AUGUST 7, 2009 — Fewer high-quality tanning facilities are serving the North American tanning market today, most likely the result of business consolidation, larger stores and an the economic downturn in the past two years.

A SmartTan.com poll conducted in early August asked facility owners whether the number of “quality” tanning facilities in their markets had increased, declined or not changed. Forty-five percent reported that the number had decreased in their market, while 28 percent said the number had increased and 27 percent reported no change.

“This poll can be read a number of ways,” Smart Tan Vice President Joseph Levy said. “We believe the survivors in the tanning market’s 4th generation are the ‘quality’ salons, which would explain why nearly 30 percent of the market says the number of good salons is increasing. But we also have seen consolidation in many markets, which would drive the number down. It all suggests that the market’s face is changing, and we think the future of the market is bright, with quality stores leading the way.”

Driving indoor tanning’s next boom for 4th generation tanning business owners will be the main theme of Smart Tan Downtown: Smart Tan’s 14th Annual Convention and Trade Show in Downtown Nashville Oct. 9-11. The $99 conference and trade show includes all of the industry’s leading vendors introducing new product for 2010, more than $50,000 in attendee prizes — including several tanning beds — and Smart Tan’s most dynamic conference program to date.

For event details or to register click here.