Day Spas and Fitness Center's Join Forces

Q. I was recently in Chicago for business and went to a spa for a facial. They had an entire selection of fitness classes in the spa. The owner said it’s a trend. What’s up?

A. In this economy many business are working together. The Spa industry makes a perfect partner with the Fitness industry. Many of the same clients who would spend time in a day spa will also be taking care of their bodies and health. The idea of a connection of the mind, body and spirit is the essence of the spa philosophy. There are numerous ways these two business models overlap. Massage is the obvious cross over service, it increases circulation, helps flush out the lymphatic system, aids in digestion and improves overall range of motion in the joints and limbs. It’s the perfect complement service to fitness training. The cross marketing does not end with massage. Promotion of pedicures can increase with every yoga or Pilate’s class. When the shoes come off to perform your class, bare feet get a lot of attention. Services like facials increase as clients begin to improve their own self image and the relaxation element of many spa services go well with the de-stressing component of working out. Spray tanning appeals to people getting in shape and who want to look better. In many major cities spas offer extensive detox wraps and programs. You are going to see more and more of the trend because it just makes good business sense. The clients are the real winners. As companies join forces, they can offer combination packages and menu selections at more competitive prices and the clients benefit from the good prices and the convenience of having these related businesses close together. This is one of the things I love about America. When times get tough, the entrepreneurs start getting creative and everyone benefits.