WHICH QUALITY LABELS
AND AWARDS FOR YOUR SPA?
The spa industry is constantly evolving, blending innovation, excellence, and wellness. To stand out, establishments must adopt specific best practices, aim for prestigious spa awards, and adhere to recognized spa quality standards. This guide explores essential tools to transform a spa into a leading reference.
WHY AIM FOR EXCELLENCE IN THE SPA INDUSTRY?
Positioning yourself as a leader in the spa world isn’t just about prestige. It’s a winning strategy to:
- Enhance customer loyalty through exceptional experiences.
- Attract motivated talents who value high standards.
- Increase revenue by becoming the top choice for discerning clients.
Three essential tools help achieve these goals:
- Specialized guides that review and rate spas.
- Quality labels that set measurable standards.
- Awards that celebrate innovation and excellence.
QUALITY LABELS: A STRATEGIC INVESTMENT
Spa quality labels form the foundation of a structured and sustainable approach. These certifications are granted following rigorous audits conducted by experts or mystery clients.
Spa-A: The Benchmark Label in France
Established over 13 years ago, the Spa-A label is a must-have for French spas. With over 100 evaluation criteria, it covers:
- Quality of treatments and facilities.
- Environmental and CSR commitments, increasingly prioritized in the sector.
Benefits for Spa-A-certified spas:
- Improved internal organization through clearly defined standards.
- Recognition among clients seeking quality and sustainability.
- Support in continuous improvement initiatives.
Certification involves a demanding process with an audit every three years to ensure consistent quality.
Spas de France: The National Guide
Since 2009, Spas de France has listed over 200 spas in a widely distributed guide. Unlike Spa-A, this guide primarily relies on scheduled visits rather than mystery clients.
What sets Spas de France apart:
- An online platform attracting over 800,000 unique visitors annually.
- Direct support to spas for increasing visibility and attracting customers.
We base our approach on what is available in your country and also provide and work with evaluation grids of over 100 criteria from these labels to support you.
SPA AWARDS: RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE
Spa awards publicly acknowledge a facility’s excellence. Unlike labels, they often rely on customer votes or specialized jury evaluations.
Benefits of awards for spas:
- Increased visibility: Awards draw attention from media and consumers.
- Competitive differentiation: They help stand out in a crowded market.
- Team motivation: Participating in competitions fosters cohesion and continuous improvement.
Notable awards include:
- The LQA, (Leading Quality Assurance) with 800 criteria to fullfil.
- The Condé Nast
- The Forbes Travel Guide Awards.
FORBES TRAVEL GUIDE: THE PINNACLE OF INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION
Forbes Travel Guide is a global benchmark for evaluating hospitality and spas. Its unique approach combines:
- Fundamental standards covering basic client expectations.
- Experiential standards highlighting the uniqueness and authenticity of establishments.
According to Amanda Frasier, President of Forbes Travel Guide Evaluations, “only 15% of Forbes-rated hotels in France feature a referenced spa.” The criteria are strict, ensuring the spa harmonizes seamlessly with the overall hotel experience.
BEST PRACTICES TO EXCEL IN THE SPA INDUSTRY
Whether pursuing a label or winning an award, some universal practices drive excellence:
- Train and stabilize teams: Skilled staff is the cornerstone of a successful customer experience. Incorporate regular training aligned with international standards like LQA or Forbes.
- Focus on innovation: Award-winning spas often stand out through creativity in treatments, architecture, or technology.
- Adopt a sustainability-focused approach: With growing environmental concerns, clients value spas committed to eco-friendly practices.
- Communicate effectively: Share achievements on social media and highlight certifications and awards. A well-orchestrated communication strategy attracts attention and fosters loyalty.
THE IMPACT OF LABELS AND AWARDS ON RECRUITMENT
Spa labels and awards are not just marketing assets; they also play a crucial role in talent recruitment and retention.
- Strengthened employer branding: Certifications and distinctions enhance the establishment’s image, attracting professionals driven by excellence.
- Trust guarantee: Working in an award-winning or certified spa assures staff of career growth opportunities.
CONCLUSION
Building a Winning Strategy
In a booming sector, integrating best practices, pursuing spa awards, and achieving spa quality certifications are essential for differentiation. These efforts not only recognize excellence but also boost customer satisfaction, motivate teams, and drive financial growth.
Whether you’re a spa manager or a wellness professional, take time to assess your goals and define the tools best suited to your establishment. This will set you on the path to sustainable success.
Each project has its specific characteristics; each client faces their own set of needs and challenges. We provide solutions and support services tailored to your project and needs.