24 November 2009

Spa guests want investment in own well-being

What do spa guests want in these uncertain economic times? Over 1,300 active spa-goers said this is what they wanted:

---Almost three quarters cited word-of-mouth referrals as their primary method of selecting a new spa

---More than two-thirds had their most recent spa experience at a location near where they live; while another 21 percent were at a hotel they stayed at for leisure

---Eighty four percent said it is important for therapists to explain products and their benefits during the treatment

---Eighty-two percent are interested in buying a series package in order to achieve benefits of skin care

---Eighty-one percent cited discounts, not free treatments, as their number one reason to try a new spa.

The poll was done by Coyle Hospitality Group, a market research company, and WTS International, a spa management and consulting company.

"The goal as to help spa operators align their programs and offerings to match what guests truly want in uncertain times," said a press release.

"People need to feel like their treatments are truly an investment in their well being and are looking for getting a value. Many also commented that they would be drawn to spas that are somehow giving back to the community," said Arthur Chang, vice president of development at Coyle.

By David Wilkening