During October 2004 and July 2005, Health Fitness Dynamics, Inc. (HFD) conducted a worldwide spa economic study entitled HFD’s 2003/2004 Spa Financial Benchmark Research Study. This landmark study provides never-before released financial analysis of spa performance and contribution and was an expansion of HFD’s 2001 Spa Revenue per Occupied Room Study.

Why Did HFD Do this Study?
Since 1994, HFD has funded and conducted spa economic research because we believe the spa industry has always been in need of having reliable financial information. This information is crucial for resort spa owners, operators, asset managers, investors, developers, etc. to understand the economic realities of the “spa business.” As more and more spas are built, there will be an increased need to understand the financial viability of spas and to create economic benchmarks and management tools.

Research Process
In June 2004, HFD contacted major hotel/resort chains; management companies; asset managers; hospitality marketing organizations and associations; spa marketing organizations and associations; and independent hotels/resorts. HFD explained the nature and purpose of the study and invited them and their properties/members to participate.

A brief survey was developed which included mostly open-ended questions and was self-administered by the spas. Surveys were sent out to all participating spas via fax and e-mail in October 2004 and July 2005. As necessary, HFD made follow-up telephone calls for clarification. All information was self-reported by the participants. All the invited participants were resort spas where the spa is defined as “a full-service facility that is part of a lodging establishment (hotel or resort). Guests at the resort may enjoy the spa as well as other recreational activities such as golf, tennis, horseback riding, skiing, water sports, etc. The spa offers a variety of treatments (massage, skin care, body, bath, hair care, nail care, make-up, etc.), fitness (exercise equipment, exercise classes) and relaxation areas (lounges, steam, sauna, whirlpool, Turkish bath, Kneipp baths, etc.). Some spa cuisine or healthy dining options are likely to be part of the resort’s F&B menu.”

A total of 60 spas participated in the research study. Sixty percent were located in the United States and forty percent were non-US (International).

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