Spa consultancy Raison d’Etre has introduced sustainability modules into its global online spa management course.

Raison d’Etre says the move was motivated by customers’ increasing awareness of the climate crisis and how this has consequently shifted their expectations of spas. Spa businesses are now under growing pressure to actively show they’re forward-thinking when it comes to implementing more sustainable options within their operations.

Called Spa Business Education, the online course has been upgraded with six chapters dedicated to sustainability. These consist of Design and Construction, Energy Consumption, Suppliers, Working Place, Products and Services and Engagement.

Course mentor Nikos Kouremenos said: “For 2022, we’re placing a great focus on reviewing the Spa Business Education course material, identifying any missing areas and expanding and updating existing modules with new material.

“Sustainability has always been an important part of the spa industry, particularly as it’s known to consume a lot of energy through facilities and behind-the-scenes.

“Additionally, as spa retail areas have grown in importance, it's important to question whether products and suppliers offered are as sustainable and eco-friendly as possible.

“There’s always more to be done in the way of sustainability, which is why we’re delighted to have introduced these new chapters to the course in order to educate our students and learn together.”

The new sustainability chapters join the course’s existing modules: Orientation to Spa Business Education, Marketing and Public Relations, Leadership and Strategic Planning, Finance, Human Resources, Operations & Service Quality Management Excellence and Business Plan.

The training features a curriculum based on real-life case studies, created and taught by a team of industry pioneers and leading experts.

Raison d’Etre recommends students aim to complete the course within four months, to help them stay focused and motivated. The training costs US$2,195 (£1,618, €1,919) per student.