3% 5% 3% 2008 34% 30% 9% 8% 5% 4% 4% 3% 3%

thermal pools are municipally owned and camping pitches. Th e infrastructure of the only a marginal decline on the 2008 visitor operated, the 109 accommodation units – municipally-owned pools is slowly being numbers in the global fi nancial downturn. which off er 3,803 bed spaces – are private repaired following years of neglect and Tourism within the thermal springs and vary in quality. Th e centrally located a search is under way for a management region in no exception to this growth. Complejo Médico Hidrotermal Daymán, company to run the facilities. Th is is despite medical challenges such as for example, is a no-frills spa with a Almirón is the only destination to foot and mouth, dengue fever and swine medical bias. Th e resort also off ers an be fed from the Acuífero San Gregorio fl u, as well as ongoing political confl icts aqua park aimed at the family market and groundwater reserve and is unique in its with Argentina and the worldwide eco- 2,400 camping pitches. Across a bridge salty thermal water which is cooler in nomic downturn. from the main town – and in the Depart- temperature (at 34˚C). Like at Guaviyú, Th e six resorts reportedly pulled in ment of Paysandú – is the Los Naranjos the infrastructure has suff ered from lack of approximately 610,000 overseas and Hotel which has a tranquil setting where maintenance which is slowly being recti- domestic visitors in 2007 and 750,000 in farm animals stroll within metres of the fi ed. Th e accommodation is at the lower 2008, of which around 40 per cent were outdoor thermal pools. end of the market and consists of 800 day visitors. Independent research for Salto Grande consists of one fi ve-star camping pitches and 147 bed spaces. Th ese this feature found that the region’s hotel, Horacio Quiroga, and an aqua park are owned municipally, but managed by a upmarket hotels, all privately owned, covering four hectares (10 acres). private sector sub-contractor. operate at between 55 and 70 per cent San Nicanor comprises a small ‘estancia’ occupancy levels, despite extreme peaks mansion, a private thermal water well, GROWING STRONG and troughs. Uruguayan and Argentinian along with substantial land for livestock Tourism in Uruguay hit an all time low in holiday periods and weekends are par- farming. Th e business was recently sold for 2002 – with the ministry of tourism re- ticularly busy, reputedly with high levels a reported us$10m (€6.7m, £6m) to Ralph porting only 1.35 million incoming visitors of frustrated demand. Average achieved Harteneck, an Argentinian entrepreneur, that year – following the Argentinian/Uru- room rates vary between us$45 (€30, £27) previously involved with Microsoft US. guayan banking and economic meltdown. and us$55 (€37, £33). Th e municipal hotel Th e facility is currently closed for refur- Numbers have steadily increased in the in Arapey, which trades as a three-star bishment and expansion. last seven years: tourism experienced a property, apparently runs at a 70 per cent Guaviyú has 429 bed spaces in its 10.1 per cent year-on-year growth in 2008 occupancy generating a surplus, regardless motel accommodation off ering, plus 3,600 and the fi rst quarter fi gures for 2009 show of artifi cially high payroll costs.

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 35 Spa tourism

In general customer surveys Another point to note is that show high satisfaction rates with even with a reasonable high in- consequent high levels of repeat fl ux of tourists, there is relatively business despite the state of wear little money spent by visitors to and tear of much of the accommo- thermal spring region. dation and thermal pool areas. Tourism receipts (showing the As a result, there are a number total income from tourism) have of projects currently under way, increased rapidly in Uruguay such as at San Nicanor. A new, since 2002, with particularly international standard, fi ve-star steep rises in the last few years 100-bedroom hotel is being (see Graph 1 below). Yet the planned in Arapey. In addition, thermal springs account for only the other two high-end hotels 3 per cent of total receipts. While in the region, in Daymán and average spend per visitor was Salto Grande, are considering just under us$200 (€134, £119) in expanding. In Daymán there are plans to Hotel Horacio Quiroga is a fi ve-star hotel the thermal spring area in 2008, it was just add more bedrooms, a golf course and to in the thermal town of Salto Grande over us$800 (€535, £477) in Punta del Este, possibly introduce a residential element, a celebrated beach resort. while in Salto Grande it is mooted that a drive from some of these areas acts as a Th is is because to date the thermal new hotel may be built within the grounds barrier, particularly for short breaks: the region has been recognised as off ering an of the existing accommodation. Hyatt is average stay in the region is just over four aff ordable tourism product. Overall the rumoured as a potential hotel operator for days. However, the upgrading of the Ruta market is a price conscious one for fami- one of these new sites. 14 to motorway standard in the next fi ve lies (Guaviyú) and couples (Almirón). On top of this, there are proposals to years will reduce drive times between One hotel manager says “thermal tour- develop new wells in the region. Buenos Aires and the thermal region to ism in Uruguay is not perceived to be for around three hours. the affl uent traveller”. In addition, Monica OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND In addition, Buquebus, a local passenger Lozano, head of thermal products for the Overall, Argentina generates 70 per cent transport company, was reportedly in ne- Ministerio de Turismo y Deporte spots of all visitors to the thermal springs gotiations to start a fl ight linking Buenos cultural diff erences. She says: “unlike in region, while Uruguayans make up 15 Aires and Salto, the capital of the Depart- Japan or Europe where spas are seen as per cent and Brazilians account for 10 ment of Salto, which would cut travel oases of peace, here we see water as much per cent. However, the distance from key times to two hours from the Argentinian for fun and recreation as for relaxation. cities in these source markets – Rosario capital. Yet there is now some uncertainty Over there, spas are primarily quiet, tran- and Buenos Aires in Argentina and Mon- as to whether this will go ahead. quil locations. We are happy playing and tevideo in Uruguay – is holding Uruguay’s Once, and if, these infrastructure relaxing in water, but we make noise... we thermal springs back from attracting developments are completed, it is likely are not so used to having treatments.” additional visitors and possibly a more that there will be a greater interest in the On the whole, existing treatment higher-end profi le. Th e fi ve to six-hour region from investors. facilities in the thermal spring towns are

Graph 1 | Percentage of Tourism Receipts and Spend by Visitor Destination in Uruguay

900 50%

800 45% 40%

$ 700

US 35% 600 30% 500 25% 400 20% 300 15%

MONEY SPENT IN SPENT MONEY 200 10% 100 5% 0 0%

Otros Colonia Transito Piriápolis Montevideo Punta del Este Costa de Oro Litoral Termal Costa de Rocha

Tourism Spend 2005 2005 2005 2005 Tourism Receipts 2008 %

36 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Daymán is a busy resort which off ers 10 main thermal pools that are municipally owned and operated

currently small, oft en sub- Th ermal water is plentiful, but investment contracted and according to the owners few are has largely come from the public sector. profi table. At the moment treatments prices are low As yet there are no international in comparison, with hotel spas in more upscale operators with spa know-how and Uruguayan resorts. Yet Dr César Suarez, a medical Los Naranjos: a high-end hotel in Daymán marketing muscle in the region doctor who manages treatment facilities in Arapey, confi rms INVESTING IN URUGUAY been in government for the last fi ve years, that a wealthy Argentinian market for spa Tourism is recognised as an important has come to recognise the importance of treatments does exist. industry in Uruguay supporting some foreign investment in creating jobs. Th e A higher end audience may be attracted 125,000 direct jobs. Th e fi rst National Plan party also feels that a solid legal system by a more modernised off ering within for Sustainable Tourism 2009 – 2020 was and respect for the rule of law, which do hotels and a stronger focus on upscale recently launched and consultants are exist in Uruguay, are an important compo- treatment and pampering facilities. currently reviewing tourism in the ther- nent in any foreign investment decision.” Other opportunities to increase spend- mal region to maximise future potential. Th ere is no doubt that there are op- ing could home in on marketing. For Indeed, “tourism has been incentivised portunities to expand the thermal tourism example, a thermal water cheese is made in Uruguay for a long time”, according to market in Uruguay. Some of the existing at Almirón, but this possibly one of the Cynthia Carballo, senior manager at the facilities are in need of modernisation and only attempts at merchandising in the area. accountancy fi rm Deloitte in Montevideo. there is room to increase the pampering Potential also lies in selling packages She says: “Th ere are signifi cant tax incen- treatment off ering as well as exploiting the based on the medicinal benefi ts of the tives in place to promote new investment medicinal benefi ts of the waters. Th is would water. Th e thermal waters contain miner- such as tax rebates depending on the acquire attracting a new, more internation- als such as fl uorine, iron, bromine, boron, amount invested and the employment ally diverse and upmarket clientele. Hot iodine, chrome, sodium and phosphorus, generated or the ability to import plant thermal water is reportedly plentiful, but in- which are good for treating the respiratory and construction materials free of duty.” vestment has largely come from the public system, skin conditions and particularly Further Mark Teuten, of the Uruguayan sector. Th ere are currently no international rheumatism, yet very little has been done law fi rm Teuten Abogados, adds: “Th e operators with spa know-how and market- to market these advantages. socialist Frente Amplio party, which has ing muscle operating in the region. ●

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 37 Eco spa KATH HUDSON » JOURNALIST » SPA BUSINESS

Quick-fi x massages are off the menu at a new spa in Cornwall in the UK. Instead, guests taking your time are persuaded to surrender to four-hour ayurvedic journeys. We fi nd out more about this ambitious approach

Th e indoor pool is bathed in natural light and boasts spectacular views of the coast courtesy of its large windows

linging to the cliff s above Stratton, Debbie Wakefi eld and Rebecca – there’s even a hotel dog to encourage north Cornwall’s Mawgan Whittington. Needing to give vent to their people to walk on the beach. Porth beach, its sea-thrift roof own entrepreneurial spirit, the sisters Whittington explains the proximity to and glass frontage already a have spent the last three years working on Bedruthan meant they had to come up Clandmark, Th e Scarlet, as the name sug- this £10m (us$16.7m, €11.2m) boutique with a distinctly diff erent spa concept. gests, is a bold and brave off shoot of the eco-hotel. Unlike the family-focused “Th e Ocean Spa at Bedruthan recognises long-established Bedruthan Steps hotel, Bedruthan, Th e Scarlet is an adults-only, that a lot of the guests have young children slightly further up the cliff . luxury retreat, with a Michelin-starred and therefore they will only be able to Th e 101-bed Bedruthan is run by three chef and a 700sq m (7,534sq ft ) spa. Th e steal away for an hour or two,” she says. daughters of the original owners: Emma 37-bed Scarlet is all about slowing down “However, with Th e Scarlet we’re expecting people will be coming to slow down and it will be a child-free environment. To focus on wellbeing and make a diff erence, we have designed seven separate spa journeys, each lasting around four hours.”

Promoting deep relaxation

Whittington has been a fan of ayurveda since travelling to Kerala in 1996 and worked closely with Sunita Passi, founder of ayurvedic consultancy Tri-Dosha, to create the journeys. Each starts with an in-depth consultation, to determine the dosha type and prescribe the right journey. Guests are then taken for a bathing and cleansing ritual. Th is could either be a sea- Th e £10m luxury retreat is the sister hotel to the long-established Bedruthan Steps weed bath; a rasul mud massage or a scrub

38 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 One of the standout features of the new facility is its luxurious deep relaxation space with hanging pods (above); another relaxation room has loungers that overlook the outdoor pool and local art such as sculpted trees (below) ALL PHOTOS: CHRIS CYPERT

and hot poultice massage in a hammam. Next is some relaxation time, with the THE JOURNEYS option of taking a guided meditation or pranayama (breath control) session, before RESTORE A nurturing journey to soothe SOUL-HUNTING For people at a 90 minutes of ayurvedic treatments, which the mind, restore emotional balance and crossroads, aiming to open the mind vary according to the journey. Th e experi- allow the body to let go of anxieties. to choices and opportunities and ence is rounded off with relaxation time in RE-BALANCE For those who feel give courage for a new start. a silent, darkened room, in a cocoon-like their body is out of sync or their RE-DISCOVER FOR COUPLES pod hanging from the ceiling. emotional equilibrium is off -balance. A bonding time for couples, where “We’re being very brave not off ering an DETOXIFY Th is clears the system of they will learn massage techniques and hour’s massage,” says spa manager, Steph toxins and kick starts the metabolism. have champagne in a scented bath. Crosby. “But what we genuinely and au- ENERGISE Raises the metabolism and thentically want to off er is the opportunity improves circulation and vitality. Each journey costs £175 (us$293, €196) to truly relax, let go and release and that UNLOCK For people suff ering from apart from soul-hunting which is £250 takes more than an hour. When guests deep seated neck, back and shoulder (us$419, €280), the price refl ecting book a massage, I explain we’ve researched tension or other aches and pains. the fact that it uses two therapists. how long it takes to go to relaxation levels which benefi t you long term and they’re generally really interested and happy to and Voya, which supplies certifi ed organic energy audits and share knowledge be- book a journey. Th e price hasn’t been an seaweed and seaweed products. Manicures tween the businesses. A bio-mass boiler is issue. What we are asking people to do is and pedicures are off ered in the bedrooms. used for hot water and heating, the build- spend their money on time, not products.” ing is tight-sealed and an air-to-air heat For those who can’t quite commit to a Green team exchanger is also utilised. full journey, there is an hour-long taster Th e indoor pool is heated by solar pan- session, for £60 (us$100, €67). Some Th e three sisters are genuinely passionate els and treated with a special low-dosage shorter treatments are available for hotel about cutting the hotel’s carbon footprint. bromine system. Th e outdoor natural guests: the three bathing experiences and Th e hotel has a green team, headed by pool, which has no chemicals at all and facials using products from Tri-Dosha Bedruthan’s sustainability manager, to do is cleaned by reeds, is topped up by har-

