Massage Envy opens first international location in Australia

Franchise-based US company Massage Envy has expanded outside America for the first time, opening a branch in Sydney, Australia.

The Sydney branch is part of 15-year, 100-location deal between Massage Envy and Collective Wellness Group, which is based in Australia, and will be managed by the latter.

Massage Envy said the company was already looking to also branch into other international locations. Lee Knowlton, senior vice president of global sales and international at Massage Envy, explained:

“We've had amazing domestic growth in the United States, now it's time to make Massage Envy a global brand. We are excited to start the expansion with the Collective Wellness Group in Australia and expand our footprint internationally.

“To continue our momentum, we are already exploring partnerships in other countries such as Canada, Mexico and the UK."

Joe Magnacca, president and chief executive of Massage Envy, explained of the choice of Australia as the first international market for the company, which was established 14 years ago: “Australia has a wellness-centric culture, which is one of the reasons we believe the market is a great fit for our first international venture."

Massage Envy, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a franchise business model and has more than 1,100 locations across 49 US states. 

The company, which through its franchises employees more than 25,000 people in the US, is centred on the idea of making massage and skincare services accessible and affordable and offers a membership option.

Collective Wellness Group, established in 2015, is a health and wellness management and investment company.