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09 SEPTEMBER 2025 ISSUE 483
A SPA BUSINESS PUBLICATION
Remembering Sharilyn Abbajay
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The spa and wellness industry is mourning the loss of Sharilyn Abbajay, honoured industry veteran and consultant who died recently. With more than 45 years' experience in operations, brand development, strategy, retail and innovation, life to the spa and beauty industry. Her experience included two years as VP of global spa, retail and fitness operations for Marriott International and time as senior VP of Elizabeth
PHOTO: THOM KLETECKA
Abbajay devoted her professional
■ Sharilyn Abbajay was one of the leading founders of the spa sector
Arden's Red Door Spa operations. She also ran her own consultancy,
Association (ISPA), writing textbooks
an exceptional leader and former
Abbajay and Associates, providing
for the association, serving on the
ISPA board member, but also a dear
strategy and operations advice
board and giving lectures on the
friend to so many, always sharing
to a diverse portfolio of clients.
institution's behalf. Her commitment
her passion for the spa industry with
was honoured in 2015 with a
warmth and generosity. Her love
roles in the plastic surgery market.
Dedicated Contributor Award.
for what she did touched countless
Abbajay played a crucial role in
Lynne McNees, president of
lives and she will be deeply missed".
the growth of the International Spa
ISPA, said: "Sharilyn was not only
More recently, she had senior COO
Neil Orvay outlines plans for new contract
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DEVELOPMENT
AROMATHERAPY
Studio Apostoli designs Roman thermal spring park
Neuroscientist backs up aromatherapy practices
The bathing circuit is inspired by ancient Rome
Prof Mark Moss proves scents affect the brain
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PHOTO: NORTHUMBRIA UNIVERSITY
Sense of Touch to operate The Fullerton, Hong Kong
PHOTO: STUDIO APOSTOLI
PHOTO: DENISE PONTAK
OPERATIONS
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