Top team: Peninsula Hotels
Kath Hudson talks to key figures behind the leading Asian hotel chain about how they run their spas and exciting future plans
Profile: Cynthia Chua
The Singapore entrepreneur behind Ministry of Waxing and Browhaus has revolutionised personal grooming worldwide. She talks to Katie Barnes about the business of beauty and integration with spas
Hot springs: Chinese-style!
Lisa Starr tries out two hot spring spas - one catering to international visitors and the other to the domestic market - in China's Yunnan province
Bath time: The Chinese bathhouse
Lee David Stephens gives an insight into a traditional Chinese bathhouse and how Chinese people like to spa
Resort Spa: Sands of time
The Oitavos hotel and spa on Portugal's Estoril coast is 90 years in the making. Tom Walker pays a visit
Interview: Gary Henkin
The president and founder of WTS International - the US-based spa management and consultancy firm - talks to Rhianon Howells about expanding globally
Ask an expert: Crisis control
The Arab Spring, the Japanese tsunami and bombings in Mumbai - what's the best way of dealing with a crisis? We ask those who have first-hand experience of the events
New Zealand thermal spa: Pooling resources
The Polynesian Spa in the geothermal town of Rotorua in New Zealand boasts 25 thermal pools and is one of the longest running attractions in the country. Chris McBeath takes a look
Tourism: Booming Baku
Terry Stevens reports on the Azerbaijan capital which has seen a surge of international hotel openings in the past two years
Fitness: Pilates pure vs applied
Pure vs applied - should pilates only ever involve the exercises designed by Joseph Pilates, or can his philosophy be applied while keeping the product moving with the times?
Just arrived Rocco for men & Aquari women’s wrap – Fashionizer Spa Uniforms The uniform: Fashionizer Spa Uniforms LLC unveiled two new styles – the Rocco top for men and the Aquari wrap for women – in its cotton performance fabric (CPF) line at the ISPA exhibition in late 2011.
What makes them stand out? The Rocco for men is a smart, short-sleeved, polo-style shirt in either black or white, while the Aquari wrap for women is a cross-over tunic with an adjustable, elasticised tie belt. Fashionizer’s CPF comprises organic cotton and other fibres for stretch and comfort and a soil release treatment to help clean oil stains.
Company background: Fashionizer Spa Uniforms is the US affiliate of Fashionizer Couture Uniforms, a supplier of uniform solutions for 18 years within the hospitality, corporate, cosmetic, spa and retail sectors. It supplies Hyatt, Renaissance, Trump and Aspria spas, among others.
SPA-KIT.NET KEYWORDs: FASHIONIZER SPA
The Rocco top for men is made of organic cotton for stretch and comfort
New for 2012 Linen Collection – Salonwear Direct The uniform: The 2012 Linen Collection from Salonwear Direct features three tunics and practical straight-leg, drawstring trousers designed as an elegant and stylish option for spa professionals across Europe.
What makes the collection stand out? The new collection features a smart and professional image, with clothing that is lightweight but durable and made from 100 per cent natural fabric for breathability and coolness. To fit in with the ‘natural’ style, the collection comes in a new tan shade although other colours are also on offer.
What’s next? In 2012, Salonwear Direct will be redesigning its existing salon tunics with new trims and two new colours – turquoise and silver grey – to complement its current palette of hot pink, purple, charcoal, pin stripe, navy, black and white. The company will also donate £2 (US$3.11, e2.40) to a charity of choice from every sale of its upcoming Ribbon tunics range.
Company background: Salonwear Direct has been supplying uniforms for more than 10 years and has been voted The Best Uniform Supplier for two years running at the UK’s Guild Awards of Excellence. It is known for its “exceptional standard of quality and service”.
SPA-KIT.NET KEYWORD: SALONWEAR
The new linen collection features three new elegant and stylish tunics
Showcase Vibrancy towels – BC Softwear The linen: The Vibrancy range is a line of plain bath and hand towels that come in nine different colours – purple, pink, deep blue, chocolate brown, silver grey, black, beige, burgundy and cream. It complements BC Softwear’s Serenity waffle towel collection to give spa operators a choice of textures.
What makes the line stand out? The towels have been designed with durability in mind and keep their colour – even dark dyes are said to withstand intensive washing by busy spa operators.
Other key features: The super soft towels have been created to stay softer for longer.
