The Top Beauty and Grooming Franchises

There’s no better time than the present when it comes to investing in your dreams. And if your dreams are to own a franchise in the beauty industry, even better. The beauty and grooming industry is an ever-expanding market and is currently experiencing significant growth following several years of COVID-related lockdowns.

Hair salons are some of the most widespread and popular franchises to own in the beauty industry. However, in addition to hair, the market also includes smaller niches that focus on everything from lashes, nails, waxing, cosmetics and a mixture of these.

In 2020, the hair and beauty industry was estimated to have employed nearly 700,000 people in the U.S. alone. In that same year, the industry saw an overall decline in total revenue as a result of the pandemic. Now, three years later, the industry has turned itself around and has amassed a total revenue of $42.3 billion and continues growing.

With the overall success of the industry in mind, we here at 1851 Franchise have compiled a list of some of the top beauty and grooming franchises across the country to help you decide whether or not you want to invest in the market.

Great Clips*

• Units: 4,447
• Startup Costs: $178,400 to $376,900

Great Clips has become a staple in the hair franchise industry since its inception in 1982 and has locations spread throughout the U.S. and Canada. The brand provides “competitively priced and high-quality” haircuts to men, women and children.

Sports Clips

• Units: 1,765
• Startup Costs: $266,300 to $439,500

Sports Clips is one of the fastest growing men’s hair salon franchises in the country. The brand claims to support its franchisees with the ability to transition out of their day jobs and through its proven business model. It will provide owners with the opportunity to build wealth and stability.  

Nikita Hair

• Units: 150+
• Price: $184,500–$298,300

Nikita Hair is an international hair concept with salons and its own line of personal hair care products. The franchise was started in Europe and has since made its way to the U.S. Nikita Hair offers styling, coloring, Keratin treatments, extensions, waxing and brow sculpting. 

Drybar

• Units: 140+
• Price: $639,180–$1,391,470

Drybar was founded in 2010 and offers affordable, luxury blowouts at each of its salon locations. In its more than 10 years of business, the brand has expanded into a national franchise with strong brand recognition under the WellBiz Brands, Inc. name.

Waxing the City

• Units: 130+
• Startup Costs: $223,965 to $493,428

Waxing the City is a salon-style studio dedicated to body waxing. The brand was founded in 2003 and began franchising in 2010. Waxing the City offers services for all skin types and waxing preferences, and boasts a heavy focus on training, customer service and comfort.

In Conclusion

If you’re considering investing in a beauty and grooming brand and are not sure what to choose, hopefully this list can guide you in the right direction. As a reminder, it’s important to do your own research. Check what sorts of training and support options are provided by the franchisors, and connect with current franchisees to see what they have to say about the brand. With this information, you’ll be well on your way to opening up your own beauty and grooming franchise in no time.