an interview with David Wagner

THE PERSONAL JOURNEY

Although the name "Juut" is new to the salon and spa industry, David Wagner is not. Wagner's history with the company and industry spans two decades. The launch of the new name and image is one of many significant milestones in the evolution of an industry leader. Wagner started out in the 70's with Horst Salons, rising quickly to become General Manager and Vice President at the age of 23. He purchased the Horst Salons in 1991. With the expansion to Palo Alto and now to San Francisco, he is running a "replenishment experience" company serving thousands of clients every day. That's bound to challenge even an effective, high-energy leader.

I asked him how he keeps his batteries charged."I meditate every day. I practice yoga with my wife every day. It's become a ritual with her. And I have kids as well. And that keeps me grounded. I don't get the opportunity to have a massage as often as I like but I do monthly visits to all our locations and schedule appointments to get a facial, massage, manicure and a hair cut. And I use it as a way to touch base with our people. I schedule it not necessarily as a wellness treat to myself, but I've convinced myself that it is good business. But on a daily basis, I practice meditation and yoga."

It was obvious that when you're the boss and you're sampling your own product, it can't be quite the same replenishment experience. So, I asked David what he recommended from his own experiences other than Juut. "Canyon Ranch is really interesting. We went there on our anniversary last year. I tried restorative yoga. I hadn't touched my toes in years. I have a terrible back. I had scoliosis when I was a kid. I had done yoga for a couple years. What was great was the woman that taught me this restorative yoga for my back gave me more flexibility. I was just amazed at the flexibility.

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DESIGNING THE SPA EXPERIENCE

GOING TO THE CONSUMER