ISPA Releases 2009 U.S. Spa Industry Statistics

LEXINGTON, Ky., July 1 /PRNewswire/ -- The International SPA Association 2009
U.S. Spa Industry Update reveals a steady increase across the board in overall
spa locations, revenues and visits. While this may seem unexpected given the
current economic climate it's important to keep in mind that these numbers are
from the calendar year of 2008, the first half of which was very profitable
for many spas.

Geoff Thacker, Managing Partner of the Association Resource Centre suggests
that, "Spa owners are starting to feel the impact of recent economic events."
The annual study, conducted for nine consecutive years by Association Resource
Centre Inc., is reflective of the entire U.S. spa industry.

"We are pleased to report that 2008 was another year of growth for the spa
industry, but we know that we have a tough road ahead as our industry is not
immune to the current economy," said ISPA President Lynne McNees. "Even though
the number of spa locations are up, at a per spa level revenues and visits are
slightly down and showing the early effects of the economic downfall."

2007 2008 Percent
(Year End) (Year End) Change
Revenue $10.9 billion $12.8 billion 17.8%
Spa Visits 138 million 160 million 15.8%
Locations 17,900 21,300 18.8%

2008 2009 Percent
(June) (March) Change
Total Employees 303,700 340,600 12.2%
Full-Time 143,300 158,200 10.5%
Part-Time 112,000 112,300 0.3%
Contract 48,500 70,100 44.5%
Square Footage 60 million 81 million
square feet square feet 34.7%

Key findings include:

-- Overall industry revenues continued to grow at an annual rate of 17.8
percent, while at a per spa level revenue experienced a slight
decline.
-- Day spas continue to dominate the industry at 79 percent of total
spas.
-- ISPA members average more revenue, visits, employees and space by
significant margins.
-- Since July 2007, the number of medical spas has grown by 85 percent,
further proof that this spa type is still a notable part of the
industry.

-- The number of locations in the U.S. has experienced a five year
average
growth of 17 percent.

In addition to the Spa Industry Update, ISPA keeps up with the latest
developments in the industry by conducting monthly member surveys to gauge
trends in the global spa community. In June 2009, 46 percent saw an increase
in the number of shorter treatments (30 minutes or less) booked, and 48
percent of ISPA members reported a decrease in the amount spent per visit when
compared to the same time last year. While people are still frequenting the
spa, consumers are opting for shorter, less expensive treatments to help fit
their budget, while still investing in their overall wellness.

To view the full ISPA 2009 U.S. Industry Update including a breakdown by spa
type click here.

About ISPA
ISPA is recognized worldwide as the leading professional organization and
voice of the spa industry. More details on ISPA are available on
www.experienceispa.com.

CONTACT: Shelby Jones
1.859.425.5072 and shelby.jones@ispastaff.com

SOURCE International SPA Association

Shelby Jones, +1-859-425-5072, shelby.jones@ispastaff.com