He is constantly looking for novelties, for a new spa spirit.  To realize the many projects for establishing itself in the hotel industry, El-Souhel Achbah, Director of Mandara Spa and Anantara Resort, recently met the suppliers that were selected for the SPAMEETING at an exclusive venue. Anantara and Mandara, together with Aequalis, are the three brands of the MSPA group, international spa operators, a leader in B to B.  MSPA conceives and builds made-to-measure spa concepts for any category of hotel in Asia, Africa and the Middle East.  Among its references: the Bangkok Marriott Resort & Spa, The Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel, JW Marriott Cairo, Sheraton Sanya Resort, and the Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort.

How do you perceive the spa market today and considering that, how do you position yourself?
El-Souhel Achbah: Spas and spa concepts have changed dramatically in recent years because the lifestyles of people have changed. With new technologies, smartphones, it has become increasingly difficult to disconnect, even during a vacation.  Caught up in this pace, people need to find time for themselves, to re-energize themselves, and ensure that they take a real break.  New spa concepts must synchronize with this lifestyle.  The “natural” and “organic” approach has therefore become very important. Anything that is organic, ecological, is the future, for all types of hotels.

What types of projects are you looking at now?
El-Souhel Achbah: Projects for luxury hotels and wellness.  Aquaelis offers concepts suitable for small-capacity hotels; Anantara, comprehensive programs including diets, yoga, or meditation… for upscale hotels; Mandara offers what one calls “pampering” – various kinds of treatments in care for the body.  Besides the 36 spas that we have already created, there are several projects in line, especially in China, the Middle East and Africa.

What advice would you give spa suppliers?
El-Souhel Achbah: To be very clear about their positioning.  It is important to be consistent in relation to the type of hotel that is targeted. They should also position themselves in relation to the country and the culture of each country.

What do you expect from the Spameeting meetings?
El-Souhel Achbah: To find good, new products, unlike those we usually see everywhere, especially in the field of organic and oriental.  Also look at new ideas in equipment, machinery.  Above all, the SPAMEETING is a great opportunity to meet new people in the market with whom we can hold discussions under excellent conditions.

Kristel Milet – Editor in chief Blog
SPAMEETING  – 3 & 4 March 2011 Marrakech
To join us : www.spameeting.com