The International Spa Association (ISPA) has announced this year’s ISPA Innovative Award Winners, having expanded the competition to include three new categories: Business Practices Innovate Award, Experiences Innovate Award and Product Innovate Award.

With more than double the number of submissions from the inaugural year (2013), voting by members of ISPA determined the winners.

“Innovation is the driving force behind growth in the spa industry,” said ISPA President Lynne McNees. “Recognising the innovation that is occurring within ISPA’s membership will encourage and inspire future ideas.”

Winners of the Business Practices Innovate Award include US-based companies Coola Suncare for its mobile POS for poolside spa products; East Village Spa due to its focus on finding spa employment for workers with disabilities; Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa whose leadership development process has enhanced employees’ performance; SpaEquip Inc for its aim to provide ‘spa experiences for all’; and The Spa at the Breakers which created a measurement tool to reward service provider performance.

The Experiences Innovate Award went to the following winners: Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat in Australia for its sensory spa experience that involves live drumming. Montage Resort & Spa in the US was praised for “hand crafted experiences with organic garden ingredients.” Ojai Valley Inn & Spa in the US developed safe treatment modifications for oncology spa guests. Spa Gregorie’s in the US was given the award for focusing on “inspirational letters to inspire spa guests.” “Contemplative sand painting in a mindful group workshop,” was the reason the US Spa at Pinehurst received the award.

Product Innovate Award winners include US companies Belmond the Inn at Perry Cabin for its honey-based, all-natural bee products. Body Bliss was celebrated for technology that personalises aromatherapy sessions. Mio Skincare won the award for its liquid yoga restorative bath soak treatment. Seaweed company Osea Skincare was also lauded. Toronto-based ResortSuite also received the award for its guest check-in and questionnaire tablet app.

The ISPA Conference & Expo Innovate session will be held on October 15 at 3:30pm at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Nev. A number of award recipients will share their innovations at the conference.