The US spa industry is recovering from the recession inline with the rest of the economy, with total industry revenue up 4.3 per cent during 2010 when compared with 2009 figures.

A study by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), commissioned by The International SPA Association (ISPA), also shows that total visits to US spas increased from 143m to 150m - growth of 4.7 per cent.

The tough economic environment continues, however, to have its effect on the industry as hundreds of facilities were forced to close during 2010.

In total, there were 700 fewer spas in the US at the end of 2010 than in December 2009.

Colin McIlheney, Global research director at PwC, said: "The key message from the survey is the spa industry in the US is recovering from the worst recession to hit the country in living memory.

"The most positive takeaway from the study is that the health of the industry has stabilized after the declines recorded last year. 'Cautiously optimistic' would sum up the recurring theme from many respondents."

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