[5 Spa News Updates] Brand Partnerships, Scholarship Announcements & Community Events

There are major news headlines in the spa industry showing the partnerships and initiatives that are driving wellness and hospitality. Here's the updates you should know including a major brand transition, exciting partnerships that are launching wellness products in hotels and the announcement of innovative industry scholarships. 

1. Massage Heights Announces Transition to Heights Wellness Retreat

During its 20th year, Massage Heights is evolving to meet the changing needs of consumers. The franchise is now transitioning to Heights Wellness Retreat, and will prioritize offering an array of services for consumers that are all-inclusive to their well-being. Massage therapy has served as the core offering of Massage Heights and will remain the foundation of Heights Wellness Retreat, But Heights will add to its existing massage and skin care services.

The brand is implementing a number of touchless therapies such as lymphatic drainage, meditation, red light therapy and salt therapy that will offer consumers a new level of convenience to achieve holistic wellness. The new brand identity emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded approach to one’s health, and the expanded service innovations will focus on combining physical, mental and emotional wellness practices. 

"This evolution to Heights Wellness Retreat is a monumental shift for our brand strategy," said Julie Green, vice president of marketing. "But we’re not just changing our name—we’re broadening our reach and redefining how we connect with our customers. It’s an exciting opportunity to expand our impact within the franchise and wellness industries, allowing us to reach new markets and strengthen our position as an industry leader."

2. Groupe GM Partners with Typology to Create its First Hotel Line

Typology skin care has entrusted Groupe GM with the development of its first-ever hotel line. This new hotel line mirrors Typology's commitment to sustainability, combining clean formulations with eco-friendly packaging that showcases the brand's minimalistic aesthetics and respectful ingredients. 

Continuing Typology's tradition of skin care, the hotel line formulas are tested under dermatological control and are free of PEG, sulfates and silicones. They are also certified vegan, GMO-free, gluten-free, RSPO certified for solid soaps, and contain up to 98% natural ingredients. In line with its commitment to sustainability, the new range features eco-conscious packaging solutions. The “Stay Clean” system optimizes the refilling process, increases housekeeping efficiency and maintains superior hygiene and quality standards.

The Typology hotel line is fully in line with Groupe GM’s 'Care about Earth' program, reflecting a commitment to eco-responsibility. This initiative aims to reduce the impact of its products on the environment and contribute to sustainability to protect the planet for many generations. As an eco-responsible amenities supplier, Groupe GM consistently prioritizes using green resources, favoring reusability, and reducing single-use plastic.

“We are delighted to work with such a renowned cosmetics brand like Typology. We are also proud that Typology trusted us for the launch of their first hotel line. This partnership will allow us to introduce more eco-friendly amenities to our clients, all while meeting the level of luxury and quality expected from Groupe GM," said president of Groupe GM, Laurent Marchand. "This line deeply reflects the core values of both our companies and enables hotels worldwide to pamper their guests with expertly crafted amenities with strong personal touches and attention to detail.”

Photo courtesy of Typology

Related: 5 Brand Partnerships Shaping the Wellness Industry Right Now

3. Essence Ring Partners with Hotels and Resorts to Promote Wellness

Essence Ring is partnering with hotels and resorts across North America to promote wellness at multiple touchpoints. Properties can co-brand the Travel Amenity Kit as well as signature blends at low minimums to create lasting positive memories long after the meeting ends.

One of Essence Ring’s leading partners is Caesars Entertainment, the world’s largest gaming company. Caesars provided an aromatherapy wellness activation at their recent Global Wellness Forum for meeting professionals at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas and also provided Essence Ring as a booth giveaway at IMEX 2024, the largest trade show for the business events industry. Essence Ring will be featured in an Essential Oil Experience at Caesars Entertainment’s 7-state Wellness Roadshow in 2025 and the PCMA Conference in January, representing management of business events, conferences and conventions.

“Personalized wearable aromatherapy aligns with our wellness initiatives for conferences and events,” said Reina Herschdorfer, director of marketing for Caesars Entertainment National Meetings & Events. "Research shows that wellness activations increase attendee’s endorphins, leading to higher levels of engagement and connection.”

Photo courtesy of Essence

4. Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Windflower Spa Debut Weekly "Spa Pantry" Event

Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa debuted the Windflower’s Spa Pantry Experience. At the weekly events, participants will work with spa professionals to create their own personalized spa body products to take home. These events are available for individuals and groups, providing an ideal setting for a special occasion, team-building experience for colleagues, or fun day out with friends.

The Windflower’s Spa Pantry events are open to local residents and resort guests, and will take place every Thursday starting at 2 p.m. The experience will be guided by a spa professional, and will teach guests the fundamentals of essential oils, basics of aromatherapy and how to create a customized body scrub and cream from simple kitchen ingredients. Guests will walk away from the experience with their unique products, made from quality ingredients to use at home.

“We are thrilled to announce our weekly Spa Pantry Experience by Windflower Spa,” said Joe Herman, director of spa and recreation at Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa. “The interactive events are designed to provide a fun and immersive experience in our tranquil and serene Hill Country setting. Attendees can expect to create their very own personalized spa products curated to fit their specific preferences of smell, texture and overall skin care goals.”

Photo courtesy of Hyatt Regency Hill Country

5. Hydrafacial Announces Glow Getter Scholarship Program in Support of Estheticians

The Beauty Health Company, home to flagship brand Hydrafacial announced the introduction of the Hydrafacial Glow Getter Scholarship program, a program that supports aspiring and licensed estheticians as they begin their journey and advance their careers and businesses in the growing field of esthetics.

The Hydrafacial Glow Getter Scholarship program, in partnership with Beauty Changes Lives, will provide financial tuition assistance to individuals who are enrolled in esthetics programs that lead to licensure or certification in the United States and Canada, and to support the educational advancement of currently licensed estheticians wishing to elevate their skills even further. Hydrafacial plans to award a total of $60,000 in scholarships over the next two years, with applications for the first round of scholarships opening on December 1, 2024.

“We’re excited to partner with Hydrafacial on the Glow Getter Scholarship, which perfectly aligns with our mission to make beauty and wellness a first-choice profession. As the Industry's #1 resource for scholarships, BCL provides estheticians with the support they need to pursue their passion and hone their skills," said Lisa Roeberg, executive director of Beauty Changes Lives. "This partnership with Hydrafacial highlights BCL's commitment to collaborate with Industry leaders to invest in the future of beauty and wellness and create a lasting impact.”