"Now more than ever, it is vital to consider the role that technology can play to support and build our businesses."

As we continue to navigate life during the Covid-19 pandemic, a key question that leaders in hospitality are asking right now is: ‘How our spas are reopening, how can we ensure guests have confidence in our brand?’

While there is no single or simple answer, one thing the hospitality and wellness industry can be certain of is that we will have to embrace change more than we ever have.

This is a time of extreme tests and challenges and we need to think outside the box, be more creative and prepare our businesses with the right tools and resources to define our ‘new normal’. We must embrace change in workplace operations; how we support our customers; and how we enhance and define the new wellness experience.

As we work in such a high-touch industry, we’re going to have to figure out ways to physically distance ourselves while maintaining the overall spa experience. We will need to creatively eliminate any unnecessary communal touch-points.

It is vital to consider the role that technology can play to support and build our businesses in these circumstances. We need to prepare our operations to make a positive transformation.

Eliminate paper receipts

Receipts in the wellness world are common, for benefit reimbursements or just for personal records, but why not offer a digital version instead of a print-out? Most cloud-based spa software systems offer the ability to automatically email receipts to your guests when they checkout. This also allows you to build your customer database with relevant contact information for future services.

Digital waivers and intake forms

On arrival, most spas require each guest to fill out a paper form regarding any health issues – sometimes using a communal tablet that every guest eventually touches. To avoid this, consider investing in a digital intake product that allows your guests to fill out their forms on a computer or personal mobile device before they visit you.

Touchless payment options

Most countries now support touchless payment options for card charges, including Apple and Google Pay. Check with your card provider to see what options they offer. There may still be situations where customers need to use a pin pad to authorise a transaction, so remember to disinfect the device after every use.

Boost your online bookings

Encourage your clients to self-book online by offering incentives or promotions. This will help reduce the time your customer has to spend in reception and aid protection of your front-line staff. Guests may also be
more inclined to arrange additional services prior to their arrival if they
have booked online.

Infrared temperature sensors

You may have noticed an increased number of temperature checks being offered in various places. Depending on location, spas may have to think about taking this step as an extra precaution. Investing in handheld temperature sensors will allow business owners to test staff as well as guests to provide another assurance that you’re operating safely.

These measures cannot be implemented overnight and it will take time to assimilate to a new way of operating. Success will come for spas that embrace all the benefits technology has to offer to help them adapt. Every business needs to to take a tech-forward approach to redefine the wellness journey.