IN PARTNERSHIP WITH KOHLER CO.
Living Well in the United Kingdom
Known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and diverse natural landscapes, the United Kingdom has unique advantages in supporting well-rounded wellness living. The country boasts spectacular areas of natural beauty and scenic coastal views that are never more than a few hours away. In the world’s third largest physical activity market, staying active is not confined to the gym or tennis courts or football fields. Hiking and walking are a national pastime, as citizens and visitors alike take advantage of the country’s vast city parks, back-country trails, spectacular lochs, and the scenic Scottish Highlands. The UK’s iconic cities – from London to Bath, and from Edinburgh to Belfast – are home to vibrant and diverse communities, presenting a medley of history and culture, as well as an array of festivals, theaters, museums, historical sites, and culinary delights.
UK KEY FACTS
Population
66,971,411 (2022)
Life Expectancy for Men
78.7 (2021)
Life Expectancy for Women
82.8 years (2021)
Example Modalities
Spas, wellness clubs & retreats
Hiking and walking in nature
Wellness policy for physical activity and mental wellness
UK WELLNESS ECONOMY REPORT
This country report is the first detailed measurement of the size of the UK’s wellness economy, presenting data on its eleven wellness sectors. The report shows the trajectory of the wellness economy from 2019 to 2022, and subsector details where data are available. It also contains global and regional comparisons to show where the UK stands vis-à-vis its peers and competitors. This report and its data will be valuable for any businesses and investors who are interested in the opportunities and potential offered by the UK’s dynamic wellness market.
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WELLNESS ECONOMY BY SECTOR IN THE UK
The wellness economy, as defined by GWI, is broad and diverse. Its eleven sectors encompass many different types of consumer activities and expenditures, including products, services, travel, and technology. Every country’s wellness economy is unique. Its composition can vary widely from country to country, based on its development history, culture, socioeconomic conditions, and government policy. Below we present the UK’s top-line wellness economy data and how it ranks globally. More details are available in the downloadable country report.
The UK’s Rankings out of 218 countries
KEY WELLNESS EXPERIENCES IN THE UK
The United Kingdom is the world’s fifth largest wellness economy, and its flourishing wellness market offers vast and diverse options across all wellness pursuits. As the seventh largest spa market and the eighth largest wellness tourism market, the country hosts a vibrant array of spas, urban wellness clubs, affordable to high-end resorts, and fitness studios to nourish the body, mind, and soul. The sophistication of the UK’s beauty market is legendary. There is a growing movement to revive the grand tradition of thermal bathing in the country – a history that includes Roman-era thermae and Victorian bathhouses. For those who love the outdoors, there are endless easily accessible experiences rooted in nature, such as hiking, cycling, and wild swimming. Those who seek to escape the urban hustle bustle and city lights can visit the designated dark sky parks and reserves across England, Scotland, and Wales. Importantly, the UK is home to the third largest and fastest growing wellness real estate sector in the world, transforming the country’s built environment into one that enhances well-being and supports healthy lifestyle habits.
“Wellness is rapidly ascending in the UK, reflecting a growing national focus on holistic health and well-being. This trend highlights a widespread commitment to integrating physical, mental, and emotional wellness into everyday life, driving innovative approaches across multiple sectors. This holistic approach emphasizes creating harmonious living environments, fostering supportive communities, enhancing physical health, nurturing balanced nutrition, and cultivating mental well-being, collectively contributing to a more comprehensive and fulfilling experience of wellness.”
– Ashley Kohler, Director of Wellness for Destination Kohler Hospitality & Real Estate
OTHER GWI RESOURCES & REPORTS FOR THE UK
PROVIDED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH KOHLER CO.
The Global Wellness Institute is grateful to Kohler Co. for supporting the development of this country report and making its important United Kingdom-specific data available to the world.
Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin, Kohler Co. is one of America’s oldest and largest privately held companies comprised of more than 40,000 associates. With more than 50 manufacturing locations worldwide, Kohler is a global leader in the design, innovation and manufacture of kitchen and bath products; luxury cabinetry, tile and lighting; and owner/operator of two, five-star hospitality and golf resort destinations in Kohler, Wisconsin, and St. Andrews, Scotland. The company also develops solutions to address pressing issues, such as clean water and sanitation, for underserved communities around the world to enhance the quality of life for current and future generations.
