More than half of all tanning facilities have not changed their per-session tanning prices in 2009 according to a SmartTan.com survey conducted this month — another sign that many in the professional indoor tanning community are weathering the challenging economy.

According to the survey, 29 percent have increased their prices from 2008 levels and 57 percent have not changed their prices from last year — meaning 86 percent are holding the line from last year. Only 14 percent reported lowering their session prices from 2008.

“Our surveys continue to show that many in the market are still performing well,” Smart Tan Vice President Joseph Levy said. “A SmartTan.com survey earlier this month showed that 39 percent of facilities thought January’s results exceeded expectations, and 63 percent felt January met or exceeded expectations. That’s encouraging — you aren’t seeing those numbers in many other industries.”

The survey results are not scientific, but continue to tell the same story. “And that’s a good sign for things to come,” Levy said.