Shangri-La Spa Training

Spa Marketing > Strategies for Medi, Day Spa & Salon Professionals

July 14, 2007 |

Shangri-La Spa Training

Shangri-La has set up a training center to certify its CHI spa therapists
By Leo Jakobson
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How important are spas to the luxury hotel business? Well, here’s one answer: Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts has opened a dedicated training center for therapists that will work at its signature spa brand: CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La.
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With only five CHI spas, a dedicated training center might seem like overkill, but Shangri-La plans to open 22 more in premiere city hotel and resort properties over the next five years. The academy plans to turn out 60 therapists a year, as well as training 20 people in spa management. With 49 existing properties and 40 in development, Shangri-La is undergoing a growth phase that will take it beyond its Asian roots to Europe, the Middle East and North America.
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“We recognise that our therapists are the cornerstone of the success of CHI,” says Ian Brewis, director of group spa development and operations for the Hong Kong-based hotel chain. “Through these training programs, therapists receive the technical knowledge and confidence to provide memorable spa experiences to our guests each and every time.”
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At the academy, located in the Philippines, trainees will undergo a three-month certification course that meets the standards of two internationally recognized spa examination and licensing bodies: the Confederation of Beauty Therapists (CIBTAC) and the International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC). Because CHI spas offer therapies based on the ancient healing traditions, philosophies and rituals of China and the Himalayas, where the Shangri-La legends originate, trainees will also be instructed on chi philosophy, the belief in a universal life force that governs well-being and personal vitality. They will also be taught how to deliver the Shangri-La style of service within a spa environment.
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Besides ensuring CHI’s level of service is up to Shanrgi-La standards, the program fits in with the company’s strong belief in employee development, says Tan Eng Leong, group director of human resources. “The academy creates opportunities for our present employees to grow with us, achieving their full potential and career goals, as we continue to expand.”
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