1 mins
INSIDER SPA
CURVY KATE
Spa businesses enjoyed a powerful start to spring, with 79% reporting a rise in treatment business compared to March 2024 – a clear sign that demand for expert-led wellness experiences is on the up. Retail also performed well, with 58% seeing growth.
While average treatment room occupancy in March sat at 56%, many spa directors are focused on maximising staffing to meet growing demand. When asked about VAT reform, 63% said a reduction on labour costs would support their ability to hire more full-time staff – though rising overheads remains a key consideration for many.
In terms of recruitment for specialist services, the majority (53%) are investing in their own teams, while 38% are hiring external holistic therapists to expand their offering. Just 9% are working with visiting specialists, showing a strong preference for continuity.
On the spot
Would a VAT reduction on labour costs allow you to hire more full-time staff?
1. Yes, we could afford to expand our team (32%)
2. Yes, but only slightly – other costs are still high (31%)
3. No, VAT is not the main barrier to hiring staff (27%)
4. No, we prefer to manage labour costs in other ways (12%)
52% say guest referrals have increased in the last 12 months
How do you source practitioners for specialised treatments?
1. Train existing staff in-house (53%)
2. Hire external holistic therapists (38%)
3. Partner with visiting specialists (9%)
Month in numbers
How did treatment business in March 2025 compare with March 2024?
How did retail business in March 2025 compare with March 2024?
56% average treatment room occupancy in March