Spa shop - let's translate what this really means

So the email says:

"We will reimburse you up to $175 for the service and you will also get a $35 cash payment. You are expected to tip 15% which is $26.25 and is the reason you will get the $35 cash payment to cover this tip!"

Doesn't that translate as - The maximum reimbursement for this shop is $175, inclusive of tip. The payment is $8.75"?? (Assuming you also pay a tip of $26.25)......so $8.75 for your time for the shop and the report and you get the spa treatment...which I have had there before and it's VERY mediocre.

Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 08/20/2025 04:25PM by BarefootBliss.

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What services are you required to get and how much are they each or total?

With low payment and high reimbursement shops, from my perspective, I view the total amount as a reimbursement shop. Often, it appears that the shop amount will be enough to cover taxes and a tip for services or dining.

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Feeding the MSF trolls bread or other human food is detrimental to their health and the environment. It can lead to malnutrition, disease, and behavioral problems in trolls, as well as water pollution and the spread of pests. Trolls are capable of finding their own food sources and don't require human assistance.

A spa treatment.

You have to book before they give you the price, but it's usually around $175 +/- so once any fees or taxes are added, it could end up costing you to have this done.

The last time I did this shop, I was paid $75 and received full reimbursement, so this is just another decline and a steep one. I was just noting the word salad. You only have to play that game when you know it's not an attractive offer.

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 08/20/2025 05:13PM by BarefootBliss.

I translate as the reimbursement for service excludes any tip but you are expected to tip anyway. They are trying to justify that by saying you are getting shop pay that should exceed the tip amount.

@BarefootBliss wrote:

The last time I did this shop, I was paid $75 and received full reimbursement, so this is just another decline and a steep one. I was just noting the word salad. You only have to play that game when you know it's not an attractive offer.

But does it matter what treatment? I mean is it a massage? facial? can you pick?

They specify the treatment. How do you see that as related to their fee statement?

@BarefootBliss wrote:

They specify the treatment. How do you see that as related to their fee statement?

It isn't but it makes a big difference in perceived value. If this is a desirable service you might otherwise pay for out of pocket, you'll see it as a $200+ value and great pay for the trouble of a report rather than an insulting $8.75 for your time and effort getting a mediocre service.
I predict someone will be excited to get this opportunity.

yes, perhaps someone who has never been to the spa chain in question. They are in for a surprise lol.
The MSC has probably indicated to the client that this offer will bring them in no problem.
My experience has shown they have a hard time getting them filled.....as evidenced by past pleas from schedulers.
Of course, that's why I wonder how they plan to bring them in now. We shall see.

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 08/20/2025 06:24PM by BarefootBliss.

Can I ask the MSC since you haven't mentioned the client?

BestMark

Enjoy!

I saw this "offer" also. A low even for them. In the past there has been total reimbursement for service and tip, as well as an often-generous fee.

@BarefootBliss wrote:

They specify the treatment. How do you see that as related to their fee statement?

It's related b/c if you can just go grab a $100 facial then it's a deal to me; that's why I asked. Didn't think it was an odd ? but I guess you did

I did this shop twice for Coyle and got full reimbursement for both the treatment and tip, plus was paid $50 the first time and $100 the second time. Coyle couldn't fill these shops, and I would guess they are happy to be rid of the contract. Good luck to BestMark!! For those asking, the service is an introductory facial that they use as a stepping stone to their more expensive services and products. I personally wouldn't pay a dime for it; $175 plus tip is ludicrous, in my opinion.

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 08/20/2025 10:05PM by bradkcrew.

I like doing these types of shops for Coyle and similar MSCs. I see it as an opportunity to venture out.

The quality of the service is often in large part related to the skill level and technique of the employee. I have asked for business cards of the ones that I like. Often, some form a client list and leave to go into business on their own on the side.

Maybe it was here or somewhere else, but BestMark is void of any shops in my area

I didn't think it was an odd question, please no assumptions.
I simply was asking if you were seeing something I wasn't.

I had the same experience as Bradcrew when they were with Coyle. I was actually disappointed with the facial. Granted these were the only facials I've ever had, but they weren't what I expected.

I did it 3 times. Once at $50 shop pay and twice at $100 with full reimbursement for service and tip.

The word facial ... so hard to resist commenting further on wrosie's comments ... but I must resist. I want to be a mature person

<<< The word facial ... so hard to resist commenting further on wrosie's comments ... but I must resist. I want to be a mature person>>>

This is EXACTLY the reason I did not want to specify the type of spa treatment. We know you're easily triggered, my post a couple days ago about hard to fill shops got way sidetracked. Was hoping to leave the off topic topics where they belong.

I have a dirty mind

Sounds like reimbursement only.

in a nutshell, yes. I am just amused by their turn of phrase.
Might slip past a new shopper who doesn't have any history, however - may be what they want.

Used car sales language and tactics?

@paniconmon wrote:

The word facial ... so hard to resist commenting further on wrosie's comments ... but I must resist. I want to be a mature person

Maturity is overrated.

I don't think there are any Russians / And there ain't no Yanks
Just corporate criminals\ / Playin' with tanks

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Spa shop - let's translate what this really means

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