Online hospitality education specialist Lobster Ink has collaborated with spa management and consultancy firm Resense to launch what they describe as the 'first-of-its-kind' web-based programme for those working in wellness.

Spa Professional aims to empower employees "with the practical skills and proven commercial principles they need to provide superior guest experiences and improve the profitability of their spas".

While some web-based spa treatment or management training programmes already exist, Spa Professional claims to be different because it has mapped out an interactive curriculum for every role in the spa – from therapists to receptionists, attendants, managers and directors.

The training focuses on two main areas, covering the fundamental business principles and operational know-how that managers and associates need to run an effective operation – something widely overlooked in the industry.

With proof that spa success depends on the quality of the visitor experience, Spa Professional also homes in on the necessary knowledge and operational tools to "genuinely engage with guests, reduce costs and maximise commercial value"

Education is delivered through interactive lessons, assessments and high-quality videos which have been filmed in various spas to provide examples of best practice.

Kasha Shillington, CEO of Resense, says: "Spa Professional understands the real drivers of effective spas and empowers spa teams to deliver unmatched guest experiences and commercial results."

Resense is a leading spa consultancy and contract management firm which has worked on more than 90 spas in 30 countries. It helped to build the content and strategy behind the Spa Professional programme based on this in-depth knowledge.

Lobster Ink specialises in delivering ROI through technologically-enhanced learning and its approach combines cognitive understanding, video and behavioural science techniques to deliver practical training on skills, knowledge and behaviour. It counts hospitality brands such as Mandarin Oriental, Marriott and Accor as its clients.

The two companies have been working behind the scenes to develop Spa Professional for the past five years.