Market Trends for Tanning Beds: Why Now is a Good Time to Invest

The wellness industry is becoming more holistic. What does that mean? Clients want more than just a gym membership or occasional spa day - they're looking for complete wellness experiences. This shift has created a sweet spot for tanning services, because they can be a great complementary service to existing wellness offerings, in a wide range of facilities. 

If you run a wellness center, fitness facility, or are considering becoming a tanning bed distributor, the current market conditions make this an ideal time to invest in tanning services. Here's what's happening in the industry in 2025.

Current Market Growth for Tanning Beds

The numbers tell an interesting story. Tanning bed sales are climbing steadily, with strong growth projected. According to a report by DataIntelo, ''the global tanning bed market size is projected to experience a noteworthy expansion, with market figures reaching approximately $4.5 billion in 2023 and anticipated to grow to $7.3 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5%.''

But raw numbers only tell part of the story when it comes to the wellness industry. 

What's really driving this growth is a fundamental change in how people view tanning services. It's no longer just about getting a base tan before vacation. Modern tanning beds serve a broader purpose in people's wellness routines, creating year-round demand that's especially strong in urban areas and regions with limited natural sunlight.

This growth spans multiple sectors. While traditional tanning salons are doing well, we're seeing particular momentum in fitness centers, wellness spas, and even medical facilities. The market is expanding because tanning services complement so many other wellness offerings, and it's a smart investment – but more about that later.

Trends in Health and Wellness Driving Demand

Your clients are more informed about wellness than ever before, and they're making connections between various aspects of their health routines. Tanning isn't isolated from other wellness services anymore - it's becoming an integral part of people's overall approach to feeling and looking their best.

This integration of services is driving business growth across the wellness industry. When clients can address multiple wellness needs in one location, they're more likely to become regular customers. Adding tanning services to your existing business taps into this trend, giving your clients another reason to choose your facility over competitors.

The Role of Vitamin D and UV Therapy

The science behind vitamin D's health benefits has moved from medical journals into mainstream awareness. More people understand its importance for immune function, bone health, and mental wellbeing. During winter months especially, when natural sunlight is scarce, professional tanning services can fill an important gap.

Read more: Maximize Winter Sunlight: Boost Vitamin D & Lift Your Mood 

This awareness has created consistent, year-round demand for tanning services. Clients aren't just coming in for cosmetic reasons - they're incorporating tanning into their health maintenance routines. This shift from seasonal to year-round service creates more stable revenue opportunities for business owners.

Increased Demand in Fitness Centers and Wellness Facilities

Ultrasun E7 with hybrid lamps

Fitness centers adding tanning services are seeing real benefits in client retention and revenue, without having to overcomplicate what they offer. The combination makes sense - clients are already focused on their health and appearance, and tanning services complement their existing routines naturally.

The business case is compelling. Unlike many wellness services that require additional staff and ongoing training, tanning beds can generate revenue with minimal operational overhead. They're also space-efficient, typically requiring just a small dedicated area while providing solid returns per square foot, something that often works quite easily in fitness and wellness facilities.

Read more: Adding Tanning Beds to Your Gym: Complete Revenue Guide 2025 

Technological Advancements in Tanning Bed Equipment

Modern tanning beds are a far cry from the basic UV lamps of the past. CollaTan technology has revolutionized what's possible, combining traditional tanning with skin rejuvenation benefits. These advances have opened up new markets, attracting clients who might have been hesitant about tanning in the past.

The improvements go beyond just better results. Today's equipment is more energy-efficient, requires less maintenance, and offers better control over the tanning process. Features like automated exposure systems and smart power management aren't just marketing points - they make running your business easier while giving clients better, more consistent results.

Sustainability Trends and Eco-Friendly Tanning Options

Environmental impact matters more and more, and modern tanning equipment reflects this priority. Electronic ballasts significantly cut power consumption compared to older models. Smart power management systems reduce waste by optimizing energy use between sessions.

These aren't just feel-good vanity features - they directly impact your bottom line through lower operating costs. 

Consumer Preferences for Indoor Tanning

Your tanning clients know what they want: not all tanning experiences are created equal.  They're looking for professional environments, consistent results, and services that fit their busy schedules. They understand the difference between professional tanning services and basic beds, and they're willing to pay for quality and comfort.

This creates opportunities for businesses offering premium services. Modern clients value controlled environments, professional guidance, and the assurance of proper equipment maintenance. They're also more likely to combine tanning with other wellness services, creating natural upselling opportunities.

Competitive Advantages of the Tanning Bed Industry

The initial investment for offering tanning services is pretty straightforward; ongoing costs are predictable, and you don't need a large staff to operate successfully. Compared to many other wellness services, tanning beds provide good returns with relatively low operational complexity.

The ability to offer both traditional tanning and advanced skin rejuvenation creates multiple revenue streams from the same equipment. This versatility helps maximize your return on investment while appealing to a broader client base.

Revenue Potential and ROI for Investors

Investing in premium tanning equipment can be a smart financial move. For instance, a modestly priced tanning bed may cost around €10,000, with annual electricity and maintenance expenses totaling roughly €5,000. With strategic pricing—say, adding an extra €2.50 per month for roughly 500 members in a 1,500-member club—you can generate close to €15,000 a year. This means that many businesses see a full return on investment within just 12 months when implementing solid pricing strategies and marketing. Premium equipment tends to pay for itself through higher service prices, lower maintenance costs, and better energy efficiency.

Multiple revenue streams are possible - from single sessions to membership packages and combined wellness services. The key is choosing quality equipment that can support premium pricing while keeping operational costs in check.

Read more: Maximize Tanning Salon Profits with High-Quality Beds 

Why 2025 is the Ideal Time to Become A Tanning Bed Distributor

Several factors make this a particularly good time to enter the market or upgrade your existing equipment. Consumer interest in wellness services continues to grow. People are more aware of tanning's health benefits beyond just cosmetic results. And technological advances have made tanning services more appealing to a broader market.

The industry is growing, but there's still plenty of room for new businesses and expanded services. Early adopters of premium equipment are well-positioned to capture market share and establish strong reputations as the industry continues to expand.

Ready to explore how tanning beds could work in your business? Become a distributor or speak with our market experts about opportunities in your area.

FAQs About Market Trends for Tanning Beds

What makes modern tanning equipment different from older models?

Today's tanning beds offer advanced features like CollaTan technology, precise exposure control, and energy-efficient operation. These improvements deliver better results while reducing operational costs and maintenance needs.

How quickly can businesses expect to see returns on tanning bed investments?

Most businesses achieve ROI within 12 months with proper pricing and marketing strategies. Factors affecting returns include location, local market conditions, and service positioning.

What's driving the growth in tanning bed demand?

The combination of increased wellness awareness, better technology, and a growing understanding of vitamin D benefits has created strong market demand. This is particularly true in fitness centers and wellness facilities where tanning complements existing services.

With 50 years of experience in the tanning industry, Ultrasun understands what businesses need to succeed. Our tanning beds are designed to help you build a profitable, sustainable operation while providing your clients with exceptional tanning experiences.