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23 DECEMBER 2025 ISSUE 491

A SPA BUSINESS PUBLICATION

Discover Collection launches

CLICK TO READ

New launch, Discover Collection, is a hospitality membership brand for consumers looking to travel with purpose and mindful luxury. It will operate a collection of smaller properties (50 keys maximum) with low impact on the regions they serve and has a pipeline of wellnessinfused properties underway.

DISCOVER COLLECTION

The brand is backed by hotelier Bernhard Bohnenberger, former ■ The first property, Discover Collection Ras Amud, will open in Oman in Q3 2026

president of Six Senses, who is CEO, owner and co-founder, along with a number of private investors. The concept celebrates the spirit

Discover Collection Ras Amud,

of each location, while helping

Oman, on the Musandam Peninsula.

preserve ecosystems, habitats

Discover Collection Catoche on

and the cultural identities that

Holbox Island, at the top of the

make them unique. Sustainability

Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, and

is a hallmark of the brand.

Discover Collection Il Ngwesi in

The first of a dozen retreats will

Five-season retreat Eha to open in Estonia in 2026

p04

OAKWELL BEER SPA

HEALTH

ALINA HERNANDEZ

DEVELOPMENT

EHA

MORE >>> http://lei.sr/j3n6T_B

The destination will house 22 guests at a time

Chunxia Gao, global director of development and wellbeing, Discover Collection

Kenya, will both debut in Q4, 2027.

open in September 2026, including

The membership model means we follow up with guests and they remain in our ecosystem

FRANCHISING

Women's heart health is a key priority, says Alina Hernandez

Oakwell Beer Spa shares ambitions for US franchising

Heart disease prevention is an opportunity for spas

The spa concept blends beer and wellness

p08

p12

spa business people Hans-Peter Veit shares details of longevity centre and spa at Appenzeller Huus resort

ive-star wellness

the L3 Longevity Circle, which is

mountain retreat Huus

a hub for biohacking technologies

Quell opened recently in

arranged in a structured journey.

Gonten, in the Appenzell region

Hans-Peter Veit, director of spa

of northeastern Switzerland.

development and wellness for Apenzeller Huus, told Spa Business

The 30-key hotel is the flagship of Appenzeller Huus resort and joins

exclusively: “Our new spa at Huus

two other hotels on the property

Quell is a sanctuary of calm.

– Huus Löwen and Huus Bären.

“At the same time, it offers a new

The hotel has a 2,200sq m

dimension of high-end wellness: APPENZELLER HUUS

Quell Spa, which is described as a sanctuary devoted to balance, beauty and restoration. Across three floors, the facilities include 14 treatment rooms, nine pools, eight saunas and

is the centrepiece of the facility.

The new spa at Huus Quell offers a new dimension of high-end wellness

It is described by the property as

Hans-Peter Veit

steam grottos. There is also a floating yoga platform and a longevity centre. The longevity centre at Quell Spa

from the L3 Longevity Circle with its semi-transparent mirrored architecture, to our three-level Multi-Sensory Lounge designed for deep sensory recalibration,” added Veit. “It’s where nature, science and modern luxury converge to create a truly nextgeneration spa experience.” MORE >>> http://lei.sr/q8N9R_B

Zoe Wall outlines AB Living Group's point of difference as new VP of wellness

KERZNER INTERNATIONAL

Z The future of wellness will belong to brands capable of bridging health optimisation and holistic wellbeing Zoe Wall

www.spabusiness.com

oe Wall has been

coast between Abu Dhabi and Dubai,

appointed VP of wellness

UAE, will also host the upcoming

for AB Living Group.

25-hectare SHA Emirates and its 150

With more than 22 years

residences when it opens in 2027.

global industry experience, Wall

Wall told Spa Business about AB

will lead the wellness strategy

Living’s point of difference within

across the company’s portfolio

the wellness market, saying: “Where

in Spain, Mexico, the UAE and

many competitors are leaning heavily

upcoming developments.

into a medicalised future of wellness,

AB Living is a business group with

AB Living is committed to advancing

divisions for development, real estate

medicine and restoring balance to

and hospitality. Its portfolio includes

the fundamentals. Holistic wellbeing

the SHA operations at SHA Spain and

and longevity medicine should never

SHA Mexico, which opened in 2024.

compete; they should coexist."

