Massage Envy envy?
April 26th, 2007 • Posted by SpaBoom Staff • Permalink
I'm on the board of directors for the New Mexico Spa Association and at our past few conferences, Massage Envy has been mentioned or brought up. In every conversation there are basically two points of view about Massage Envy. The first relates to some level of anxiety and concern about their business model, and how that might erode already modest (if any) profits. The second relates to how Massage Envy isn't a threat, because they don't want customers who shop by price anyway, and prefer the customers who are paying for the experience.
After obtaining a massage from Massage Envy, I don't believe either position is quite right.
Let me explain.
As a vendor to spas and salons, I do my best to visit and pay for services from those spas and salons who are SpaBoom clients. I'm located in Albuquerque, and have visited quite a few of our clients located here (and there's still many more to visit). Every experience has been enjoyable, but different.
I visited Massage Envy last week, and have to say the experience was also enjoyable — who doesn't like to receive a massage — but different.
What this means is, Massage Envy has successfully created a niche for themselves, by offering low-cost, moderate-quality massage for the non-discriminating client. If a spa has a Massage Envy in its neck of the woods, and they don't have a strong, obvious differentiator, I do believe they will need to compete on price to remain competitive against Massage Envy.
You may disagree with me, but do yourself a favor: Go clandestine and pay the $39 introductory price for a massage at Massage Envy.
Then, go back to your spa. Really think about the type of clients you have, your differentiators, your quality of service, and the availability of potential clients in your region that your differentiators appeal to. Do you have a winning mix? If not, reformulate. Work harder at marketing. Provide incentives for client referrals.
Make it clear what your differentiators are. This is tough. Unlike the car business, your prospects cannot "kick the tires" of a massage. So, if your differentiator is experiential based, come up with methods that allow potential customers to experience your difference. Here's a suggestion: Have a "free massage" day, once a month or once a quarter. Or, make some PR for yourself, and invite the local police and fire departments to come in for a free massage.
Don't suffer "Massage Envy envy." Don't become anxious and give up. But… don't sit on your laurels and pretend that everything is the same, either.
• Trackback • Posted in General, Spa Business Management, Spa Marketing
You could get just as good a massage, probably even better, for about the same price from any local independent. But whatever works for you. Out here where I am people still think ME is a joke. They aren't really doing too well out here. People here support the people who work for themselves more. That's a good thing too. They deserve it to be paid for their talents and build up their practices. Let the rest of the people, those who can't pull that off, work for ME.
Anyone have any comments to make on the other massage franchises out there such as Massage Heights, Hand & Stone or Elements? They seem to offer the same discount massages but perhaps they've improved on other things.
Wow, this has been one of the most interesting blogs that I've read in a while! I am a graduate of The Atlanta School of Massage (Class of ’94) and studied Clinical Sports Massage under Benny Vaughn and Whitney Lowe. So, I know a good massage when I feel one.
I am a client at ME–Camp Creek near the airport (if you’re ever in the area you owe it to yourself to stop in for a session). Like one of the previous posters stated: “Not all MEs are created equally.” The owner at this location was blessed enough to hire experience therapists, as well as the “cream of the crop” from some of the local massage schools.
Personally, I get massage on a weekly basis and could not afford to do so without a business model such as ME. I have NEVER gotten a bad massage at any of the Atlanta area MEs (and, I’ve visited Camp Creek, Windy Hill, Buckhead and Sandy Springs). Perhaps I’ve been luck enough to get therapists that have a passion for the work -– and don’t do it just for the money. That’s not to say that others haven’t, but I know my body well enough and am able to communicate my needs to the therapists and they have been met. I for one do not have to hang out at a luxury spa for hours on end when (as a ME member) I can get a 90-minute session (only $18 for the upgrade) for $57! A 90-minute session means the therapist can give me a more intensive session (addressing my issues) without having to “turnover the room” so quickly. Good massage at a great price!
