Porter Ranch Grand Opening

Congrats to our Porter Ranch location and their very successful Grand Opening over the weekend!! If you're in the are come visit us or call (818) 366-8866 for more information. The owners, Henry and Sheryl Mandell have a fantastic story of how they came to Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa, and have great plans for the community.

 Henry Mandell, 57, joins Hand & Stone with over 30 years of experience in executive-level positions in the apparel, technology licensing, entertainment and consumer products industries. Among his vast experience in entrepreneurial environments, Henry affected a turnaround as CEO at a Silicon Valley technology company, and served as President of Ed Hardy from 2006-2008, growing the brand from a 15 million dollar business to 275 million over the time that he managed the company. In 2008, Henry became a partner of a financial consulting company, stabilizing companies that were experiencing a crisis during the economic downturn. Currently, he is the general manager and CFO of U-PIC Insurance Services.

Henry grew up in New York and received a business degree from Syracuse University in 1978. He also received an MBA from San Jose University in 2003, earned mid-career at night.

Henry met his wife, Sheryl, a Los Angeles native, when he moved to California to work at Twentieth Century Fox in 1981. Before leaving the work force to take care of their two children, Sheryl worked as a mortgage loan processor. When she returned to work, she found her true passion in the catering business, which she has since worked in for the past 15 years as a consultant. This experience has equipped her with the customer service skills needed to run a Hand & Stone spa.

Henry will continue working full time at the insurance agency, and will be charged with managing the financial side of the business while Sheryl will be the hands-on owner of the spa. This is the first Hand & Stone located in Los Angeles.

How did you learn about Hand and Stone?

I decided early this year that I wanted to properly investigate franchises so I hired a franchise broker. Based on our strengths, interests and financial expectations, he pitched various opportunities to us, including Hand & Stone.  My wife was interested in the concept and felt that her skills would be transferrable on the customer service side. I saw it as a growing company in a market experiencing strong growth. It’s a business that can’t be outsourced or made obsolete by technology.

Why is it poised for success in LA?

People in LA are concerned about health, wellness, looking and feeling good. There’s a strong demographic in Porter Ranch area in terms of its income and population, while the psychographic profile matches perfectly with the target market for Hand & Stone. It’s a mature area where there are longtime home owners, it’s an upper middle class area, and there is disposable income. We’ve already received strong feedback from people in the neighborhood and have sold memberships pre-opening.

What are your development plans? End goal?

We will be developing three franchises, with the first in Porter Ranch, in the north San Fernando Valley and then two more over the next three years. We have the East Ventura County and West San Fernando Valley territories.

How many jobs will you be adding to the area?

I will be adding at least 10 jobs initially, and eventually getting up to at least 50. I plan to be a job creator. 

Meet Hand & Stone franchisee Teri Evans

Teri Evans is originally from a small town in Louisiana and earned multiple degrees from Northwestern State University in Louisiana for computer information systems and business administration. Teri has a background in technology, and has been the director of IT for the past six years for a small company in the health care industry. She has lived in Austin for the past 15 years and is now opening her first Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa location. 

How did you learn about the brand?
The company I worked for was bought by a larger company and due to downsizing my position was no longer available. I took some time off and traveled the world for six months while at the same time figuring out my next move. I knew I had always wanted to own my own business, and after my rest and time away I knew this was the right time for me to pursue my dreams. I began researching franchising, and worked with a franchise consultant. After several recommendations, I decided Hand & Stone was the right opportunity for me.

Why did you choose an opportunity with Hand & Stone?
I love the Hand & Stone business model. During my travels, I often sought out different spas to try out and I am also a regular spa visitor, so I have always had an interest in the industry. I also have a passion for the health industry and personal health.

What makes your business unique in the community?
The full-service aspect of our business and the service we provide sets us apart in the community. There is another location just outside of Austin, but this will be the first location in Austin city proper.

Are you involved with any charities or do any community outreach with your business?
I volunteer for Eels on Wheels, and also work with the Girls Settlement Home in Austin. I also work with First Tee of Austin, teaching golf to young girls ages 5-18. I plan on making my Hand & Stone location a true community service.

What challenges have you overcome to get where you are now?
I had been doing a lot of research before expressing my plans to open my own business. The initial reaction from people around me expressing their doubts and concerns about opening a business was challenging to hear, however I’m excited about the opportunity to prove it to everyone that Hand & Stone will flourish throughout the community!