A new island off the Sahel Al Emarat

MORE >>> http://lei.sr/K2c4h_B

©Cybertrek Ltd 2025 Spa Business Issue 491

Live news:

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CONTENTS ISSUE 491

SEQUEL BRANDS

■ (L-R) Gary Brecka and Anthony Geisler

Anthony Geisler

Jayasom, Amaala

Biome by Corinthia London

Anthony Geisler's company Sequel Brands launches a longevity concept with Tony Robbins and Gary Brecka.

Details of the flagship Jayasom resort at Saudi Arabian giga-project Amaala have been revealed.

Corinthia London in the UK prepares to relaunch its urban spa with a new identity.

SPA BUSINESS INSIGHTS

Alina Hernandez

Nurture in New Zealand

Franchise fermentation

Supplier news

Gary Brecka is one of the most trusted voices in this space Anthony Geisler

Geisler, Robbins and Brecka launch longevity concept

nthony Geisler’s Sequel Brands has launched its fifth franchise: a longevity concept in collaboration with Tony Robbins’

company, Lifeforce and biohacker, longevity expert and podcaster, Gary Brecka [pictured left]. With the global longevity economy predicted to reach US$8 trillion (€7.4 trillion, £6.3 trillion) annually within the next four years, Ultimate Longevity Center aims to make longevity solutions accessible to everyday Americans. There will be two core offerings – wellness modalities, such as red light therapy, hyperbaric chambers, cold plunges and hydrogen baths. As well as longevity programmes involving biomarker analysis, testing, and metabolic profiling, with personalised protocols to help people optimise their health. "Gary Brecka is one of the most trusted voices in this space," said Geisler. "And with Lifeforce – we're taking decades of collective expertise and making it accessible."

MORE >>> http://lei.sr/k5R3H_B

Spa Business Issue 491 ©Cybertrek Ltd 2025

Industry opportunities lie in addressing women's healthcare requirements.

MY TAKE

Te Arai Links golf resort launches a new spa, hydrotherapy garden and fitness complex.

Oakwell Beer Spa prepares for franchising opportunities after testing its prototype day spa in Colorado.

The latest in products and innovation from Am Finn Sauna and Steam, Saade, WDT Werner Dosiertechnik, Gharieni, Heatherwick Studio and Tala.

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spa business news RETREAT

Five-season retreat concept to launch at Eha, Estonia, in 2026 A new wellness destination called

The holistic spa will have

Eha is due to open in Q3 of 2026

treatment rooms as well as indoor

on Estonia’s Hiiumaa Island,

and outdoor pools. Thermal

which is home to a UNESCO-

suites will include multiple saunas

protected biosphere reserve.

(both indoors and outdoors).

Co-founders Eva Maran and

There will be a mindfulness studio

Sonni Aswani have created the

for group and individual sessions.

retreat with support from global

The wellness philosophy for the distinct retreat programmes will

Consulting. The ethos of the

focus on the rhythm of the island’s

retreat is rooted in sustainability,

five seasons: summer, spring,

seasonality and community.

autumn, winter and springrise.

■ The spa will have a salt pool, among others

On the shores of the Baltic

Springrise is described as “a

Sea, the intimate destination will

hidden hinge in the year,” and

have only eight suites and three

the programming is designed to

forest cabins for accommodation,

be gentle yet transformative.

Eha gives us the opportunity to design a guest experience built around presence, clarity and genuine personal support

housing up to 22 guests at a time.

MORE >>> http://lei.sr/v6R6g_B

Amber Gauci-Ward, GM, Eha

EHA

hospitality experts Think Hospitality

DEVELOPMENT

Jayasom reveals wellness concept for Amaala resort Integrative wellness operator Jayasom has outlined details of GWS

property within the giga-project Amaala, on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast, ahead of opening in 2026.

