New research has identified Thailand`s spa industry was performing well until the Tsunami forced the closure of over 25 spa facilities. Intelligent Spas estimated approximately 3.6 million visits were made to Thai spas during the 12 month period between July 2003 and June 2004, whilst average annual visitors per spa was up 43% compared to the previous period.

Julie Garrow, Director of Intelligent Spas stated this report updates the inaugural research conducted in 2002. Since that time the industry has experienced overall growth in spa visits and spa facilities. Intelligent Spas identified there are approximately 320 spa facilities in Thailand employing over 5,000 people. About 20% of these spas are operating in the greater Phuket area and continue to be negatively affected as many travellers choose other destinations.

Spa industry benchmarks from the latest research include:

• On average, 78% of spa visitors were international tourists
• 57% of spa visitors were female, 43% male
• Almost half of the spas were located in a resort
• Spas contained 9.4 treatment rooms on average