What are your expansion or development plans? What is your end goal with Hand & Stone?
I am planning to open three locations. Eventually, I would like to open more than three and even venture outside of Austin. I believe in this model and see the potential of the brand.

Do you have any other interesting hobbies or passions?
I play a lot of golf and love to scuba dive and travel! I’m glad that I’m able to give back to the community through my passions.

Meet Denise Vizzini of Hand & Stone in Royersford, PA

Denise Vizzini is originally from Newtown Square, PA and has been a sole proprietor of a massage therapy business in South Jersey for 15 years. She brings this experience to a Hand & Stone Franchise located in Royersford, PA.

How did you learn about the brand?
I passed by a Hand & Stone location one day, I didn’t know what it was so I checked it out. I liked what my experience was and did a lot more research and found out that it was a solid franchise.

Why did you choose an opportunity with Hand & Stone?
We did some research on other concepts and felt that the beliefs and culture of Hand & Stone fit our values best. We feel that massage therapy as well as facials should be affordable and accessible to everyone. The vision of the company was very important to me as well.

What makes your business unique in the community?
I have 15 years of customer service experience in this industry. I will use this experience coupled with the franchise model to grow my business. What really makes my business unique is we are providing a high level quality service at a reasonable price for both massages and facials.

What challenges have you overcome to get where you are now?
Once I chose this career path it just kind of took off. I started this career to help my mom, who was in a horrific car accident, and now it’s taking on a life of its own! Hand & Stone is allowing me to continue to stay in this industry and give back to the community and help people at the same time. It’s a wonderful opportunity and I’m excited to be able to service the community.

What are your expansion or development plans? What is your end goal with Hand & Stone?
We would like to open another location within the next two years. Maybe one day, my children will be interested in operating the Spas.

Do you have any other interesting hobbies or passions?
I love to travel and spend time with my family and my 4 dogs!!

Hand & Stone recently featured in 1851 Online

Hand & Stone was recently featured in 1851 Online in an article titled, "Young Ones: Brittany & Anthony Rogers."  The column “Young Ones” features franchisees and franchisors under 40 years of age who are taking the franchising industry by storm. Brittany Rodgers discusses her experience in the industry thus far, and how her and her husband, Tony Rodgers, became Hand & Stone franchisees. Much like other first time franchisees, Brittany and her husband are looking to become multi-unit franchisees and add to their current Woodlands, TX location. Click here for the entire article or continue reading below.

Young Ones: Brittany and Tony Rodgers

Name: Brittany and Tony Rodgers

Rank: 21 and 22

Age: Brittany is 29, Tony is 32

Company: Hand & Stone

Brittany and Tony Rodgers always knew they wanted to own their own business–they just didn’t know what. They turned to FranNet, a franchise broker that helps prospective franchisees identify the right opportunity with them. Equipped with a financial plan, passion and vision, the young husband/wife team landed upon an emerging New Jersey-based franchisor, Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa. Much like other first time franchisees, the duo plans to work their way into multi-unit franchise ownership.


How did you get into the franchise community? (Brittany:)I worked in the medical field of Radiology where I enjoyed helping and caring for patients. I worked mostly in large out-patient centers, including one of the largest orthopedic clinics in all of central Florida. Before franchising, Tony spent 10 years in the construction industry, running large commercial accounts. Later, Tony became operations manager for a large manufacturing and recycling facility located in Northern Indiana. Tony has also dabbled with his realty license, partnering up with a company to buy, remodel and sell prime real estate for opportunities to further his success. As a couple, we’ve spent two years purchasing and renovating vintage riverside homes in the Notre Dame/St. Mary area of Northern Indiana.

(Read More)

Franchisee Profile: Tony & Brittany Rodgers of Houston, TX

Name:  Tony & Brittany Rodgers

Opening Date: April 2012

Brand:   Hand & Stone

Location: Houston, TX

 Both having similar backgrounds and goals for success, Tony and Brittany seek to open five Hand & Stone locations throughout Houston. With a strong passion for the health and wellness industry, the couple brings devotion, motivation and faith to the Hand & Stone brand.

Q: Where are you from?

A: Tony grew up in South Bend, Ind., where he graduated from a five year apprenticeship program with his associates degree in applied science. Brittany grew up in Orlando, Fla., but moved to South Bend, to go to school, where she met Tony. She attended Indiana University and graduated with degrees in psychology, social and behavioral science and radiology science.