■ Jayasom, Amaala, will be a family-friendly resort

It will join a portfolio of nine

Jayasom was born from a belief that wellness is a practice grounded the quiet courage to be still Karen Campbell, CEO, Jayasom

www.spabusiness.com

luxury resorts opening at Triple

zone for families (including areas

Bay as part of the Amaala project

for infants, toddlers and teens).

by developer Red Sea Global. The resort will have 153 units

The resort has wellness facilities measuring 7,000sq m dedicated to

of guest accommodation and

physiotherapy, fitness, mindfulness,

24 branded residences.

energy work, nutrition, spa

There are two distinct zones – an adults-only area and a specific

treatments and aesthetic medicine. MORE >>> http://lei.sr/P2e5q_B

©Cybertrek Ltd 2025 Spa Business Issue 491

JAYASOM, AMAALA

the wellness offering at its first

Live news:

www.spabusiness.com

insider

CONCEPT

MEET THE TEAM

Corinthia reveals Biome concept

For email use: fullname@ leisuremedia.com

Five-star hotel, Corinthia London, UK, has announced the relaunch of its award-winning urban spa with a new

Editorial director

The new offering will debut in late January 2026. Biome will offer 'transformative ■ AMP Fit is the fitness partner for Biome

wellness treatments' from

BLK BOX/CHARLIE SAWYER

identity – Biome by Corinthia London.

Liz Terry

+44 (0)1462 431385

Spa Business editor

Katie Barnes

+44 (0)1462 471925

expert practitioners who 'blend AMP Fit has been confirmed

scientific knowledge with the healing power of nature to offer a

as the fitness partner for Biome

holistic wellbeing experience'.

and will deliver personal PT and

Publisher

Astrid Ros

small group training and well as

The site also offers a heat and water circuit, offering hydrotherapy,

support for members in the gym.

steamrooms and saunas.

MORE >>> http://lei.sr/8E7Y7_B

+44 (0)1462 471911

Head of news

Helen Andrews +44 (0)1462 431385

OPENING

■ The spa partially occupies a former bank vault

Steigenberger Icon Europäischer Germany, opened earlier this year following extensive renovations and now its reimagined Vault Spa and Suites have launched too. The heritage of the city centre property was preserved by architects DK Studio and

STEIGENBERGER ICON EUROPÄISCHER HOF

Hof Baden-Baden in Baden-Baden,

The Vault Spa and Suites embody the essence of modern elegance Holger Flory, GM

the interiors were adapted by Bachhuber Contract. The project

two floors and partially occupies

required ambitious construction

what used to be bank safes.

solutions, including building directly in the waters of the river Oos. The 126-key hotel’s updated spa now measures 1,300sq m across Spa Business Issue 491 ©Cybertrek Ltd 2025

In addition to treatment rooms, the spa has three spa suites, which have their own thermal facilities. MORE >>> http://lei.sr/8x3q3_B

STEIGENBERGER ICON EUROPÄISCHER HOF

Steigenberger Icon Europäischer Hof Baden-Baden launches Vault Spa

Head of digital

Tim Nash

+44 (0)1462 471917

Head of design

Ed Gallagher +44 (0)1462 431385

Spa Business insider is published fortnightly by The Leisure Media Company Ltd, PO Box 424, Hitchin, SG5 9GF, UK. The views expressed in this publication are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the publisher The Leisure Media Company Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recorded or otherwise, without the prior permission of the copyright holder, Cybertrek Ltd. Printed by Preview Cromatic Ltd. Distributed by Royal Mail Group Ltd and Whistl Ltd in the UK and Total Mail Ltd globally. ©Cybertrek Ltd 2025. ISSN: Print: 1753-3430 Digital: 2397-2408 Subscribe to Spa Business and Spa Business insider at to www.leisuresubs.com, email: subs@leisuremedia.com or call +44 1462 471930.

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LO N G E V I T Y. M E N TA L W E L L B E I N G . S L E E P. R E C O V E R Y. A E S T H E T I C S .

MY TAKE

ALINA HERNANDEZ

Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause for female mortality worldwide Alina Hernandez, founder, Wellness Innovation Hub

Heart of the matter Alina Hernandez says women’s heart health should be a major focus for spas

vidence points to substantial economic

overlooked. Prevention must be gender-specific,

and societal benefits to investing

while awareness must also be improved.

in women's health, with potential to

“The spa and wellness sector has a unique

add trillions to the global economy.

opportunity to close this gap and reach women by

Many spas today offer treatments designed

integrating evidence-based programmes – which

to address symptoms related to menopause

are designed with female physiology in mind – so

and postpartum hormonal changes, often

the spa becomes a space where prevention is a

focused on holistic approaches, including

lived, everyday experience and an act of self-care.”

aromatherapy, massage and skincare. However, cardiovascular disease is the number

The industry can step up to fill this gap in women’s healthcare as a powerful private

one cause of female mortality worldwide and

sector player, assuming this role as part of a

also accounts for a substantial proportion of

comprehensive approach that sees it collaborating

the women's health gap, presenting a major

with traditional healthcare and the public sector.

opportunity for the spa and wellness industry.

