Spa Space has debuted a turnkey technology solution involving a patent-pending algorithm that matches guest preferences to expert therapists and unlocks access to available treatment rooms across multiple spa locations. Spa Space was created by the founders of ISM Spa and is currently in beta testing within their network of hotel and resort spas in the southeast U.S.
Spa Space was born out of pain points experienced by the founders. “We started developing Spa Space before COVID-19 changed the world,” says Ilana Alberico, co-founder of Spa Space and ISM Spa and owner of Spa Space Chicago. “The intent was to create a technology solution to address the customer, therapist, and spa facility challenges we observed over the past 20 years as spa owners and operators. Now more than ever, the world is seeking the healing power of touch, but the demand is for more personalization. Spa Space will make that possible.”
Spa Space alleviates headaches caused by traditional spa operations by handling recruiting, staffing, quality control, scheduling, and real-time payroll to therapists. The result is a dynamic staffing and revenue-management solution that improves operating efficiencies and increases guest and therapist satisfaction. “I love the schedule flexibility, real-time compensation, and feeling of empowerment,” says Melissa Donaghy, a Spa Space therapist with nine years of experience.
Spa Space Chicago is the inspiration behind the Spa Space technology. The spa’s long-term success is credited to the personal relationship the guests have with their therapists and the fact that they have eliminated the use of a static spa menu. Instead, Spa Space Chicago gives their therapist the freedom to create personalized treatment plans for their guests. Now with the Spa Space technology and algorithm, resort spas across the country can implement that personalized experience to capture more local traffic while also streamlining operations.
Early results show that Spa Space has delivered a 60 percent reduction in fixed operating expenses. Expansion continues this quarter to participating spas, including Spa Space Chicago, Grand Hyatt, The Biltmore, Marriott Vacation Club properties, and Autograph Collection Hotels.
Says Lori Kiel, chief revenue and marketing officer for The Kessler Collection, “ISM’s willingness to embrace this new technology and create a personalized approach to booking spa clients and guests appeals to the luxury client that we attract and encourages and gives confidence that the world can again travel and enjoy the experience of a spa without the risk.”