What’s next? In 2012, operators can expect different sizes and colours in the Vibrancy and Serenity ranges. The company also plans to increase its bathrobe options.
Company background: BC Softwear supplies more than 200 spas including high-end UK destinations like Ragdale Hall, Coworth Park and Dolphin Square Spa.
SPA-KIT.NET KEYWORDs: BC SOFTWEAR
The new towel range is available in nine colours and stays super soft
Just arrived Pravia Collection – Yeah Baby The uniform: A jacket with an invisible zip, the Pravia will create a professional image for front desk staff and therapists alike. It was first unveiled at the ISPA exhibition in late 2011.
What makes it stand out? It has a modern look and is made out of Yeah Baby’s Solancia stretch fabric to allow freedom of movement and comfort.
Other key features: Pravia has an adjustable back belt which can be tightened or loosened to flatter different body types. Colour options include black, white, tan, navy and chocolate; while piping around the collars and sleeves can be customised according to a spa’s unique brand. Logo embroidery options are also available.
What’s next? In early 2012, Yeah Baby will reveal its Sofia Collection, a wrap top for aestheticians to complement the Pravia. This will be followed by Roxy semi-fitted trousers to complete the look.
SPA-KIT.NET KEYWORDs: YEAH BABY
The new Pravia jacket has an invisible zip and an adjustable back belt
Showcase Bonbon and Yin – Monique Mathieu Paris The uniform: Just under a year old, the Bonbon and Yin tops are some of the most popular in the Monique Mathieu Paris collection. The Bonbon has a high waistline just below the chest and is considered the most fashionable and sophisticated in the range, while the Yin has a Mao-style collar, no sleeves and elastic fabric on both sides for added comfort.
What makes them stand out? The high-quality fabric is sourced from Europe and the design has the distinct touch of founder Monique Mathieu who was an apprentice dress designer for French fashion houses such as Givenchy.
Other key features: The uniforms come in champagne colour as well as black and white. The fabrics include pique and gabardine, made up of 67 per cent polyester and 33 per cent cotton, so are easy to wash and clean.
What’s next? Mathieu’s Tibet uniforms will hit the big screen in 2012 – the range was selected for a spa scene in the Adam Sandler movie I Hate You Dad which launches in June.
Company background: Monique Mathieu uniforms are available worldwide and top customers include Thalgo in France and Janssen Cosmetics in Germany.
SPA-KIT.NET KEYWORDs: MONIQUE MATHIEU
The popular sleeveless Yin top has a Mao-style collar and quality fabric
Just arrived 2012 Collections – Noel Asmar The uniform: Driven by fashion trends, Noel Asmar has unveiled three collections for 2012, including pencil bottoms and two flattering tunics.
What makes them stand out? The collections have a flattering set-in, pin-tuck waist band and detailed stitching. Metal buttons and zippers have also been added for a new look.
Other key features: The uniforms are made with stain and wrinkle-resistant fabric that doesn’t fade nor bobble up. The quality fabric also promises a long-lasting uniform. Various body shapes and sizes within staff make it challenging for spa directors to select one style to suit all. With this in mind, Asmar has added side hip vents for ease of movement, stretch in every garment and stocks xxs to 5xl in most styles, with custom-styling and sizing available on demand. For brand continuity, a range of matching suiting options are available to concierge and front desk staff.
What’s next? Asmar also offers hotel and medi-spa uniforms and plans to expand this part of the business in 2012. It is currently looking for distributors in Europe.
Company background: Noel Asmar prides itself on offering practical yet fashionable spa uniforms and founder Noel Asmar says: “Customers often comment on how great therapists look and spa directors get super feedback from their staff”. It supplies operators such as Canyon Ranch, Fairmont Willowstream Spas, Four Seasons, Hilton, Hyatt and Ritz-Carlton, as well as product companies such as Aveda, ESPA and Decléor. In November, the company was awarded Best Spa Uniform Manufacturer for the third year in a row by American Spa magazine.
SPA-KIT.NET KEYWORDs: NOEL ASMAR
The new tunics have a built-in waist band that is flattering for all sizes
Showcase Wellsoft robes and linen – RKF Luxury Linen The linen: The WellSoft range includes bathrobes, plaids and blankets for relaxation areas and retail.
What makes it stand out? The WellSoft fabric, which was launched in 2011, is made out of 100 per cent fine polyester which has been blasted to give a soft touch as well as a warm, cocooning feel.
