Finding it difficult to open a spa in India?Make it easier with these 7 steps

The business of spa is an expensive affair, for those who want to indulge in tranquil rejuvenation or for those who would like to offer such high priced services. But you can’t deny the fact that it’s one trade which gives you high profit margins.

Often aspiring entrepreneurs chuck the idea of getting into spa business due to lack of guidance. Thus, here is a guide for those who are willing to turn the concrete jungle into a hub of rejuvenation.

1. Understand the present market first

Visit couple of day spas, spalons and even hotel spas to start your research and find out what’s common among them, but differentiated in the prices and quality standards. Now, chalk out a plan to bring standardisation in the industry with your brilliant idea which may end the differentiation among the other three. Confused? All I’m saying is, plan your venture as per your market recce and offer high quality services at a much reasonable cost to the price sensitive Indian consumers. This is the success mantra of top day spas in global market.

2. Look for a suitable location

Spa business requires as tranquil a space as a meditation centre does. In fact, some experts term it as mediation of skin and body. Thereby, it is essential that you ‘Must Avoid’ a location where too much noise persists, public places like marriage halls, community centres, railway tracks etc. If your spa is surrounded with lush greenery and tranquil environment, client re-visit is assured and in return is the growth and publicity of your spa.

3. Ensure apposite business permit

It is imperative to get a business permit before you open a spa. Without licence, operating a spa is considered as unlawful practice, leading to serious regulatory charges. Also, spa business is known for practising intimacy which is equally prohibited as per the law. Thus, if you do not have a business permit, you may end up bearing false charges of such practices even though you do not have them

4. Recruit well-trained & certified staff

While hiring a therapist or spa attendant, you need to understand the complexity of this business which runs mostly on word-of-mouth publicity and a masseur plays a pivotal role in it. A certified therapist is educated and trained enough to heal the nerves and help in reducing stress which means complete rejuvenation of senses. Thereby, it is advisable to hire a certified and trained therapist who knows all the tit-bits of massages, therapies and even educate the client for post therapy care. DO NOT even think of saving on staff recruitment as they are the soul of your business. You may try cutting other corners like architecture or premium products.

Once desired staff is recruited, delegate responsibilities to ensure seamless function. Also, if possible, help your staff participate in further training programmes often organised by government firms and Ayurveda institutes.

5. Spa accreditation is a must

Not many spa owners or franchisors are aware of spa accreditation bodies in India. Well, if you mark my words, you’ll surely see its benefits in the longer run. For instance, Radisson Blu Plaza, Delhi , was a usual hotel spa in the trade which came in limelight as it got National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare (NABH) providers. Similarly, NABH accreditation assures quality and high standard of your services, which is an added benefit in the promotion of a spa.

6. Advertise

In today’s digital-savvy environment, having a strong online presence is a must. Backing it with social media promotions is an added advantage. Run social media campaigns and customer engaging promotions. For instance, you may offer free foot reflexology or hair pack on the recommendation of one or more clients. May also organise Spa Parties or theme events and invite guests online to participate with their friends, families and partners.

7. Offer initial discounts to win surprise clients

You may also choose to hand out discount coupons. This is the ultimate advertising strategy for a newly opened business as service industry interest people only when they are offered special discounted prices or offers.

It is essential to understand that if you want to open a new venture, especially in service industry, you not necessary see success if your know how to run a business, but also know the need to learn the art of luring consumers. Pampering clients is the ultimate success mantra of spa business. So, what are you waiting for? Start executing the above mentioned points to start your Spa.