Global wellbeing organisation, Therme Group US and Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser have announced an agreement to unite towards identifying a site for a new Therme facility.

Therme is expanding to the United States and has identified the DC-Maryland-Virginia (DMV) region for their premier flagship facility. 

For the duration of this one-year exclusive rights agreement, Therme will only explore sites in the District and not seek to compete the District against surrounding jurisdictions.

The framework states that the Mayor’s Office will support Therme’s efforts by helping to identify potential locations in the District and that they will collaborate on efforts to engage with council members, business leaders, community partners, and residents.

Therme’s wellness experience in D.C. is “projected to match the visitation rates of renowned landmarks like the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the Kennedy Center and the National Museum of African American History & Culture,” according to Therme.

The introduction of a Therme facility is expected to bring 7,200 construction jobs over a two-year period, 700-800 permanent operations job and an estimated $1.1 Billion (£870m) in D.C. nominal tax revenue flow over 25 years.

“This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for Washington, DC. When we create destinations that not only bring more visitors to our city, but also create new experiences for our residents – that is a win-win,” said DC Mayor Muriel Bowser. 

“We know that people are the key to our city’s comeback, and people want experiences that are fun, that support health and wellness, and that are different than what we already have in the region – that is what Therme will bring to DC. 

“In addition to creating a new experience, this will also create more jobs for DC residents and more support for local businesses. All of that is critical to our comeback.”

“As Washington, DC continues to grow its status as a draw for global tourists, we must ensure that our residents see real and lasting benefits,” said Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC). “That means focusing on community engagement, health and wellness, and developing good jobs for Washingtonians.”

“We are thrilled to work together and take the first step to bring Therme’s revolutionary wellbeing concept to the US,” said Omar Toro-Vaca, Chief Development Officer, Therme Group US. 

“The cultural wealth and diversity of the nation’s capital makes it the perfect place to introduce the United States to our holistic model of urban recreation and rejuvenation. We look forward to collaborating with the community and District leaders to develop a civic asset that connects Washingtonians and visitors alike with a new approach to health, nature, and community.”

Image: Therme Group