TravelDailyNews: How would you characterize the spa business in India and what are your expectations for India’s spa industry in 2007?

Kendra Lee: The spa industry in India is still pretty small but it is picking up. With the current growth and influx of international companies and globalization, soon, resort spas will give way to day spas and spas will become part of a daily routine and not a holiday luxury.

TDN: What new technologies, products and methods of treatment are going to drive the spa industry in India in 2007?

K. L.: New technologies from foreign brands such as non-surgical liposuction, oxygen therapy.

TDN: Which markets are significantly important for the spa operators in India and why? Do you feel that China is a strong competitor in the region?

K. L.: Cities like Mumbai are an upcoming market for spa operators. With Mumbai being a tourist attraction and the hype of bollywood, many spa, beauty and fashion operators are building their base there. India’s gross domestic product for the past 23 years has grown at an average annual rate of around six percent, making it one of the world’s fastest-growing economies after China and it’s likely that India will ultimately catch with up China’s market. Many investors are looking to move into India because India’s an untapped market with bountiful opportunities and what’s more, business language in India is being conducted in English, an added-advantage.

TDN: How the potential of the Indian Spa & Wellness market is reflected to the international brands and companies?

K. L.: Local brands occupy about 70% of the beauty & spa market. Also, with India’s growing executive class, and with the increasing purchasing power, foreign brands see India as a cache. Foreign brands also present an element of glamour and quality.

TDN: Which region in India is the most-developed in the spa business and why?

K. L.: Many establishments are taking place in Northern India as this region is basically more developed and economically more well-off.

TDN: How many countries and companies that offer spa products participated at this year’s SPA India 2007 and what are your expectations for the 2008 event?

K. L.: India Beauty Expo 2007 hosted over 200 participants from over 20 countries from the beauty & spa industry we had a resign up of 70% of the exhibitors for India Beauty Expo 2008. We are expecting for foreign and local participation and an increase in international visitors.

TDN: Do you consider spa segment still a niche market or things are changing year over year?

K. L.: The spa and beauty industry was very unorganized until recently. However, with greater awareness among people now and globalization, this is no long the case. It’s still a niche market but this industry is growing and is expected to be a global market in India.

TDN: What problems does the Indian spa industry face today?

K. L.: High custom barriers and MRP prices.