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ISPA Reports Training & Treatments Will Enhance Spa Growth

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As reported by Skin Inc magazine, The International Spa Association (ISPA) released its annual 2015 U.S. Spa Industry Study yesterday, covering details about the industry’s growth statistics, a picture of U.S. spa facilities and treatments, and a profile of the spa industry.

The study is jam-packed with in-depth insight about the spa industry over the past year—including the fact that total industry revenue has well surpassed the $15 billion mark—but we are highlighting six key takeaways that stand out.

1. Employment in the spa industry stands at record level.

Employment in the spa industry is estimated to be at 360,000 as of May 2015, which is a 2.9% increase (more than 10,000 new jobs) over the same time last year.

Increasing staffing levels was strongest among day spas—48% said they increased employment levels.

Although both full- and part-time positions rose, the number of independent contractor positions fell by 6.5%. ISPA notes this reduction has been occurring yearly since 2010.

2. Individual spa establishments are making more money.

The average revenue for a single spa location has risen to $749,000 in 2014, which is an increase of 2.9% from the prior year.

3. Spas’ marketing tactics are attracting clients

Total spa visits were 6.7% higher in 2014 than the year before. And average visits per spa rose 4.3% (8,500) from 2013 to 2014.

4. Revenue per spa visit has declined.

Despite a strong rise in spa visits, the amount of money spas are making on an average visit has dropped slightly by 1.3% from $89 in 2013 to $88 in 2014.

ISPA suggests this could be due to several factors, including: due to busy lifestyles, clients may be visiting more frequently, but choosing shorter treatments; spas introducing express treatments; discounting; and raising prices competitive marketplace proves challenging for spas.

5. Spa visits are being integrated as a staple of a healthy lifestyle.

ISPA asked survey respondents on what they believe the next trend to shape the industry will be, stating that trends related to wellness, health and fitness were the most frequently cited trends. One in two respondents mentioned one or more wellness-related trend.

6. Spas are building on this momentum.

When ISPA asked spas about their plans for 2015, most spas said they intended to take actions to enhance their business. A few things spas plan to add in 2015 include: