It’s that time again when the leisure industry decides where to focus efforts for the upcoming year. Whilst it’s true that no-one truly knows exactly the way 2014 will pan out for those of us in the leisure and fitness industry, we have seen some common signs.
Leap into 2014!
So what are going to be the leisure industry trends of 2014?
David Lloyd predict a rise in convenient, effective exercise for increasingly busy people. Consumers will take advantage of technology to help them get fast results, and a move towards city-centre exercise space will facilitate busy workers to access gyms and groups. The main trend for 2014 will be physical training in small groups, and more common use of equipment such as kettlebells.
The Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in July are sure to raise the profile of sport in a similar way to the Olympics of London 2012. Cycling and swimming are set to grow yet again, and less mainstream sports such as netball and triathalon may well inspire more adventurous types to participate. Come Autumn, prepare for a flurry of interest in any of the seventeen sports showcased at the games.
As per the last couple of years, holidaying in the UK, or staycations will be strong. As the economy picks up, consumers may revert to holidaying abroad once more, but for now the forecast for 2014 is good for UK destinations and hotels. Major events like The Commonwealth Games will increase demand for accommodation in the north and Scotland.
Because of the flat-lining economy, PWC have noted a drop in non-essential business spending, which has affected conference and event attendance. Hotels which focus purely on business trips, may not fare so well as those focussed on leisure.
As for the spa sector, Professional Beauty note an increase in beauty treatment spending over the last year which is set to continue. Face treatments are particularly fast-growing with anti-wrinkle injections the biggest rising star. Our challenge as a recruiter will be to find committed and professional therapists with the right skills to meet this demand.
The spa sector is in a strong position to benefit from consumers choosing to stay in the UK for their holidays instead of going abroad. With shorter holidays, consumers are spending more on day trips and experiences closer to home. Top predictions for 2014 include the personalisation of spa treatments, a focus on detox and diet for wellness, a move to more outdoors and nature-themed spas, and an inclusion of the whole family, including children. For this and more trends, please see this article from Travel Daily News.
The big picture for the leisure recruitment industry is growth in some areas, and a fall in demand in others. While the demand for leisure staff required, by our experience, is growing, we have also noticed a change in the type of staff required. The switch from subscription-based gymnasiums to pay-as-you-go group training, and a mini-renaissance in the spa sector has started to tip the balance in favour of good poolside staff and therapists.
We have been developing recruitment channels for a wide range of professional leisure staff over the last few months including Therapists, Lifeguards, Sales and Senior Managers and will continue to do so for 2014 and beyond. If you need staff for your leisure facility, or are looking for work in the leisure industry, please get in touch with us on 01895 450640 or email us info@4leisurerecruitment.co.uk
Of course, we are able to recruit permanent staff members and supply temps for gyms and fitness clubs as usual! While this sector may not be growing as fast as others, gyms and leisure will continue to need good people. That’s one prediction you can rely on!