Franchise Opportunities

Tanning Salon Franchises

Tanning salon franchises continue to take the world by storm as indoor tanning grows in popularity. Before buying a tanning salon franchise, be sure to read this article. Plus, take a look at our featured tanning salon franchises.

One of the reasons Americans love to visit the beach is that it provides a great opportunity to lie in the sun and get a nice, even body tan.

But unfortunately, most of us don't have enough time on our hands to go to the beach on a regular basis. That's where tanning salons come into the picture. Tanning salons give people the opportunity to soak up the "rays" on their own time schedule. They also give their customers a more uniformed tan than they would get by laying out at the beach or in the backyard. By providing customers with a full line of tanning products and services, the tanning business has grown into a $7+ billion industry, making it an appealing option for new franchisees.

Despite some negative publicity about the health effects of artificial tanning, tanning salons have proven themselves to be safe and healthy indoor alternatives to outdoor tanning. Newer tanning technologies filter out harmful UV rays but allow the body to tan naturally. Customers can also choose a UV-free tan by using a spray-booth that airbrushes on a realistic tan, giving the appearance of a tan without the harmful UV rays.

Planet Beach has capitalized on consumer demand for quality tanning services by creating a tanning experience designed to replicate the experience people would have at the beach. Founded by a former health club owner in 1995, Planet Beach provides their customers tans in a variety of different shades intended to complement the person's natural complexion. In addition to tanning services, they offer a wide range of tanning-related products that are sold in each of its franchise locations.

Points to Consider

  • In addition to the initial franchise fee, tanning salon franchises require an initial purchase of tanning beds, product inventory, and other equipment. Make sure you factor these expenses into your business plan along with the other costs you expect to incur.
  • Despite their proven safety, tanning salons need to be diligent in educating their customers about the tanning process to overcome negative perceptions that continue to linger in some people's minds. This can be accomplished not only through marketing initiatives, but also through in-store education seminars and individual consultations.

Franchise Opportunities

  • Planet Beach. Founded in 1995, Planet Beach offers a complete line of tanning services and products. They have 240 franchises located primarily in North America.
  • Hollywood Tans. Hollywood Tans offers an indoor tanning salon experience to its customers as well as a line of related lotions and products. Although the company's franchises have been concentrated in the eastern U.S., Hollywood Tans is expanding its franchise throughout the country. In 2004, they reported 213 franchise locations.
  • Executive Tans. Started in 1991, Executive Tans presently operates salons throughout the Southwest. They offer customers tanning services and massages as well as swimwear and tanning products in 90+ franchise locations.
  • Celsius Tannery. Celsius Tannery recently signed an agreement with Wal-Mart to open franchised salons in Wal-Marts across the country. At the present time they have approximately 20 locations, a number that is sure to grow through their Wal-Mart partnership.

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