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 39 Eco spa

Th ere are three tented treatment rooms with potential for two more as well as “We’re being very a couples’ suite with a double bath brave not off ering an hour’s massage, but we genuinely want to off er the opportunity to truly relax” vested rainwater. Although the outer edge looks a bit like a garden pond with rushes and plants, the swimming part is clear and inviting and has been warmly received by guests. To cut down on laundry, guests are asked to come to the spa in the robes from their room. Where possible, sarongs are used instead of towels and guests are given fl ip fl ops made out of recycled tyres. “Th ere’s a strong, ethical, decision-making process for everything,” says Crosby. “For example, the spa uniforms are from the US. We weren’t going to get them there be- cause of the carbon footprint, but when we looked at other factors – they’re durable, breatheable and don’t need to be ironed, they became the most environmental ocean, a deep relaxation space with hang- displayed. Perhaps the most interesting option. Not every decision is clear cut.” ing pods and two outdoor, log-fi red hot design element is the canvas-tent arrange- tubs. A yoga, pilates and t’ai chi studio is ment in three of the treatment rooms. Spiritual environment nearing completion to complete the off er. Whittington explains the inspiration Design is a strong element of Th e Scarlet, for this: “I went on an ayurvedic course Th e spa has three tented treatment rooms, Whittington says they wanted to make it and met a lot of practitioners who said a with potential for two more, a couples’ aspirational and luxurious, while staying normal spa didn’t embody enough spirit suite with a double bath, an indoor 13m true to its eco roots. Th e spa is decorated in for ayurveda. I knew I needed to create an pool, a hammam, a rasul for mud treat- earthy tones, with reclaimed walnut fl oors, environment which would feel spiritual ments, a meditation room, a relaxation and robes and towels are light brown, and connected, in order to get clients and area overlooking the outdoor pool and the rather than white. Local art is tastefully practitioners into the right mind state, but I didn’t want to create a bit of India or a bit of Bali.” Th e tent idea SOUL-HUNTING JOURNEY, THE SCARLET, CORNWALL, UK gradually evolved with input from lots of people, they were made First-person experience: Kath Hudson by sailing product manufacturers and an acoustician made recom- love the way ay- although they worked deeply, I mendations to stop noise transfer I urvedic treatments also felt it was nurturing. between rooms. work so deeply on Aft er the treatment, I was All of the staff – including the all levels, and really promote led, like a sleepwalker, into therapists – have been chosen for release, so I was thrilled to try another treatment room for their empathy and experience. a soul-hunting journey. the shirodhara treatment “Lots of the therapists have already Th e experience began with a where hot oil was poured over been on their own personal jour- hammam, using an invigorat- my forehead and hair for 45 ney,” says Whittington. “We ask ing Scarlet-made salt scrub, followed by minutes. Th is was very soothing for the them to come in fresh-faced and a hot poultice massage. Th e bashing I mind, I could almost feel the stress leaving well-rested rather than made-up was given made me think of meat being my head, especially when they wrung out and to allow themselves time to tenderised, but it was such a relief to my hair. Finally, I was taken to a hanging centre themselves before work.” have someone tackle my knots, especially pod. I could have stayed there for hours. She says it won’t be a high when Katie, my therapist, started foraging Aft er the experience, I felt like my throughput spa, but they’re hoping beneath my shoulder blades. one-year-old son looks aft er a good nap: for steady use by hotel guests and Aft er a lengthy relaxation, Katie was rosy cheeked, bright eyed and raring to go. day guests coming for journeys. joined by Tamarin, for the next phase – a It benefi ted me on the physical, emotional She believes it has the potential to four-handed treatment, known as sam- and spiritual levels and I hope the eff ects become a destination spa. vahana. It was utterly wonderful. Having of such deep relaxation, and dumping off It’s a brave and innovative wound down, I felt I could let go and so much tension, will last a while. concept, and one which has been carefully thought through. ●

40 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Wearing too many hats? SpaBooker is All You Need

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Adam Horler 39, managing director, Osmosis Ventures

Horler has worked in the beauty industry for over 18 years, within companies such as L’Oréal, as commercial director, and Molton Brown Asia, as CEO. He is known as a retail specialist in the UK and a sales, marketing and branding expert in Asia. In November 2008 he set up Osmosis Ventures – a business to help consumer companies, retailers and hotel groups promote and source eco- friendly brands – with his wife. Horler also heads up Asia-Pacifi c LOHAS, an enterprise focused on sustainability (SB08/3 p62), and is planning to host the fi rst Asian LOHAS Forum in October 2010.

I grew up in Harpenden, a town in the green belt around London, and I’ve always played semi-professional rugby and went professional for 10 my childhood was spent running amok in English woodlands with months aft er quitting L’Oréal in friends. Th is gave me a great appreciation for nature: I used to get very Hong Kong. Th e happiest moment of my life was being made club cap- upset seeing new housing estates being built and that has stayed with me tain of Hong Kong Football Club forever. I then moved to the Wirral, Merseyside, a fairly rough place near [for rugby football] and leading my team out to win the All China Cup Liverpool. You have to be street smart to thrive and survive there, thank against our arch rivals, Valley RFC. God, because those were the best lessons I have ever had in life. I now cycle for a club and this May our team won the ama- teur Tour of Th ailand bike race, so I still love to compete!

Th e worst business decision I made was turning down my boss’s off er to hire someone to work Even the best spas are very bad at retail. I’m constantly astonished by alongside me. I was too proud to admit the job how poorly products are displayed, sales spaces are laid out and em- was complex, but I then lacked anyone to bounce ideas off . Th at pride eventually cost me my job as ployees are trained. Spa retail is just like any other retail, it operates I was replaced due to poor profi ts performance. on the same sets of rules but doesn’t get treated that way. Th e indus- Next time, I’ll be quick to admit I need help and try can learn from consumer brands [such as Dove and Nivea] which will embrace off ers with open arms. are launching spas, but should also consider them a threat.

I fi rst encountered the wellness industry at large in 2006 at a Wellness I was overcome by guilt following my Summit, where my wife Ann [Gowing] was a master practitioner running successful career in pushing palm oil and yoga sessions. Ann teaches yoga, pilates and fi tness – she has worked at Mandarin Oriental and Four Seasons – and constantly puts me back on petrochemical-derivative products. When track, helping me to achieve a work-life balance. It’s great working together: I fi rst started I wasn’t aware of the issues we’re good with individuals (Ann) and organisations (me). We have the in working for a big FMCG company. I same views on spas and are equally critical from an operations standpoint. am now driven by the desire to change people’s habits, perceptions and motivating I feel liberated having thrown off the shackles of corpo- them to realise that there is a better way. rate life. LOHAS and the rest of my environmental work Th at’s why we started Osmosis Ventures. has given me a true purpose in life. My greatest wish is for LOHAS to take off in Asia to really improve the sustain- Our mission is ‘promoting conscious ability of business here. My long-term ambition is to see it living’. People now know we’re credible run by Asians. I eventually see myself back in Europe, liv- and are starting to make enquiries. ing a simple life in the country with my family.

42 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Spa Wellness Solution Provider

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Offi ces: Europe Middle East South East Asia South Asia www.geospa.de Real estate NEENA DHILLON » JOURNALIST » SPA BUSINESS

Guests enter Elysian via a European-style courtyard (this picture); the lobby has a chandelier inspired by a Chanel brooch (left ) Aiming HIGH Th e Elysian Chicago, a fi ve-star hotel with private residences, has opened in troubled economic times. So what are its prospects and what role will the in-house spa play?

espite launching during a (see p46). So, just how has he managed to Th e business model for Elysian involved fi nancial downturn, the Ely- succeed where others have failed? homes being sold at high price points to sian Chicago which opened generate revenues to off set expensive hotel D in December 2009 in the US, construction. Th is strategy resulted in new Real estate success has positioned itself at the top end of the Th e 60-storey Elysian Chicago combines fi nancing then being secured from Hypo Windy City’s hotel marketplace, with a 188 guest rooms, with 52 private resi- Real Estate Capital Corporation in 2006. promise to deliver a new level of luxury. dences. Costing from us$3.9m (€2.62m, However, Pisor is the fi rst to admit there Situated in the affl uent Gold Coast £2.34m) each, just four of the residences are tremendous challenges ahead, not least neighbourhood, the us$280m (€187.5m, remain on the market, with the majority because room revenues and occupancy £169.7m) mixed-use project is the inaugu- sold in a pre-opening campaign that rates are signifi cantly depressed across ral property of Elysian Hotels & Resorts, a began in 2004. Th e early success of this the city. “We will be at the top end of the Chicago-based company with bold plans real estate component has been a key Chicago market but our opening rates will to open upscale hotels in gateway cities factor in moving the development ahead. be lower than originally projected,” he around the world. Yet Elysian’s CEO David Th inking back to his 18-month search comments. “Since we want to be a rate Pisor believes the company has much to for the right site, Pisor, who invested seed leader, it will take longer for us to achieve prove in its own backyard before looking money with three other partners, recalls: hard-won customers. Th is will also mean further afi eld. “We are a young business… “When I found this plot, I off ered the most longer timelines in terms of seeing a we have to walk before we run,” he says. anybody had ever paid for a similar parcel return on investment.” What he’s achieved so far is impressive of land because I knew the deal would considering that a number of high-end support it and that having the best location Luxury addition hotel/condo developments in the city have in Chicago would be very important when Building a strong brand image is key to been put on hold or cancelled altogether it came to [selling] the real estate.” coming through these diffi cult times. Th e Elysian team has committed to spend- Th e early success of the real estate component to Elysian Chicago ing more money on marketing than it would have in a buoyant economy. Target has been a key factor in moving the development forward – just marketing rather than generic advertis- four of the US$3.9m private residences remain on the market ing was favoured, with communication vehicles including the website, online

44 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Th e women’s relaxation area with a custom- made lighting fi xture (left ); the Greco-Roman inspired mosiac-tiled lap pool (this picture)

campaigns, social media, public relations, Th e Elysian Chicago picks up on a distinctive theme. Principal blogs and word of mouth. Facts and Figures Lisa Simeone explains: “When David In terms of an international audience, approached us, he told us that the Elysian the Elysian has been accepted as one of sTh e hotel design, by Lucien Lagrange Fields – the resting place of the Greek gods Th e Leading Hotels of the World and will Architects, resembles a French estate – were an inspiration for the project. Th is be promoted through Virtuoso and Amer- sTh e 188 rooms range from 614sq ft immediately brought up Greco-Roman ican Express. Sales people from the local (57sq m) to 2,600sq ft (242sq m) imagery, which wasn’t quite right for the competition such as the Peninsula and s83 per cent of rooms are suites hotel, but one that we were able to follow Four Seasons have also been employed so sRooms start at us$395 (€265, £237) in the spa and health club.” that existing client relationships can now sTh ere are 52 private residences In a nod to both Greek and Roman be nurtured at the Elysian. measuring from 3,400sq ft (316sq m) baths, the spa’s layout divides men’s and But to truly stand out from other high- sFacilities include two restaurants, women’s facilities with relaxation areas end off erings, Pisor wants to reset the a gentleman’s bar, a junior compromising warm water baths, saunas, stage for fi ve-star hospitality by redefi ning ballroom, 4,500sq ft (418sq m) steamrooms and lounges – the men’s side what luxury means. “It’s an over-used of meeting space and a spa also features an atelier off ering grooming word but we see the word luxury as an sFacials and massages start at us$165 treatments. A saline lap pool, 13 treatment experience that is individual, personalised (€111, £99) and us$160 (€107, £96) rooms, a hair and nail spa, fi tness centre, and dedicated to the details,” he says. sSuppliers include Carita, pilates and gyrotonic studio and outdoor “You can only truly make this possible by Naturopathica, Earthworks, terrace are available to all. scaling back to a small operation with a Sprayology, Hommage, Spa Columns, colonnades, mosaics, black limited number of bedrooms.” Ritual, Matrix and Stott Pilates fl ooring and white walls form the corner- He confi rms that a spacious, 14,000sq stone of the design and the reception area ft (1,301sq m) Spa & Health Club has been dazzles with drama. Simeone elaborates: a key component of the luxury off ering Design dazzle “Guests immediately see a white onyx from the outset, especially since it will While the hotel’s interior design by Sime- wall behind a monolithic marble recep- operate as an independent profi t centre one Deary refl ects a glamorous European tion desk overhung by a lighting feature and be expected to drive 10 per cent of art deco aesthetic, the us$7m (€4.7m, resembling a jewel-encrusted egg. Th en overall revenues. £4.2m) spa, situated on the fourth fl oor, there are beautiful mosaic tiled water walls

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 45 Real estate

Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago (this picture), which opened in 2008, has sold 70 per cent of its 339 hotel condos and 486 residential units (opposite) Real estate fortunes in the Windy City

iffi cult economic conditions have meant that notable Chicago hotel/condo developments have D been cancelled or delayed in the past two years, including Canyon Ranch Living, which was due to open in 2010. Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, meanwhile, an- nounced the opening of a Chicago property back in 2005 as part of the new Waterview Tower site. Off ering 223 hotel rooms and over 200 elite residential condominiums, the plug has since been pulled on the Shangri-La property, which would have represented the brand’s fi rst foray into the US market. 2005 was also the year in which the Man- darin Oriental Hotel Group revealed its plans to manage a new 250-room luxury hotel and 50 branded residences in the city’s Millennium Park neighbourhood. Th e project is now on hold, while developer Illinois Center Develop- ment pursues the required levels of funding. Faring better than many of its competitors in the luxury category, the us$1bn (€670.5m, £600.2m) Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago, which opened in phases throughout 2008 with 339 hotel condos and 486 residential units, is now 70 per cent sold. Th e largest residential building in Chicago complete with its own signature spa, Trump’s hotel condos vary in size from 550 to 2,200sq ft (46 to 204sq m) and residential units from 600 to 4,000sq ft (56 to 372sq m), with prices starting from us$580,000 (€388,850, £348,050). Penthouses measure up to 14,000sq ft (1,301sq m).