Q: What was your career before franchising?

A: Before franchising, Tony spent 10 years in the construction industry, running large commercial accounts. Later, Tony became operations manager for a large manufacturing/recycling  facility located in Northern Indiana. Brittany worked in the medical field of Radiology where she enjoyed helping and caring for patients. She worked mostly in large out-patient centers, including one of the largest orthopedic clinics in all of central Florida. Additionally, Tony dabbled with his Realtor’s license, partnering up with a company to buy, remodel and sell prime real estate for opportunities to further his success. The couple spent two years purchasing and renovating vintage riverside homes in the Notre Dame/ St. Mary area of Northern Indiana.

Q: How did you learn about the brand?

A: Tony and Brittany learned about the Hand & Stone brand from Frannet, a leading company in expert franchise consulting.  Once Tony and Brittany  realized their strong desire for independence and accomplishment,  the couple began searching  for the next step towards success. With much research, and the assistance from Frannet, Tony and Brittany were introduced to Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa.

Q: Why did you decide to open your own business?

 A: Tony and Brittany chose to open their own business to gain personal  freedom,  stability and the chance to one day give back. They wanted the opportunity to finally reap the benefits from their devoted strength. By opening their own business, Tony and Brittany have the ability to watch their hard work pay off for future generations to come.

Q: When choosing a franchise, what were the criteria you used to make your decision?

A: When choosing a franchise, Tony and Brittany had specific criteria they were in search of. They knew they wanted to stay in the health and wellness industry due to their passionate histories for both health and wellness. They wanted a company they could stand behind, a company they felt passionate about, a company that could meet their financial goals for personal success and a company that connected with the community.

Q: What was appealing to you about joining a franchise system?

A: For Tony and Brittany, the most appealing aspect about joining a franchise system was the proven track record for success. They felt strongly about the worth of a well-established business model and felt it was a great way to get started in the entrepreneurial world of business.

Q: What are some of your achievements (professionally or personally) that you think will help you along the way in your business?

A: Tony and Brittany were once told the keys to success are devotion, motivation and faith —three things neither of them lack. Starting their entrepreneurial business journeys at a young age, the couple’s education and work experience have been their biggest achievements thus far. Priceless assets they share that will drive their success in the franchise world include dedication for hard work, a passion for continuously giving back to others and an extensive background in many aspects of the business world.

ABOUT HAND & STONE

Hand & Stone is a 50-plus unit massage and facial spa with a mission to bring massage and facial services to the masses, tapping into the day-cation market segment.  Launched in 2005 by a passionate physical therapist, John Marco, and now led by franchise veteran Todd Leff, Hand & Stone now has locations in 12 states and Canada with plans to open an additional 20 locations by the end of 2011.  For more information on Hand & Stone, visit www.handandstone.com.

Hand & Stone featured in the Fairfield County Business Journal

Hand & Stone was recently featured in the Fairfield Business Journal in an article titled, "Women's entrepreneurship is climbing." The article features Hand & Stone franchisee Pam Wallace who left the corporate world after 20 years. Pam discussed what factors led her to decide on her business investment in Hand & Stone. The article also mentions that this is the state’s first Hand & Stone location, and that Pam was able to leave the corporate world behind in order to become an entrepreneur. Click here to view the entire article.

Women's entrepreneurship is climbing
By: Alexander Soule

Pam Wallace left the corporate world knowing a lot about consumer marketing and next to nothing about massage – when it came to trying her hand at her own spa in Stamford, she says that corporate training worked out the kinks that would have otherwise given her some sleepless nights.

The owner of Connecticut’s first Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa franchise was able to secure a U.S. Small Business Administration loan in just three weeks, allowing her to leave behind – for good she thinks – a corporate career that took her to Harvard Business School and through JPMorgan Chase & Co. among other stops.

“You get a good training at big companies,” Wallace said, “but I’ve always been an entrepreneur at heart.”

(Read More)

Hand & Stone featured in Stamford Advocate

Hand & Stone was recently featured in the Stamford Advocate in an article titled, "Hand & Stone spa arrives at Ridgeway." Stamford Advocate reporter Olivia Just compiled an article in which Hand & Stone franchisee Pam Wallace discussed what factors led her to invest her business in Hand & Stone, particularly to provide consumers with an enjoyable experience and the ability to create jobs in the Stamford area. CEO Todd Leff commented on the past and future national growth of the company, as well as their membership program that allows members to come in for spa treatments at reduced prices. Click here to view the entire article. 


