BHW sector penetrates wider market segments

The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), in partnership with the Spa and Wellness Association of Cebu (SWAC) will launch the third Beauty, Health & Wellness Show, to further push wellness as one of the effective tools to attract local and foreign tourists, as well as boost the development of this emerging industry.

 This year’s BHW Show slated on August 17-19 2007, will carry the theme “Wellness Renovation in Cebu,” as players believe that offerings for wellness services nowadays have extended to wider market segments regardless of economic situations.

The show will showcase the varied services offered by the wellness sector in Cebu, with the increase of wellness joints, catering to the different market segments.

Cebu, which is also positioned as the wellness center in Southern Philippines, has now attracted local and foreign tourists availing of the world-at-par wellness services here.

Last year’s Beauty, Health and Wellness Show gathered more than 60 exhibitors and more than 5,000 viewers in various fields who experienced the free soothing massage from different spa, meso-theraphy, hair extensions, taste of healthy foods and drinks, learn new things in beauty, health and wellness during the series of presentations, tried the non surgical face, among others.

The show is also regarded as one of the effective venues for wellness and spa operators to offer their respective businesses for franchise.

The show will be complemented by seminars and workshops to be conducted by renowned experts and personalities in the field. BHW Show will also feature live demonstrations, product and service sampling, live entertainment, and fashion shows.

According to Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in the world today, wellness is fast blossoming. Leading countries have been developing their wellness industries for a number of years and they are fast reaching their maturity, with Thailand as the leading country in Southeast Asia.

While virtually a baby industry in the Philippines, Cebu stands as a leading province for the development of this attraction.

“Cebu is meeting the demands of urbanization and infrastructure, industry and economic growth, international businesses and trade standards,” said DTI-Cebu province director Nelia F. Navarro, in an earlier interview.

At the same time, the local lifestyle and culture is conducive to meeting the need for relaxation and detoxification, pursuit of personal and social interests, communion with self, others and the surrounding environs. — Ehda M. Dagooc