The spa distribution market - France

The global spa market, with an emphasis on France, has displayed robust growth trends, driven primarily by a rising demand for wellness and wellbeing. France, with over 3.2 million private hot tubs by 2021, holds the leading position in Europe and is second in the world after the United States in this sector. The global market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.6% from 2021 to 2030, with an anticipated increase from US$95 billion to US$185 billion. In 2020, the French market saw the sale of around 8,000 to 10,000 spas annually, at an average price of €8,314 each, estimating the market size to be between €66,512 and €83,140 million.

Increased sales were fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic, with consumers shifting spending towards home well-being, a trend that boosted private hot tub sales by 28% in 2020. Other notable B2B segments include hotels and campsites, with high-end hotels showing a notable inclination towards spa installations. Distribution of spas involves manufacturers, specialists and general distributors, with companies like Jacuzzi France and Clairazur leading with sales of €18.6 million and €22.9 million in 2021, respectively. Regulations govern installation distances and safety standards set by the national urban planning code and AFNOR standards.

Evolving Priorities and Growth Trends in the French Spa Market

In recent years, the market for spas in France has seen a resurgence, with significant growth momentum marked by a 22% increase in new pools by 2021 and a 32% surge in market sales value. As the second-largest market for private hot tubs globally, France has surpassed the three million mark with rapid accelerations observed during the pandemic period. The French public's quest for well-being is a primary driver behind this boom. Concerns about stress relief, radiant skin, improved sleep, and overall wellness have been shifting consumer interests towards health and wellness activities.

These priorities gained heightened focus as McKinsey & Company's survey indicates—with around 42% of respondents placing wellness as a top life priority, and 75% of younger demographics expressing readiness for wellness-centred amenities like thalassotherapy. Moreover, the advent of COVID-19 acted as an unexpected accelerator for the spa market. With vacations and outdoor activities constrained, there was a significant consumer pivot towards enhancing in-home leisure, resulting in a 28% jump in sold ponds and a 27.5% increase in private pond deliveries in 2020 when compared to the previous year.

Apart from individual demand, the hotel industry represents a substantial segment where spas are increasingly seen as an essential feature for attracting clientele. The presence of spas in about half of luxury hotels and upscale accommodations manifests the significance attached to wellness in hospitality settings. Meanwhile, the camping sector is also contributing to market growth as campsites upgrade to incorporate luxurious wellness facilities. Despite the positive demand curve, the French spa market is not without barriers.

The overall economic context and personal life changes such as divorces have been detriments to purchase decisions, highlighting the sensitivity of the market to broader societal dynamics. Technological advances have also taken center stage, with the introduction of high-tech, connected spas. Users now have the luxury of controlling spa settings remotely via smartphones or tablets, enhancing convenience and potentially influencing consumer preferences.

From a market structure perspective, the sale and distribution channels of spas in France vary from manufacturer concessions and specialized networks to general distributors. With the spa manufacturing sector being recognized as a significant employment generator and the Propiscines® initiative emphasizing the professionalism in pool specialization, the market's service quality and job creation prospects appear robust. In terms of regulation, the French government mandates compliance with national urban planning codes and AFNOR standards, ensuring that installations adhere to safety and spatial guidelines. 

Prominent Players Shaping the Spa Market Landscape

The spa market is composed of a diverse range of participants, from manufacturers to specialist and general distributors. Each has carved out its own niche, providing an array of products and services to cater to the evolving needs of end consumers. Below is an overview of some of the key players in the spa industry as highlighted in the provided text.

 Leading Brand Manufacturers and Distributors

• Jacuzzi France : A pioneer and longstanding leader in the spa industry, Jacuzzi France represents the iconic brand that has become synonymous with high-end hydrotherapy solutions. With an extensive product lineup, including various models of spas and related accessories, Jacuzzi France has established a solid reputation for quality and innovation.
• Clairazur : As one of France's premier spa manufacturers, Clairazur has made a significant impact on the market with its extensive selection of spas, hot tubs, and hydromassage products. Committed to excellence, Clairazur continually invests in technology to offer luxurious and therapeutic experiences for its customers.
• La Fabrique du Spa : Catering to those looking for customized spa solutions, La Fabrique du Spa takes a unique approach by crafting tailor-made spas. Their focus on personalization sets them apart from other market players, ensuring that clients receive a product that is perfectly suited to their individual needs and preferences.

Specialist Spa Distributors

• Ideal Spa : As a specialist distributor, Ideal Spa focuses on delivering a specialized collection of spa products. Targeting consumers who prefer a more curated selection, they emphasise top-notch customer service and expert advice to guide clients in making the perfect spa choice.
• Sundance Spa: With a reputation for providing premium spa options, Sundance Spa upholds high standards in spa wellness technology. Boasting advanced features and elegant designs, they cater to customers looking for a high-end spa experience.
• Spa Alina : Distinguished by a broad assortment of spas and jacuzzis, Spa Alina is a significant player offering products that span various price ranges and feature sets. Their commitment to making spas accessible to a wider audience has been a key to their success.
• Spa Line : Spa Line offers an exclusive range of spa products and places significant emphasis on customer satisfaction. By presenting an array of choices for potential spa owners, they have secured a strong position in the marketplace.

 General Distributors with Broad Offerings

• Irrijardin : A major player in the broader outdoor living market, Irrijardin also provides spas.

Inforamtion

• Number of pages : 30 pages
• Format : Digital and PDF versions
• Last update : 06/12/2022

Summary and extracts

List of charts

• Sales by family
• Average price by product family
• Spa market trends
• Trends in the private pool and spa market
• Estimated size of the French spa sales market
• Hotel spa services
• Hotels by range
• Evolution of interest in the "spa" search on Google
• What's holding you back from buying a spa or pool?
• Searches for "spa" by region
• Trend in private pond sales
• Breakdown of campsites by classification
• Campsite equipment