As a therapist, my philosophy is to touch as many people as possible. I actually would rather perform five massages at $40 each than one massage at $200. Why? It allows me to affect more people… which is the reason I got into massage in the first place. Does that mean that I don’t feel that I’m “worth $100 an hour?” No, it just means that the best I catering to a group of people that cannot afford the ridiculously high fees charged by Chris Kincade. It would be very interesting to know if his clients are able to receive his services on a weekly basis… Not everyone in the country makes the $100/200 an hour made by people in LA’s film industry. I actually lived in LA for a short people of time and got excellent massage at a facility in Culver City called THE MASSAGE GARAGE. They catered to a lot of employees from SONY studios that could afford to pay upward to $150 a session, but visited this facility as well because they “got good bodywork” at a great price.
I must acknowledge that I didn’t realize the therapists salaries were so low, but did find out that everything they need to perform their jobs are provided from product to sheets to clients. Is this a viable model for everyone? No! However, that no reason to slam the entire ME organization. Some owners are actually former therapists who feel that they can make a difference by introducing massage to a segment of the population that would have otherwise not experienced it. I feel that this is an opportunity to educate the masses about the benefits of bodywork. Besides, not all ME owners are created equally.
Blessings
I am a firm believer in the health benefits of massage.
I work in the mortgage industry which has been extra stressful lately. I am considering purchasing several gift cards from ME to use as thank you's and tokens of appreciation for my support staff. I have offices in different areas of CA. Massage Envy's multiple locations makes this a convenient possibility. Also, very easy to accomplish. I could do the entire process from my computer and email the gift certificates. Many of our employee's would not treat themselves to a massage. I visited a ME once and had a lovely massage. I have not returned because I was so turned off by the over the top sales pressure. Still I consider giving the gift. For $50 budget, it's a great gift.
On a recent trip to Mexico, we stayed at The Tides (previously Villa del Sol) in Zihuatenejo. Their spa was under reconstruction and they had quasi-converted guest suites for treatment rooms. Their prices were the same as if the full spa was available with limited availability. We opted for the beach side palapa therapists for a fraction of the cost down the shoreline. The treatment was excellent. It did not require an appointment. We found it so reasonable and enjoyable that we went daily. We were able to leave tips equal to the cost of the massage and still at half the cost of the spa. I have to believe the concept for ME was founded on a vacation somewhere. The massage in my opinion is always all about the therapist. I have had lousy massages in lovely places and vice versa.
Dearest ASM — You honestly come off like a paid shill for ME, all the same talking points. If you had actually bothered to read anything I wrote you would know that my main argument is that there are independent contractors that offer great service and profit more from their labor than the well meaning but underpaid and overworked MT's at ME. My argument is as an advocate for them which you obviously are not. If you really "cared" so much about others as you portend you might recognize this instead you merely imply how cheap labor suits your personal needs. This seems hypocritical to say the least but thanks for making that so clear.
As for singling me out I hope this forum will allow me the courtesy of responding to this rude, grammatically flawed and ridiculous remark — "No, it just means that the best I catering to a group of people that cannot afford the ridiculously high fees charged by Chris Kincade." You come off as incredibly naive here. I have news for you, I am far from the most expensive out here. Do your homework. I have a sliding scale that allows me to work on people from all walks of life and my wealthy clients balance that out. Everybody's happy. And as one who teaches internationally (I just got back from Italy two weeks ago and head off to Paris in February) I think my modest fees are reasonable, so it seems does my large and loyal client base. If you really did ever live here in Los Angeles I don't have to tell you that the cost of living here is extremely high. Weeklies? I have people I have seen every week for 20 years so spare me the moralizing. This is about ME. You may indeed be well meaning but make your argument without personalizing it as it just exposes the poverty of your position.
Dear ASM — For the record all of my sessions are two hours long. Sorry I wasn't more clear about this in the post where I stated my rates. That said, where I live people charge that for an hour of outcall and I generally get paid more with tips etc. People like to be generous. So like I said, I'm hardly the most expensive.
