Leading US spa distributor Universal Companies has bought SpaEquip, another major spa product and equipment distribution company also based in the US.

“Bringing inventive, affordable spa development and equipment solutions to match customer needs and applying the perfect amount of customisation is what SpaEquip does best,” said Universal CEO Brenda Elliott. “In this new era of spas playing an important role in the health and wellness movement, having partners like SpaEquip will be of huge benefit as we continue to develop solutions that help our customers anticipate their patrons’ needs and provide wellness focused experiences.

“Combining the talents of both companies will produce solutions that have a positive impact for the spa industry.”

SpaEquip, which was founded in 1987 by Philippe Therene, supplies equipment to leading day spas and destination spas in the US and internationally, and is a preferred vendor to Starwood, Fairmont, Hilton, Hyatt and Four Seasons.

Polly Johnson, SpaEquip’s vice president of corporate accounts, described the company as “a natural fit for Universal Companies.” She said: “We are thrilled to join their team of industry-leading experts.This acquisition will bring together two companies with a long history of providing sound solutions and extensive support to spas.

“SpaEquip’s extensive experience in equipment and spa development combined with Universal’s widespread product and equipment knowledge will provide customers with a comprehensive resource for all their spa and wellness needs.”

As part of the agreement, some SpaEquip staff will join Universal Companies at its base in Abingdon, Virginia, while SpaEquip will continue to be based in Calistoga, California, operating as a division of Universal Companies.

SpaEquip’s customers will continue to work with their preferred contacts but will now have access to the full line of Universal products, supplies, apparel, and specialist services.

This will include products and programmes through À la Mode, a division of Universal Companies that it acquired last year, and training and education at Universal Companies’ new Wellness and Beauty Learning Center in Torrance, California.

For industry vendors, the acquisition will streamline the purchasing and fulfilment process and sales and marketing support for over 40,000 customers.