Spa distributor Universal Companies has opened an 8,500sq ft (790sq m) Wellness & Beauty Learning Center in Southern California, where it will provide educational classes and on-site training.

The Abingdon, Virginia-based spa distributor will use the west coast location to offer advanced continuing education for a broad range of wellness and beauty professionals, including spa and med-spa practitioners, estheticians, massage therapists, salon technicians, independent practitioners, and solopreneurs.

“Today’s spa-goers are much savvier because of their extensive access to wellness and beauty knowledge,” said Brenda Elliott, CEO of Universal Companies.

“Universal Companies’ mission is to help spas develop their businesses. This, combined with ongoing education, is a guaranteed way for spa owners and employees to grow spa operations by continuing to enhance the client experience. Our West Coast Wellness & Beauty Learning Center will help provide spas with the tools to keep abreast of the latest trends and advancements in treatments, beauty, and wellness.”

Located in Torrance, California, the centre will open in early 2016, but a limited number of classes are scheduled for this autumn. In addition to the 8,500sq ft of multiple classroom space, it will feature two fully equipped spa treatment rooms for live demonstrations and hands-on training.

A showroom for equipment, professional products, and supplies will also be on site, as well as meeting space for industry events. In addition, the new centre will also provide a venue for after-hours special events where educators, customers, students, industry representatives, and Universal Companies’ vendor partners can meet and network face-to-face.