Spa Industry Shows Signs of Steady Growth

A new report spells good news for licensed estheticians in the spa industry! The report from the International SPA Association (ISPA) found that spa revenue in the U.S. grew 4.5% to $13.4 billion at the end of 2011 from a year earlier. The study also found a significant increase in the number of spa visits and the number of full-time employees compared to the previous year.

Here are some highlights of the report:

• Spa revenues are up by 4.5% year-over-year to $13.4 billion
• Spa visits are up 4.1% to 156 million visits
• Employment in the spa industry held steady, with full-time employment estimating to have risen 9.3%. With declines in part-time and contract employment, this suggests that the industry is getting back on track in the wake of the economic downturn.
• The number of spa locations was broadly unchanged compared to 2010.

The study reveals that 83% of spas have made one or more changes to their business including increased number of treatment offerings, new retail product offerings, and shorter treatment options. These changes helped to stimulate demand and increase the total number of spa visits, resulting in an increase in revenue for the spa industry.

“The spa industry is growing at a healthy rate in revenues and visits. Overall confidence remains high across the board as the spa industry is outpacing economic growth,” said ISPA President Lynne McNees.

The ISPA survey is updated every year with five key statistics crucial to the spa industry including revenue, spa visits, the number of spa locations, total employment in the industry and square footage.

Check out the complete ISPA 2012 U.S. Spa Industry Study for yourself.

If you’re interested in working in the spa industry and training to become a licensed esthetician, fill out the form to the right or call 1-877-987-HAIR (4247).