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Q: What was your career before franchising?
A: Before entering into the franchising field, I was in the corporate information technology field.
Q: Why did you decide to open your own business?
A: After 10 years at my former job, the company downsized when the economy began to go into the recession. My husband and I decided that instead of me taking another job somewhere else, we should explore options for me to start my own business. It was a good time to pursue my dream of owning a business for myself.
Q: Why did you choose Hand & Stone?
A: With the economy the way it is right now, people are stressed out. They can’t take many vacations and they are really just struggling to keep up. Massage is a way for people to go out for an hour or two and be able to relax and feel good, not worrying about their problems. And because of the membership model, there are many incentives for people to come and receive good, quality service at affordable prices. This franchise was also appealing because it’s in a growing industry.
Q: Why did you choose a franchise system?
A: With franchising, the company helps you with each and every step. For someone who is starting a business for the first time, it really helps you, as an owner, to have that help every step of the way. When you start a business on your own, you don’t have the benefit of seeing how other people are making their businesses work in the same industry, and with a franchise we’re able to have that opportunity. We’re going to be able to learn a lot with all of the networking opportunities, and everyone wants to help each other out.
Q: What obstacles have you overcome to get where you are today with your business?
A: We took a big risk by investing a large portion of our personal finances into the business. I know getting started will be the most challenging part, but after looking at data from other franchisees, we feel comfortable that we have chosen the right model. We have the right people behind us and I believe we can do a good job.
Hand & Stone is a 40-plus unit spa chain with a mission to bring affordable massage and facial services to the masses. Launched in 2005 by founder and COO John Marco and led by franchise veteran Todd Leff, President and CEO, Hand & Stone now resides in 12 states and Canada with plans to open an additional 40 locations by the end of 2011. For more information on Hand & Stone, visit www.handandstone.com.
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