Guidance for UK spas shut due to lockdown

Spas, beauty salons, hair salons, barbers and mobile beauty services are now closed for business in England, Northern Ireland, Wales, most parts of Scotland and Ireland.

Each nation has entered a self-imposed lockdown, as the number of virus cases escalates daily, with UK daily COVID cases hitting over 60,000 confirmed cases on Tuesday – its highest ever mark since the pandemic started.

Speaking to Spa Business, UK Spa Association (UKSA) GM Helena Grzesk laid out six tips for spas and their staff in lockdown:

• Stay connected with your teams and peers and don’t be afraid to reach out for support
• Use this time for creative pitches or to brainstorm ideas as a team
• Apply for the financial support that is available to you
• Continue to share the gift of wellness and pivot your offering, such as hosting online sessions for fitness, wellness and skincare tips
• Prepare to welcome guests back with open arms and create a spa that is ready to fulfil a public need and exceed all expectations
• Write to your local MP to help support the ongoing lobbying battle for sector-specific financial support for the industry

Grzesk said the UKSA has been in continuous dialogue with the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy since lockdown announcements were made for each home-nation.

She explained that the trade-body is still seeking sector-specific financial support to support the long-term survival and recovery of the sector.

This week, chancellor of the exchequer, Rishi Sunak, announced government plans for one-off top-up grants for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses – including spas – worth up to £9,000 per property to help businesses through to Q2.

“Our members are understandably exhausted by the rollercoaster of emotions, change and uncertainty the pandemic brings for business,” said Grzesk.

“However, we’re blessed to have the learnings from past lockdowns – with support mechanisms already in place and many of us having already successfully adapted our business models.

“The sector is ready to reopen and we must focus on brighter days ahead. We’re resilient, we’re spirited and we will get through this.”

The UKSA is also working hard to establish a clear and coordinated reopening strategy as devolved countries emerge from their various lockdown measures and restrictions.

“It’s our wish that the sector will reopen fully when the restrictions are lifted in the coming weeks,” Grzesk stated.

“We’re hopeful that the learnings from previous lockdowns, paired with high levels of compliance across the sector and little to no evidence of transmission in personal care will allow for a smooth transition allowing spas to reopen again, fully operational within the parameters of the guidance.”