with Greek male and female faces to act was reviewing the retail area to ensure it this approach will diff erentiate the facility as signage, plus white lacquered closets to looked good but worked commercially. from competition and draw in clients subtly showcase products for retail.” Having employed local master techni- Although the Elysian is Simeone Deary’s Spa with purpose cians, the Elysian plans to attract the Gold fi rst hotel spa, it threw up only a handful In keeping with therapeutic Greco-Roman Coast community through grass roots of challenges. “Layout was straightforward spas, Lindholm’s philosophy is to pass on marketing initiatives and limited spa because we had early input from consult- bite-sized information about lifestyle and memberships. Day visitors, residence own- ant Sylvia Sepielli and Mario Tricoci’s therapies while still providing an enjoyable ers and hotel clients are all priorities for family who operate day spas [as part experience. Her treatment menu is concise sales, with Lindholm aiming for a 60:40 of Red Door Spa Holdings sb09/2 p24],” and accessible because the spa’s techni- split for day versus hotel guests. While says Simeone. But some alternations cians are trained to customise therapies for she would like to achieve a hotel capture were made when spa director Fabienne clients. “If you book the Elysian massage, rate of 10 to 12 per cent within months of Lindholm – formerly director of educa- for example, we can incorporate some opening, her ultimate goal is to reach 20 tion and business development at Decléor Th ai, Swedish and deep tissue techniques per cent as soon as possible. USA – came on board. One such example to suit your needs,” she says. She hopes “We know it will be tough to persuade visitors to come to us for the fi rst time, but Building a strong brand image is key to coming through diffi cult once people have experienced our service sequence, I am sure we will retain them,” times. Th e Elysian team committed to spending more money on Lindholm concludes. “Hopefully, our main marketing than it would have done in a more buoyant economy problem in the future will be juggling too much demand!” ●

46 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 sacred nature pure organics for the skin. for the planet in the best spas worldwide

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fl oating ideas

Bauer Palladio hotel and spa is the latest addition to a Venetian hotel empire, but if the owner has her way, the quiet retreat might grow into the city’s fi rst destination spa

enice has always attracted vast tination,” Bortolotto Possati says. “It has to architect Andrea Palladio, which had been numbers of tourists. Th ey come become larger and develop into something neglected for over 100 years. Charmed by for St Mark’s Square, gondola diff erent, which is one of my projects. I the building’s spectacular architecture and rides across the canals, Murano hope we’ll become a destination spa.” big garden – large green spaces are a rarity Vglass shopping and to experience of one of Bortolotto Possati’s Bauer Hotels in Venice – Bortolotto Possati decided it the most beautiful cities in the world. Venezia properties are the only inde- was time for Venice to off er a new resort If there’s one thing tourists don’t come pendently-owned large luxury hotels in hotel where visitors could escape the to Venice for, however, it’s spas. “You’d Venice, and have held their own against hectic pace of the crowds in St Mark’s. go to a remote island somewhere in the the international chains. Her portfolio Developing it, however, was a challenge: Pacifi c for a spa, but you don’t choose also includes Il Palazzo, a Venetian palace- building in most historic cities in Europe Venice,” says Francesca Bortolotto Possati, themed boutique hotel Bortolotto Possati means adhering to tight restrictions, and chairman and CEO of Bauer Hotels Ven- created by redeveloping half of the origi- Venice has more than most. Aft er two ezia. She wants to change that. nal Bauer; and Casa Nova, a site off ering years of creating diff erent proposals for the Th e Bauer, the fi rst hotel which over- apartments and suites. site, Bortolotto Possati was fi nally forced looks the , was purchased by Bortolotto Possati has had a particularly to change the spa’s location to a separate Bortolotto Possati’s grandfather in 1930. hands-on role in developing each property, building next door to the Palladio and Since taking control of the property in personally completing the interior design halve the size to from 900sq m (9,700sq ft ) 1997, Bortolotto Possati has built a mini and making architectural decisions to 450sq m (4,850sq ft ). luxury hotel empire in the city, opening with the support of a full time, in-house three more properties. And she has big architectural team. Il Palazzo has a small Original atmosphere ambitions for her latest, the Palladio, a spa with a sauna, steamroom, whirlpool, €50m (us$74.6m, £44.8m) hotel and spa massage and a fi tness room, but the Pal- Th ough she envisioned a spa hotel rather opened in 2006 that she’s already expand- ladio, a quiet retreat just a few feet from than a hotel and spa, Bortolotto Possati is ing with the aim of creating Venice’s fi rst the lagoon on Venice’s Giudecca island, happy with the results and feels they form destination spa. “Th e Palladio’s current has been her fi rst real spa project. a strong basis on which to expand the site’s spa is almost like having a restaurant: it’s a Th e Palladio is located in a 16th century off ering. Th e three-fl oor hotel has retained popular service, but it’s not so much a des- former convent designed by Renaissance much of the convent’s original atmosphere.

48 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 A small church still used by locals remains times you go into a place and As Th e Palladio hotel (both pictures left ) is located embedded in the front of the building; the you don’t know if you’re in in a former convent built in the 16th century; its hotel is built around it in two wings, and Europe or America or Italy. I green spaces are a rarity in Venice (above). Th e features original open brickwork walls, like to be in a very comfortable, relaxation room is the spa’s crowning glory (top) Venetian terrazzo fl oors, high ceilings, and secluded, private spa, but to large open spaces such as the common also see where I am.” area on the ground fl oor. With its secluded atmosphere and established by the Rio Terà dei Pensieri Th e spa features wooden beamed ceil- romantic lagoon view, the spa caters to cooperative in the botanical gardens of the ings and muted colours, accented with couples, oft en honeymooners, and this 14th century Le Convertite on Giudecca. panels of fl oral fabric. Facilities include is refl ected in the treatment off ering. Th e As part of a social initiative, the prod- a communal sauna, a facial room, a most popular is the €198 (us$295, £177) ucts are handmade by female inmates manicure/pedicure room, a massage room per person Me & You Spa for Two package, of the local jail, who are trained by connected to a steamroom for two with which starts with a sauna, followed by volunteers and supervised by a licensed double showers, a couple’s treatment room an exfoliating total body treatment with organic chemist. In the pipeline over the with an Obermaier bathtub for two, and raspberries, a purifying whirlpool session next 12 months is a line of ointments and a steambath room off ering Venice’s only with a raspberry and milk-based bath and creams that can be personalised for clients Vitalis multi-bath system: a patented bath a one-hour massage. in advance of their treatment based on a claimed to break down steam into espe- Th e spa uses Maria Galland and computer-aided questionnaire. cially small molecules to aid detoxifi cation. Daniela Steiner products, and also sells Th e hotel and spa has not partici- Th e relaxation room, the spa’s crowning Bauer’s own product line, Santa Maria pated in any eco-friendly benchmarking feature, has a sofa facing a giant one-way degli Angeli, which features shampoo, programmes, but Bortolotto Possati is mirror window with a surreal, postcard conditioner, moisturisers and shower fi ercely proud of the sustainable elements view of St Mark’s on the other side of the gels with natural, anallergic ingredients. she’s incorporated into the property. lagoon’s hypnotic waves. Bortolotto Possati had a hands-on role in “We do everything possible to try to be “I think a spa has to have a strong link to developing the line – she’s been producing eco-friendly,” she says. Aside from using the environment, the city or countryside products for her hotels for the past fi ve environmentally-friendly water-soluble it’s set in,” Bortolotto Possati says. “Some- years, working with a cosmetic laboratory products in the spa, the hotel is fi tted

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 49 Resort spa

With its secluded, private atmosphere, the BAUER PALLADIO HOTEL spa frequently caters to couples, oft en & SPA BY NUMBERS honeymooners and the most popular package is the Me & You Spa for Two sThe hotel’s occupancy rate is usually 75 per cent, though it has gone with energy-saving light bulbs and rooms down to 60 per cent this year are fi tted with key card systems that shut sRooms start at `750 (US$1,100, £672) down electric sources when a guest is out. for a double room, per night, based Th ere’s a recycling programme, a water on two people sharing; prices range conservation system that gathers rain and up to `1,570 (US$2,550, £1,400) per condensation from the air conditioning night for a lagoon-view suite units to water the gardens, and guests are sAverage length of stay is encouraged to reuse towels and linens. Th e three to four days sThe Palladio has 37 rooms and 13 hotel purchased a solar powered vaporetto sThe spa’s capture rate is 60 per cent suites; meanwhile, the has boat, Venice’s fi rst, to transport Palladio sForty per cent of guests across all Bauer 91 rooms and 18 suites, Bauer Il Palazzo guests to and from the mainland and hotel properties visit the Palladio spa has 44 rooms and 38 suites, and Bauer staff ’s uniforms and fabric used around sThe Palladio employs 50 staff Casanova has 10 rooms and nine suites the spa are made from natural fi bres. “I think I’m one of the only spas in the world that has used pure silk for curtains and €50,000 (us$74,500 £44,800) per month looking into the feasibility and fi nancial drapes,” Bortolotto Possati says. in the near term, and further in the future. plans.” It’s too early to provide details, She is currently looking at bringing in but Bortolotto Possati says the new spa Standing out a wider range of visitors with a €100m would take two years to build and get up (us$149.7m, £89.6m) addition to the Pal- and running, and could start at 400 to Th e Palladio’s spa has fi ve staff and typi- ladio set for completion by early 2010, and 600sq m (4,300 to 6,450sq ft ) and poten- cally treats no more than four people at the future addition of a medical spa. tially grow. Medical spa or not however, once. According to manager Hélène Lobel, Th e addition to the Palladio will see 20 she’s working on having the Palladio it’s this intimate atmosphere that sets it new rooms added to the hotel, and the open year-round – the hotel currently apart from its competitors – spas at the garden expanded and given new features operates seasonally, from April to October. Hilton and Cipriani hotels, also located such as a swimming pool and an area for “Venice doesn’t have an incredible climate on Giudecca. “It’s diffi cult to call them open air spa treatments. over the winter, but we’re hoping, if not competitors because it’s not the same Also set for an early 2010 launch is a in 2010, then defi nitely by 2011 to be open concept. Th e philosophy is quite diff erent new lagoon-front property, steps away year-round.” in the Hilton and Cipriani (sb05/2 p104). from the Palladio, which will function as a Bortolotto Possati will be especially What they have is right for them, with villa-style, longer-term residence, with 10 looking forward to the medical spa’s launch the number of rooms they have,” she says. apartments from suites to three-bedroom. – much as she loves her hands-on work, her “Our spa is more intimate and special.” Guests will be able to enjoy butler and favourite part of any project is the conclu- It’s Bortolotto Possati’s aim to grow the hotel services, as well as their own garden sion, and it’s been no diff erent with opening spa into a destination to accommodate and swimming pool. the Palladio. “Looking at it today, fi nally, more guests while retaining an intimate Bortolotto Possati hopes to establish the it’s so rewarding, the garden is absolutely atmosphere. Currently, the spa is mar- medical spa in a building she owns which stunning right now and even the spa has keted to Palladio guests and guests at other is in between the Palladio and the villa the feeling I wanted to give to that property Bauer properties, as well as day guests, property. “I’m in the process of searching and I’m very happy about that,” she says. and brings in up to €25,000 (us$37,250, for and evaluating diff erent partners to see “In life, you oft en say ‘I wish I’d done that’ or £22,400) a month in revenue. Bortolotto if we can bring this new concept to Venice,” ‘I could have done this better’. I can say ‘I’m Possati wants to increase this to around she says. “It’s in a phase where we’re still happy with it and I like it just as it is.’” ●

50 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009

Training CAROLINE WILKINSON » JOURNALIST » SPA BUSINESS

MARY TABACCHI ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, CORNELL UNIVERSITY

“All spa modules were designed to educate future spa business leaders, entrepreneurs and corporate personnel. When students graduate, they know the spa and wellness industry through and through because of the work they do. Th ey have read and analysed almost all of the research released by ISPA, PKF, STR, HVS and Intelligent Spas and will have interned with the leaders in the spa industry. Few schools have students who are vice presidents or on the corporate level of companies such as Banyan Tree, Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, Canyon Ranch, the list goes on...” Cornell University

Cornell University’s spa degree modules are some of the industry’s most long-standing courses. We fi nd out what makes them stand out

IN A NUTSHELL veteran Mary Tabacchi (sb05/1 p34), who ON THE MENU Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, developed the fi rst module aft er Deborah Th e spa-related courses run for 14 weeks US, introduced its fi rst spa-specifi c course Szekely – the founder of Rancho La Puerta and comprise two 80-minute sessions a – Spa and Spa Resort Development and and the Golden Door – invited her to learn week. Th e courses focus heavily on the Management – at its School of Hotel Ad- the business at Golden Door for the pur- business and marketing of day, resort ministration (Hotel School) in 1985. Today pose of introducing a management course and destination spas worldwide. Students it also off ers modules in Contemporary at Cornell. Tabacchi leads all of the courses, receive an overview of the global spa and Healthy Cuisine and Tying Wellness with which combine her extensive experience fi tness industry along with its economic Corporate Financial Success. with hundreds of spa companies and her 37 state and structure and are taught how to Th ese courses focus on the business years of research and teaching worldwide. evaluate the feasibility of new spas and the and management functions of spas and on fi nancial health of existing ones based on industry research. Over the years, many WHO’S IT FOR? market research. corporate leaders have graduated and Cor- Th e modules are aimed at Hotel School Module topics include yield manage- nell is highly regarded in the spa industry. fourth-year undergraduate and Master ment, the growth of US, Asian and of Hospitality Management students, European spas and the potential expan- BACKGROUND although other Cornell students can apply. sion into other markets, the development Th e Hotel School was founded in 1922 Th ey are preferably off ered to high achiev- of customer service and online booking. and for decades it has topped polls for ing class men and graduate students. Other important subjects include person- hospitality education. Th e school off ers Th e spa modules are off ered in the nel, safety, legal and ethical issues, all of four degrees which can integrate the spa spring and fall [autumn] semesters and which are compounded by the teachings modules: a Masters of Management in there’s an intake of 30 to 50 students per of guest speakers from the corporate spa Hospitality, a Masters of Science, a PhD course. Rigorous entry requirements industry – many of whom are former and a four-year undergraduate Bachelor include high grades, exceptional writing, graduate students, such as Mia Kyricos of Science in Hotel Administration. conceptualisation and math entry test and Greg Hagin (see comments above) – scores, excellent communication and as well as key entrepreneurs. WHO’S WHO? leadership skills and evidence of motiva- Th e Hotel School ensures a balance Th e Hotel School has 60 faculty mem- tion. All prospective pupils must have between real-world experience and bers, but only one spa expert: industry experience working in hospitality. classroom learning. Undergraduates

