Spa. Majority of middle class clientele
Photo: Visual Photos
8 percent rise in spa revenues in 2006
Study shows some 220 spas operational in Israel, with a majority of female, middle class clientele. Swedish massages most popular
The Israeli spa business registered an 8 percent rise in profits in the year 2006.
The number of spa facilities has greatly increased over the past four years, with some 130 private spas, over 80 hotel spas and some 10 spa resorts currently in business.
A study carried out by Business Data Israel (BDI) showed that the increase stems from higher standards of living and growing awareness of body care and alternative treatments.
Gift certificates for spa treatments have also been rising consistently over the years, by 3 to 7 percent per year and now make up about 15 percent of the branch's income.
BDI's report showed that while discounts and sales may always be found, on average the cost of treatments has risen by 4 percent in the past two years.
In return, the customers' demands have also increased - the Israeli consumer is now more familiar with the market and can demand more for the money paid.
The most popular treatment, according to the study, is the classic Swedish massage, which makes up some 50 percent of treatments given.
About 65 percent of spa consumers are woman.
While most of the customers are from middle-class socio-economic status and above, spa resorts, which are more costly, attract consumers from higher socio-economic statuses.
