The automated spa franchise Planet Beach, headquartered in New Orleans, US, is branching out into Europe, bringing its membership-driven business model with low labour costs and competition to the Polish spa industry.

Planet Beach, the Marrero-based skincare and spa franchise – with a presence not only in Louisiana, US, but also in Egypt, Australia, Canada and Saudi Arabia – has partnered with franchisee Marek Przezpolewski, a dual resident of Miami and his native Poland. He plans to open two Planet Beach locations in Poland by the end of 2014 and one more at the beginning of 2015.

“I am a current member of Planet Beach Miami and I love the treatments,” said Przezpolewski in a statement on Planet Beach’s website. “I am very interested in bringing the Planet Beach concept to Poland. The Polish health and wellness market has similar concepts, but they are very expensive.”

Founded in 1994, Planet Beach has transformed its image from a tanning salon to a full-service skincare and spa centre over the last few years. In 2007, the company introduced fully automated spa services that don’t require attendants. Planet Beach challenged the traditional day spa by introducing services accessible at the push of a button. Members also enjoy unlimited spa services for a monthly fee.

According to the Planet Beach’s website, the wellness centres’ ‘spabiotics’ – a range of treatments provided by machines – include seven types of massage, two facials, hydration treatments, red light therapy, teeth whitening, guided meditation, oxygen therapy, weight management treatments, UV therapies and sunless tanning services.

The franchise’s website also quotes a 2013 report by Euromonitor which said that spa development is still at an early stage in Poland, however the industry has experienced eight per cent annual growth in recent years.

“Poland only has two months of summer a year,” Przezpolewski continued. “Due to the climate, people cannot experience bright sunlight like they can in Miami. Planet Beach will be a great alternative for those looking to rejuvenate their skin and achieve a healthy glow while relaxing in a private room.”

Stephen Smith, CEO of Planet Beach said: “Planet Beach has proven to be a smart business investment for our franchisees as we continue to offer customers what they want – a new, convenient and affordable luxurious way to improve wellness and reduce stress. Our concept has positioned the company for continued success and we expect accelerated growth over the next few years and beyond.”