Funding. Business plans. Registration. 

Putting it lightly, starting a business involves many steps. Navigating these steps and finding the right starting point alone can be overwhelming.

But if you’re passionate about beauty and wellness, there’s a way for you to skip these to-dos and still run a spa: franchising. Owning a spa franchise instead of starting from scratch might be the game-changer you're looking for. Read on to learn about the benefits of franchising and whether it’s the right move for your career. 

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What Is a Spa Franchise?  

A franchise is a business model that lets you use an established company’s name, systems, and products. Instead of starting your own spa, you open a new location of an existing brand like Elements Massage or Massage Heights. From developing a business plan to building a strong reputation, these companies have already done the work of starting up – all you have to do is hop on the train.

Franchisors give you – the franchisee – comprehensive support throughout opening the business, like spa service training, marketing strategies, and location selection. This sets you up for success by eliminating much of the guesswork associated with launching a new business. You just hit the ground running as a recognized brand. 

What Is the State of the Spa Industry? 

The spa industry is thriving. Let's dive into the latest trends and statistics:

Financial Performance and Growth of Spa Operations

Here’s more about the industry itself: 

• The spa industry's value was $21.3 billion in 2023.
• Spa visitors spend an average of $117.20 per visit. 
• The number of spa visits reached 181 million in 2023.
• The global spa market is projected to generate $185.5 billion by 2030.

The numbers don’t lie – they prove the booming spa industry is a lucrative opportunity for potential franchise owners, with consistent and continued growth projections. 

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Spa Services and Treatments 

What customers want from a spa varies, but here are some trends across spa-goers, according to 2023 research from PwC and the International Spa Association:

• 73% had a massage
• 54% got manicures, pedicures, and other nail treatments 
• 41% scheduled laser hair removal treatments
• Approximately 33% received microdermabrasion, chemical peels or microneedling
• 46% enjoyed fitness or movement classes
• 45% had a body treatment

The demand for diverse services continues to rise, so choose a franchise that offers a range of treatments to suit broad preferences. This variety attracts varied clientele and encourages repeat visits so people can try something new.

Spa Attendees' Demographics 

The same research as above shows that:

• 13% of spa-goers are aged 18–24.
• 45% of regular spa-goers are millennials (aged 27–42).
• 58% of regular spa-goers have a household income between $50,000–$149,000.
• 50% of spa visits are from women.
• 49% of spa visits are from men.

Spa Staffing Trends 

Every successful spa relies on a skilled, motivated team. Attract and retain top talent by offering competitive wages and benefits and flexible staffing options.

Many spas hire independent contractors, like freelance massage therapists. This diversifies your services without committing to permanent staff, lowering overhead costs and giving workers more freedom. 

If you’re opening a franchise, you’re likely starting with a customer base – and that means you’ll need some employees to help you get up and running. 

Here’s some key data on hiring and staffing:

• Over 2.5 million workers are employed in the spa industry globally.
• Spa industry employment rose to 370,100 in 2023 in the U.S.

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Spa Franchise Opportunities: Benefits and Drawbacks  

Ready to open a spa franchise? Not so fast. Take the time to look at the pros and cons to make an informed decision.

Benefits of Opening a Spa Franchise 

Here’s a quick guide to the pros you might already know but will definitely love.

Existing Customer Base 

Going solo as a franchisee lets you tap into the spa's existing customer base. This is a huge perk because you're already a recognized brand that clients trust.

When your business has an existing customer base, you can spend less on advertising to acquire new clients. You'll likely see higher foot traffic immediately, helping your business grow and become more profitable than an independent spa. 

Support and Training 

Many spa franchises offer extensive training programs for you and your staff. These programs quickly get you up to speed on customer service and operational procedures. Most franchises also provide business services, including ongoing support, marketing assistance, and troubleshooting, to help your location run smoothly. 

Lucrative Business Model 

Owning a spa is profitable, but even more so when you franchise. The franchise business model is tried and tested to be successful. It reduces the risks of starting a new business, like developing brand recognition and training staff. Instead, you follow a blueprint and invest in a concept already perfected for you. 

Better Deals on Spa Supplies and Equipment 

Another benefit of franchising is buying supplies and equipment in bulk. Franchise membership gives you easy access to the newest and trendiest spa equipment, often at discounted rates.  This lowers costs, giving you high-quality products cheaper than independent spa owners pay. 

Drawbacks of Opening a Spa Franchise 

Every type of business has its cons.

High Initial Investment  

While you may save money in the long run, opening a franchise requires a significant financial investment. You need cash in your pocket to get started, and some companies ask you to have a minimum net worth.