Additional revenue streams Heart health programmes

For operators, this can make for new and elevated

Spas could offer heart disease prevention

programming, as well as additional revenue

for women by creating programming that

streams, with much value to the female spa-goer.

addresses risk factors while promoting

Spas can get creative in how they craft their

overall wellbeing. These could include stress

specialist menus and communicate their value

reduction, movement and education.

to the consumer – an approach where women’s

Cardiologist, Biljana Stojcevski, says: “Cardiovascular health in women is regularly

8 12

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loyalty to a spa can be connected to a long-term commitment to their own health and wellness. ©Cybertrek Ltd 2025 Spa Business Issue 491

SHUTTERSTOCK / ARSENII PALIVODA

■ Many spa protocols have a proven impact on heart health

This can empower women to take charge of their heart health while feeling good and looking their best – where the spa experience

Prevention must be gender-specific, while awareness must also be improved

is part of a lifestyle management approach and a sustainable model for the business,

■ Aqua fitness

with programming options including:

Water-based exercises are low-impact and gentle on the joints, making them a great

For stress management and relaxation

option for women of all fitness levels.

■ Stress reduction techniques

■ Fitness classes

Mindfulness practices, meditation and breathwork

Group fitness classes such as Zumba or

to manage stress – a risk factor for heart disease.

dance create fun, social wellness and

■ Massage therapy

provide a boost to heart health.

Massage to lower blood pressure and improve circulation, both of which are beneficial.

For healthy Lifestyle Education

■ Aromatherapy

■ Nutritional offering

Certain essential oils have been shown to have

Spas can produce creative heart-health

relaxing eﬀects, which can support heart health.

food menus, communicating these for lifestyle changes and raising awareness

For physical activity and fitness

through their marketing campaigns.

■ Yoga and Pilates

■ Heart-healthy cooking classes:

These practices improve flexibility,

For those with the available infrastructure, spas can

strength, balance and can help manage

teach women how to prepare delicious and healthy

weight – a risk factor for heart disease.

meals that support their cardiovascular health. ●

www.spabusiness.com

spa business insights

GRACE ROKELA

The design reflects a concept of nature-inspired relaxation, where the spa serves as a sanctuary of restoration Grace Rokela, Te Arai Links

Nurture in New Zealand Top golfing resort on New Zealand's North Island has added a spa, hydrotherapy garden and a fitness centre

JONO PARKER

■ The hydrotherapy garden has a custom-built sauna for 11 people

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olf destination resort Te Arai Links in New Zealand has debuted its new Spa and Fitness Centre for resort guests – with members of the public set to gain access in Q3 of 2026. The property, which is located on the coastline of the country’s North Island, is home to two 18-hole golf courses and 108 rooms. Its new wellness facilities are arranged in a series of buildings surrounded by a hydrotherapy garden. The project has been designed in a collaboration between the property’s architect, John Irving Architects, interior designer Jenni Kayne and spa consultancy Spa Evolution. Grace Rokela, director of marketing for Te Arai Links, told Spa Business: “The design reflects

■ The design is a collaboration JONO PARKER

between John Irving Architects, Jenni Kayne and Spa Evolution

The new facilities are designed to encourage guests to slow down, reconnect and embrace the natural beauty of Te Arai Links a concept of nature-inspired relaxation, where the spa serves as a sanctuary of restoration. The Spa and Fitness Centre is designed to encourage guests to slow down, reconnect and embrace the natural beauty of Te Arai Links – offering bespoke wellness experiences.”

