Massage is growing popularity all over the U.S. as an effective and affordable alternative therapy for a number of ailments caused by stress, repetitive work, sports, and aging. Both hand and stone types of massages are accepted now in clinics, sports rehabilitation centers, and hospitals, and many health care plans and employee benefits now cover massage therapy, as well as other alternative branches of traditional medicine. With vast demand for the services, massage franchises are becoming a truly lucrative and mainstream business. It is estimated that Americans buy about 100 million massages annually, and this number explodes every year, especially taking into consideration rapid rates of aging and a growing positive attitude to alternative therapies among the American public.

What are the opportunities? We recommend to check out a successful chain of Hand and Stone Massage Spas, a franchise concept in massage therapy that offers affordable and quality services (an introductory full-body massage performed by a registered massage therapist costs only $39.95 - the price policy that looks attractive for many customers). The first location of the chain opened in 2004 and the Spa has been rapidly growing since. By the year 2008, the company plans to expand to 100 franchised centers nationwide, while, by the year 2010, the number of Hand and Stone Massage Spas will reach 500. The initial investment will depend on location and is estimated to be within the range of $189,000 to $389,000.This franchise offer may look especially enticing for those who already have an experience in running a business and wish to change a career.

Orange Sky Body And Beauty Bar is another franchise opportunity in the area. In addition to massage therapy, the chain offers a wide range of services, including facials and waxing, a refreshing new business concept, and a unique line of brand name body products. The required investments start from $147,500.

A flexible and less costly business opportunities are offered by Jon’Ric International Spas, which have been on the market for almost 24 years and now have grown to a $50 billion “Speciality Spa” industry.