Ghana-based startup Orado, which specializes in clinically-proven massages for corporates and groups, has launched in Ghana, having provided over 190 massage sessions to date.
Orado is not a spa or your typical massage company. The startup partners with licensed massage therapists and service providers to offer on-site bed and chair massages to corporate employees, helping them increase productivity.
According to recent workplace surveys by the Global Institute of Health Sciences, a staggering 63% of employees report high levels of workplace stress, leading to reduced productivity and significant financial losses for businesses, estimated at more than $300 billion annually.
Similar studies estimate that businesses in Africa could increase their annual revenue by 70% if their workforce was only 25% more productive.
To this end, Orado has launched its clinically-proven on-site chair and bed massages targeted at business employees, starting from Ghana, offering convenience and affordability. Workplace massages have been shown to increase productivity per person by up to 300%.
A more productive workforce leads to better financial performance for companies. Orado has worked with organizations such as the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International, the 2023 Citi FM National Swimming Competition, and Ahaspora, among others, to deliver nearly 200 massage sessions.
“We are excited to bring Orado’s transformative wellness solutions to Ghana. Our mission is to create healthier, happier, and more productive workplaces by reducing stress and promoting well-being,” said Bernice Okyere Baidoo, co-founder and CEO of Orado.
“With six years of experience across various wellness disciplines, including massage, physiotherapy, and physical therapy, Baidoo says she and her team are “committed to making a positive impact on the lives of African employees and their employers.” When asked about fundraising, Baidoo says the company is open to “partnering with investors who are committed to making the global workforce more productive.”
The global wellness and massage services market size was valued at $77.85 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow from $87.63 billion in 2023 to $259.26 billion by 2030. Massage therapy services are considered to be a luxury across the globe, especially in Africa. With increasing awareness of mental health and the growing demand for wellness solutions, especially among millennials, the need for rejuvenation is improving the demand for massage services. Orado’s business model is designed to make massage therapy affordable and accessible.
The way Orado works is actually simple:
Companies set their schedule by selecting their days and times on the Orado platform. Orado then sends the details to its licensed therapists who visit the companies on their selected days and times. Employees can also indicate their preferred service type ahead of time, whether bed or chair massage.
The next step is for the company to designate a comfortable area with low foot traffic for Orado’s licensed therapists to set up. This could be an office, a conference, or a hall. The therapists are trained to create a serene environment conducive for the service with no disruption to ongoing activities. And the good thing is there’s no need for clothing removal for both chair and bed massages.
In addition to regular office visits, companies can request on-site massages for occasions such as wellness events, employee appreciation months, end-of-year retreats, among others. Although individuals can book walk-in sessions at Orado massage studios, the company says it is primarily innovating for the corporate world.
A corporate wellness program can provide significant financial benefits to a company, including reducing healthcare costs, decreasing absenteeism and turnover, and increasing productivity.