Other key features: As the fabric is light, it is easier and not so expensive to clean compared with heavier fabrics.
What’s next? In 2012 it will debut its micro-cotton fabric range of table linen, bath towels, bath robes, slippers and matts. The fabric is made from a fine 100 per cent cotton and while thicker and fluffier than regular cotton it will also be light (and more economical to wash).
Company background: With its international presence, RKF Luxury Linen works with up-market hotels, spas, restaurants and golf courses as well as in the yachting arena. In the spa world, it has supplied companies such as the new Spa My Blend by Clarins in Paris (retail bathrobe pictured), Thalgo, Carita and SkinCeuticals. One of its best-selling items is an extra-large massage bed towel that has velour on one side and terry-towelling on the other, which RKF supplies in tailor-made colours and with bespoke embroidery.
SPA-KIT.NET KEYWORDs: RKF LUXURY
RKF Luxury Linen supplies the new Spa My Blend by Clarins in Paris
An opportunity to reimagine one of the UK’s most recognisable towers has been formally
opened by Rivington Hark, as St Johns Beacon invites operators and partners to shape its
next phase. [more...]
Top team: Peninsula Hotels
Kath Hudson talks to key figures behind the leading Asian hotel chain about how they run their spas and exciting future plans
Profile: Cynthia Chua
The Singapore entrepreneur behind Ministry of Waxing and Browhaus has revolutionised personal grooming worldwide. She talks to Katie Barnes about the business of beauty and integration with spas
Hot springs: Chinese-style!
Lisa Starr tries out two hot spring spas - one catering to international visitors and the other to the domestic market - in China's Yunnan province
Bath time: The Chinese bathhouse
Lee David Stephens gives an insight into a traditional Chinese bathhouse and how Chinese people like to spa
Resort Spa: Sands of time
The Oitavos hotel and spa on Portugal's Estoril coast is 90 years in the making. Tom Walker pays a visit
Interview: Gary Henkin
The president and founder of WTS International - the US-based spa management and consultancy firm - talks to Rhianon Howells about expanding globally
Ask an expert: Crisis control
The Arab Spring, the Japanese tsunami and bombings in Mumbai - what's the best way of dealing with a crisis? We ask those who have first-hand experience of the events
New Zealand thermal spa: Pooling resources
The Polynesian Spa in the geothermal town of Rotorua in New Zealand boasts 25 thermal pools and is one of the longest running attractions in the country. Chris McBeath takes a look
Tourism: Booming Baku
Terry Stevens reports on the Azerbaijan capital which has seen a surge of international hotel openings in the past two years
Fitness: Pilates pure vs applied
Pure vs applied - should pilates only ever involve the exercises designed by Joseph Pilates, or can his philosophy be applied while keeping the product moving with the times?
Just arrived Rocco for men & Aquari women’s wrap – Fashionizer Spa Uniforms The uniform: Fashionizer Spa Uniforms LLC unveiled two new styles – the Rocco top for men and the Aquari wrap for women – in its cotton performance fabric (CPF) line at the ISPA exhibition in late 2011.
What makes them stand out? The Rocco for men is a smart, short-sleeved, polo-style shirt in either black or white, while the Aquari wrap for women is a cross-over tunic with an adjustable, elasticised tie belt. Fashionizer’s CPF comprises organic cotton and other fibres for stretch and comfort and a soil release treatment to help clean oil stains.
Company background: Fashionizer Spa Uniforms is the US affiliate of Fashionizer Couture Uniforms, a supplier of uniform solutions for 18 years within the hospitality, corporate, cosmetic, spa and retail sectors. It supplies Hyatt, Renaissance, Trump and Aspria spas, among others.
SPA-KIT.NET KEYWORDs: FASHIONIZER SPA
The Rocco top for men is made of organic cotton for stretch and comfort
New for 2012 Linen Collection – Salonwear Direct The uniform: The 2012 Linen Collection from Salonwear Direct features three tunics and practical straight-leg, drawstring trousers designed as an elegant and stylish option for spa professionals across Europe.
What makes the collection stand out? The new collection features a smart and professional image, with clothing that is lightweight but durable and made from 100 per cent natural fabric for breathability and coolness. To fit in with the ‘natural’ style, the collection comes in a new tan shade although other colours are also on offer.
