European Spa Leaders’ Resource 2026 officially launches in Scotland at the ishga Conference

The European Spa Leaders’ Resource 2026 officially launched in Scotland at the ishga Conference.

The annual conference was held at the iconic W Edinburgh, marking the first time the event has taken place in Scotland’s capital.

It brought together leading spa managers for a day-long programme celebrating spa excellence and leadership. The brand also laid out its plans for 2026 and beyond.

Following a welcome address by co-founder Leon Trayling, Helena Grzesk MBE led a grounding and energising guided breathwork session.

An inspiring keynote was delivered by Paralympic gold medalist Samantha Kinghorn OBE, who shared her life story from a debilitating injury to achieving Olympic success.

Science and innovation

Media consultant and European Spa’s deputy editor, Mark Smith and Cara Hosie, head of marketing for ishga presented the marketing and PR overview of 2025.

Natasha Nickson from the Soil Association explained the importance of organic certification and why it matters in today’s market.

ishga co-founder Malcolm Macrae and head of research Sophia Mackay offered unique insights into the latest science developments and shared a pipeline of new products set to launch in 2026.

Trainers, Lucy Mingo and Katherine Milliken discussed the launch of Tides of Change and the accreditation for Nurturing Touch Training.

Inspirational speakers

“The insight and inspiration from all of our speakers added valuable takeaways from a business and personal perspective – already looking forward to raising the bar at least another one per cent next year,” said Trayling.

“We are also pleased to partner with European Spa to present the brand new European Spa Leaders’ Resource to delegates in Scotland.”

Award-winning fashion designer, Siobhan MacKenzie unveiled the designs for ishga’s bespoke tartan that will be used across various elements of packaging, marketing and social media in the future.

The final speaker of the day, Renee LeBlanc, founder of Elevated Wellness, spoke about gratitude and goal setting.

ishga Awards

The event concluded with the presentation of ishga Awards.

ishga Star Therapist – Lisa Anderson, Linden Hall

ishga Star Front of House – Isabella Henderson, Coworth Park

ishga Ambassador – Alyson Shaw, Si! Spa at The Gailes and the Waterside

Most Creative Marketing campaign – Kimpton – Katie Palmer and Finlay Anderson for their Stay Well in room amenities/services offering

Year on Year Growth – Noreen Hickey, Auchrannie Hotel

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