Business trends
Insider SPA
COTTON TRADERS
December closed the year on a largely positive note for many spas, with over half reporting stronger treatment revenue compared with the previous festive season. Retail also performed well, with 51% seeing year-on-year growth, underlining the continued importance of therapist-led recommendations during peak gifting periods.
Looking ahead, spa leaders are entering 2026 with a clear-eyed view of the challenges. Nearly half cite more cautious client spending as their biggest concern, closely followed by rising wage costs and the ongoing difficulty of attracting and retaining skilled therapists.
In response, many are taking a strategic approach to efficiency: 78% are considering refining their treatment or service menu to focus on what performs best, rather than trying to be everything to everyone.
Encouragingly, investment priorities reveal a strong commitment to long-term resilience. More than half plan to prioritise training and education, even if it means cutting back on spend elsewhere.
Month in numbers
How did treatment business in December 2025 compare with December 2024?
How did retail business in December 2025 compare with December 2024?
56% average treatment room occupancy in December
78% are considering reducing their treatment or service menu to improve efficiency
On the spot
What is your biggest concern going into 2026?
1. Client spending becoming more cautious (46%)
2. Rising staff and wage costs (28%)
3.Recruiting and retaining skilled staff (26%)
Which area will you prioritise investment in this year, even if it means cutting back elsewhere?
1. Training and education (53%)
2. Marketing and visibility (24%)
3. Staff pay, benefits or wellbeing (23%)