Hand & Stone spa arrives at Ridgeway
By: Olivia Just


When Pam Wallace turned her mind to owning a business, she looked for something that would satisfy consumers and provide her with the income stream to support herself.

What she found was Hand & Stone, the membership-based massage and facial spa franchise that is broadening its appeal across the country.

(Read More)

Hand & Stone featured on NorthJersey.com

Hand & Stone was recently featured on NorthJersey.com in an article titled, "Tending to Business: Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa." In the article, the new Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa, owned by brothers Jeff and Ken Silbert, is recognized as the first location in Bergen County. Jeff talks about the goal of Hand & Stone, which is to bring affordable massages and facials to everyone in the community. He also talks about the relaxed setting of the spa and the way in which they put guests at ease from sound to lighting. The Mayor of Emerson attended the grand opening and cut the ribbon in front of the store. Click here to read the entire article.

Tending to Business: Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa

By:  Aimee La Fountain

Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa

bringing affordable massage and facial services to everybody.

Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa held their grand opening on Dec. 22 in Emerson. "We're proud that this is the first Hand and Stone in Bergen County," said owner Jeff Silbert.

Emerson was a natural choice for Silbert when deciding where to locate Hand and Stone. "My business partner and brother, Ken, loved the town of Emerson and its location. Emerson and the surrounding [areas] are great northern New Jersey family towns," he said. "The look and feel of the Pascack Valley Shopping Center with great co-tenants made it an easy decision for us."

(Read More)

Hand & Stone was featured on Miami.com

Hand & Stone was recently featured on Miami.com in an article titled, "Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa." In the article, Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa is recognized for their signature hot stone massage as well as being open seven days a week. Hand & Stone franchisee Rick Griffiths talks about the convenience of the new spa and the warm and inviting setting that they offer. Click here to read the full article. 

Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa
By: Maria Tettamanti

The lowdown: Feeling knotty by nature? Then a jaunt to recently opened Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spais in order. The spa offers wallet-friendly massages, facials and waxing services. “We are open seven days a week, so there is always a convenient time to come in and have a stress relieving massage or a signature facial,” Owner Rick Griffiths says.

(Read More)

Franchisee Profile: Will Dennis of Greenville, South Carolina

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Name:  Will Dennis                                                          

Opening Date: November/December 2011

Location: 59 Woodruff Industrial Lane, Greenville, S.C.

As a father, husband and prior business owner, Hand & Stone franchisee Will Dennis has perfected the art of managing teams. Now, Dennis is combining his University of South Carolina business education and prior entrepreneurship in order to saturate the Greenville and Columbia, S.C., markets. By providing superb customer service and offering a place for locals to escape for relaxation, he strives to withstand competitors in the wellness and massage industries.

Q: Where are you from?

A: I’ve been a local of Greenville, S.C., my entire life.

Q: What was your career before franchising?

A: Before franchising, I was President of Consolidated Tires and The Tire Exchange, an independent chain of commercial and consumer tire stores. My father and grandfather originally owned the stores, so I was the third generation.  After several years in various positions, I took over when my dad decided to retire.  After seven years of running the business, I was presented with an opportunity to sell and began new endeavors.

Q: How did you learn about the brand?

A: I learned about the Hand & Stone brand through a franchise broker and extensive research.

Q: When choosing a franchise, what were the criteria you used to make your decision?

A: When choosing a franchise, I wanted a business that was part of a growing industry. I wanted to be in front of a major growth curve, and the wellness industry met that criteria. Additionally, I wanted to be local and close to home because I had previously traveled extensively. With three smaller children and a wife at home, I wanted to put those days behind me. It was important for me to find a business that I could eventually run without having to work 80 hours a week. I also wanted a business that I could grow through my professional and social networks. Lastly, I wanted to be part of a company where the original entrepreneur was still involved with the business. I didn’t want to join a team that had been managed by several different owners.

Q: What was appealing to you about joining a franchise system?

A: I was attracted to the franchising system because it provided a proven and sustained business model. By franchising, all I really have to do is follow the people before me and their predefined operational instructions. As a result, I’m able to spend the majority of my time on customer service rather than operational processes and procedures.

