November 2025 delivered strong momentum for spas, with more than half of businesses (52%) seeing an uplift in treatment revenue compared to last year and a further 41% holding steady. Retail also shone, with 56% reporting growth.
However, the Autumn Budget’s minimum wage increases are weighing heavily on operators’ minds. While 78% say they’ll need to raise prices to offset rising wage costs, this also reflects a confident understanding of the true value of professional spa services. Still, 92% feel the Budget overall will make business harder to manage, highlighting the need for careful planning and strong leadership in the months ahead.
On the operations front, most managers are taking a firmer stance on client behaviour, with 62% saying it’s sometimes necessary to turn away guests who repeatedly ignore spa rules – a clear sign that staff wellbeing and smooth operations remain top priorities.
For more expert guidance, turn to page 45 for the World Spa & Wellness special, packed with practical strategies to support your spa.
On the spot
How will the minimum wage increase in April affect business?
1. We’ll need to raise prices to cover higher wage costs (78%)
2. We may need to reduce hours or adjust staffing (19%)
3. I’m not sure yet, still reviewing the numbers (3%)
Do you reject clients who consistently break spa rules?
1. Yes, it is necessary to maintain staff morale and operations (62%)
2. Only in extreme cases (27%)
3. No, it’s not worth losing revenue over minor issues (11%)