Business trends
Insider SPA
MONSOON
March 2026 delivered a broadly steady performance, with over half (52%) of spas reporting treatment revenue in line with March 2025 and a further 13% achieving growth. Retail results followed a similar pattern, with nearly two-thirds (63%) holding steady year on year.
Recruitment remains one of the sector’s most pressing challenges. Just over half of spa leaders (53%) report difficulty finding qualified therapists, while 38% say staffing is manageable. Retention, rather than hiring alone, continues to be a secondary pressure point for a smaller proportion of businesses, highlighting the importance of workplace culture and development pathways.
Encouragingly, only 11% of spa owners regret recent price increases, suggesting growing confidence in the value of professional treatments and a more realistic alignment between pricing and costs.
Looking ahead, investment intent remains strong. If VAT on treatments were reduced, the majority (54%) would prioritise upgrading facilities or equipment, while others would focus on staff training and wellbeing.
Month in numbers
How did treatment business in March 2026 compare with March 2025?
How did retail business in March 2026 compare with March 2025?
54% average treatment room occupancy in March 2026
On the spot
What best reflects your experience in recruiting qualified therapists?
1. We struggle to find qualified therapists (53%)
2. We have no problems with staffing (38%)
3. Recruitment is OK but retention is difficult (9%)
If VAT on spa treatments were reduced, what would your business do with the savings?
1. Upgrade facilities or equipment (54%)
2. Invest in staff training and wellbeing (27%)
3. Absorb costs to protect profit margins (10%)
4. Reduce consumer prices (9%)
11% regret price increases they’ve made