Q: With regard to your previous experience, what skills do you feel helped you in your business?

A: My ability to build a team is most definitely the single greatest accomplishment from my previous work experience. By hiring the right people to execute the company’s strategy, I’m able to place them and manage them in a fashion that encourages them to work. As a result, the company is able to provide a customer service strategy that can’t be beat.

Q: What makes your business different?

A: Hand & Stone offers a warm and comfortable environment, which allows me to provide a therapeutic experience to everyone who walks through our doors. We hope to cultivate a “mini vacation” feel, which will set us apart from competing spas.

Q: What are your expansion or development plans?

A: I bought the rights for three locations, so I plan on expanding further into the Greenville and Columbia markets within the next 24 months.

ABOUT HAND & STONE

Hand & Stone is a 50-plus unit massage and facial spa with a mission to bring massage and facial services to the masses, tapping into the “day-cation” market segment.  Launched in 2005 by a passionate physical therapist, John Marco and now led by franchise veteran Todd Leff, Hand & Stone now has locations in 12 states and Canada with plans to open an additional 20 locations by the end of 2011.  For more information on Hand & Stone, visit www.handandstone.com.

Franchisee Profile: Beth Maynard of Exton, Pa

Location: Exton, PA

Q: Where are you originally from?

A:  I’m from Gainesville, FL, but I moved to Exton, PA eight years ago.

Q: Before Franchising, what were you involved with?

A:  I worked in the privatized student housing industry for 21 years. I fell in love with that specific industry because it was always exciting, fast-paced, and interesting to see how different colleges handle the privatized student housing industry.  I loved the energy and involvement with the college-aged students. It’s fun to work with students who you are providing their very first housing experience to and the parents who are dealing with letting their children go into the real world for the first time.

Q: How did you learn about the brand?

A:  The only other thing I could imagine doing outside of the student housing industry was owning my own spa.  However I had no idea there were franchises in the day spa segment out there.  I saw this franchise opportunity with Hand & Stone was actually quite shocked.  I thought it was perfect because I have no prior experience in the massage industry but Hand & Stone could teach me all I needed to know.  In less than 30 days, I signed up as a franchisee.   

I have literally no competition in my market and everyone I’m spoken with so far has made me believe that this concept is going to do really well.  People want a place to go to and relax, but there’s really nothing in Exton that can provide that experience.  This whole process is really exciting because it’s my first time as a business owner.  I have loved finding a business that means something to me and taking it through the entire process of getting it up and running. I’m excited to work for myself and expand when the time is right.

Q: Why was this brand the right fit for you?

A:  I had always gotten massages to help with stress so I was very interested in massage from a health benefit standpoint.  That is what the corporate team is all about. I felt like Hand & Stone was a step above the competition from the look and feel of the spa to my interactions with the corporate team.  I feel comfortable that I will be successful as a result of great support I will receive from them. 

Q: What are your future goals? Development plans?

A:  It’s my goal to own three locations; two in Pennsylvania and one in Florida. 

ABOUT HAND & STONE
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.

Hand & Stone Rides Wave of Massage Industry Growth

Massage and facial spa franchise experiences surge in sales, membership base

There can be no doubt that the past year has been one of the most stressful for American families. That may be why as Americans pull themselves out of the trenches of a battered economy and many industries remain flat in growth, the massage industry is consistently attracting more customers. Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa, a massage and facial spa chain that has aggressively expanded during the past year, has benefited from the industry surge with growth in sales, its membership base and geographical footprint.

Since Jan. 1, sales at Hand & Stone spas open for 24 or more months have been up 36 percent, with its membership base growing by 27 percent. By expanding its service lines to facials in 2010 in addition to massage, the spa chain’s product sales and facial services have increased by 41 percent so far in 2011. First-time customer traffic has increased by 40 percent over the past year, demonstrating that the concept is attracting first-time spa goers.

“What we’re seeing is a rapid growth in our business,” said Todd Leff, president and chief executive of Hand & Stone. “Not only are experienced spa goers looking for affordable massage and facial services for the health and wellness benefits, but more people who have never tried massage are now visiting spas. Our mission of making spa services more convenient and more affordable for the middle market has struck a chord with consumers.”