52 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 MIA KYRICOS GREG HAGIN DIRECTOR OF GLOBAL SPA BRANDS AND GENERAL MANAGER, PROGRAMMING, STARWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS THE SEA RANCH LODGE

“Starwood hires Hotel School spa stu- “When I chose Cornell, I was working dents for a variety of junior to mid-level as a restaurant manager, but wanted to management positions. As a 2003 master’s change career to focus on hotel spas. I was graduate, and having been Mary Tabacchi’s impressed by the prestige of Cornell’s Hotel graduate assistant, I’m aware of how rigor- Management programme. At the time, Cor- ous the programmes are and the skills they nell was the only school that covered both equip students with. I believe in the cur- hotel and spa in one programme. Professor riculum because it marries business skills, Tabacchi was the fi rst serious academic to learnt via real-life consulting projects, with take an interest in the spa industry, conduct operational experience which students are industry research and communicate the required to have before coming to campus. spa experience through academic channels. Graduates are equipped to understand Her intimate connections with industry and employ the rationale behind tactical leaders represents a huge advantage over decision-making at a property level.” other spa programmes.”

Th e Hotel School aims for a balance are required to complete 800 hours of between classroom learning and regions before and aft er hotels introduced work experience in their chosen hospi- work experience: students are spas. Others include the Spa Canada Spa tality-related fi eld over their four years, required to complete 800 hours Consumer Survey, jointly done by Spa including at least one internship a year. Canada and Cornell University; and Spa In- On top of this, they must also spend their fl uences on Average Daily Rate, Revenue Per summer and winter breaks working in the Available Room and Occupancy, which was a industry. A minimum of 120 residential WHO BACKS IT? collaboration between Tabacchi, SpaFinder academic credits are required. Each spa Tabacchi’s students are employed around and Ecole Hoteliére de Lausanne. module counts for three credits. the world, helped by having internship As part of their academic spa courses, agreements and management trainee pro- THE STORY SO FAR students consult with a client, oft en a grammes with almost every hotel and spa Cornell enrolls more than 20,000 students corporate executive, allowing interaction chain from Canyon Ranch and Fairmont per year – 800 of whom join the Hotel with industry leaders. Th e client sends Raffl es to Hyatt, Marriott and Shangri-La, School. Around 100 to 150 pupils enroll in students real problems to be solved or a to name but a few. spa-related courses yearly, and almost all programme to be developed. Students re- Th e Hotel School’s Centre for Hospital- perform very well due to Cornell’s rigor- search the issue and complete an in-depth ity Research is heavily subsidised and ous admission standards. Most terms, the analysis with recommended solutions. endorsed by 76 corporate sponsors and courses are at the maximum capacity of Th ere are many papers produced at associates, who also frequently participate 50 students, aged between 18 and 40, from Cornell, for example: Tracking Consumer in the school’s research projects and more than 30 countries. Spending During Down Economic Times corporate partnerships. Students of the for Hyatt Spas, 2009 and Marketing Health Spa and Spa Resort Development and WHAT’S NEXT? and Healing Services for Canyon Ranch Management course must get involved in Professor Tabacchi continually develops Lenox, 2006; and Online Booking: Oppor- industry research with the assistance of her research, both independently and in tunities for Spas for SpaFinder, 2006. Tabacchi and Cornell’s partners. collaboration with her students. Her latest Tabacchi places most of her students Th e latest research paper is an extensive paper, which is yet to be published, is a personally, thanks to her industry con- study called Analysing the Spa Eff ect on study on the eff ect of the global recession nections, and these oft en lead to job Hotels, which is the fi rst substantial paper on the spa consumer and on the growth of opportunities aft er graduation. to examine the fi nancial performance of the spa market. ●

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 53 Ask an expert EMILIE FILIOU » JOURNALIST » SPA BUSINESS alternative water supplies

Th e boreholes at ’s Peninsula Hot Springs are one of the main water supplies in the area

ater can be a strong Th ese investments can be recouped selling point for spas, Boreholes can cut water over time, particularly for large so having your own bills, but what does the consumers, although this doesn’t take supply may sound installation process into account energy costs for the pump, Wlike a dream come true. Th e benefi ts can maintenance of the equipment and include smaller bills (although amounts involve and what are the water treatment (groundwater quality vary enormously), purer water, no pros and cons of using varies widely, from acid to brackish). reliance on a utility company and the this alternative supply? Th e choice will depend on a spa’s creation of a new marketing asset. circumstances: remote locations may But drilling a borehole (or well) to not have many alternatives to using access groundwater is no ‘silver bullet’ it far harder to secure a groundwater groundwater supplies, or conversely, and the decision shouldn’t be taken extraction licence today. mains water may be relatively expensive lightly. Not every spa will have access Also, the cost of installing the and groundwater resources abundant. to groundwater: it will depend on local equipment is expensive. Csanádi Péter, Either way, the decision to opt for a geology. If your spa does sit above an head of maintenance at Danubius borehole should be part of a sustainable aquifer – a groundwater reserve – you’ll Hotels Group, estimates a cost of over water management framework that need to consider the water quality and €1.1m (us$1.49m, £895,000) to replace minimises environmental impact. quantity and local regulations. two geothermal water boreholes Groundwater resources are oft en non- Jim Root, president of Glen Ivy Hot installed at the group’s hotels in Sárvár renewable or recharge very slowly and, Springs in the US, a spa where hot and and Héviz, , in the 1970s. therefore, require careful management. cold water comes from boreholes dug Meanwhile Charles Davidson, a director Th is is particularly relevant in arid in the 19th century, says modern water at Peninsula Hot Springs in Australia, environments or developing countries. rights, health and safety regulations and says its latest borehole cost au$550,000 We asked a range of experts to share environmental concerns would make (us$505,000, €338,650, £303,100). their experiences on this issue.

54 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 ur role as tory systems in place in consultant hy- JOHN FINDLAY most developed countries drogeologists Director and co-founder, such as Japan, North is to manage America and Australia, but Othe risk of exploring bore- JDIH, UK these can be very diff erent. hole supply. Th e success Th e issue at stake is the of a borehole is controlled protection of groundwater entirely by the local hydrogeology. If Another reason why a spa might look resources: if you abstract more water than you’re sitting on 500m (1,640ft ) of clay, it’s at its own water supply is for marketing. the natural recharge rate, aquifers will be unlikely you’ll have any water there. So the Every groundwater is diff erent and has its depleted over the medium and long-term. fi rst stage is to carry out a feasibility study. own character and properties. Th at’s how Another interesting off shoot of ground- If it’s conclusive, you can do a test drill the original spa towns were developed in water supply is the possibility of using its and that’s when you take the biggest risk. the fi rst place in the UK. heat. In the UK, water comes out at 12˚c: You can do the best desk study and still be Th e regulation for groundwater supply it’s not hot enough to heat a building in its surprised by what you encounter. varies greatly from one country to another. own right, but with a heat pump, it’s over Th ere are several reasons why a spa In England and Wales, you need a licence three times more effi cient than using gas would consider having its own supply. Cost from the Environment Agency to extract or electric heating – and it comes from a can be one of them: drilling and installing more than 20 m3 per day. In Europe, renewable source. Th is would go a long the pump can be expensive but you’re groundwater abstraction is regulated under way in recouping upfront drilling costs and producing your own water at very low cost. the Water Framework Directive, but the minimising your carbon footprint. Compare that with water from the mains way it is interpreted and introduced at and the diff erence can be substantial. local level may vary. Th ere are also regula- John Findlay, a chartered engineer, has 27 years’ international geosciences and engineering project management “An interesting offshoot of groundwater supply is the experience, ranging from oil exploration to water resource management. Projects he’s possibility of using its heat. With a heat pump, it is over three worked on include Th ermae Bath Spa and times more effi cient than using gas or electric heating” Center Parcs holiday villages in the UK. Details: www.jdih.co.uk

e have three water of the delay to the project. bores at Penin- CHARLES DAVIDSON We eventually completed Wsula Hot Springs: Founder and director, our fi rst hot bore in 2002 a hot one that provides and opened to the public geothermal mineral water Peninsula Hot Springs, Australia in June 2005. (47˚c), a cold bore that Th at’s the thing with hot provides fresh groundwater, springs development in and a third bore that is nearly fi nished and next year. Being able to access our own Australia: not only is the drilling of bores that will be used to send geothermal water fresh water gives us some level of security expensive and relatively risky, there is also back down to the aquifer aft er fi ltration. and social responsibility. little commercial history in this fi eld, so We use the hot water in all our pools As for the sourcing process, the cold banks are reluctant to fi nance projects. If and the cold water in our pools and for water bore existed when we bought the we had been in Japan or any other country landscaping. We have mains water for site in 1997: it’s one of the primary water with a lot of geothermal activity, fi nancing drinking and showers, however, in the supplies in the area (golf courses use it, would not have been an issue. future we will add a valve to enable us to for instance). Th is water comes from a To commence the drilling programme easily switch between mains and fresh shallow aquifer (10m, 33ft ) and is made up for the hot bores, we applied for a permit groundwater for our showers. of rain water which naturally fi lters back to Southern Rural Water, the local water Th e primary reason for our water prac- down through limestone, sand and soil. authority. Overall, maintenance has been tice is the environment. Th e geothermal But we had to drill the hot bores, which relatively straightforward and we have not water re-injection bore enables us to leave are 630m (2,067ft ) deep. We are about to had any problems since we started operat- the resource as we found it, minus some fi nish the re-injection bore, which has ing. We’ve had just one day off to change the heat and minerals which are absorbed into been relatively straightforward. Th e fi rst pump. At that time we got a little frustrated, the surrounds [by bodies during bathing] geothermal bore, however, took fi ve years but, when you put it into perspective, one as it fl ows through the pools. to complete. A trial bore, in 1998, failed day [out of action] is not a bad performance. Our mains and fresh groundwater due to human error. On our second at- practice is driven by [the] drought [in tempt we had major problems with our Charles Davidson founded Peninsula Hot Australia] and cost. Victoria will soon contractor and what should have been a Springs in the state of Victoria, Australia, commence its state-operated desalination three-month task ended up taking a year with his brother Richard and investor Norm of water, which will result in mains water and a half, and it took a further year to re- Cleland. He previously worked in agricul- prices rising by some 100 per cent in the place the investors who pulled out because ture. Details: www.peninsulahotsprings.com

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 55 Ask an expert alternative water supplies

IAN BREWIS Senior director, group spas and health clubs, Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts

ight out of our 65 hotels use borehole water supply. In seven of E these cases, borehole water is there as a backup to mains water, in case of water shortages or burst mains. Th ey can provide 30 to 50 per cent of the total daily consumption of these resorts. But in our Villingili Resort and Spa in the , bore water is our primary source of raw water. Th e resort is on a very remote island south of the atoll, and there are no alternative supplies. It’s a very fragile environment and to ensure we don’t drain the aquifer we try to recycle wastewater as much as possible. We also have rainwater In the Villingili Resort in the Maldives, bore water is the primary source of raw water reservoirs, so how much we draw from the aquifer varies depending on the season Villingili only opened in July 2009 and or practicality. It also has a cost: as well (rainwater is the main water source for us the high season is between November and as drilling the bore, you sometimes have during the monsoon season). April so it’s only then that we’ll know how to pay a licence to extract groundwater We have to fi lter the groundwater and much we’re going to rely on groundwater. (such as in the Maldives). Th e pump will treat it; we can then use it for everything Th e key to groundwater is to do an im- run on fuel or electricity and you’ll have except drinking. Our bore is 30m (98ft ) pact assessment in the early design stages. to factor in the cost of the water treatment. deep to minimise environmental impact In many cases it would not be considered Rainwater can work out a lot cheaper and and prevent subsidence problems. due to environmental, regulatory grounds groundwater is like desalination – an alternative or complement.