First, there are the spa franchise costs associated with opening a business, like rent, hiring, and inventory. Then there’s a one-time franchise fee, which varies depending on which spa chain you choose. This is the amount you pay to join the company as a franchisee. For example, Spavia Spa charges a franchise fee of $49,500. Some fees are ongoing, like monthly franchise royalties, which are usually a percentage of your gross monthly sales. 

Franchise Regulations 

As a franchisee, you have way less freedom than you would as an independent business owner. Franchises have regulations that make sure your location matches the others. These include operational hours, branding guidelines, and services – and you’re legally obligated to follow them. This can be a serious downside if you prefer creative freedom. 

Franchise rules can also restrict your ability to tailor your service and prices to market trends. Innovation becomes tricky because you need approval from the franchisor to make changes.

6 Top Spa Franchises To Check Out

Exploring the right opportunities is crucial to becoming a successful spa franchisee. These six options are an excellent place to start: 

1. Elements Massage 

Cost: $470,6840–$694,274

Franchise fee: $39,900

Royalty fee: 6% 

Elements Massage is a wellness spa offering therapeutic massage therapy. It’s been franchising since 2008 and is one of the most popular in the business.

Elements Massage specializes in customizing massages to help clients feel their best, whether they're seeking stress relief or overall wellness. The company offers training and marketing support for franchisees, plus the benefit of a well-known brand name with over 200 locations in operation.  

With lower startup costs than some other spas and a strong support network, Elements Massage is an excellent option for those who want to get a head start.  

2. Massage Heights 

Cost: $472,199–$551,771

Franchise fee: $49,500

Royalty fee: 6%

Massage Heights is a holistic massage and facial spa. This company specializes in massage therapy and facials – services with substantial market demand. 

With over 120 franchise locations, franchisees can expect solid growth potential. The brand also offers training and marketing support, and its customized wellness experiences help attract and retain clients. 

3. The Joint Chiropractic 

Cost: $254,250–$520,800

Franchise fee: $39,900

Royalty fee: 7%

The Joint Chiropractic is a medical spa that specializes in affordable chiropractic care. It opened in 1999 and began franchising in 2006. 

The Joint Chiropractic has over 700 franchise units, making it a popular investment. The royalty fees are 7%, plus 3% to a national marketing fund, which helps pay to advertise the spa. These percentages are a bit higher than normal, but you get a ton of support in return. Franchisees receive comprehensive training, and the spa's focus on affordability and accessibility makes it attractive to potential clients.

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4. Massage Envy 

Cost: $605,850–$1,014,700

Franchise fee: $45,000

Royalty fee: 6%

Massage Envy, founded in 2002, is one of the most recognized medical spas. Offering therapeutic skincare and massage services, Massage Envy gives franchisees a firm brand name with a loyal customer base.  

This medical spa is one of the most popular wellness destinations, with over 1,000 franchise locations. It has a whole list of areas that need a Massage Envy location – and yours could be one of them.

5. Spavia Spa 

Cost: $431,288–$784,088

Franchise fee: $49,500

Royalty fee: 6%

Spavia Spa has been pampering clients at a lower price since 2005. This wellness spa is a popular choice for clients who want luxury services with lower price tags. 

Spavia Spa has 48 franchise locations, and franchisees receive extensive marketing support and training. You even get the chance to go to Denver to network with the Spavia Spa team and have all your questions answered.

6. LaVida Massage 

Cost: $293,250–$499,500

Franchise fee: $39,000

Royalty fee: 5%

LaVida Massage is an affordable specialty franchise founded in 2007. It offers a variety of massage therapy and wellness treatments, plus franchisee support like an app, an integrated guest review system, and a center-specific website.

Grow Your Spa Business With GlossGenius 

Franchising isn't the only way to make starting a business easier. If you’re torn between opening a franchise or going solo, know that entrepreneurs don’t have to work alone. The GlossGenius Resource Center includes tons of info on how to start your business. Sign up for our newsletter to get the latest tips and news on webinars and events to help with opening your spa business. Once you’re up and running, the GlossGenius platform can help you run your entire business from one place.  With features like Online Booking, Inventory Management, Marketing, and Loans, we have everything you need to hit the ground running. Sign up for a free 14-day trial today. 

NOTE: All prices and feature comparisons are as of July 9, 2024.GlossGenius has no affiliation, sponsorship, or endorsement with the companies referenced in this article or their affiliates. All trademarks, logos, and brand names are used for identification purposes only and remain the property of their respective owners.