Writted by Design Fever

Into the heart of the Wellness Hospitality Conference with Mauro Santinato.

The Founder and CEO of Teamwork Hospitality tells us about the background of the second edition of the important Milanese event.

Wellness Hospitality Conference is a unique event in the Italian panorama, ready to repeat the success of 2023 in this second edition, kicking off on 21 November. The focus will be on topics such as the evolution of the wellness world, the trends characterising the sector, and the transformations underway in the spa and Spa Hotel sector. For the occasion, we meet Mauro Santinato, Founder and CEO of Teamwork Hospitality.

1. As we approach the second edition of the Wellness Hospitality Conference, how did this networking and B2B exchange project come about?
   MS: The Wellness Hospitality Conference project was born from the need to create a meeting point for professionals in the wellness and hospitality sectors. The idea was to establish a networking and B2B exchange platform that would facilitate the sharing of experiences, innovative ideas, and best practices. After the success of the first edition, which attracted over 500 industry professionals, we recognised a strong demand for this type of event. It provides participants with an opportunity to discuss the challenges and opportunities within the sector, build lasting professional relationships, and foster growth and innovation.
2. The wellness industry within the hospitality sector: What is the situation in our country? What international developments do you identify?
   MS: In Italy, the wellness industry within hospitality is growing, but there is still much room for improvement and innovation. The number of establishments offering high-quality wellness services is increasing, but not all of them manage to integrate these services seamlessly into their overall offerings. Internationally, however, we see that wellness is already a key component of hospitality, with many establishments providing highly specialised and personalised wellness experiences. In countries like the United States, Australia, and certain European nations, there is greater awareness of the added value that wellness can bring to hospitality, which is reflected in the growing demand for increasingly sophisticated and personalised services.
3. The gradual integration of hospitality establishments in the surrounding social and urban environment has been a trend for several years. How can wellness contribute to this effort?
   MS: Wellness can play a fundamental role in opening hospitality establishments to the surrounding social and urban context. Integrating wellness services with initiatives that engage the local community can create a sense of belonging and strengthen the bond between guests and the territory. Some successful examples include wellness programmes that are open not only to guests but also to local residents, collaborations with local producers to offer farm-to-table products in spa treatments and restaurant menus, and activities that promote physical and mental well-being in the natural and cultural settings of the area. These approaches not only enrich the guest experience but also contribute to the sustainable development of the local community.
4. How important is the specialisation of treatments and technologies offered in the wellness sector for the hospitality and success of an establishment?
   MS: The specialisation of treatments and technologies offered is crucial for the success of a wellness establishment. Guests are increasingly informed and discerning, seeking unique and personalised experiences that meet their specific wellness needs. The use of advanced technologies and innovative treatments can make a significant difference, allowing establishments to provide cutting-edge services that set them apart from the competition. Additionally, ongoing staff training and equipment updates are essential for maintaining high-quality standards and meeting customer expectations.
5. Will new professional roles emerge?
   MS: Yes, I foresee the emergence of new professional roles in the wellness sector. As technologies and wellness techniques evolve, new specialisations will arise. For example, there may be a demand for experts in biohacking, digital therapists, mental wellness consultants, and professionals specialising in holistic and alternative therapies. Furthermore, the increasing integration of wellness and technology will create a need for professionals who can manage and optimise digital devices and applications for wellness.
6. Do you feel comfortable sharing some predictions and estimates for the next two years?
   MS: In the next two years, I anticipate continued growth in the wellness sector within hospitality, with an increase in demand for personalised and holistic experiences. Establishments that successfully integrate technological innovation and sustainability into their services will have a competitive advantage. Additionally, the focus on mental well-being will become increasingly central, with more offerings aimed at reducing stress and promoting relaxation and mindfulness. Environmental awareness will also continue to rise, with greater attention to eco-friendly practices and the use of natural and sustainable products. These trends will drive the development of the sector, influencing the strategies and investments of hospitality establishments.

Mauro Santinato

For over 30 years, Mauro has been providing consulting services in marketing and sales. He is an educator and consultant for major hotel chains such as Holiday Inn, Hilton, Golden Tulip Worldwide, Domina Hotels & Resorts, The Charming Hotels, NH Hotels, Best Western, WorldHotels, and Choice Hotels.
He is the creator and promoter of product clubs, including Italy Bike Hotels, Italy Family Hotels, Italy Wine Hotels, Riccione Turismo, SPA Hotels Collection, Terrabici, and All Inclusive Hotels. He collaborates with specialised magazines such as Pianeta Hotel and Turismo d’Italia and has produced numerous manuals and publications in the industry.