“The key to groundwater is to do an impact assessment Ian Brewis joined Shangri-La in 2002 to in the early design stages. In many cases it would not be develop CHI, the group’s spa brand. Brewis has worked in Asia for more than 15 years considered due to a variety of factors, such as practicality” and also managed Grayshott Hall in the UK. Details: www.shangri-la.com

he idea of having our we’d need a pretty robust own supply came TIM HARDING contract with a service T up during a chance Managing director provider otherwise the meeting with hydrologists. business could shut down We found out we were in Nirvana Spa, UK at the slightest problem. an area where we could Nirvana is known for its potentially get our own pool facilities so having water supply. Initially, we thought it was a will have saved us money on water supply locally-sourced water has boosted the pipe dream, that it might be too expensive so I am pleased that we did it. Had we not appeal of a traditional spa experience. We or too complicated to put in place. been successful, however, and you asked also bottle the water and use it in our cafe; Th ere is a large capital outlay involved me if it was a good use of company money, it’s part of our all-inclusive packages so we to create a test borehole, and a number I might answer diff erently. don’t make a commercial profi t from it but of stages to go through before you know It’s not ‘free water’ though. Th ere are it gives us something extra. whether it’ll be viable or not. You must test signifi cant running costs to maintain the We’re now considering using the heat the quality of the water, the sustainability equipment. We have two boreholes (in from our water. It comes out at 11˚c but, of the supply and its impact on other case one of them fails), pumps, storage with a heat pump, it could be used to heat groundwater users, and you need a licence and a water treatment plant (the water our facilities. We’re exploring this poten- from the Environment Agency [the body contains high levels of iron). If you tial for the future to save on energy costs. that regulates environmental matters in become reliant on your borehole supply England and Wales]. you won’t have the same security as you Tim Harding has headed up Nirvana Spa & You’re not guaranteed to pass all these would with mains water supply, so we Leisure Ltd, a family-owned and operated stages so you need strong fi nancial nerve. have a maintenance team of four full-time business, since 1990. He was previously a You have to accept these costs as specula- engineers looking aft er our infrastructure. director of the UK’s Spa Business Associa- tions. Over the long-term, the borehole If we didn’t have that on-site presence, tion. Details: www.nirvanaspa.co.uk

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HealthClubManagement_210x297.indd 1 7/4/09 12:38:52 Trends RHIANON HOWELLS » CONSULTING EDITOR » SPA BUSINESS

Fishy Business

To the uninitiated, the practice sounds strange, if not downright distasteful, and it’s even been banned in some US states. But fans of ‘doctor fi sh’ therapy – and a growing number of spa operators – swear by its benefi ts. We investigate

he sight of people being eaten a thermal spring found that the fi sh helped Garra rufa fi sh, which are native to Turkey, alive by a pool full of hungry to heal the skin on his scarred legs, aft er love to feed on fl aky skin by nibbling and little critters is probably some- which the locals excavated more pools. sucking at the dead cells of the epidermis T thing you’re more likely to In 1988, a psoriasis treatment centre plus to reveal a new layer underneath associate with a bad horror movie than a 250-bed hotel was opened in Kangal, with a spa. But the ever-growing number which today attracts more than 3,000 spa concept in . of spa operators now off ering ‘doctor fi sh’ visitors a year from all over the world. When it opened two years therapy – not only in Turkey, where it Over the past few years this trend has ago, Ng’s fi rst site – Th e originated, but also in Asia, the US, Africa also caught on in other parts of the world Sampuoton Spa in Petaling and parts of Europe – are adamant that – particularly in China, Korea and Japan. Jaya, near Kuala Lumpur the practice is as good for business as it is However, due to the expense of importing (KL) – made waves by for their clients’ skin. garra rufa from the Middle East, some transporting doctor fi sh Doctor fi sh are a species of carp called Asian operators have controversially opted therapy from a hot-spring garra rufa, native to Turkey and the to use cheaper fi sh, such as the tilapia (or environment to a modern, Middle East, which – given half a chance chin-chin) species native to China. day spa setting. As well as – love to feed on fl aky or diseased skin. two fi sh pools, the facility Get in a pool with these tiny, toothless SOMETHING FISHY has four massage rooms creatures, and they will suck at the dead Although similar to garra rufa in both size and a traditional Malay tea cells of your epidermis to reveal a fresh and appetite, chin-chin fi sh are notably house. Treatment prices new layer beneath. Although ticklish, the diff erent: they can grow teeth, which has start at myr150 (us$44, €30, £27) for a process doesn’t hurt and is claimed to be obvious drawbacks, while their saliva does one-hour session, which is not cheap by especially good for combating psoriasis. not contain dithranol, an enzyme said local standards. Th e medical benefi ts of the fi sh, which to contribute to garra rufa’s skin-healing Overall, he invested myr850,000 typically grow to no more than 6cm in prowess. Aft er travelling to both Turkey (us$250,800, €168,400 £151,300) in the spa, length, were fi rst discovered near the and China to investigate, entrepreneur of which rm200,000 (us$59,000, €39,600, Turkish towns of Kangal and Sivas in the Joe Ng decided that only the authentic £35,600) was spent on fi sh. But luckily for early 20th century. A shepherd bathing in Middle Eastern breed would do for his fi sh Ng, his instinct that there was a market for

A total of myr850,000 was invested in the fi rst Sampuoton Spa in Petaling Jaya (above and top), of which myr200,000 was spent on the fi sh

58 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 a high-end fi sh spa was right; the media and public came in droves, and within “I grew up on a farm with a fabulous river and, as kids, we eight months, he had seen a return on his investment. Ng is now marketing a Sam- used to love swimming with the carp and having them nibble puoton Spa franchise model and already on us. Years later when we opened our spa, I saw a TV show has two projects in the pipeline. Although there are over 100 fi sh-therapy about doctor fi sh and realised the concept could work” sites in the KL area alone, he’s positive the market is far from saturated. “Although Malaysia probably has more fi sh spas than p32), and it was there, last year, that the €4,450, £4,000) on trial and error with the any other country in Asia, 97 per cent of couple trialled the doctor fi sh therapy. fi sh. Th e company is now establishing its the population still hasn’t tried it,” he says. “I grew up on a farm with a fabulous own breeding colonies to avoid the expense “I think we have a bright future.” river and, as kids, we used to love swim- of importing authentic garra rufa from the ming with the carp and having them Middle East, where the species is protected NIBBLE AND PEDICURE nibble on us,” recalls Max Lourens. “Years from over-harvesting. Meanwhile, Lourens Another business promoting fi sh therapy later when we opened our spa, the fi sh has developed a licensing package for set- as a high-end spa concept is the newly were always in the back of my mind... It ting up and running a fi sh-spa business. formed Dr Fish Spa Th erapy South Africa, was only when I saw a TV show about Th e trademarked Dr Fish Spa Th erapy and its sister company, Dr Fish Spa doctor fi sh that I realised it could work.” packages combine fi sh therapy with con- Th erapy (UK & ). Th e founders of Working with his brother, who is a ventional treatments. Prices range from the South African enterprise, Max and vet, Lourens prepared a treatment area at zar450 (us$60, €40, £36) for a 15-minute Marna Lourens, are both lawyers by trade, Lanzerac with pools and tanks, introduced ‘nibble and pedicure’ to zar1,240 (us$164, but moved into spa operations a few years test fi sh and experimented in caring for €111, £99) for a 30-minute, full-body ago. Th eir company, Sosumi Spas, man- them – to date they have spent zar200,000 ‘nibble’ followed by sauna/steam sessions ages the spa and wellness centre at the (us$26,600, €17,850, £16,000) on pools and a 50-minute massage. Lourens says: Lanzerac Hotel in Stellenbosch (sb09/4 and equipment and zar50,000 (us$6,650, “Ninety-nine per cent of people are ap-

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 59 Trends PHOTO: DR FISH SPA THERAPY SOUTH AFRICA

Most customers, the operators claim, are keen to try the treatment, with natural curiosity generally outweighing any misgivings or squeamishness

prehensive, but they want to try it and when they do, they’re sold on the idea. Fish therapy has been banned in at least 14 US states due And since it gives results, it attracts a high percentage of repeat users, too.” to concerns over disease transference... Lourens, however, It’s also paying fi nancially. Th e Lanzerac is convinced that this response is a reactionary judgement spa is on target to see a return on its investment within three months, and the based on ignorance rather than evidence of problems company is already working with licensees in Cape Town and Nigeria. Th e Lourens’ sights are set further afi eld than Africa, the last couple of years independent fi sh- of dead skin, and arguing that they would however, and it’s with a view to rolling out spa operators have met with signifi cant not feed at all if unhappy. the concept to Europe and the US that they opposition from both the authorities and Aside from disease transference have partnered with Irish entrepreneur the media, with the therapy being banned concerns, scare stories about being bit- Robert O’Shaugnessy, to create Dr Fish in at least 14 US states due to concerns ten – such as the article in the Peninsula Spa Th erapy (UK & Ireland). over disease transference. New York State Morning Post about a man in China whose O’Shaugnessy fi rst encountered doctor Senator Jeff Klein is the latest politician private parts were left bleeding aft er an fi sh on a trip to Malaysia and was so taken to wade into the debate, by introducing encounter with doctor fi sh – don’t help with the therapy that he set up a website a bill outlawing ‘fi sh pedicures’ in his the cause, either. Th is is why educating – drfi shspatherapy.com – dedicated to jurisdiction. Quoted in the New York Post customers about the diff erent species of researching and sharing information about in October 2009, Klein said: “It’s an unsa- fi sh used in spas is so important, says Ng, the phenomenon. voury practice; you can’t sanitise fi sh.” He as chin-chin, unlike garra rufa, can cause added that the therapy was also cruel to injury if they grow to a certain size. HOOK, LINE AND SINKER the animals, which were starved. When left to make up their own minds, Th ere are already a few fi sh-spa operators Lourens, however, is convinced that this most customers, the operators claim, are in Europe – in , Austria and kind of response is a reactionary judge- keen to try the treatment, with natural , as well as the UK and Ireland – ment based on ignorance rather than on curiosity generally outweighing any and some, such as Skin Th erapy Ireland, any evidence of problems with the therapy misgivings or squeamishness. “Th e initial are already off ering franchises. itself. “We advocate replenishing the water tickling sensation tends to get people However, Lourens and O’Shaugnessy in the tanks aft er every use, but even if laughing, which eases stress levels, and are confi dent that their focus on high- this is not done the fi ltration system we aft er that it is really quite relaxing,” says end pampering (rather than medical use replaces the water at least 10 times an O’Shaugnessy. “And this is not a gimmick: treatment) combined with a watertight hour,” he says. “Th e fi sh are clean, and if there are instantly visible results.” business model will make them a serious their environment is kept clean, there is In other words, once they get over contender in this market. no danger to anyone.” He also refutes the the ‘ick’ factor, the majority of clients are – One can’t help but wonder, though, how cruelty claim, saying that his fi sh are fed if you’ll pardon the pun – well and easy they’ll fi nd the US market, where over every evening to top up their daily meal truly hooked. ●

60 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 spa business 2010handbook

the global resource Available in Print for spa professionals & Online

The Spa Business Handbook is the ultimate reference guide for the international spa market. Published in January 2010 as a comprehensive resource for operators and suppliers worldwide, it will be distributed to key decision makers including leading hotel and spa operators, suppliers, developers, consultants and other experts. It will also be distributed at key spa events, making it a must to be seen in.