What’s next? In 2012, Salonwear Direct will be redesigning its existing salon tunics with new trims and two new colours – turquoise and silver grey – to complement its current palette of hot pink, purple, charcoal, pin stripe, navy, black and white. The company will also donate £2 (US$3.11, e2.40) to a charity of choice from every sale of its upcoming Ribbon tunics range.
Company background: Salonwear Direct has been supplying uniforms for more than 10 years and has been voted The Best Uniform Supplier for two years running at the UK’s Guild Awards of Excellence. It is known for its “exceptional standard of quality and service”.
SPA-KIT.NET KEYWORD: SALONWEAR
The new linen collection features three new elegant and stylish tunics
Showcase Vibrancy towels – BC Softwear The linen: The Vibrancy range is a line of plain bath and hand towels that come in nine different colours – purple, pink, deep blue, chocolate brown, silver grey, black, beige, burgundy and cream. It complements BC Softwear’s Serenity waffle towel collection to give spa operators a choice of textures.
What makes the line stand out? The towels have been designed with durability in mind and keep their colour – even dark dyes are said to withstand intensive washing by busy spa operators.
Other key features: The super soft towels have been created to stay softer for longer.
What’s next? In 2012, operators can expect different sizes and colours in the Vibrancy and Serenity ranges. The company also plans to increase its bathrobe options.
Company background: BC Softwear supplies more than 200 spas including high-end UK destinations like Ragdale Hall, Coworth Park and Dolphin Square Spa.
SPA-KIT.NET KEYWORDs: BC SOFTWEAR
The new towel range is available in nine colours and stays super soft
Just arrived Pravia Collection – Yeah Baby The uniform: A jacket with an invisible zip, the Pravia will create a professional image for front desk staff and therapists alike. It was first unveiled at the ISPA exhibition in late 2011.
What makes it stand out? It has a modern look and is made out of Yeah Baby’s Solancia stretch fabric to allow freedom of movement and comfort.
Other key features: Pravia has an adjustable back belt which can be tightened or loosened to flatter different body types. Colour options include black, white, tan, navy and chocolate; while piping around the collars and sleeves can be customised according to a spa’s unique brand. Logo embroidery options are also available.
What’s next? In early 2012, Yeah Baby will reveal its Sofia Collection, a wrap top for aestheticians to complement the Pravia. This will be followed by Roxy semi-fitted trousers to complete the look.
SPA-KIT.NET KEYWORDs: YEAH BABY
The new Pravia jacket has an invisible zip and an adjustable back belt
Showcase Bonbon and Yin – Monique Mathieu Paris The uniform: Just under a year old, the Bonbon and Yin tops are some of the most popular in the Monique Mathieu Paris collection. The Bonbon has a high waistline just below the chest and is considered the most fashionable and sophisticated in the range, while the Yin has a Mao-style collar, no sleeves and elastic fabric on both sides for added comfort.
What makes them stand out? The high-quality fabric is sourced from Europe and the design has the distinct touch of founder Monique Mathieu who was an apprentice dress designer for French fashion houses such as Givenchy.
Other key features: The uniforms come in champagne colour as well as black and white. The fabrics include pique and gabardine, made up of 67 per cent polyester and 33 per cent cotton, so are easy to wash and clean.
What’s next? Mathieu’s Tibet uniforms will hit the big screen in 2012 – the range was selected for a spa scene in the Adam Sandler movie I Hate You Dad which launches in June.
Company background: Monique Mathieu uniforms are available worldwide and top customers include Thalgo in France and Janssen Cosmetics in Germany.
SPA-KIT.NET KEYWORDs: MONIQUE MATHIEU
The popular sleeveless Yin top has a Mao-style collar and quality fabric
Just arrived 2012 Collections – Noel Asmar The uniform: Driven by fashion trends, Noel Asmar has unveiled three collections for 2012, including pencil bottoms and two flattering tunics.
What makes them stand out? The collections have a flattering set-in, pin-tuck waist band and detailed stitching. Metal buttons and zippers have also been added for a new look.
Other key features: The uniforms are made with stain and wrinkle-resistant fabric that doesn’t fade nor bobble up. The quality fabric also promises a long-lasting uniform. Various body shapes and sizes within staff make it challenging for spa directors to select one style to suit all. With this in mind, Asmar has added side hip vents for ease of movement, stretch in every garment and stocks xxs to 5xl in most styles, with custom-styling and sizing available on demand. For brand continuity, a range of matching suiting options are available to concierge and front desk staff.