Aside from attracting additional customers, Hand & Stone is quickly growing its footprint through franchising. Opening 12 new locations in 2010, the chain has added nine spas so far this year and will open 20 more before 2012. By opening a massage and facial spa through franchising, executives and managers who have lost their jobs or have been underemployed throughout the downturn are having success as first-time business owners.

“Our franchisees are mothers, fathers, former corporate executives, people who were laid off during the recession — they’re people with varied backgrounds and experiences,” Leff said. “But what brings them together is a desire to have something for their own in an industry that improves consumers’ health and wellness. With the growth we’re seeing for this business model — growth that is expected to continue — people from all walks are seeing that this is a wise business decision.”

Hand and Stone featured in Entrepreneur Magazine

Hand and Stone was recently featured in an article in Entrepreneur Magazine entitled, “The Crossover: From the corporate world to franchise ownership -- how business owners make the transition.” The article was built from in-depth interviews with franchise executives who later became franchisees in the systems they worked in, including Bob and Denise McQuillan. The article discusses that Bob’s experience of owning a location helps him understand what franchisees must go through to open their own Hand & Stone. Click here to view the article in its entirety.

The Crossover: From the corporate world to franchise ownership -- how business owners make the transition.
By Jason Daley

Bob McQuillan and his wife, Denise, were preparing to open a Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa when a recruiter called. It turns out Hand and Stone was looking for a vice president for franchise sales--a position Bob had held elsewhere--so he entered the corporate and franchisee worlds simultaneously.

While Denise heads up their franchise in Cherry Hill, N.J., Bob has gained a deeper understanding of what the franchisees he's working with are going through.

(Read More)

Hand and Stone featured in the Sunday edition of The Courier-Post

Hand and Stone was featured in an excellent article in the Sunday edition of The Courier-Post entitled, “In the right hands: Cancer inspires woman to open spa.” In this 3-page feature article, Denise McQuillan shares her inspiring personal story about surviving breast cancer and opening up her own spa as a result of the ordeal. Denise talks about how massage was a huge source of relief for her during cancer treatments, and inspired her to become a Hand & Stone franchisee once she recovered. Todd Leff and Fred Vicario weigh in on Denise’s qualities as a franchisee, and why she makes for a perfect candidate. Click here to view the article in its entirety!

In the right hands: Cancer inspires woman to open spa
By KARYN D. COLLINS

Denise McQuillan had always worked in the corporate business world.

She was a numbers cruncher, doing accounting outsourcing for BNY Mellon Financial. She was good at it, had always been good at numbers. And, while it maybe wasn't the most personally fulfilling work, McMcQuillan said she was happy. Life was good for her, her husband and their two daughters. The couple, who live in Mullica Hill, even ran a couple of franchises of a tanning salon on the side.

Then, in an instant, everything changed.

(Read More)

Alternative Medicine Becomes Mainstream: Benefits Provided to the Masses

What was previously thought of as just a luxury and pampering experience is now being called a way of life for millions of Americans, even to the point of a necessity. Massage clearly delivers the physical and mental benefits that are very easy to understand and appreciate.

“After being in physical therapy for 25 years, I recognized that many patients’ injuries were improved better and more quickly through massage therapy,” said John Marco, Founder and COO of Hand & Stone. “No longer is massage considered a luxury item, it’s now driven by those who are seeking longevity and wellness, making it a lifestyle choice above all else.”

The industry alone had over 130 million visits annually and boasted sales of $12.8 billion in 2009 and there’s not one finite person who typically gets massages; they are from every walk of life, male or female, young to old. According to the 2010 AMTA Industry Report, massage use among 18-24 year olds has risen to 48%; massage use among older Baby Boomers (ages 55-64) has doubled in the past ten years and use among those older than 65 has tripled during the same time.

These staggering statistics indicate that consumers are “getting it” and they now understand that massage has positive medical implications. According to John Marco, massage does much more than just relax you. It:

• Relives Tension and Stress
• Decreases Pain
• Lowers Blood Pressure
• Increases Circulation
• Strengthens the Immune System
• Improves Recovery Time from Injuries
• Reduces Fatigue
• And a lot more…

Marco said that stress is the number one reason why consumers continually receive massages. Massage therapy relaxes the muscles which aids the body in generating more blood flow, and therefore helps to repair and regenerate muscles faster.

“What fuels the rapid growth of the industry is the direct ‘feel-good’ results that occur due to instant relaxation that each client experiences during and after a massage,” said Marco, “The treatment is so desirable for consumers because it has identifiable and measureable results, where they feel rejuvenated after an hour session.”

