World Leisure Industry Leaders and Advisors Unite in Scotland for Kohler Powered Global Wellness Summit

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The Global Wellness Summit (GWS) is set to make a splash in St. Andrews, Scotland, from November 4-7, with a comprehensive exploration of water-based therapies, social bathing practices, and thermal waterparks. This year’s theme, “A Watershed Moment for Wellness,” will delve into the $5.6 trillion wellness economy, with a focus on water wellness innovations.

Expert Speakers:

• Wim Hof, aka “The Iceman,” creator of the “Wim Hof Method”
• Jonathan Leary, founder and CEO of Remedy Place
• Vicky Allan and Anna Deacon, authors of “The Ripple Effect”
• Christopher Barrett, CEO of WorldSprings
• Charles Davidson, co-founder of Peninsula Hot Springs
• Robert Hammond, president and CSO of Therme Group US
• Jemma King, director of BioPsychAnalytics Pty Ltd
• Nina Kohler, hospitality group strategy and design leader at Kohler Co.
• Chris Romer-Lee, architect and co-founder of Studio Octopi
• Jane Withers, design consultant, curator, and writer

These industry thought leaders will share insights on harnessing water’s potential for wellness, from ancient therapies to modern waterparks.

The upcoming Global Wellness Summit (GWS), is set to explore the reinvention of ancient water-based therapies and social bathing practices, as well as the explosion of accessible, urban-based thermal waterparks. This premier international conference on the business of wellness will feature a diverse lineup of speakers and panelists who will address the theme in detail.

The 2024 host sponsor of the summit is Kohler Co., a storied brand in design and innovative water features and experiences. With the summit being held at one of Kohler’s seven global properties, the iconic Old Course Hotel with a reimagined Kohler Waters Spa, delegates will be immersed in the theme of water wellness. Nina Kohler, strategy and design leader for Kohler’s award-winning Hospitality Group, serves as one of this year’s co-chairs and will bring water wellness to life at the conference.

The Global Wellness Summit’s 2024 edition promises to be a transformative event, showcasing the reinvention of ancient water-based therapies and the rise of urban thermal waterparks, while also exploring the broader themes of wellness, design, and the power of nature.

Hot Springs/Thermal Mineral Springs Sector:

• Prior to the pandemic, the thermal/mineral springs sector was growing at a robust rate of 4.6% annually from 2013-2019, more than double the rate of global GDP growth.
• The sector was hit hard by the pandemic, with revenues falling 39% globally in 2020. However, the sector is projected to have a strong recovery and growth trajectory going forward.
• The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) projects the thermal/mineral springs sector will have an annual growth rate of 14.3% from 2022 to 2027, allowing it to fully recover and exceed pre-pandemic levels by 2024.
• This strong growth is driven by rising consumer demand for these types of wellness experiences, as well as a high level of new investment and development in the sector, with an estimated 150+ new establishments opening from 2020-2022.

Sauna and Spa Market:

• The global sauna and spa market is projected to grow from $135.95 billion in 2024 to $194.51 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 7.43% during this period.
• Europe is expected to be the fastest growing regional market for saunas and spas.
• North America is currently the largest sauna and spa market globally.
• Key growth drivers include rising consumer expenditure on wellness experiences, technological innovations in saunas and spas, and increasing popularity of private/exclusive spa experiences.

Both the hot springs/thermal mineral springs sector and the broader sauna and spa market are projected to see robust growth globally over the next 5-10 years, driven by strong consumer demand and continued investment in new facilities and experiences.

In the realm of therapeutic practices, hydrotherapy stands as a timeless and ever-evolving method of healing that has transcended the ages. From the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome to the modern wellness centers of today, the use of water for its therapeutic benefits has been deeply ingrained in human history. Hot springs, in particular, held a special place in the history of hydrotherapy.

Ancient civilizations across the globe, from the Roman Empire to Japan, believed in the healing powers of these naturally occurring geothermal wonders. People immersed themselves in hot spring baths, attributing the benefits to the minerals and heat. The Romans revered the mineral-rich waters of Bath, England, and constructed grand bathhouses around them, believing the baths could alleviate a wide range of ailments, from joint pain to skin conditions.

