Market research firm Coyle Hospitality Group and spa management and consulting company WTS International have teamed up to release research on spa consumer sentiment.

During September 2009, more than 1,300 active spa-goers were surveyed about their buying patterns, spending habits, best spa experiences and a number of other current issues facing spas.

Some of the findings included that 74 per cent of respondents cited word of mouth referrals as their primary method of selecting a new spa while 69 per cent had their most recent spa experience at a location near where they live.

Interestingly, the top reason to try a new spa - cited by 81 per cent of respondents - was discounts, rather than free treatments. The full report can be accessed via coylehospitality.com

Find out more at wtsinternational.com