www.spa-kit.net ese companies,mpanies, log log on on toto www.spa-kit.net TS & SERVICES any of these co PRODUC formation,, or orto tocontact contact any of th For Formore more information information,inf or to contact any of these co E t YPROFILE ERED BBY spa-kitsppa-kit.net COMPANYCOMOMPANY PROFILE NORTH AMERICA POWEREDPOWE BY ite mosaic blue lining, wh in brown with UP tangerine, green grape, mer- MIDDLE EAST marble, aqua, nd plain brown, the DEVELOPMENT PIPELINE ARIA , US SPA-KIT PRODUCT ROUND-UPROUNDROUND- - lot, eggplant (purple), a Bodhi Dhama Las Vegas, Nevada DIVE IN WITH BOTH FEETnge of n round and square va resin bowls come i Dubai, UAE December 2009 ms has launched a ra - ot rests and manicurehe Thalgo MIDDLE EAST Spa Unifor ned to reduce en rieties. Matching foe also available, and t 2011 ga- e Th e ARIA resort within the US$9bn 24 HOUR ANTI-AGEING pedicure bowls desigove cleanliness. Th treatment dishes ar added carry-case with aigniers, Mazagan Spa , , Daniele ts into a p Th e Bodhi Dhama yoga-lifestyle retreat ( 6.75bn, £6.06bn) CityCenter me ergy costs and imprin any heating ele- entire set fi Domaine des Chat rocco % Following recent developments in cellular anti-ageingselling products: l r Argens, El Jadida, Mo concept was unveiled in 2008 byector Ingo of development in Las Vegas, Nevada, US bowls do not conta shoulder-strap. Roquebrune su de Winter has launched updates of its two best e regenerat- ets requiring electrica ments or water-j intain water tem- 2 0872 (UK) late 2009 Schweder, formerly group dir will open in late 2009. Energie Pure fi rming day cream and Clair de Lun , both n : France, 83521 nternational’s spa for the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Facilities at the 80,000sq ft g high levels of antioxidants energy. Instead, tostones ma usually used i spa-kit.net UK) Developer Kerzner I rst retreat will open in ing night cream. Containin UT beauty +33 4 94 19 73 73 (HQ) or +44 20 751 Group. Th e fi $18bn (7,432sq m) ARIA spa will includea suites. 62 perature, heated e bowl. Available [email protected] ( US$250m (%186.68m, £168.12m) joint products are part of the company's INSIDEO t +33 4 94 81 60 12 treatment rooms and three sp oors. system comprises day and nigh massage are added to th .com (HQ) or enq venture with integrated building design 2011 as part of Sama Dubai's US system. Th e INSIDEOUT 009. Th e 13.51bn, £12.11bn) mixed-use Th e property will cover 61 fl ASQUITH ENHANCED contactpro@thalgo group NORR will open in late 2 (% e Lagoons. It will be creams, designed to help increase the skin's levels of anti- s new clothing range is om Where in the world? ted 90km development, Th Details: citycenter.com ial nutrients, and two drinks, which Asquith London’ and for pilates www.thalgo.c es to over 90 countries Mazagan Resort will be loca oxidants and essent the Thalgo distribut town of El co-created by the Bodhi Dhama Group designed for use in spas ed-organic world. from Casablanca, near the replenish the skin from the inside out by supplyingdients. across the Etre is de- and sister company Spatality. RENT and yoga sessions. In certifi classic-fi t bootleg Jadida. Consultancy Raison d’ spatality.com body with additional natural, nutritional ingre ITSA BITBI DIFFERENTDIFFERE riefing (2,00 0sq m) spa, Details: Itsa is a multi- brushed cotton come 964 in France veloping the 21,527sq ft Background b Who's who? eadquarters in the south, an hammam l : Suitable for spa retail, thatthe transforms into pants, while a hooded tracksuit comes Thalgo was established inin 1 1980. The which will include a Morocc Set against the backdrop of the A spa-kit.net three At the company's hO is Jean-Claude Sirop atment rooms. ort is being de- Trump Serrenia OATMEAL BENEFITS functional beach bag in organic cotton velour.o also Fab- and launched in the UK n-Claude Sirop, experience and 20 tre Banyan Tree Al Wadi Hajjar Mountains, the res of France, the CE p and the interna- raisondetrespas.com Sahl Hasheesh, Egypt Eve Taylor™ has unveiled a product a beach organiser. Features right include for a book, ric made from bambotion company is owned by Jea Details: Ras Al Khaimah, UAE signed to resemble an Arabian fortress f Laboratoires BLC the MD is Bernard Siroichel Gras. The MD of ttish colloidal separate pockets on the ee pockets on appears in the collecrt in the owner and CEO o and will combine 70 pool villas and a 2012 n the line using organic Sco d hat; a tional director is Man Green. June 2009 oatmeal for what is sa id to harness SENSORY COCOONCO drink and sunglasses; thr – a cap-sleeve t-shi Thalgo Cosmetic. Palazzo Versace Dubai further 31 tented pool villas. ent for sunscreen, camera an Thalgo UK is Mari Ras Al Khaim- hydrother- Work will begin in June 2009 o ammatory properties. Cre- the left with loops for the soft bamboo jersey andow- Dubai, UAE Located in the emirate of Th e spa will have a large d Sea anti-infl Schletterer Wellness & Spa Design has - y about you desert resort ality pool Trump Serrenia mixed-use developm he range separate MP3 pocket ed, hidden a range of bamboo t ah, Banyan Tree’s luxury mal circuit, hammam and vit ated for hyper-sensitive skin, t c Cocooning, a multi-sen- tail item, Main services ine-based spa treat What your clients sago and come back early 2010 , off ering a dune in Sahl Hasheesh, Egypt,2.25bn, on the £2.02bn) Re created Holisti l headphone cord; and a zipp els. Bamboo is three - will debut in June 2009 as well as treatment rooms. e US$3bn ( % 1-hec- includes the Eve Taylor™ Professional combining physica ore Thalgo supplies mar istributes Couleur “Our clients adore Thalrience the treat %468.55m, coast. Th idal Oatmeal Masque, sory spa experience pocket for valuables. As well aspromotional a re to four times m Th e AED2.3bn (US$626.17m, camp experience combined with exten- banyantree.com Organic Collo sound- and colour- an cot- ments and products to spas and beauty The UK operation alsoreaking d natural, eco- year after year to expe service…Thalgo bai resort, Details: project will boast a 620-acre (25 on the face and body relaxation with aroma-, the product can be used as a . Th e Itsa is absorbent th £421.23m) Palazzo Versace Du sive spa facilities. which can be used e up-and-down motion of the ciation gift salons. Offering a comprehensive range Caramel, a groundb or salons and spas. ments. Thalgo offer great ill launch tare) residential community, and e an devel- r™ Oatmeal therapy. Th n, and comes eway, spa manager, next to the Dubai Creek, w along with an Eve Taylo urage the breath- or customer appre : ton and is also of facials, body treatments and homecare friendly make-up range f -hectare) bed is designed to enco er an o is always at the forefrontnge is unique.” Trish Ridg in early 2010. Th e 14-acre (6 ESPA at Trump Serrenia spa. Th ere is also a new made from 100 per cent cottococktail red and spa-kit.net said to off products, Thalg Per Masque Activator. Th ing rhythm requir ed to relax the body and al Thalgo also offers a ra nd Stobo Castle, . opment is expected to open in 2012. leanser l in seven colours, includingwo striped versions. anti-bacteri development will include a Salus serrenia.com c Ocean. Its 25,000sq Eve Taylor™ Ultra Soothing C users complete a digita of innovation. plements, for beauty a USPs ng authority in the field which will be simi- Details: overlook the Pacifi ed by a (green tea) mind. Beforehand, coral pink, as well as t function that d customer loyalty with- Aquum-branded spa, The Cube at the Sports City with oatmeal and camelli es their needs AVE of nutritional sup thin. Thalgo is the leadi d worldwide “There is very goo ts sister facility, ft (2,322sq m) spa will be design co, with etail sizes. questionnaire, which identifi reduces skin - lar in design to that of i in both professional and r atment accordingly. wellbeing from wi of marine beauty. Renowneoducts that give in Thalgo – once a client has tried it they al sace Gold Coast in Aus- Dubai, UAE Terranea BAMO architects of San Francis sult- and personalises the tre RELAXING ON A WAVWAVE erapy irritation. the Palazzo Ver Dubai Healthcare City : laxation and Th for treatments and pr ways come back.” er : spa-kit.net d ices ompany has been an tralia. Th e Emirates Sunland Group will 2010 Dubai, UAE Rancho Palos Verdes, Bramham & Schultz acting e facility as con will off Th e Next Wave Re credible results, the c owner, spa-kit.net igned to relax, revitalise an Additional serv Diane Bennett, don, UK. manage the resort, while the House of ants on the project. Th Room is des spa-kit.net BMG Group has partnered with tbc California, US y stimulating thethe : Training is free of charge,tomers with receive ongoing the industry leader for over 40 years. The Lemon Tree, Lon nteriors. pa Design to 24 treatment rooms, including hydro- rebalance the body b Versace will design the i Schletterer Wellness & S June 2009 wrinkles. Th e Serum is claimed to give elas- feature of the room is updates. Thalgo cus e marketing and PR palazzoversace.ae e Cube tower at Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) is being 337.72m, £302.74m) Ter- therapy, massage and facial rooms. senses. A key Details: create a spa within Th % by liate company of the ticity back to the skin, while the Eye Contour wave therapy bed, back-up of an in-houscellent account support Top clients velopment in Dubai. developed as a centre of excellence for Th e US$450m ( DH&R is an affi ALL WRAPPED UP ll as e the Sports City de e ness as we low-frequency sound tic programmes department and ex e. The Thalgo Group Thalgo can be found in over 20,000 spas 9.14m, £8.21m) spa medical services, education and life sci- ranea resort and spa will be managed Lowe Hospitality Group. led a range is intended to reduce puffi ion, im- dwide. Top clients includ - Mövenpick Al Reem Th e US$12.2.m ( % nclude Pevonia Botanica has unvei which delivers therapeu ammat and customer servic , one of the best-known and salons worl l focus, ence research in the Middle East. Th Destination Hotels & Resorts (DH&R). Details: terranea.com decongest and smooth the area around theilable, e muscle infl tion. Thalgo La Baule thalassothern Crete, will have a sports and medica a of gift packages, suitable for all occa- c ranges are also ava said to reduc includes: Ella Baché Perron Rigot the flagship near Abu Dhabi, UAE second phase of the project will i Located in Rancho Palos Verdes, US, eye. Season-specifi ssure and boost circula nd ttany, Blue Palace i with the swimming pool area covering i- sions. One of these is the Timeless Holiday prove blood pre beauty brands in Australia; apy centre in Bri December 2010 the rest of a Wellness Cluster, incorporating a sp the 102-acre (41-hectare) resort will sing the featuring items from the Ligne Nymphea and luxury spa bra - n Fiji, and Hoar Cross 11,625sq ft (1,080sq m) and 15 for Her kit (pictured), compri n Line) col- : premium waxes; Sheraton Village i l Al Reem will open q ft (2,200sq m). and health farm and an Academic Med ye (Body Line) and Ligne Soleil (Su pa Management pro 111 Th e Mövenpick Hote the spa covering 23,680s spa business handbook 2009 Timeless Repair Serum, Cream and E spa-kit.net Terraké. Thalgo S tancy and works Hall in the UK. ok 2009 and Th e cal Center with research facilities. ts are said to lections, including a body moisturiser, body on the island of Al Reem, north-east of Planning work began in 2007, vides spa design consul spa business handbo velopment Details: dhcc.ae Contour. All three produc scrub and self-tanning emulsion. Abu Dhabi, in a mixed-use de Cube is scheduled to open in 2010. tion of caviar e hotel will contain a high concentra on large-scale projects across the world. called Marina Square. Th schletterer.com : m) spa. Details: extract and Escutox™, designed to imme- .net boast a 32,291sq ft (3,000sq ne lines and spa-kit book.com www.spahandbook.com diately soft en and smooth fi Details: moevenpick-hotels.com www.spabusinesshand www.spahandbook.com www.spahandbook.com handbook.com www.spabusiness www.spahandbook.com 2009 spa business handbook book 2009 14 112 spa business hand 2009 110 spa business handbook

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CPQJFTXJMMCFBWBJMBCMFUPQVSDIBTFPOMJOF DBMM    XXXTQBIBOECPPLDPN FNBJMTBMFT!TQBCVTJOFTTDPN Cave spa

puglian paradise

Aveda has created an underground cave spa in the heart of Italy’s Puglia region as part of a fi ve- star, eco-inspired, natural resort with charm

CHARLOTTE SENIOR » CORRESPONDENT » SPA BUSINESS

he Aveda spa at Masseria Torre a number of limestone caves which have Guests stay an average of fi ve to seven Coccaro in Puglia – the ‘heel’ been converted to off er various amenities. nights in the summer, enjoying the of Italy’s ‘boot’ – makes visitors Among the cave facilities are two suites, outdoor pools and private beach club T quite a promise: to off er a relax- one of which has a private garden and ing oasis of tranquility, where they will pool, other caves house a large meeting specialities as orichette pasta, panzerotti experience the simple lifestyle of the past. room for weddings and events, a billiard (stuff ed pastries) and fresh fi sh dishes. With a spa boasting everything from and cigar lounge, and the resort’s 700sq m organic ingredients which are grown on- (75,350sq ft ) Aveda destination spa. Family First site to an eclectic selection of treatments Th e unusual underground location gives Torre Coccaro, is part of Th e Apulia of Chinese, Japanese, Himalayan, Indian, the spa instant appeal and a feeling of Collection (see box opposite), a chain of Caribbean and, of course, Italian origin, being close to nature. Owner and general four family-owned hotels which is headed guests can surely expect an experience manager Vittorio Muolo views the spa’s jointly by Muolo, his father and brother. worthy of the resort’s fi ve stars. atmospheric cave location as creating a His sister Rosana, a travel agent, is also special experience for guests. involved with the business and resort Underground Sanctuary Th e resort is 4 km from the coast, where manager Piero Longo says this approach Masseria Torre Coccaro occupies an origi- it has its own private beach club with a res- permeates the business: “We’re a big family. nal 16th century ‘masseria’, or farmhouse, taurant and sushi bar. Th ere are a further From the owners through to every mem- of typical Puglian charm. It was chosen three restaurants on-site, with an emphasis ber of the team. Family is very important.” by the owners, the Muolo family, for “the on local cuisine and fresh ingredients. On visiting, this certainly appears the beauty of the place” and the most has Guests can discover more about the case. A warm and relaxed atmosphere is been made of the estate’s original elements, joys of local food in the popular cooking instantly apparent. Spa manager Angela which include a small chapel, hayloft s and school which off ers the chance to pick, Ignobile confi rms that the family environ- an olive mill. Th e 25-hectare (62-acre) prepare and fi nally eat local ingredients ment is fostered throughout. Manager since grounds also have 1,600 olive trees and and learn how to make such Puglian the spa opened eight years ago, Ignobile has

62 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 a maternal, calming air and smiles broadly Visitors can enjoy the APUGLIA COLLECTION as she guide guests through the caves. You ambience of ancient can imagine her at the centre of a bustling olive groves and caves » Th e Apuglia Collection is owned by the Muolo family. family kitchen as easily as managing the In addition to Masseria Torre Coccaro, they have three spa. She says: “I love this work. I wouldn’t leads into the middle other hotels in Puglia: two four-star and one fi ve-star resort know how to do anything else.” of the spa which has a and spa – Torre Maizza – which also boasts an Aveda spa, small pool, a whirlpool natural thermal springs and a nine-hole golf course. A Natural Approach and a cushioned » All of the properties are located close to the city of Because of the challenges associated with seating area beneath Fasano on the Adriatic coast between Bari and Brindisi converting the caves, the Muolos chose high windows. Th e (both of which have airports), eliminating competi- to work with Aveda for its connection to lines of the path, pool tion within the immediate vicinity. Muolo views his natural architecture. While Aveda is best and rooms are curving main competitors as spa hotels on the Amalfi coast. known for its products, it does get involved and fl uid to refl ect » Th e family plans to continue working towards promot- with design (see sb06/4 p104), especially the communion with ing Puglia as a holiday destination and trying to make it as for Aveda destination spas such as this. nature which is cham- well-known across the rest of the world as it is in Europe. Th is spa opens into a ground-level pioned both by Aveda » Upcoming projects include a new fi ve-star hotel in Bari glass-walled area with light wooden fl oors and the Muolos. and an 18-hole golf course adjacent to Torre Maizza. which has both a small gym and a relaxa- Branching off tion area. Stairs lead down into the caves beyond the main walkway are changing used for ayurvedic massage. Six therapists through a small reception and into the rooms, a cold shower room, a Turkish bath work in the spa, and one at the beach club, main area. Th ere’s a distinct, authentic and three cubby hole treatment rooms where treatments are given by request. cave feel without it seeming too enclosed with an enticing ‘grotto’ appeal. Th ere are Aveda products are used exclusively in or claustrophobic. Th e layout is slightly three more treatment rooms upstairs, and the spa. Th e line is regarded highly by the labyrinthine; a central, undulating path a cabin with a tatami mat fl oor which is Muolos and Longo says the spa’s clients

