What an event! Spa Life 2026 has to have been one of the most notable events for the spa industry yet, and it definitely showed that we like to party!
Here are some of the insights Spa PR picked up during our visit:
1. Jennifer Walsh, serial entrepreneur and founder of the Beauty Bar in the US, spoke about how neuroaesthetics is transforming the future of spas and wellness spaces. She revealed some fantastic insights around nature, including the fact that consumers spend more when nature is incorporated into a space. You can simply add some green plants to your retail area and it will make a difference!
2. Kerry Turpin, Global Head of Spa & Wellness at Corinthia Hotels, advised on how spa managers could improve sales without further investment. She suggested looking first within your spa at services such as spa software. Simply by turning on dynamic pricing, one spa generated 7–8% more revenue. This also persuaded people to book further in advance so they could secure the best price. She also recommended turning to your suppliers to see what additional support they could provide.
3. Tara Moore, Associate Director of Spa Operations at the Galgorm Collection, advised being mindful about what you buy for your spa. Ask other spa managers for their honest feedback. Equipment that solves problems is always worth considering. Tara spoke about a sauna with collapsible seating that could be folded away, making it much easier to clean.
4. Mike Coppin, Group Spa Operations Manager at Historic Sussex Hotels, advised on how to increase recruitment. His team spends a lot of time visiting colleges and said that learners are crying out for our help. Get involved with your local college to highlight the career opportunities available if they complete Level 3 qualifications.
5. Lisa Knowles, spa consultant and nutritionist at The Spa Set, informed us about GLP-1 medications and how spas could tailor their services to this rapidly growing market. These medications are most commonly taken by women aged 44–55. Spas can support this market with skin-tightening and collagen-stimulating treatments, lymphatic drainage and body sculpting, strength training, stress and nervous system care, personalised nutrition, digestion support and lifestyle coaching.
6. Hayley Snishko, mental health-informed practice specialist, surveyed therapists to find out what clients are seeking. A total of 150 therapists replied. Of those, 73% said stress relief, 49% nervous system regulation and 45.8% escape and rest. Clients are emotionally overwhelmed, more health-conscious and more physically exhausted than ever. Consider sending clients a meditation link before they arrive to help encourage them into a relaxed state. Don’t forget to look after your therapists too, as 87% experience physical fatigue at least occasionally and 73% experience burnout.
7. Christine Clinton, founder of Clinton Cancer Care & Wellness for Life, along with Joanne Berry, discussed lymphatic drainage. Most importantly, it’s not a massage, so you need to be clear about this with clients to avoid confusion. It is particularly beneficial for clients with impaired lymph flow or fluid retention.
8. Andrew Hammond of Spa Life put on the party of the year and revealed that Spa Life 2027 will introduce the WOW (World of Wellness Awards). Watch this space!