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Mastering the art of commercial success

Emlyn Brown, global senior vice-president of wellbeing at Accor, highlights the importance of a well planned commercial strategy for your spa

Global

By Wendy Golledge

14 January 2025

group.accor.com/en
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Effective commercial planning of spa leadership is often an overlooked aspect. Yet it’s indispensable for achieving sustainable growth and profitability.

In an industry characterised by fierce competition, success lies not just in creating a tranquil ambiance and quality spa experiences, but in meticulously crafting a commercial plan.

Pricing strategies, service offerings and market dynamics all underscore the need for a strategic, focused approach to financial success.

A market-driven outlook

Speaking exclusively in the summer issue of European Spa, Brown wrote that market research is the cornerstone of a successful commercial plan. It entails analysing market trends, consumer preferences and the competitive landscape.

By delving into demographic data, businesses can pinpoint their ideal clientele and customise their offerings to meet their specific needs and desires.

Woman sleeping in futuristic neon light
In Accor’s annual Wellness Travel Trends report 2025, Brown predicts the simpler aspects of wellness, like good quality sleep, will take centre stage

Defining your avatar

Creating a detailed profile of your ideal customer, known as an avatar, is instrumental in personalising a commercial plan.

In the current digital age, where consumers are tech-savvy and socially connected, it’s crucial to adapt marketing strategies.

Leverage social media and harness data-driven insights to effectively engage with target audiences and tailor offerings to resonate with preferences.

"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication when it comes to spa menus. Rather than overwhelming customers with options, focus on excellence by curating a refined selection that showcases your strengths."

Emlyn Brown

Global senior vice-president of wellbeing at Accor

Streamlining and selling

By embracing simplicity and the principle of less is more, you can prioritise quality over quantity.

Streamlining your offer to deliver exceptional experiences means you can differentiate your spa and cultivate a reputation for excellence.

Couples treatment room in a spa
Accor opened the Guerlain-branded destination spa at Raffles London at The OWO in 2023

The SoLoMo approach

A robust spa marketing strategy includes a blend of social, local and mobile channels to engage people effectively.

Embrace a multi-channel approach. Leverage social media platforms and email marketing campaigns, and foster partnerships with local brands and key opinion leaders.

Authenticity, consistency and visual storytelling are key to capturing attention and fostering connections.

Five top takeaways

KNOW YOUR MARKET

Understand clientele demographics, preferences and spending habits to tailor your spa offerings effectively.

 

FOCUSED SERVICE

Offer set treatments and packages; focus on where you excel

 

STRATEGIC SERVICES

Set competitive yet profitable pricing strategies based on market research. Don’t be afraid of the flexibility of surge pricing at weekends or busy periods.

 

EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICES

Prioritise customer satisfaction through personalised service. Encourage and incentivise guest reviews – the cheapest marketing tool you have.

 

SOLOMO

Use digital marketing channels, such as social media, email campaigns and targeted adverts. Sponsored content is also a great way to make an impact with visual storytelling.

Aligning incentives

Incentives play a pivotal role in driving desired behaviours and aligning a team’s efforts with commercial objectives.

Whether through performance bonuses, recognition programmes or career advancement opportunities, ensure that incentives are aligned with the goals of both individuals and your organisation.

While attracting new customers is important, spas should prioritise initiatives that incentivise repeat visits and foster customer loyalty.

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Find out more about the wellness offerings at Accor using the link below

https://all.accor.com
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