Accor announced the release of a new white paper that will shape the future of the hospitality industry on Wednesday, February 26.

Titled Making Waves: Rethinking Spa and Wellness Design for a Modern Era, the report ushers in a new era of spa and wellness design.

In this document, Accor shares the priorities for well-being that the company believes are most relevant now and how the global hospitality group is advancing innovative ways to deliver wellness through its unrivaled portfolio of global hospitality brands.

The thought-provoking report leverages insights, predictions, and analysis gathered from a symposium held by Accor’s Global Well-being, Strategy, Design, and Development team, and features perspectives from Accor specialists and renowned industry experts around the world.

Making Waves explores the future of the wellness industry and touches on key consumer shifts and trends.

According to Accor’s global chief design and technical services officer:

“Wellness has become a leading driver and differentiator for us, particularly in luxury and lifestyle design… With Making Waves, we aim to educate, inspire, and innovate the ways in which the hospitality industry approaches wellness and well-being design.”

Key findings reveal that wellness is a priority for 79% of guests, influencing their travel decisions. The white paper also explores significant trends, such as the shift toward membership clubs among hotel spas and fitness clubs, pushing to build hotels designed for local communities.

Emlyn Brown stated:

“We are creating clubs, thermal facilities, wellness centers, and fitness offerings that are on par, or better, than the local gym.”

The report emphasizes the importance of redefining wellness spaces, including thermal wellness and social wellness experiences as alternatives to traditional forms of socializing.

As Brown summarizes:

“It is our hope that the insights gathered in Making Waves will support the creation of more impactful wellness spaces and places.”