How Woodhouse Spas Achieved Its Impressive $2.4 Million Average Unit Volume by Elevating Self-Care with Luxury and Accessibility

Woodhouse Spas, a franchise that redefines self-care by offering resort-style luxury in a convenient, local experience, is on the cusp of major expansion. With an average unit volume (AUV) of $2.4 million, according to the brand’s 2024 FDD, diverse revenue streams and a well-defined niche in a massively popular industry, Woodhouse Spas is an exceptional investment opportunity for those passionate about wellness and luxury. Now, with a plan to open up to 25 new locations annually in prime markets across the country, the time has never been better to join the Woodhouse Spas franchise family.

“Our year-over-year growth has remained strong, even through COVID-19 challenges. With 86 units operational, we've developed a robust model spanning unit-level economics, leadership, and support systems, positioning us for further expansion,” said Scott Thompson, chief development officer for Radiance Holdings. “The spa industry has shown consistent, strong growth, and likewise, we’ve seen a growing demand for the services and experience that Woodhouse Spas uniquely offers. This is truly an opportune time to join the Woodhouse family.”

Crafting a Legacy of Luxury and Wellness

Woodhouse Spas was originally founded in 2001 in Victoria, Texas. “The original mission of the brand was driven by the belief that guests shouldn’t have to fly to a faraway destination to get a resort-style spa experience,” said Lori Merrall, vice president of franchise sales. “With Woodhouse, you can have that same amazing experience you’d get at a high-end, five-star resort without leaving your hometown.”

That concept caught on fast — the first franchised location opened in Kingston, Pennsylvania, in 2003, and a little over a decade later, the brand had expanded to 50 locations.

In 2020, Woodhouse joined Radiance Holdings, whose portfolio also includes Sola Salons, the world's largest and fastest-growing salon suites franchise. This marked a new chapter of growth and innovation for the Woodhouse brand.

Today, Woodhouse boasts over 80 locations across the United States and continues to expand. The brand was recently ranked No. 1 in the massage and spa category by Entrepreneur Magazine in the 2024 Franchise 500, as well as No. 267 on the Franchise Times Top 400 list.

Not Your Average Spa Franchise Model

There are several aspects of the Woodhouse franchise model that set it apart from others in the space, Merrall says. For one, unlike the typical membership-based massage franchises, Woodhouse Spas aims to compete with more high-end, luxury spa experiences.

“As a franchisee, your business appeals to a wide variety of guests because we don’t take a one-size-fits-all services approach that many spas do,” said Merrall. “We’ve intentionally developed offerings that address our guests’ individualized pain points, like improving the sleep cycle and creating mental clarity.”

From plush robes to soothing aromatherapy and the healing sounds of nature, every detail at Woodhouse Spas is meticulously curated to provide an immersive guest experience. This commitment to personalized care sets Woodhouse apart, ensuring each guest leaves rejuvenated and educated on maintaining self-care practices at home.

It also leads to diverse revenue streams for Woodhouse Spas franchisees. “Specialized services including massage, facials, nails, body treatments, alongside retail, gift cards, events, and non-touch therapies like infrared saunas and salt rooms —  our owners can tap into multiple revenue streams,” said Glory Williams, director of franchise development marketing for Radiance Holdings. “Our guests can enjoy a body detox wrap, experience a rejuvenating deep tissue or body balance massage, and then take home premium retail products to continue their wellness journey at home."

Backed by a brand with over two decades of franchising experience, new franchise owners benefit from comprehensive training on guest services and operations, strategic site selection assistance, construction management with experienced contractors, robust marketing support, ongoing operational advice and the latest technology to enhance business efficiency and guest experience.

“We hold the franchisee’s hand every step of the way to ensure their spa is open on time, on budget and in the right location,” said Thompson. “If they are going to put $2 million into the ground, it’s going to be the perfect site for the most successful Woodhouse possible. Our operational processes are also very efficient so we can drive consistent returns. This kind of extensive support system ensures that each franchise owner is well-prepared to succeed in the competitive spa industry.”

A Recession-Resistant and Future-Proof Industry

The spa industry continues to thrive, with a market size of $20.1 billion in 2023 and projected growth on the horizon. “This is a great industry to be in right now because you don’t have to worry about being replaced by Amazon or AI,” said Merrall. “Our services can only be delivered by another person and that is why there will always be a need for them.”

And in today’s post-COVID world, as more and more people recognize the importance of mental health awareness, consumers are seeking self-care services that do more than provide momentary relief — 49% of people plan to treat themselves to more indulgent salon and spa services and 78% of consumers say it’s important to attend regular salon and spa services for a sense of normalcy.

“Even during COVID, we saw continued spa patronage, especially since our standard customer is a higher-income individual,” said Williams. “That demand only continues to grow.”

The numbers speak for themselves. Woodhouse Spas has continued to see a steady increase in system-wide sales, with AUVs growing from $2.1 million last year to $2.4 million this year, according to the brand’s most recent franchise disclosure document. The estimated initial investment range is $1,486,677 to $2,592,081.

Why Now Is the Right Time To Invest in a Woodhouse Spas

So, who is the ideal Woodhouse Spas franchisee?

“Woodhouse looks for passionate individuals, particularly those with a love for the spa industry, travel and wellness,” said Thompson. “Our most successful owners are individuals who have been spa members with us in the past. They might be leaders looking to leave the corporate world or multi-unit franchise owners looking to expand their portfolio with a luxury brand.”

Now, with a plan to open up to 25 new locations annually, Woodhouse is looking for qualified and passionate franchisees in prime markets like Chicago, Southern California, Arizona and South Florida, to name a few.

At the end of the day, investing in a Woodhouse Spas franchise means more than owning a business — it’s about offering a sanctuary of luxury and wellness in your community.

“The great thing about Woodhouse is that we take the time to do things right,” said Chris Mann, a multi-unit Woodhouse franchise owner in Ohio. “We are not running a factory — we are making a difference in the lives of every single guest who walks through the door. This is a lifestyle choice for me, and I am proud to be a part of The Woodhouse Spa brand.”

If you’re passionate about wellness and ready to make a meaningful impact, now is the perfect time to join the Woodhouse family.

For more information on franchising with Woodhouse Spas, visit: https://www.ownawoodhouse.com/.