Ask the Expert

Ilana Craig Alberico
COO, Innovative Spa Management
Founding partner, Privai Academy

Question:
Will switching to more sustainable products and supplies increase my spa's overhead? If so, how do I offset the expense? —Melissa Reichmann, manager, Spa Theology, Asheville, North Carolina.

Answer:
Finding effortless ways to cut costs and green your spa's backbar and retail products can be a daunting task, but it's easier than you think. Plus, by choosing sustainable options, you're communicating that the health of the planet—and your guests—is a top priority.

Recycled paper, organic products and green cleaning supplies are now competitively priced. In some cases, they actually cost less due to their natural ingredients. In fact, prices for sustainable cleaning supplies have dramatically dropped. This means that businesses can easily make the switch to green options without seeing a major dent in their budgets. For a look at the latest products, visit www.cleaninggreen.com, www.cleaningstuff.net or www.seventhgeneration.com.

Greening your products is a major commitment that can yield big payoffs. However, before you take the plunge, you owe it to your business to research brands, look for the best prices and negotiate your options with potential new manufacturers. You'll be making monthly orders to these companies, so convince them to give you even bigger discounts. Soon, you can join the thousands of spas that have made the pledge to go green.

You now have a new marketing story to shout from the rooftops. Use the money you save from going green to promote your new philosophy. Create a framed announcement at the checkout counter that communicates your earth-friendly identity, send out press releases, and tell everyone about it on your website, and Twitter and Facebook pages.

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