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 63 Cave spa

regularly ask for natural products High windows and appreciate the fact that the allow natural range uses organic plant and daylight down fl ower extracts. Th e in-house spa into the caves treatments also utilise everything from broad beans to grapes and capers, all grown locally. Th ere’s a proud emphasis placed on Olive Th erapy, a selection of treatments created two years ago which feature olives and olive oil – rich in vitamin E and antioxidants to regenerate skin cells – from the resort’s farm. Muolo says that the resort’s oil is of the absolute high- est quality: “we believe all clients should experience that”. In addition, the spa off ers a range of ayurvedic massages, which Ignobile says is in keeping with Aveda’s philosophy of taking care of the mind and body. as during the summer, visitors generally olive paté, designed to detox, nourish and Th e Experience spend their mornings at the beach. restore the skin and body. In typical Italian style I was greeted with Th e treatment I’d opted for was the Overall the treatment was relaxing, enthusiasm and then kept waiting outside signature three-stage Olive Paté Detox. enjoyable, and professionally delivered by for 20 minutes. Once escorted to the spa, I Before it began, my feet were bathed in Ignobile. Th e highlight was the end mas- waited for a further twenty minutes. Th is a china bowl and I was given a choice sage, as the rich black olive paté smelt good sums up the ‘domani’ culture of Puglian of Aveda oils to be incorporated into the enough to eat – which of course, it was. life completely – be happy, enjoy the various stages of the treatment. My only negative was the Turkish bath, sunshine, and don’t worry if things take a Th e fi rst stage was a massage using my enjoyment of which was compromised little longer than they necessarily should. warm muslin sacks fi lled with crushed by black mould covering the ceiling of the In truth, what better setting for the provi- olive leaves. Th e next part was a detoxing cave. As the steam intensifi ed, so did the sion of relaxation and wellbeing? exfoliation with Dead Sea salts and olive musty odour, and I found it diffi cult not to On the morning I visited I had the leaves, followed by a hot Turkish bath imagine the spores I was inhaling. place to myself – I was told the majority to allow the ingredients to penetrate the On closer inspection, I could see sig- of treatments take place in the aft ernoons, skin. Th e fi nal part was a massage with nifi cant mould in all the moist areas of the caves: the pool, showers and toilet. Muolo assured me the walls and ceilings were MASSERIA TORRE COCCARO BY NUMBERS cleaned regularly, and that the mould was not harmful to health, being an ‘ancient » Th e resort has 33 bedrooms, with » Th e spa’s capture rate is 30 per cent. variety that is dried’. Th e smell certainly an annual average occupancy of 42 per Th e target for this is 40 per cent. added to the authenticity of this historic cent. Muolo describes typical guests as: » Treatment prices range from €50 cave sanctuary, although from a relaxation “European, well-travelled couples and (us$75, £45) for refl exology to €220 point of view I don’t think was ideal in a friends, and young families who want to (us$332, £199) for the Himalayan small, enclosed steamroom. teach their children an eco-friendly way Rejuvenation Treatment, a 150-minute Despite the relaxed attitude to time- of life and maintain contact with nature.” full-body treatment. Th is is the keeping, the wellbeing of the guests was » Average length of stay is fi ve to least popular due to the price. taken seriously. Longo told me that it’s seven nights during the summer, » Th e most popular treatments are the not unusual for him to work an 18- or and weekend visits during winter. Tourmaline Facial, €150 (us$226, £135), 20-hour day, but that he wouldn’t have it » €500,000 (us$753,900, £451,450) has and the Torre Coccaro hair conditioning any other way: “I’m happy every day. I love recently been invested in the spa. A re- treatment, €65 (us$98, £59), which uses it all – everything”. turn on this is expected within fi ve years. Torre Coccaro olive oil and capers. Muolo’s favourite memory of life at » Th ere are 98 employees at the resort » Spa packages generate 20 per cent of Torre Coccaro is of a guest spending four and spa. Although summer is the most turnover. Th ey range from a half-day of his seven nights sleeping in a hammock profi table season the Muolos keep the Relax with lunch at €240 (us$362, £217) by the vegetable garden. With so much resort open year round to minimise staff to a choice of fi ve weekend packages unspoiled nature to embrace, why not? turnover and maintain a standard of con- from €385 (us$581, £347) to the Vitality Torre Coccaro’s natural approach – in sistency and stability for returning guests. Week package at €990 (us$1,500, £894). its location, architecture, products and » Th e spa accounts for 10 per cent » Th e spa also off ers nutritional treatment – and warm family environment of the resort’s revenue. Muolo aims consultation, and instruction in complement Muolo’s primary business to increase this to 18 per cent. both yoga and qigong. objective: trying to better the quality of life of other people – both staff and clients. ●

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Tel: Fax: Email: Fitness KATHY CARTER » CONSULTANT » BIG FISH striking a balance

What are the benefi ts of PHOTO: ISTOCK/COM/ANNE CLARK balance training, should spas incorporate it into their fi tness programmes and how do they address the needs of all types of exercisers?

alance is a state of equilibrium, defi ned as ‘the ability to main- tain the centre of gravity of a B body within the base of support, with minimal postural sway’. But is this something spas should off er in their fi tness programmes alongside resistance, cardiovascular and fl exibility training? If so, are spas off ering the right kind of bal- ance training to improve the performance of guests and possible fi tness members? Fitness training commonly focuses on two types of balance. Th e fi rst is core Fitness training strength functionally. It increases our balance training, which involves exer- commonly focuses on range of movement and is essential for cises designed to improve the muscular two types of balance – everyday living, including using fi tness anatomy supporting the abdominal region, core balance training, equipment safely” he says. spine and pelvis, as well as propriocep- designed to improve Personal trainer Nick Mitchell, of UK tion (body awareness). Th e second is muscular anatomy health and fi tness consultancy Ultimate body equilibrium training. In addition to and body equilibrium Performance, adds that achieving developing proprioception, this ‘whole training, or ‘whole optimum structural balance is a highly structure’ training focuses on improving structure’ training important component of building muscle. major muscles – particularly in the legs “If your ‘big’ muscles are strong, but the – and the dynamic stability of the support- fi xators and stabilisers that support them ing muscles, ligaments and tendons. are weak, what do you think will happen?” Paying attention to the whole body in he asks. “Th e answer is injury and im- this way, with balance training that boosts paired performance. To work on stability, PHOTO: ISTOCK/CARLOS ALVAREZ muscle strength and power, is crucial focus on the large muscles and the stabilis- according to Peter Hope of stability equip- ers that enable them to fi re properly.” ment company BalanceMaster. “Structural balance allows us to use our muscular STABLE VS UNSTABLE SURFACES Balance training, however, commonly focuses on developing the core: strength- ening the muscles around the abdominal “Structural balance is region, spine and pelvis. Th is can be essential for everyday achieved with unstable exercise using a stability ball or a wobble board, challeng- living. It allows us to use ing the centre of gravity and improving our muscular strength balance using refl ex responses. In an online article on functional strength functionally, increases our training, American personal trainer Ken movement and enhances Kashubara, of Kash Personal Training, explains that “while standing on an sporting performance” unstable environment, the body’s sensory receptors tell the brain, ‘We’re about to fall’.

66 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Stability balls may help with core strength, but using only unstable exercise in balance training is not conducive to ‘whole body’ structure

Th e brain then tells the body what muscles BALANCE RESEARCH sprain substantially reduced the risk need to contract to balance.” of recurrent ankle sprains. Advocates of stability balls such as the Fatigue and balance Journal of Athletic Training: 43(3):305- Swiss Ball or Fit Ball rightly say that exer- Moderate fatigue is thought to lead to an 15, 2008. ‘Systematic review of postural cising on a ball will improve vital strength immediate reduction of balance per- control and lateral ankle instability, in the abdominals and lower back, with formance, as fatigued people may be less part II’, McKeon et al the unstable surface requiring the user to focused. Spa fi tness instructors should constantly adjust their balance. Personal ensure members are not over-exercising, Vision and stability PHOTO: ISTOCK/COM/KZENON PHOTO: trainer Scott Bryant, a corrective holistic as injury may occur as a result of a A French study analysed the use of exercise kinesiology (CHEK) practitioner, subsequent loss of balance. visual information in the postural abil- believes the Swiss Ball, pioneered by the Journal of Neuro-engineering Rehabilita- ity of football players. Testing posture American Paul Chek as a performance tion, 3: 22, 2006. ‘Th e eff ects of moderate with eyes opened and closed, analysis enhancer in the 1980s, to be one of the fatigue on dynamic balance control and revealed the importance of vision in most versatile pieces of equipment avail- attentional demands’, Simoneau et al postural maintenance was less in profes- able. “Th ey utilise neurologically-induced sional players than amateurs, suggesting muscular responses, to establish and Reducing sprain risk that structural balance plays a more restore core balance,” states Bryant, of A 2008 study sought to fi nd out whether prominent part than vision in people activebryantsystems.com. prophylactic balance and co-ordination undergoing targeted sports training. However, Paul M Juris, executive direc- training could reduce the risk of sustain- Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & tor of the Cybex Institute in the US, says ing lateral ankle sprain. Researchers Science in Sports. V:16 I:5, 2005. ‘Eff ect spa and fi tness facilities should examine found that completing at least six weeks’ of expertise and visual contribution on their provision of balance training. Juris balance training aft er an acute ankle postural control in soccer’, Paillard et al believes that using unstable exercise as the only form of balance training in a workout is not conducive to ‘whole structure’ as an exercise protocol. “Used together, unstable surface promotes balance,” Juris balance, and therefore not suffi cient to they can enhance both neuromuscular adds. “I believe focusing on core stability address the need for dynamic muscle sta- activity and muscle force and power,” he is actually counterproductive to real func- bility – a vital component of safe exercise. says, adding that good neuromuscular tional stability. Trying to stabilise the body Richard Mattis of Pipedreems – dis- communication – synergy between the while also trying to move leads to nothing tributor of Th e Vew-Do Balance Board central nervous system, muscles, tendons more than ineffi cient and skill-less motion, – also advocates the use of both core and joints – enhances balance. It’s claimed which is why most research examining the balance and whole structure balance that performing functional exercises on an eff ects of unbalanced training on motor

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 67 Fitness

skills actually demonstrates an inhibition of skill, not an improvement.” Hope agrees: “Exercise involving static balance control on an unstable surface is fi ne for developing core balance. However, in most [real life] instances, re-establish- ing equilibrium requires adequate power applied to a stable surface – for example, if you are recovering from a trip. Substantial research, including that by the University of New South Wales in Australia, has determined that equilibrium may be enhanced through muscle strength devel- opment. Th is leads me to think it’s illogical to use an unstable surface designed for static balance control where dynamic bal- ance control on a stable surface is required. “Whatever a person’s requirements, I’d recommend a balance test at the assess- ment stage. Balance training should be PHOTO: ISTOCK/CATHERINE YEULET incorporated into all exercisers’ workouts. However, diff erent types of member will require diff erent intensities of training.”

THE DECONDITIONED GUEST “Balance should be taught before embark- ing on any programme, as well as being developed during regular training,” says Pipedreems’ Richard Mattis. For deconditioned exercisers, tradi- Balance training for older adults could combine conventional tional cardio and resistance equipment exercise with low-impact aerobics classes or yoga, pilates and t’ai chi could be beyond their initial capabilities, in terms of both fi tness and lower limb develop through exercise a synergy be- balance improvement at their core, but strength and power. For these members, tween the central nervous system, muscles, that also address poor power and lower an initial thorough warm-up period with tendons and joints. limb asymmetry. In particular, exercises stretching exercises, followed by some that improve lower limb strength and introductory work using hand weights WORKOUTS FOR OLDER ADULTS power can contribute to better stability.” that focuses on posture, will help improve As the number of older adults increases Hope adds that balance training can mobility and strength. Movements such as globally, many spas and fi tness facilities have both physical and mental benefi ts for back extensions, to work on strengthening are also targeting the ‘grey market’ with older exercisers. “By making them more the back’s erector muscles, and side bends exercise plans designed to improve stable, it helps prevent falls, allows them to to strengthen the abdominal obliques, are strength and balance. For example, in maintain independence and have a more especially useful for posture. addition to conventional cardiovascular active lifestyle,” he explains. Th e addition of low-impact aerobic exercise for the over-55s, instructors of the training using suitable mechanised gym international health club chain LA Fitness FOR THE FIT AND BALANCED equipment, for example, walking on a also recommend low-impact aerobics A fi t spa guest is the ideal candidate for treadmill (if balance is adequate), will classes to boost general body equilibrium, targeted work to improve structural body enhance general fi tness and also help and gentle freeweights to improve muscle balance. Colin Gilbert, healthy living maintain bone strength. For purposes of strength – and subsequently balance. development offi cer at Cathall Leisure ongoing equilibrium, it is important to Global charity Help Th e Aged says Centre in London, UK, says that for fi tter that yoga, pilates and t’ai chi can develop people and athletes working at a high level strength, fl exibility and proprioception, of training, tailored exercise that improves A fi t spa guest is the ideal and that attending professionally-run body awareness and stability is especially balance classes designed for older people important. “A fi t and balanced person may candidate for targeted work is one of the most eff ective ways to signifi - have a higher chance of injury than oth- to improve structural body cantly reduce the risk of falling. ers, due to the level and amount of work Th e UK’s National Service Framework they’re doing, so anything that increases balance, which in turn will for Older People also acknowledges the muscle force capacity will provide a form help to increase muscle role of specifi c exercise in preventing falls of injury prevention,” he says. in older people, says Dr Dawn Skelton of “Undertaking balance work and lower force capacity and provide the research consortium HealthQWest at limb stretching exercises provide an Glasgow Caledonian University, UK. “Th e increase in the range of a person’s motion, a form of injury prevention framework identifi es the need to fi nd which can really help maximise their programmes of suitable activities that have fi tness programme,” adds Hope. ●

