While spa hybrids aren't new - spas for travellers and sleep spas have been strong growth areas in recent years - other niche types of spa are becoming increasingly popular.
The most noticeable niching has occurred in the healthcare sector. Although dental spas first came onto the scene a few years ago, they can't be ignored. One leader in this field, Dr Paulo Malo (see SB09/4 p49), launched a US$46m (33m euro, £28.9m) Malo Clinic Spa at the Venetian Casino Resort in Macau in June 2009 and intends to roll out eight more by 2011.
The kidneySPA, which opened in Miami, US, in May 2009, provides spa-like experiences to help make the kidney dialysis process more comfortable and positive. Patients are offered hand massages, healthy snacks and drinks and have their senses stimulated by soothing music and scented candles.
Elsewhere in the US, Manhattan is now home to a gyno spa. PHIT (which stands for pelvic health integrated techniques) offers everything from pelvic reconstruction surgery and vaginal workouts to rejuvenation therapies. Details: www.maloclinics.com, www.theperfectphit.com, www.kidneyspa.com
(For more details, see p.11 of Spa Vision in Spa Business 10/02. To subscribe, visit spabusiness.com)