While the typical massage client used to have to track down a freelance Massage Therapist, schedule an appointment days in advance, and pay as much as $90 or more for a one-hour treatment, most Hand & Stone clients book their appointments on the same day as service and pay 30 percent less than the traditional hourly rate. Better yet, when they sign up for a one-session-per-month plan, they end up paying even less per visit.

As massage becomes more and more mainstream in the health care industry, Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa stays at the top of the game by adding locations and services to keep the brand fresh. That strategy has proven to be successful, as the addition of facials and waxing to the services roster has boosted the average store sales by over 14 percent during this past year, in a very tough economic environment. Marco expects to sign another 25 new franchisees to the Hand & Stone system this year, each one investing a total of around $325,000.

“Massage and facials are a great way to maintain a healthy body and healthy skin,” Marco said. “It provides an escape for many individuals, where you can take an hour or two to focus on pampering yourself while receiving long-term health benefits too.”

Hand and Stone franchisees Fred and Steve Vicario featured in the Courier Post

A great article called “No-frills approach to spa pampering,” published Sunday, Sept. 15 in the Courier Post in which Fred and Steve Vicario, franchisees and regional developers of Hand & Stone, were interviewed. It discusses multiple facets of Hand & Stone including Hand & Stone’s model, the customer benefits of getting a monthly massage service, the breadth of services like waxing and facials, the growth of Hand & Stone in South Jersey, and the franchise opportunity. Check out a portion of the article below or read the full story here.

No-frills approach to spa pampering
By EILEEN SMITH • Courier-Post Staff • September 5, 2010

EVESHAM — At Hand & Stone, the spa concept has been massaged to make the price of pampering more accessible.

There are no fluffy white robes, no showers, no lounge with cucumber water and fashion magazines.

"Our clients want to come in, get a service and get on with their busy lives," says Steve Vicario, who owns the spa at Green Tree Plaza with his brother, Fred.

One in four American adults -- 24 percent -- got a massage last year, according to "American Spa Industry Insider," a trade publication.

Hand & Stone franchises grew 30 percent in 2009, capitalizing on cheap rents and other incentives offered by landlords amid a glut of vacant commercial space.

"We have been able to reduce start-up costs by as much as $100,000," says Vicario, 37. "That's part of the reason we are growing so quickly." (Read More)

Franchisee Profile: Shahira Raineri

Franchisee Since: Summer 2010
Franchise Location: Mission Viejo and Tustin, California

How Shahira Raineri Got Started With Hand & Stone…
For over 20 years, Shahira led teams in Marketing and Product Management in the corporate world and wanted to take this experience to be an owner of her own business. Her career experiences allowed her to work on many projects including launching new products and services as well as new brands, all of which helped Shahira recognize her passion for starting new ventures. At the same time, she grew tired of the slow-moving bureaucracy plaguing the corporate world. Shahira decided to take her skills and accomplishments and move in a direction that would allow her to become her own boss.

Shahira made a list of things she enjoyed and began some serious soul searching. Before long she began looking at franchises, particularly those in the service industry. As a massage enthusiast, Hand & Stone became a clear choice.

What Intrigued Shahira Raineri about Hand & Stone …
In the early stages of her search, Shahira looked at a number of massage franchises in addition to Hand & Stone, including Massage Envy and Massage Heights. However, Hand & Stone’s sound business strategy helped rule its competitors out, and a meeting with Hand & Stone CEO Todd Leff cemented the brand as the right choice. Shahira knew the excellent executive management of Hand & Stone combined with her extensive experience in brand creation and new project launches would be a recipe for success.

Something Interesting About Shahira Raineri’s Story…
Shahira put a lot of time into finding the perfect market to open Hand & Stone locations. She ultimately chose the Orange County, California area. The two initial locations, Mission Viejo and Tustin, are both located in high-income areas. Shahira is so confident about the Orange County region that she’s uprooted her family in New Jersey and moved 3,000 miles to the area. She has even signed on with Hand & Stone as an Area Developer, meaning she will be responsible for franchise development throughout the region. Current plans include opening two locations in fall 2010 in Mission Viejo and Tustin in Orange County, with another location on the books. Her future plans include 3 more locations in the area and as area developer, to bring many more future franchises on board in the Orange County, California region.