Spa Business School has joined forces with spa consultant Peigin Crowley to provide a business management programme designed specifically for the Irish spa market.

The partnership has created an advanced business acceleration training programme which will “enable and empower” those working in management positions in the spa and wellness industry.

"Ireland has an abundance of incredible spas, run by some of the best operators in the country," said Crowley.

"Our two-day business acceleration programme gives spa managers the opportunity to step out of their operation to really focus on their commercial planning for the next 18 months.

"It's a first for Ireland – Michelle and I pride ourselves on being industry-specific, and we're delighted that the response has been so positive.”

The first training programme, sponsored by skincare brand Elemis, will take place in March 2018 and will include a series of online tutorials and activities as well as an intensive residential element.

The course will equip attendees with the skills needed for effective business building and each participant will also be given the opportunity to create their own business strategy.

According to research in 2017 by Phorest Salon Software, there are around 4,000 salons and spas in Ireland, contributing around €540m (US$661m, £480m) annually to the Irish economy.