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ISPA Releases 2009 U.S. Spa Industry Statistics

Geoff Thacker, Managing Partner of the Association Resource Centre suggests that, "Spa owners are starting to feel the impact of recent economic events." The annual study, conducted for nine consecutive years by Association Resource Centre Inc., is reflective of the entire U.S. spa industry.

"We are pleased to report that 2008 was another year of growth for the spa industry, but we know that we have a tough road ahead as our industry is not immune to the current economy," said ISPA President Lynne McNees. "Even though the number of spa locations are up, at a per spa level revenues and visits are slightly down and showing the early effects of the economic downfall."

                         2007           2008            Percent
                        (Year End)     (Year End)       Change
    Revenue            $10.9 billion  $12.8 billion       17.8%
    Spa Visits          138 million    160 million        15.8%
    Locations           17,900         21,300             18.8%

                         2008           2009            Percent
                        (June)         (March)          Change
    Total Employees     303,700        340,600            12.2%
      Full-Time         143,300        158,200            10.5%
      Part-Time         112,000        112,300             0.3%
      Contract          48,500         70,100             44.5%
    Square Footage      60 million     81 million
                        square feet    square feet        34.7%

Key findings include:

    --  Overall industry revenues continued to grow at an annual rate of 17.8
        percent, while at a per spa level revenue experienced a slight decline.
    --  Day spas continue to dominate the industry at 79 percent of total spas.
    --  ISPA members average more revenue, visits, employees and space by
        significant margins.
    --  Since July 2007, the number of medical spas has grown by 85 percent,
        further proof that this spa type is still a notable part of the
        industry.

    --  The number of locations in the U.S. has experienced a five year average
        growth of 17 percent.

In addition to the Spa Industry Update, ISPA keeps up with the latest developments in the industry by conducting monthly member surveys to gauge trends in the global spa community. In June 2009, 46 percent saw an increase in the number of shorter treatments (30 minutes or less) booked, and 48 percent of ISPA members reported a decrease in the amount spent per visit when compared to the same time last year. While people are still frequenting the spa, consumers are opting for shorter, less expensive treatments to help fit their budget, while still investing in their overall wellness.

To view the full ISPA 2009 U.S. Industry Update including a breakdown by spa type click here.

About ISPA

ISPA is recognized worldwide as the leading professional organization and voice of the spa industry. More details on ISPA are available on www.experienceispa.com.

    CONTACT:  Shelby Jones
    1.859.425.5072 and shelby.jones@ispastaff.com

SOURCE International SPA Association