68 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 health club management 2O1O HANDBOOK

The 6th edition of the Health Club Management Handbook, published in association with the Fitness Industry Association (FIA), is being distributed in January 2010. The handbook is a comprehensive guide and reference tool distributed to industry suppliers and operators, FIA members and to industry buyers at events such as LIW, SIBEC and IHRSA.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU? for industry suppliers for industry operators

● Multiple listings of all industry suppliers by: ● Who’s who? of key industry personnel sA-Z from the private sector, public sector and trade associations sPhone book ● Updated State of the Industry reports sWeb address book ● Competitive edge – charity events to motivate sProduct selector your staff and members for the year ahead ● Company profiles including key information, ● Diary dates – a guide to all industry events, contact details, images of products and a shows and networking opportunities picture of your company contact ● Predictions for 2010 from key industry figures ● Vertical strip adverts in the address book section ● Features and reference material

To reserve your space in the handbook call: +44 (0)1462 431385 or email: [email protected] www.healthclubhandbook.com Spa products SARAH TODD » PRODUCTS EDITOR » SPA BUSINESS Spa/ Products

Easy as ABC with OAKWORKS® Th e US-based manufacturer of spa, massage and medi- cal equipment, OAKWORKS®, has introduced a system aimed at helping women who have issues with prone KLAFS’ exclusive steam cabins for German complex (downward facing) positions. Th e Adjustable Breast Hydrothermal manufacturer KLAFS has completed the installation of Comfort (ABC) System has been developed by Contour two exclusively designed glass steamrooms for a restored brine bath Table Systems – which signed a deal with OAKWORKS complex called the VitaSol Th erme in Bad Salzufl en, Germany. De- in August – and is patent pending. It’s been designed signed in collaboration with 4A Architekten, both structures feature to allow therapists to adjust the contour of a treatment a glass-enclosed steambath with coloured tessera seating benches. table top during a service, to insure maximum comfort Another KLAFS line gaining increasing exposure is the eco-friend- in prone or supine (upward facing) positions. ly Biorhythm Sauna, which has been created in collaboration with Th e table also features a padded platform which can architecture fi rm 3deluxe Biorhythm under KLAFS’ designer Nik be elevated or lowered via a foot pump system without Schweiger. Featuring curved lines, the sauna is intended to convey the disturbing the client or interrupting the treatment. impression it has been carved from a wooden block. In addition to this is a complementary Biorhythm steam shower. spa-kit.net KEYWORD: OAKWORKS spa-kit.net KEYWORD: KLAFS

Comfort Zone unveils Sacred Nature products Italian skincare company Comfort Zone has launched its latest collection, Sacred Nature, an eco-certifi ed natural, organic and sus- tainable skincare line. Th e collection has been produced to Ecocert® standard, which is a globally recognised organic certifi cation and is housed in packaging that is 100 per cent recyclable. Items include a nourishing protective cleansing milk and mask, a renewing scrub, an anti-ageing face cream and a toning body oil. spa-kit.net KEYWORDS: COMFORT ZONE Morgan extends Boston furniture range Th e uk-based furniture manufacturer Morgan Furni- ture has unveiled its latest collection with the launch of the Boston Terrace range, designed for outdoor spaces. Th e range – including a ladder back lounger (pic- tured), dining side and coff ee and console tables – is made from iroko, a sustainably-managed African hardwood, which when left untreated, will turn a sil- ver grey colour. All upholstery is water repellent while the loose cushions come with handles for easy storage. spa-kit.net KEYWORD: MORGAN

70 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 For more information, or to contact any of these companies, log onto: spa-kit.net

Organic beauty from Thalgo with Terre & Mer range Marine-based skincare company Th algo has just revealed an organic fa- Barr + Wray introduces SPATUB cial skincare range. Called Terre & Mer, the wholly organic products are Barr + Wray has released a new spa bathing prod- Ecocert®-certifi ed and adhere to the Cosmebio charter while the contain- uct called the SPATUB. Th e bath can be designed ers are made from recyclable glass and plastics, also authorised by Ecocert. for a spa suite, a couples’ suite or a hotel’s VIP Intended to be a refl ection of the brand’s dual sense of belonging – to suite. It is ergonomically-shaped for maximum the sea and to Mediterranean plant life – the range comprises a profes- comfort while bathing and can accommodate up sional salon facial treatment and eight retail products. Th ere are cleansers, to two people. LED mood lights are included, as toners and scrubs, as well as fl uids, creams and balms. Th e collection is well as fi nishes in any chosen colour. Barr + Wray completed by a Soothing Concentrate containing cade wood and an Anti- has more than 50 years’ experience in providing Ageing Concentrate with Roman chamomile. engineering solutions for both water and thermal experiences. Th is new bath joins the company’s spa-kit.net KEYWORD: THALGO Myrtha pool and Konigs Salz salt cubes. The Zeiss table spa-kit.net KEYWORDS: BARR AND WRAY from Gallotti&Radice Gallotti&Radice off ers a range of furniture for use within spas, hotel lobbies and seating areas. Th e Zeiss table (pictured) features a 15mm transparent bevelled glass top with stainless steel legs. Th ere is also a Zeiss mirror, available in small, medium and large sizes that can be fi nished in either a lacquered wood- en frame, or with a fabric eff ect in chestnut, sand or canapa (hemp). spa-kit.net KEYWORDS: GALLOTTI AND RADICE

Dell and OPI join forces for unique laptop range Computer manufacturer Dell has in- troduced 26 exclusive colour choices for some of its laptops as part of an exclusive partnership with nail varnish company OPI. Th e colour choices are availa- ble for the Dell Inspiron Mini, Inspiron and Studio laptops, Silver service from Tempus and include some of OPI’s most Tempus Salon & Spa Wear has brought out a popular shades, such as ‘I’m Not Re- new range: X-static silver uniforms. Available ally a Waitress’, ‘Kyoto Pearl’ and ‘Big Apple Red’. throughout the US and mainland Europe, silver Th e OPI colour options will be available in the Dell Design Studio at is woven into the reverse of the fabric to help pro- dell.com in the us from November 2009, and later in other countries. vide a number of antibacterial benefi ts. spa-kit.net KEYWORD: OPI spa-kit.net KEYWORDS: TEMPUS CLOTHING

SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital 71 Spa products

Aromatherapy- infused textiles US-based textile designer Andrew Morgan Collection is to introduce an aromather- apy-infused and eco-friendly textile collection. Th e company’s range of throws, scarves, robes, wraps and towels will house microscopic shells contain- ing fragrances that will be released as these capsules break during use over a pe- riod of time. Th ere will be three fragrances to choose from – Euphoria, Para- dis and Aphrodisia – all designed to stimulate the user’s sense of smell, with the scents intended to last around 25 washes. spa-kit.net KEYWORDS: LG makes air conditioning arty ANDREW MORGAN LG Electronics has launched an air treatment unit featuring a front panel that can be adapted to hold any image, from a painting to a marketing mes- sage. Th e Art Cool units come with an infra-red remote control that allows guests to control air circulation, fan operation and room temperature. Th ere are sleep, operation and single-event modes, as well as a 24-hour timer function. On top of this all models are fi tted with an air purifi er to help combat airborne bacteria. spa-kit.net KEYWORDS: LG ELECTRONICS

Explaining Pilates Ericson launches Phyto-drink range From Lotus Publishing comes Th e Anatomy of A range of nutritional concentrates, designed to improve both body and Pilates, written by the UK-based pilates instructor mind, have been unveiled by French company Ericson Laboratoire. and physiotherapist Paul Massey. Complete with Th e four drinks – Phyto-Slim drink, Phyto-Fine, Phyto-Stress and 150 full-colour anatomical illustrations, the book Phyto-Age – have been formulated with a variety of plant extracts, essen- is designed to show the reader what happens inside tial oils and other natural ingredients ranging from ginseng to dandelion. the body while pilates exercises are undertaken. Th e Phyto-Slim drink has been designed to help aid digestion, while Said to be ideal for pilates teachers, physical thera- Phyto-Fine is intended to regulate cholesterol levels as well as improve pists, health professionals and those who practice bowel movements. Phyto-Age contains a range of antioxidants to ease the activity, it informs the reader on how it length- rheumatism and cramps, whereas Phyto-Stress is said to aid sleep and ens and strengthens all the body’s muscle groups. contains vitamin B6 to give a sense of wellbeing. spa-kit.net KEYWORDS: LOTUS PUBLISHING spa-kit.net KEYWORDS: ERICSON LABORATOIRE

ScentAir creates enticing environments with diffusers ScentAir has unveiled its new range of air freshening products. Called Scent- Sticks, the diff users are intended to create enticing environments for smaller areas and rooms in a salon or spa. Th e pre-scented sticks deliver a consistent level of scent that is said to outperform traditional liquid-based reed diff users. Th e sticks can be prominently displayed or tucked away into existing décor or plants. Dry to the touch, ScentSticks do not require oils and are infused with high-quality fragrances. Available in more than 12 scents and colours, each stick will bring fragrance to an area for between seven to 10 days. spa-kit.net KEYWORD: SCENTAIR

72 Read Spa Business online spabusiness.com / digital SPA BUSINESS 1 2010 ©cybertrek 2009 spa business directory showcasing products and services for the spa buyer

to book, please contact the sales team tel: +44 (0)1462 431385 email: [email protected]

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FITNESSSPA PRODUCTS EQUIPMENT SPA PRODUCTS SPA THERAPIES PRECORTHE ULTIMATE THE ULTIMATE INNOVATIVE experience & PROFITABLE: experience FOR THE spa Precor, the world’sconnoisseur FOR THE spa leading fi tness connoisseur equipment supplier, offers a unique HeZX^Va^hih^cbVg^cZ entertainment system, ClubCom. heVi]ZgVe^Zh Tailor-made to your venue, ClubCom offers a superior guest experience E: [email protected] %-%%&)+%)& E: [email protected] and a secondaryT: 020 7987 revenue 0535 stream.www.terrake.com www.precor.co.ukT: 020 7987 www.clubcom.co.uk0535 www.terrake.com lll#i]Va\d#Xdb Research KATIE BARNES » MANAGING EDITOR » SPA BUSINESS UIFªOJTIJOHUPVDI PHOTO: ISTOCK.COM/SERDAR YAGCI

STROKE OF GENIUS

wimming is a popular spa activity: Sedentary participants were those who whether it’s in the form of a gentle, A study has found that if you said they didn’t take part in any exercise. more relaxing workout, or fast Walkers were those who reported taking Slaps to get the heart pumping. One swim regularly you’re half part in a run/walk/jog programme with study, carried out in the UK, even shows it as likely to die prematurely an average pace of 15 minutes a mile or can be a nation’s favourite type of exercise, slower, and who agreed that they walked full stop (see box below). as those who walk or jog for 75 per cent of the programme. Runners Now research published in the Inter- participated in a run /walk /jog programme national Journal of Aquatic Research and with an average pace of under 15 minutes Education shows just how good it is for 40,547 men aged between 20 and 90 years, a mile and said they walked for less than you. A study on more than 40,000 men a large majority of whom were white and 25 per cent of the programme. Swimmers has found that swimming can help you live came from the middle or upper socio- were those who were exclusively engaged longer than either walking or jogging. economic demographic. in swimming for exercise. Each participant underwent a health Th e split between groups was: 15,883 GATHERING DATA examination. Th eir physical activity sedentary people, 3,746 walkers, 20,536 Th e study, which was carried out by the status was then categorised into four runners and 562 swimmers. University of South Carolina in Columbia, groups according to the type of workouts US, took place over a period of more than they did during the three months before THE RESULTS 30 years, from 1971 to 2003. It focused on each examination. Th ere were 3,386 deaths during the study, all of which – compared with the survivors – were older people with lower HAPPY SWIMMERS fi tness levels and a higher prevalence of major cardiovascular disease. A larger Research by the UK funding body Sport involved. To calculate this, participants number (52 per cent) of those who died England shows a high level of satisfac- were asked to rate their sport across 10 were sedentary, followed by runners (39 tion among people who swim. Overall, areas including coaching, exertion and per cent) and walkers (9 per cent). Th e 79.1 per cent of swimmers questioned in fi tness, facilities and value for money. swimming group had the least number of a survey by the organisation said they Th e activity with the top level of sat- deaths (only 0.003 per cent). were happy with their sport – a higher isfaction was taekwondo (85.9 per cent), Aft er adjustment for age, body mass satisfaction level than those who take followed by orienteering, judo and golf. index, smoking status, alcohol intake and part in football, hockey and netball. Th e survey was conducted among family history of cardiovascular disease, In the survey, regular participants from 44,390 people across England – general swimmers had a lower all-cause mortality 45 sports gave satisfaction ratings for participants in sports as well as affi liated risk than the men who were sedentary, the physical activity in which they were club members. walkers or runners (53 per cent, 50 per cent and 49 per cent respectively). ●

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Please call for details regarding OAKWORKS® FSC approved products www.oakworks.com • 800.916.4613 © OAKWORKS, Inc. 2009