The Check-In Newsletter - Sept 17, 2025: Data-driven insights

Check in to see how other Wellness Brands are winning and thriving. Check out with the insights you need to grow yours.

New data just dropped — and it's shedding light on what clients really think about after-hours communication, AI receptionists, and what they expect from salon and spa experiences in 2026. Today, we're unpacking insights that could reshape how you gear up for the holidays and prepare to make the new year your best yet.

Curious how clients feel about AI receptionists or their preferred way to book appointments? We asked 1,000 salon and spa clients about their expectations going into 2026. Discover the insights you're looking for in our latest survey results.
Explore 2025 Survey infographics
62% of salon and spa regulars say they’re more likely to choose a business that offers after-hours support. With 24/7 support tools on the rise, now’s the perfect time to explore ways to be there for your clients — day or night.
Always-on access is raising client expectations for 2026. After-hour availability may be the difference between a missed or captured sale.
Quiz: What percentage of salon and spa regulars say they need to call outside of standard business hours, at least sometimes?
A) 62%
B) 75%
C) 81%
Think you know the answer? Scroll down to find out!
71% of salon and spa regulars say they’ve skipped booking with a business because it was too hard to reach someone or schedule online. Ask yourself: Are your tools or processes costing you business? Are there ways to improve or streamline booking?
The ROI of client appreciation: Why celebrating loyalty builds revenue

Caring for your clients is the foundation of a thriving business. Discover how showing appreciation can fuel revenue growth for salons, spas, and wellness brands — and explore proven strategies to build stronger, lasting client relationships.
ROI of client appreciation
“We don’t upsell”: How that mindset costs salons

Does upselling feel off-brand for your salon? You're not alone; however, recommending services and products can be key to boosting revenue and helping clients thrive.
Boost ROI with upsells
Medspa data: What clients expect in 2026

Explore medspa-specific data on client preferences for AI receptionists and scheduling, tailored to help drive growth and meet client expectations as we move toward 2026.
Explore client data
Walk-ins welcome: The pros of hybrid scheduling

Shorter waits, happier clients, calmer staff. Discover how hybrid scheduling with AI-powered tools balances walk-ins and appointments to streamline operations and boost loyalty.
Explore hybrid scheduling
One tool, less stress: Simplify gym operations

Are you looking for ways to improve your gym operations? Manage class scheduling, memberships, payments, marketing, and staff — all in one easy-to-use gym management software.
Streamline gym growth
Seasonal ideas for your business
While many have embraced the spirit of autumn, the official First Day of Fall is September 22. You can use this as an opportunity to highlight your fall-themed services and drive growth with seasonal promotions.
Want more timely tips, ideas, and inspiration?
View the Q3 2025 marketing calendar
Test Your Knowledge: Answer Reveal ✅:
C) 81%. This number jumped up to 92% for medspas. While your staff can't work around the clock, having the right tools on your side can help you meet client expectations and boost loyalty.
*Source: 2025 Consumer Surveys, Zenoti
That's all for today, but we will check back with more updates and growth insights in just two weeks!

Written by
Cheryl Cole, Managing Editor
Cheryl uses her background in journalism to help brands bring their unique stories to life. Passionate about content strategy, she has extensive experience leading both print and digital publications. As managing editor of The Check-In, Cheryl is committed to providing wellness professionals with high-quality, tailored content designed to help grow their brands.
Learn more about Cheryl Cole
Reviewed by
Emily Holzer, Content Specialist
Combining a passion for writing, data, and helping small businesses thrive, Emily loves building resources that lift beauty and wellness professionals higher. She has spent the last three years dedicated to researching and creating tools for salons, spas, medspas, barbershops, and gyms. Her specialties include marketing, AI, and automation. \r
Learn more about Emily Holzer