| 10 Steps to a Successful Spa Launch | |
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If
you are planning to open a spa, you are not alone. According to industry
experts, there were 600 day spas in 1998, up from 30 day spas in 1987. And, the
number of destination spas in the U.S. has increased since 1995. In addition, a
reported 70% of spas are expanding their operations. To capitalize on this
opportunity smart entrepreneurs are hatching sophisticated plans in order to
keep costs and schedules under control. Profitable spas rest upon sturdy
foundations of smooth traffic flow, optimal room utilization, and efficient
human resources planning. After launching and growing numerous spas over the
past twenty years, I have identified these ten steps to successful spa
development.
Step 2: Assess Staffing Needs and
Competitors
Step
3: Iron Out the Design and Concept
Step
4: Develop a Menu of Spa Services
Step 5: Develop an Operations Manual
Step
6: Projecting Costs and Profits
Step
9: Preparing for Opening Day
Step 10: Maintain the Enthusiasm for
Quality
Following
these ten steps will help ensure that your spa's launch is successful and that your spa is
successful in the long-term, as well.
Caren Thornburgh, founder of Virtual Spa, Inc. (www.virtualspa.net ), a Web gateway site serving the
needs of spa owners and managers with consulting, training programs, and spa career
services. She can be reached at (978) 356-0824 or caren@virtualspa.net.
graphics courtesy of Caren Thornburgh
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