The spa block has two couples’ treatment rooms and four single rooms, with treatment beds by Gharieni. There is also a relaxation lounge that houses a red light therapy bed (with technology by Blue Block) and Normatec compression therapies in the form of boots and sleeves. The fitness centre block is open 24/7 and stocked with cardio and strength training equipment by Spa Business Issue 491 ©Cybertrek Ltd 2025

Spa treatments The spa skincare suppliers are Australian results-driven brand Vanessa Megan and New Zealand botanical brand Raaie. A 90-minute Raaie Botanical Infusion facial treatment costs NZ$380 (US$230, €210, £180). It involves a cleansing protocol, a resurfacing mask and a massage. A 120-minute Vanessa Megan facial incorporates contrast therapy, exfoliation and a massage. This costs NZ$420 (US$250, €230, £200). ●

JONO PARKER

More about the spa

Technogym. There is also a 200sq m yoga lawn at the property. In the hydrotherapy garden, there is an 11-person custom-built sauna, plus two hot tubs and a cold plunge pool which were supplied by Stoked.

■ The gym was kitted out by Technogym

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spa business insights

OAKWELL BEER SPA / MOONVISUALS.COM

■ Oakwell Beer Spa's day spas attract a balanced mix of male and female guests

Franchise fermentation Oakwell Beer Spa is seeking partners to run franchises across the US, blending beer and wellness culture

ay spa company Oakwell Beer Spa is looking for franchise partners to run its beer and wellness spas around the US. The company’s first location opened in Denver’s RiNo Arts District in 2021 and it has operated at near-full capacity with strong demand from locals and visitors. The second location opened in April this year in Highlands Ranch – also in Colorado – to test the

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concept’s design, guest flow and operations and become a prototype for nationwide franchising. The company’s founders, Jessica and Damien Zouaoui, see the concept as a natural fit for markets that combine vibrant craft beer culture, strong wellness demand and tourist appeal. Jessica told Spa Business: “Every Oakwell experience incorporates beer in both the environment and the treatments. The taproom features

a rotating selection of local craft beers, ciders and non-alcoholic options served through self-pour technology. The hydrotherapy tubs are filled with blends of hops, barley and therapeutic herbs chosen for their skin-soothing and antioxidant properties."

Guest demographics Damien told Spa Business: “Guests tend to be curious travellers, wellness enthusiasts and locals ©Cybertrek Ltd 2025 Spa Business Issue 491

OAKWELL BEER SPA / MOONVISUALS.COM

.COM OAKWELL BEER SPA / MOONVISUALS

OAKWELL BEER SPA / MOONVISUALS.COM OAKWELL BEER SPA / KALEN JESSE ACQUISTO

.COM

OAKWELL BEER SPA / MOONVISUALS

■ The company’s founders, Jessica and Damien Zouaoui (left), are looking for their first franchise locations in Colorado, the west coast and also in areas with strong craft beer and wellness culture

seeking new ways to unwind and connect. The audience is made up of approximately 45 per cent men, 95 per cent couples and 80 per cent first-time spa guests – underscoring how Oakwell’s hybrid model resonates beyond traditional spa demographics."

Locations The ideal location for franchises are markets within proximity to Colorado, on the west coast and Spa Business Issue 491 ©Cybertrek Ltd 2025

also in areas with strong craft beer and wellness culture.

Every Oakwell experience incorporates beer in both the environment and the treatments Jessica Zouaoui

Business model Damien also outlined the make-up of the company’s revenue streams: “Oakwell’s business model is built on three primary revenue streams: spa services (85 per cent), taproom beverage sales (10 per cent), and retail through the Oakwell Cosmetics line (five per cent), though the ratios vary." ● www.spabusiness.com

sponsored SPONSORED PHOTO: YON-KA

Beyond the sensorial pleasure of using Serum Omega, the product’s performance has also been clinically demonstrated Magali Blum, head of formulation, Yon-Ka Paris

A potent blend

Yon-Ka’s new Serum Omega is a potent blend of Omega 3, 6 and 9 to target dry, stressed-out skin and deliver a calm and nourishing client experience PHOTO: YON-KA

hytotherapy specialist Yon-Ka Paris has introduced its new generation of oil-in serum, Serum Omega, which is designed to nourish, repair and protect the skin’s essential functions. Backed by dermatological and clinical testing and with a vegan, 99 per cent natural-origin formula, this innovative serum is a solution for dry to very dry and sensitive skin and makes a perfect addition to daily skincare routines.

