{"id":26278,"date":"2026-04-07T20:28:01","date_gmt":"2026-04-07T20:28:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/handandstone.com\/franchise\/?p=26278"},"modified":"2026-04-07T20:28:52","modified_gmt":"2026-04-07T20:28:52","slug":"hand-stone-massage-and-facial-spa-signs-9-franchise-agreements-and-opens-5-spas-in-q1-2026-continuing-strong-development-nationwide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/handandstone.com\/franchise\/blog\/hand-stone-massage-and-facial-spa-signs-9-franchise-agreements-and-opens-5-spas-in-q1-2026-continuing-strong-development-nationwide\/","title":{"rendered":"Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa Signs 9 Franchise Agreements and Opens 5 Spas in Q1 2026, Continuing Strong Development Nationwide"},"content":{"rendered":"

Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa<\/a>, the fastest-growing spa franchise in North America and a 650-plus-unit accessible luxury wellness brand, today announced strong first-quarter development results, building on its momentum entering 2026.<\/p>\n

In Q1 2026, Hand & Stone signed nine franchise agreements \u2013 marking the second-highest number of first-quarter signings in the past five years \u2013 and opened five new spas, expanding access to massage, facial and skincare services across the U.S. The quarter also included three newly signed leases for locations scheduled to open later this year.<\/p>\n

Additionally, more than half of the signed franchise agreements were driven by existing owners expanding their Hand & Stone portfolios \u2013 a clear signal of franchisee satisfaction and confidence in the brand\u2019s membership-driven model, as well as spa franchise-leading $1.4 million average unit volume (AUV).<\/p>\n

About 50% of the quarter\u2019s agreements also leveraged Hand & Stone\u2019s military incentive program, underscoring the brand\u2019s meaningful appeal with veteran operators. Among the new commitments are deals in the Los Angeles DMA, one of the nation\u2019s most dynamic wellness markets and a region where Hand & Stone sees significant white space and a compelling long-term growth opportunity.<\/p>\n

\u201cOur first quarter results are a direct reflection of the investments we\u2019ve made in our development team and infrastructure \u2013 featuring more talent, new tools and a sharper focus on presenting what makes our brand special to the right candidates,\u201d said Matt Stanton, Chief Development Officer. \u201cWhen you see existing operators doubling down, veteran entrepreneurs choosing Hand & Stone and meaningful expansion into high-growth markets, it tells you the model is resonating, and the team is executing. We\u2019re expanding thoughtfully and strategically, and it\u2019s exciting to see the potential of where our brand is headed.\u201d<\/p>\n

Q1 Spa Openings Expand Access to Wellness <\/strong><\/p>\n

Translating signed agreements into open spas is one of the clearest measures of a franchise system\u2019s health, and Hand & Stone\u2019s five Q1 openings reflect that. New locations during the quarter opened in Harleysville, Pennsylvania; Millcreek, Utah; Punta Gorda, Florida; Coon Rapids, Minnesota; and Houston Heights, Texas \u2013 each bringing professional, affordable and convenient wellness services to its local community.<\/p>\n

Signed Leases Bringing New Spas to Three States <\/strong><\/p>\n

Beyond new openings, Hand & Stone\u2019s development pipeline continued to build momentum with three leases signed during the quarter.<\/p>\n

New spa openings are projected for later in 2026 in Burr Ridge, Illinois; New Smyrna Beach, Florida; and Stamford, Connecticut \u2013 further extending the brand\u2019s presence across established and emerging markets. Notably, the Stamford location will be operated by first-time Hand & Stone franchisees, reflecting the brand\u2019s continued ability to attract new operators who are drawn to its accessible luxury positioning and proven membership model.<\/p>\n

Growing Demand and Hand & Stone\u2019s Franchise Model Drives Expansion \u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Hand & Stone\u2019s growth is fueled by rising demand for professional massage and skincare services, delivered at an accessible price point to a broad and loyal client base. The brand\u2019s membership-based model also creates predictable, recurring revenue for franchise owners while driving strong client retention and engagement.<\/p>\n

Additional competitive advantages supporting Hand & Stone\u2019s franchise growth include:<\/p>\n