What’s next? Asmar also offers hotel and medi-spa uniforms and plans to expand this part of the business in 2012. It is currently looking for distributors in Europe.
Company background: Noel Asmar prides itself on offering practical yet fashionable spa uniforms and founder Noel Asmar says: “Customers often comment on how great therapists look and spa directors get super feedback from their staff”. It supplies operators such as Canyon Ranch, Fairmont Willowstream Spas, Four Seasons, Hilton, Hyatt and Ritz-Carlton, as well as product companies such as Aveda, ESPA and Decléor. In November, the company was awarded Best Spa Uniform Manufacturer for the third year in a row by American Spa magazine.
SPA-KIT.NET KEYWORDs: NOEL ASMAR
The new tunics have a built-in waist band that is flattering for all sizes
Showcase Wellsoft robes and linen – RKF Luxury Linen The linen: The WellSoft range includes bathrobes, plaids and blankets for relaxation areas and retail.
What makes it stand out? The WellSoft fabric, which was launched in 2011, is made out of 100 per cent fine polyester which has been blasted to give a soft touch as well as a warm, cocooning feel.
Other key features: As the fabric is light, it is easier and not so expensive to clean compared with heavier fabrics.
What’s next? In 2012 it will debut its micro-cotton fabric range of table linen, bath towels, bath robes, slippers and matts. The fabric is made from a fine 100 per cent cotton and while thicker and fluffier than regular cotton it will also be light (and more economical to wash).
Company background: With its international presence, RKF Luxury Linen works with up-market hotels, spas, restaurants and golf courses as well as in the yachting arena. In the spa world, it has supplied companies such as the new Spa My Blend by Clarins in Paris (retail bathrobe pictured), Thalgo, Carita and SkinCeuticals. One of its best-selling items is an extra-large massage bed towel that has velour on one side and terry-towelling on the other, which RKF supplies in tailor-made colours and with bespoke embroidery.
SPA-KIT.NET KEYWORDs: RKF LUXURY
RKF Luxury Linen supplies the new Spa My Blend by Clarins in Paris
A new immersive attraction designed to transport visitors into the final hours of ancient Pompeii
is preparing to open near the world-famous archaeological site in southern Italy.
Experience design company, BRC Imagination Arts, has completed a transition that sees founder
Bob Rogers pass ownership of the business to four long-serving senior executives, while
remaining actively involved with the company.
Movie Park Germany has opened a new Paramount Pictures-themed attraction as part of its 30th
anniversary celebrations, using immersive storytelling and adaptive reuse to reinforce the park’s
longstanding “Hollywood in Germany” positioning.
Therme Manchester’s 28-acre development, which will include interconnected glass pavilions
that measure 65,000sq m, will be the largest bathing and wellbeing attraction in the world once
complete, according to prof David Russell, CEO of Therme UK.
Efteling has opened Hooghmoed, a new family drop tower designed to broaden the appeal of its
recently launched Sirene Island themed area and introduce younger visitors to thrill attractions.
A proposed Puy du Fou development near Bicester and Universal Destinations and Experiences’
planned resort in Bedford are emerging as part of a wider transformation of the Oxford–
Cambridge Growth Corridor into a major centre for UK leisure and tourism inv
Shedd Aquarium has opened the Immersion Theater developed in partnership with SimEx-
Iwerks, as part of a wider strategy to enhance the guest experience and create additional
revenue opportunities.
The UK government has announced a temporary reduction in VAT on visitor attractions and
children’s meals as part of a summer cost-of-living support package designed to stimulate the
visitor economy and encourage family days out.
As designer Yinka Ilori prepares for his first solo gallery show in London, he speaks exclusively
to CLADmag about his mission to spread joy, the power of play, and his bold approach to using
colour (including the colours you won’t see in his work).
The government of Thailand is exploring plans for a THB300bn (£6.3bn, US$8.3bn)
entertainment complex in the country’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), with officials
proposing a large-scale theme park and sports destination as part of a broader tourism and
economic development strategy.
An opportunity to reimagine one of the UK’s most recognisable towers has been formally
opened by Rivington Hark, as St Johns Beacon invites operators and partners to shape its
next phase. [more...]