Serum Omega is packaged in a 100 per cent recyclable glass bottle

INSPIRED BY SKIN PHYSIOLOGY

At the heart of Serum Omega lies a deep understanding of skin biology and – more specifically – of what happens when the skin barrier is compromised. When lipid levels drop or the cohesion between cells is disrupted, the epidermis (the skin’s outermost layer and first line of defence) becomes vulnerable: moisture evaporates, discomfort sets in and visible signs of stress, such as flaking, redness or tightness, can appear. The new serum’s key ingredient is Yon-Ka’s Lipo-Restore Complex, an exclusive blend of three natural plant oils chosen for their biomimetic affinity with the skin. With a formula composed of over 60 per cent omegas, this unique complex contains omega 3, which is known to soothe and reduce redness, thanks to its natural anti-inflammatory properties; omega 6, which strengthens the skin barrier and prevents water loss and omega 9 to deeply nourish and restore suppleness by replenishing the hydrolipidic film.

14 www.spabusiness.com 110 spabusiness.com issue 3 2025

The Nutrilessence treatment is a 10-step sensorial experience

NUTRILESSENCE SPA TREATMENT

For spa and wellness clients, the comforting benefits of Yon-Ka’s Serum Omega can be discovered via Nutrilessence, a nourishing and Spa Business Issue 491 ©Cybertrek Ltd 2025

protective professional 10-stage treatment protocol designed for dry and sensitive skin. The 60-minute Nutrilessence ritual begins with a personalised diagnosis and deep skin cleanse. The signature treatment then invites relaxation with a warm compress infused with Phyto-Bain (a relaxing oil) and the inhalation of Emulsion Concentrée (with five essential oils). After a moisturising scrub, the skin is revitalised with a custom mist of Yon-Ka’s Quintessence (a synergistic blend of five Yon-Ka essential oils), followed by a 30-minute expert double massage to soothe and deeply nourish the skin, restoring immediate comfort and suppleness. The ritual continues with a restorative Modeling Mask offering comfort and a feeling of sensorial wellbeing, while also revealing a glowing, plumped complexion. As a final signature touch, Yon-Ka’s ultra-nourishing routine helps reconnect the client to the present moment. More than a treatment, the Nutrilessence 10-step sensorial experience envelops the skin in softness, reconnects body and mind and delivers visible results: soothed, nourished, luminous skin. l l Yon-Ka’s Serum Omega launches online from 1 October 2025. More: www.yonka.pro

PHOTO: YON-KA

True to Yon-Ka’s commitment to efficacy and formulation excellence, Serum Omega has undergone rigorous clinical tests under dermatological control. These evaluations confirm its ability to immediately relieve discomfort, restore skin suppleness and reinforce the skin barrier over time. The innovative qualities of Serum Omega also lie in its unique lipid-replenishing rituals, as Magali Blum, head of formulation at Yon-Ka Paris, explains: “The serum creates a protective lipid film on the skin’s surface, effectively reducing transepidermal water loss and reinforcing the skin’s natural resilience. For optimal results, we recommend applying it as a final step, over face cream, to seal in hydration and amplify barrier repair. “Beyond the sensorial pleasure of using Serum Omega, the product’s positive performance has been clinically demonstrated, strengthening its position as a next-generation solution for dry and sensitive skin.”

www.spabusiness.com 15 spabusiness.com issue 3 2025 111

Reporting

EVENT REPORT

Sharing circles The Wellness Hospitality Conference took place recently at the NH Hotel Milano CityLife in Milan, Italy, as Helen Andrews reports

ore than 30 industry speakers took part in discussions about wellness hospitality design and operations during the Wellness Hospitality Conference on 2 December at the NH Hotel Milano CityLife in Milan, Italy. The third edition of the one-day event was organised by consulting and training company Teamwork Hospitality in partnership with sponsor Lemi Group. Presentations were dedicated to tourism and the wellness economy, longevity, design, future trends, plus spa revenue and operations management.

Consumers want joy László Puczko, CEO and co-founder of HTWWLife, highlighted how wellness

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is not new and he doesn’t understand why hotels are trying to redefine it (often with longevity medicine and facilities). The kinds of experiences consumers want, in his opinion, are those that piggyback on what gyms and fitness or wellness centres are already offering, which bring consumers joy.

