UKSA sets bold agenda for 2026

Bobby Griffiths General Manager, UK Spa Association

The UK Spa Association (UKSA) began 2026 with renewed purpose, unveiling a new mission statement, a focused programme of work for the year ahead and the announcement of a dedicated industry jobs board. Following the successful launch of its online Suppliers Directory in December, the association set out a clear vision to guide its activity throughout 2026. At the heart of this is a refreshed mission: uniting and empowering the UK spa industry through support, education, collaboration, national advocacy and an ongoing drive for positive change within the wellness sector.

With a board representing a cross-section of industry specialists, groundwork has already been laid for what promises to be a transformative year.

Education will be a central pillar of the association’s efforts. In particular, the UKSA plans to spotlight industry pathways, including apprenticeship schemes that remain underused and not fully understood across the sector. Beyond initial qualifications, the organisation is also keen to emphasise continued professional development. By sharing best practice and showcasing career progression opportunities, UKSA hopes to support therapist retention, a pressing challenge for many spa operators.

The UKSA has positioned 2026 as a year of unity, opportunity and meaningful progress for the UK spa sector

Collaboration remains another priority. UKSA will work closely with its exclusive charity partner, Look Good Feel Better, to raise awareness among members and ensure accessibility for all clients, including those living with cancer. The charity delivers free, in-person workshops focused on skincare, nails and make-up, designed to help individuals rebuild confidence during and post treatment. The UKSA is passionate in its mission to give spas the tools they need to deliver transformative experiences and treatments to those who need it most and have just announced a strategic partnership with SATCC (the Standards Authority for Touch in Cancer Care) to signpost spa operators to the most up to date information and training and ensure they are able to carry out treatments in complete confidence.

Members can expect enhanced benefits throughout the year, alongside the continuation of networking events and regional operator meet-ups aimed at strengthening community ties across the UK spa landscape. Improved communication is also high on the agenda, as the association seeks to better articulate its role and achievements on behalf of the industry.

A recent highly anticipated development is the creation of the UKSA Industry Jobs Board, hosted on the association’s website. Announcing the initiative, UKSA Chair Abi Selby described it as “a huge benefit” to members and integral to supporting the industry’s continued growth.

With a sharpened mission and tangible new initiatives, the UKSA has positioned 2026 as a year of unity, opportunity and meaningful progress for the UK spa sector.