Trent Munday is Senior Vice President of Mandara Spa, the world's leading hotel and resort spa management company. Previous experience with Six Senses Resorts and COMO Resorts position Trent as an experienced leader in the sector. His current remit is to develop Mandara Spa’s existing business and set the future strategic direction for the company.

1. What trends do you see emerging in the spa industry within the next 2-3 years?

Trent: I feel like we'll see a focus on 'recovery' in spas over the next few years. Whilst recovery is a term we've traditionally associated with elite sports, it's a concept that's relevant to all of us. We all need to recover from something. Whether it's from overexerted muscles, or a bit of work stress, recovery is something we all need. I see this as a relatively easy transition for a spa currently offering pampering services that can now give their clients something more tangible.

2. In my opinion, the future of the spa industry lies in...

Trent: ... redefining what a spa is. The basic concept of a hotel spa, and by extension a day spa, hasn't really changed at all in 25+ years. But our customers have. I long for a world where no two spas are the same. They look and feel and are different, based on the different demands on their specific market.

3. What challenges do you see ahead?

Trent: The most important challenge all spas face is finding a business model that works for them and is sustainable over the long term. The days of 'if you build it, they will come', are well and truly over. Spas need to focus on business models that sustain over the journey.

4. My favourite personal wellness routines include …...

Trent: Early morning brisk walk in the park, followed by a kale, apple, orange juice. Great way to start the day.

5. The best advice I can offer the next generation of wellness professionals is …

Trent: “Stop looking in the mirror, look out the window”. Getting your knowledge and information from the experts within the spa & wellness industry is great. But never forget they naturally have their own biases. Challenge what they tell you. Question it. Put it to others outside the industry and get their opinions and perspectives.