Corporate wellness a growth industry - Epoc Messe Frankfurt

According to recent research conducted by Epoc Messe Frankfurt GmbH, organizers of Wellness and Spas Middle East, for every Dhs5 spent on wellness programs, employers can expect a return of up to Dhs50 through lower medical insurance claims, reduced days off due to sickness and improved productivity among other factors.

Workplace-based wellness programs will be among one of the key elements that will be emphasized at this year's Wellness & Spas Middle East organized by Epoc Messe Frankfurt GmbH. The event is scheduled to take place at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from May 18th to 20th.

"Companies around the world are expanding the availability of workplace-based wellness programs and it is now being promoted as the perfect way for employers to show their team that they care about their health and well-being,"

remarked Epoc Messe Frankfurt's CEO, Eckhard Pruy.

He noted that in the West, the program forms part of a strategy to minimize health-care costs through improved public health.

"Employer profits are being impacted by rising health care costs and virtually every company stands to gain from improving its employee health and reducing medical insurance costs and premiums," Pruy added." Many companies have come to see the value of wellness initiatives in their organizations and have taken steps to provide employees with access to wellness programs or components, considering the costs associated with wellness programs a wise investment," he said.

"Spas and wellness centres can be instrumental in alleviating stress," said Ms. Elaine O'Connell, Senior Show Manager, Epoc Messe Frankfurt. "Stress is a key factor in many ailments and in the long run, preventative measures available through wellness centres can be extremely cost effective and in many cases negate the need for expensive medical interventions, such as blood pressure lowering medications. And, of course, they provide a sense of well being, which you cannot put a price on," concluded Ms. O'Connell.

The 2007 event attracted 115 exhibitors and over 2100 visitors and was deemed an overwhelming success, with a staggering 98% of visitors polled saying that they will revisit the exhibition next year.

Ms. O'Connell believes that this year's event will be the best yet, judging from the remarkable growth trends associated with the wellness industry.

Wellness and Spas Middle East is the international trade fair for the professional spa and wellness industry, presenting over 135 exhibitors from over 25 countries showcasing the latest products, services, trends and solutions for the spa, fitness and wellness industries.