Pulse April 2020 | Page 8

SPECIAL APRIL SUPPLEMENT 30 YEARS STRONG SNAPSHOT SURVEY COVID-19 RESPONSE n MARCH 2020 GET THE FULL REPORT Click here to jump to the full report at the end of this issue of Pulse. You can also download a standalone version of the report from ISPA’s COVID-19 resources page at experienceispa.com/covid-19-info. Key Takeaway: giving back to their communities during this time of great THE SPA INDUSTRY—AND THE WORLD—IS REELING. need. Here’s a selection of what ISPA members are doing ISPA conducted a special edition of the monthly Snapshot around the world: Survey to capture the initial steps taken by the spa industry in response to the virus, and its effect on spas and resource partners; already, 80 percent percent of respondents had closed their spas at the time of the survey of respondents had closed their spas at the time of the survey (March 24). A plurality of respondents—30 per- cent—thought their spas would be closed for just two weeks, while six percent anticipated a closure greater than six weeks. 25 percent laid off employ- ees, and 66 percent believed that revenue would be down by more than 50 percent year-over-year for March. Put simply, here’s a salient stat from the report: 90 percent of respondents stated that COVID-19 was having a significant or detrimental impact on their spa. Staying Positive During a Pandemic Survey respondents were asked to share how they’re keeping a positive mindset, spreading good energy and l Establishing online wellness classes or posting videos with content created by staff. l Donating supplies—such as disinfectant, gloves and masks—to local medical facilities. l Performing acts of service, such as delivering meals and running errands for vulnerable people. l Encouraging employees to use the time off to enjoy being with their families. Check With HR Many respondents indicated that they’re maintaining frequent communication with staff to offer support or to offer online training opportunities. While this sounds great on paper, be sure to consider any legal ramifications as well—a significant number of spas also indicated that employees are furloughed, and communicating with or training employees during furlough can be a sticky wicket. Data Dive This Month’s Featured Stat: 64 per- cent. That’s the percentage of spa respondents who anticipated year- over-year visits in March dropping by more than 50 percent. A plural- ity of respondents—31 percent— anticipated a decline greater than 70 percent. COVID-19 UPDATE ■ PULSE ■ APRIL 2020 anticipated a decline greater than