Romania is only partially capitalizing on one of the largest balneary resources in Europe, but entrepreneurs such as Ioana Gogu, coordinator of TISA Group, are contributing to repositioning Băile Olănești as a relevant destination for wellness and health tourism in Romania, according to Revista Cariere.
Globally, the wellness economy reached $6.8 trillion in 2024 and is expected to grow to $9.8 trillion by 2029, according to Global Wellness Institute. The wellness tourism segment is one of the most dynamic, driven by increasing interest in prevention and healthy lifestyles. In 2025, TISA Group reported a turnover of over €3 million and supports approximately 70 jobs, playing an active role in the local economy.
Investments and development plans
For 2026, the company will finalize an investment of approximately €6 million in Grand Hotel TISA, a four-star hotel with 71 rooms, which will complement the existing infrastructure. The new unit will be directly connected to the spa and aquapark area and will introduce a “spa vacation” concept, where balneary treatment is discreetly integrated into the holiday experience.
The company’s strategy includes flexibility in package configuration, with a focus on spa and relaxation, as well as additional options for families with children. For 2027, TISA Hotels plans to start building a new hotel in another balneary resort, as part of a strategy to develop a national balneary hotel chain.
Family business and long-term development
Ioana Gogu coordinates the development of a family business started in 1992 in Băile Olănești, which evolved from a tourist villa into a portfolio that includes three hotels with balneary treatment facilities and one of the largest aquaparks in Oltenia. The business model is based on family capital, with an emphasis on reinvestment and long-term development.
The company’s expansion has also been supported by European funds, with four projects implemented to modernize infrastructure and diversify services. At the same time, Ioana Gogu is vice president of OPTBR, actively contributing to the development and promotion of this strategic sector.
Local initiatives and outlook
The development of the resort is also supported by local promotion initiatives. TISA Group (operated through OMICRON SRL) has been involved in such efforts and was a strategic partner in the Oltentic Muse project, which promotes Vâlcea County as a slow tourism destination.
In this context, Băile Olănești has the potential to become, in the coming years, a landmark destination for tourists seeking wellness, health, and balance, aligned with international niche tourism trends.
Photo: Revista Biz
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