Airport Experience® News - ACDBE Issue 2025

Left, below: Since the height of the pandemic spas have unveiled new options for customers looking to minimize interactions with others. At Spa Here in Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, the newest innovation has been the introduction of Privacy Cocoons, which provide a secluded and sanitary space for individuals to receive treatments and limit their exposure to others for enhanced peace of mind.

Pidoux adds that there are other services that are in demand in certain markets but not others, so Be Relax tailors its service offerings accordingly. “For example, in airports with extended transit times, such as Dubai or Doha, we provide highly popular shower services; additionally, our Middle Eastern clientele often seeks greater privacy during treatments, prompting us to adjust our facility designs accordingly,” she says. Of course, for most airport spa locations, speed of service will always be the top priority for clientele. “We’ve introduced more efficient treatments that cater to travelers’ tight schedules, such as quick massages, facials and foot treatments,” notes Lalita Modi, manager of OraOxygen , a spa with three locations in Calgary International Airport (YYC) , including pre-security in the Domestic Terminal, post security in Concourse D and at the Marriott In-Terminal Hotel. Modi adds that the spa plans to expand to additional locations and enhance its services in the future. Absolute Spa has also expanded its services to include speedy versions of traditional treatments. “One of the newest innovations we’ve introduced is our ‘express’ treatment menu, which allows

passengers to enjoy a quick yet luxurious treatment, such as a facial or neck and shoulder massage, in as little as 15 minutes,” Baker says. “We’re seeing a greater emphasis on wellness as part of the overall travel experience, and we expect this trend to continue to grow. In the coming years, we would love to expand our presence and to integrate more technology-driven wellness solutions. The future of airport spas is incredibly exciting.” Wellness Is Here To Stay Indeed, airport spa operators are positive about the future of their business. “We’re seeing a bright future! Airports are now focusing on passenger experience, transforming their spaces into high-end malls, culinary experiences and wellness sanctuaries, and so we’ve become a must have in the industry,” Pidoux says. “Our plan is to open Be Relax locations in new destinations and become the wellness reference in airports, offering a sense of place, continuing to innovate and integrate technology, while maintaining excellent customer service.” Although Spa Here currently operates exclusively at DFW, the company has big

plans for the near future. “We’re planning to expand our locations, introduce new wellness technologies, and enhance the customer experience through digital integration for seamless bookings and tailored recommendations,” Marte notes. “The future of airport spas lies in combining wellness and convenience, with a focus on personalization, privacy and innovative treatments.” XWell has introduced a seamless online booking portal for XpresSpa that allows customers to book their appointments in advance, eliminate wait times and streamline the experience, which Ernst notes is part of the company’s broader commitment to making wellness more accessible and effortless for the average traveler. He adds that this year XWell will be expanding outside the airport for the first time. “We plan to open six new out-of-airport spas in Florida, marking a significant step in our mission to make self-care more accessible,” he says. “By integrating advanced technology and leveraging consumer insights, we’re creating innovative wellness experiences that are inclusive, efficient and tailored to the needs of today’s busy individuals.”

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AX NEWS JUNE 2025