Issue 9: Ever wonder how people from around the world view innovation in the spa and wellness industry?
- Published: Tuesday, May 8th 2012
- in Living Well
Thomas Steinhauer, Four Seasons Resorts.
In preparation for the upcoming Global Spa and Wellness Summit (GSWS), which will take place in less than 45 days in Aspen, Colorado, registered delegates are asked to submit short briefing papers on exactly that topic. Each two-page briefing answers five questions and is aggregated into a printed report that each delegate receives at the Summit. (Each briefing can be viewed on the GSWS website beginning in June.)
Every year, we select several briefings that are particularly thoughtful or interesting to share with a broader audience before the Summit begins. So, the next few Weekenders will do just that! And to kick things off, we selected the briefing by Thomas Steinhauer, regional vice president & general manager, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. It is short, to the point and an excellent way to begin this series – don’t you think?
1. What are the most significant global issues facing us today?
- Social unrest – escalated ideological differences
- Natural resources – future energy supply
- Global growth – environmental impact
2. What do you see as the main innovations happening around the world, those which are game changing and/or disruptive?
- Communications
- Technology
- Reach
3. What do you see as the main innovations in the spa/wellness industry (existing and future)?
- “Experiential” amenities (snow shower/room, salt cavern, crystal room, etc.)
- Aesthetic services related to technology advances to combat anti-aging
4. What do you see as the greatest opportunities/challenges for the global spa and wellness industry?
- Qualified, experienced and truly knowledgeable managerial staff
- Truth in advertising/labeling: “natural” and “organic” products that are truly effective, reliable and trusted from a labeling perspective, given the different standards worldwide
5. What are some practical ways for businesses to create a climate for creativity and innovation?
- Consensus amongst leadership team regarding goals
- Philosophy: generating and sharing ideas throughout the whole organization (all levels), consistently applied processes for evaluating these ideas, follow through/execution and crediting/rewarding “idea generators”
