Aescape, a lifestyle robotics company pioneering AI-powered massage for recovery, has secured $83 million in a strategic funding round led by Valor Equity Partners. With this latest investment, Aescape’s total funding reaches $128 million to help with national expansion and operational growth. The round also saw continued investment from firm Alumni Ventures, as well as NBA Champion and All-Star Kevin Love.

Aescape first introduced its AI-powered automated massage technology in select Equinox locations across New York City. Equinox then extended its partnership with Aescape to 60 locations nationwide and is now the first fitness brand to integrate AI-driven massage technology at scale.

“Aescape immediately resonated with our members, offering a private, effective and highly personalized massage experience—on their time,” said James Gu, Sr. Director of Spa at Equinox. “This partnership reflects our commitment to providing the most advanced recovery solutions available and we’re excited to bring it to more locations across the country.”

Beyond Equinox, Aescape has secured partnerships with major hospitality and wellness leaders, including select locations of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Marriott and Ritz-Carlton properties across North America. It also recently partnered with World Spa in Brooklyn, a luxury spa with Eastern European banyas, Finnish saunas and Moroccan hammams. The expansion comes as the $19 billion massage therapy industry faces a labor shortage, with over 29,000 unfilled therapist positions.

“Aescape has demonstrated remarkable growth in just six months since its launch,” said Jonathan Shulkin, Partner and Co-President at Valor Equity Partners. “Their AI-driven approach is unlocking new possibilities in data-informed, personalized care, driving revenue for partners while delivering precision-tailored experiences. Eric and his team are creating an entirely new category of robotics-powered wellness and we’re delighted to continue to support their expansion.”

Aescape has bolstered its leadership team with key hires from Apple and The Economist Group to support its rapid expansion. Kimberly Miller joined as Chief Marketing Officer, bringing over two decades of experience in scaling high-growth brands. Eswar Priyadarshan, formerly of Apple and Adobe, has been appointed Senior Vice President of Engineering.

Aescape has also introduced a new tiered B2B model, allowing small and medium-sized businesses to offer AI-powered massage experiences. The model includes Aescape Essential, for general wellness businesses and Aescape Lux, for high-end wellness centers and premium hospitality partners, with exclusive features and premium app customization.

“Our first six months focused on strategic partnerships and introducing fully autonomous robotic massage to consumers, driving high utilization and repeat usage rates,” said Eric Litman, Founder and CEO of Aescape. “Now, we’re doubling down on deepening relationships with existing partners, onboarding new ones and expanding our library of massage offerings as member needs evolve.”

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Aescape, the creators of the automated and on-demand robot massage, continues its expansion into the hospitality and tourism industry, with upcoming launches at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort and Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore.

The move comes amid a growing surge in wellness tourism and an increasing demand for premium well-being amenities.

Aescape Heads to Four Seasons Orlando and Baltimore

Starting on October 18, the on-demand massage system will be available to both guests of Four Seasons Resort Orlando and the general public. Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore is slated to introduce the system later this fall.

Aescape has also launched new massage features targeting the lower back, glutes, and hamstrings, with session options ranging from 15 to 60 minutes.

The New York-based lifestyle robotics company, founded in 2017 by serial entrepreneur Eric Litman, raised $85 million in pre-launch funding. Investors span several industries, including robotics, AI, SaaS, sports and hospitality. 

“Four Seasons is a legendary hospitality brand, and our goal is to provide guests with a massage experience as unforgettable as their stay,” Litman says. “We look forward to innovating together in exceptional spa and wellness offerings.”

Accessible, On-Demand Massage

Aescape officially pushed into the hotel industry earlier this summer, placing its robotic massage machine in ila Only Space, located in Lotte New York Palace, a luxury hotel in New York City.

Derek Hofmann, senior director of spa for the Four Seasons Resort Orlando, noted that the AA Five Diamond-rated resort puts its guests’ comfort and well-being as a top priority, offering amenities designed to support and enhance their wellness routines.

“Aescape’s accessible and intuitive massage experience makes it easier for travelers, residents, and locals to maintain their healthy lifestyle habits,” he shares. 

For Spa Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore, launching Aescape at its hotel and spa represents a significant leap in its commitment to delivering unparalleled wellness experiences, according to Shae Jackson, senior director of spa for Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore. 

“Aescape’s cutting-edge technology redefines the massage experience, providing our guests with a personalized and immersive therapy that complements our luxury offerings,” Jackson says. “We’re excited to offer a solution that not only enhances relaxation but also aligns seamlessly with our dedication to exceptional guest care.”

High-tech and Highly Personalized

As AI quickly transforms all areas of life, Aescape is focused on recovery and renewal, turning massage treatments into a more accessible wellness practice rather than an indulgence.

“It’s designed for anyone looking to book last-minute, or looking for control over their massage when therapists aren’t always available,” Litman pointed out earlier this year. 

The high-tech massage table offers a personalized experience, scanning a user’s body generating over 1.1 million 3D data points, and determining anatomical points for targeted massage. A touchscreen interface allows users to select from several treatments tailored to their body and offers control over target areas, pressure points, and even music selection.

In March, Aescape partnered with luxury lifestyle and fitness brand Equinox to unveil its AI-enhanced massage table at ten locations across New York City.

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