In Japan, Onsen, or hot spring bathing, has been practiced for centuries for its therapeutic and relaxation benefits. As the centuries passed, the practice of hydrotherapy evolved, with new techniques and applications emerging.

Today, the global wellness industry is experiencing a resurgence in the popularity of water-based therapies, from private and social sauna bathing to the growth of large-scale thermal waterparks. This renewed interest in hydrotherapy reflects a deeper societal shift towards holistic wellness, where the healing powers of water are being rediscovered and embraced.

CEO, Anup Keshan at Travel and Tour World says, “As we continue to navigate the modern world, the timeless wisdom of hydrotherapy remains a testament to the enduring human need for connection, relaxation, and the pursuit of physical and mental well-being.”

During the Renaissance, there was a renewed interest in ancient Greek and Roman texts, which included references to the healing properties of water. This revival of classical knowledge led to a resurgence in the popularity of hydrotherapy. European royalty and aristocracy frequented spa towns like Bath, Aachen, and Baden-Baden, seeking relief from various ailments. Hydrotherapy became synonymous with luxury and was seen as an essential part of maintaining one’s health and well-being.

The Renaissance marked a significant shift in the perception of hydrotherapy, moving it from a niche practice to a mainstream pursuit among the upper echelons of society. The rediscovery of ancient texts not only rekindled interest in water-based therapies but also provided a scientific foundation for their efficacy. As a result, hydrotherapy gained legitimacy and became a sought-after treatment for a wide range of conditions. The rise of the spa culture during the Renaissance era was not merely a fad but a reflection of a deeper societal change. The Renaissance was a period of intellectual and cultural awakening, characterized by a renewed emphasis on individualism, humanism, and the pursuit of knowledge.

This shift in mindset extended to the realm of health and wellness, with individuals taking a more active role in maintaining their well-being. In the 21st century, hydrotherapy has continued to evolve and expand its reach. It is no longer confined to specialized clinics or spa resorts but has become a mainstream component of holistic wellness programs.

Hydrotherapy pools, aquatic exercise classes, and even home hydrotherapy units are now readily available to individuals seeking its healing benefits. The history of hydrotherapy is a testament to the enduring belief in the healing powers of water. Humans have recognized the therapeutic potential of water for millennia, from the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome to the spa towns of Renaissance Europe.

As our understanding of medicine and science continues to grow, hydrotherapy remains a valuable and versatile tool for promoting health and well-being. The Renaissance marked a significant turning point in the history of hydrotherapy, as it transitioned from a niche practice to a widely accepted and sought-after treatment.

The rediscovery of ancient texts and the rise of spa culture during this era paved the way for the continued evolution and expansion of hydrotherapy in the modern age. As we move forward, it is clear that hydrotherapy will continue to play a vital role in promoting health and wellness, offering solace and rejuvenation in our hectic modern lives.

The Spirit of Global Wellness Summit

One of shared purpose rather than individual gain. It is a willingness to put aside competitive egos and personal business goals, as industry leaders join together to shape the future of the wellness industry. Designed as a high-level, invitation-only gathering, the summit brings together decision-makers from around the world.

Each delegate contributes their time, expertise, and resources to help fund the event and ensure its success. Attendees are expected to participate in the entire summit, fostering meaningful conversations and collaborative problem-solving. Speakers, presenters, and panelists are asked to refrain from self-promotion during their sessions, as the intimate setting and numerous networking opportunities provide ample opportunities for building relationships post-Summit.

Any efforts to aggregate contact information for promotional purposes would be considered a breach of the summit’s spirit. While the summit welcomes major sponsors, their physical visibility is limited. Delegates are encouraged to personally thank these important supporters and seek opportunities to collaborate with them in the future, as they share the summit’s mission of advancing the wellness industry.

At the heart of the Global Wellness Summit lies a collective commitment to exchanging ideas, debating critical issues, and collaborating for the greater good of the industry, the consumers it serves, and the planet we all share.