When people start looking into spa franchise ownership, they often come across misconceptions about what it takes to open and grow a spa franchise. Some of these myths may be based on partial truths, but they’ve become exaggerations that don’t reflect the reality of today’s Hand & Stone model.
Our goal is to set the record straight and show how our systems, support, and resources help new massage therapy franchise owners from day one.
Myth #1: It Takes Too Long to Grow a Membership Base
New Hand & Stone spas can build momentum right out of the gate. One of the most powerful tools we’ve developed is the Founding Members Program, which allows spa franchise owners to sell memberships before their spa even opens. This program builds awareness in the community, creating buzz among early adopters and establishing predictable recurring revenue from day one.
The Founding Members offer can vary by spa, but often includes waived enrollment fees, free monthly enhancements for life, and VIP access to appointments two weeks before opening. These perks create loyal, enthusiastic members who champion the business from the very beginning, and are one of the reasons Hand & Stone is considered the best spa franchise to own for entrepreneurs who want to launch with confidence.
Myth #2: Opening a Hand & Stone Franchise is Too Costly
While some assume spa ownership requires seven-figure investments, the Hand & Stone franchise has strategically reduced build-out costs to make ownership more accessible. Our Design and Construction Team has worked to streamline general contractor bids, refine spa design to remove “nice-to-have” features that don’t impact guest experience, and restructure equipment and inventory orders so franchisees can scale purchases as their business grows.
We’ve built one of the most attractive spa franchise ownership opportunities in the wellness sector, offering a way to launch more affordably without sacrificing the premium look and feel that makes Hand & Stone franchise ownership stand out.
Myth #3: New Spa Franchise Ownership is Overwhelming
Starting a new business can feel daunting, but Hand & Stone franchisees don’t go it alone. Our dedicated New Spa Opening Team includes industry experts who guide every detail of the process including aPre-Opening Project Coordinator, Project Architect, Director of Construction, and a Franchise Business Consultant that specializes in new spa operations. Together, this team works alongside each franchisee’s FBC to provide a double layer of support. What might seem overwhelming in another massage therapy franchise system is transformed here into a structured, supported path to long-term viability.
Myth #4: Staffing a New Spa is Nearly Impossible
Hiring licensed massage therapists and estheticians is often cited as a major challenge in the spa franchise industry. At Hand & Stone, we’ve built a recruitment model that gives franchisees a real advantage.
Our staffing efforts are led by the Senior Director of Talent Acquisition and Early Careers Manager, who bring proven expertise in growing and maintaining a steady talent pipeline. With partnerships with massage therapy schools across the country, Hand & Stone has become the employer of choice for LMTs and estheticians, giving owners the confidence to staff and grow their spas effectively.
Read more about our proven approach to staffing that’s benefitting franchisees, massage therapists, and estheticians nationwide!
Myth #5: Spa Performance is Declining
This is one of the most common myths we hear, and it doesn’t hold up against the data. Spa performance across the Hand & Stone franchise system improved in 2024 and is projected to continue upward in 2025.
A key driver of this is ProfitKeeper, a financial tool that gives both franchisees and the Support Team visibility into performance. By sharing data, franchise owners can quickly identify margin opportunities, make smart adjustments, and strengthen their long-term financial health.
Moving Past the Myths
Hand & Stone Spa franchise ownership offers a proven path to ownership in the growing wellness market. If you’ve hesitated because of these misconceptions, now is the time to look at the facts.
Fill out our inquiry form today to take the first step toward Hand & Stone Spa franchise ownership and bring a trusted brand to your community.