Global brands During a panel discussion moderated by Jean-Guy de Gabriac, founder of World Wellness Weekend, delegates learned about the difference in global approaches taken by operators Rosewood, Starwood Hotels and Accor. Daniel Poulin, senior director of wellness operations for Accor’s brands Sofitel, MGallery, Emblems and The Purist, told delegates about

upcoming properties around the world and how branding is being used to differentiate them. For example, Poulin said The Purist is the wellness label applied to Sofitel or Pullman properties. It has been created for properties that put wellness at the core of their offering and provides those sites with a strong commercial plan to bring in wellness guests to improve low seasonality performance. Poulin added that the Emblem brand is for a collection of landmark hotels that are also boutique hotels.

Membership programme Alena Stavnjak, corporate director of spa for Starwood Hotels, shared the new design of a membership programme for guests of the 1 Hotels ©Cybertrek Ltd 2025 Spa Business Issue 491

TEAMWORK HOSPITATLIY

■ Keynotes and panels discussed opportunities for growth and innovation

■ Alena Stavnjak of Starwood Hotels (left) and Daniel Poulin of Accor (right) spoke during a panel discussion about different global brands' approaches to wellness

ALL PHOTOSTEAMWORK HOSPITATLIY

luxury lifestyle brand that will allow guests to personalise their full hotel experience. Stavnjak added that 86 per cent of guests coming for these stays are having their preferences met. Magdy Abdelaty, director of wellness for The Chancery Rosewood in London, spoke about how the property is offering the highest nightly rate in the city, yet occupancy has been at 95 per cent since day one. Guests are largely from the Middle East and they're staying for seven to 14 days.

Design at the heart of spa Emlyn Brown, group director of spa, leisure and wellness at Mandarin Oriental, gave a presentation on wellness hospitality design and the shift away from a mindset that historically Spa Business Issue 491 ©Cybertrek Ltd 2025

Italian operations

35-38 per cent of Mandarin Oriental guests use the fitness facilities – it's an important place Emlyn Brown prioritised “heads-on beds” income. He said: “We’re now in the living business. Living in the hotel (in the bar, lobby, co-working areas) has become more important than sleeping.” He described being on a mission to change the exercise experience in hotels because this is a space where you can “touch the heart and soul of guests in a strong way.”

Delegates also heard from Italian designers, architects, consultants and operators. Massimo Caputi, president of Terme and Spa Italia, talked about the thermal destination spa De Montel, which opened earlier this year in Milan. His ambition is for the current visitor ratio to go from 80 per cent locals and 20 per cent tourists to 50 per cent from Milan and 50 per cent from outside the city.

Expo The event also featured networking and an exhibition where suppliers – including Lemi Group, Sothys, Cinq Mondes, Technogym, Carol Joy London, Saskia Spa and Icoone among others – shared their latest innovations and news. ● www.spabusiness.com

SAVE THE DATES INVEST

SUMMIT

21/10/2026 22/10/2026 Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre

LO N D O N www.hcmsummit.live

SUPPLIER NEWS

For the latest supplier news and company information, visit

spa-kit.net

Suppliers tell Spa Business insider about their latest product, design and technology launches

AM-FINN SAUNA AND STEAM

Am-Finn Sauna and Steam reveals controlled contrast therapy Frost Locker

S sauna and steamroom

“Any lower, it would discourage a

manufacturer Am-Finn

large percentage of the population

Sauna and Steam

from using it on a regular basis.

has created a contrast therapy

“Many spas are beginning to

room called Frost Locker for a

phase out cold plunges,” added

controlled cooling experience.

Kuzara. “The reasons align with

In response to both operator

what we’ve observed in the US

AM-FINN SAUNA AND STEAM

■ The target temperature for Am-Finn's Frost Locker is approximately -1.6 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit)

■ Steve Kuzara

demand and recent medical

fitness industry firsthand: sanitation

significant turning point, however,

studies, Am-Finn’s Frost Locker

challenges, liability concerns,

is the growing body of clinical

offers a cool experience that does

ongoing maintenance burdens and

evidence suggesting that mild,

not rely on extreme temperatures

very low long-term usage. For many

controlled cold exposure may be

for cold shock therapy. The target

members, cold plunges are a one-

more effective – and far safer –

temperature for the Frost Locker

time novelty experience rather than

than extreme cold shock therapy.”

is approximately -1.6°C (32°F).

a sustainable therapeutic regimen.”

Steve Kuzara, Am-Finn’s director

Kuzara continued: “What may

of engineering, told Spa Business,

ultimately prove to be the most