Its important that everyone here understand the amount of manual labor that goes into a massage session. Especially if a client requests a "deep tissue" type therapy. At 15$ per hour (tip amounts vary and are not guaranteed) a therapist must work at least 6-7 hours per day. The best way I can explain it is like this… grab a persons arm and squeeze it as tight as you can, now… hold it just like that for an hour straight… take a fifteen minute break… now hold it again for two hours straight… repeat. I bet you'd all be crying like babies after half an hour.
The point is, you cannot sustain this type of working condition long enough to stay healthy AND to earn a decent salary at ME. The owners of the franchises can sustain their bloated profits though, no doubt. The labor is exploitative in its basic intent.
I am a member of ME, I'm also a massage therapist with my own clients. It's true that you just strip, sometimes get a good therapist, (pretty much hit or miss). Most of the therapist admit that they're overworked and underpaid. How in the world can you offer a good massage when you have a 10 min break in a breakroom that has absoluately no comfort, and work back to back like that for 8 hours and they only get $15hr plus tips. The turnover is tremedous. God forbide if you have to go to the bathroom during a session. They offer no robes to walk down the hall to the restroom. I had to take the sheet off the treatment table and wrap it around myself toga style and hope they're wasn't anyone out in the hall. The also offer no blanket and if the room is cold, you just choke it up and freeze while your trying to relax. Also no aromatherapy, can't pick your choice of music. You definately get what you pay for. Any if you add up dollar for dollar it's really more expensive than just going to a day spa.
I'm a consumer of massage services and I just got a massage for the first time at a Massage Envy tonight. So I was Googling for more information on Massage Envy and found this message board.
Wow – Here are my comments as a consumer.
I was very impressed with my massage at Massage Envy tonight, and if the working conditions mentioned by Barbara are true, I hope ME will improve them for their staff asap. ME definitely is offering tremendous value to the consumer, and if you are lucky as I was tonight, I received great quality massage services. I am very pleased.
My masseur was terrific, professional, had "magical" healing hands, was very pleasant, and asked me all the typical questions beforehand. Also, ME does not charge extra for deep tissue vs medium or light strength massages.
As a consumer I can afford any price and I have gone to the best from five star resorts, to private masseuses who come to your home. I was at the Wynn and Caesars last weekend in Las Vegas and enjoyed having a massage and other spa services at their world class spas.
I live in Newport Beach, CA where high end spa services are everywhere. But, I'm so stunned at how great my massage was at Massage Envy, and I'm a very picky person. I even bring my own massage oils when I feel like it.
The Massage Envy is about 15 minutes away, and I am definitely going to tell friends about this gem!
At the insanely reasonable prices that Massage Envy is charging, I can see why the reception area was packed (but quiet) when I walked in tonight. I can't believe this salon has been open since 2002 and I missed it all this time!
There are a few other massage salons that we have discovered that have popped up in the past couple of years. One is also reasonably priced and is operated by well trained masseuses from Japan, China and Thailand. These men and women are CA state licensed in massage therapy, as well as highly trained in their traditional methods of healing. They are by far much better than most of the ones at the "fancy" day spas in Newport Beach that give you a cup of herbal tea and a bathrobe. Who cares about that when you really want a great massage.
By the way, at Massage Envy tonight I was escorted down a very nice carpeted and dimly lit hallway into a well appointed massage room. The massage table was very comfortable and heated, very nice.
I just can't believe my experience tonight, so I've been on the phone with friends in CA and NY tonight to tell them to keep an eye out for a Massage Envy in their communities.
Yes, the price is unbelievable, but I think this company has it figured out for long term. You can request and book future appointments with your favorite masseuse, and when I asked tonight, they said I could bring my own special massage oils if I wanted to, plus they offer aromatherapy oils as well.
The front office must be trained, since they all spoke in soft voices and were extremely pleasant and professional to deal with.
ME makes it so downright reasonable and pleasant, that you can go every week or even more frequently without thinking twice for some of us spoiled princesses from Newport Beach who employ personal trainers and just have to get a massage more frequently (haha!).
Its the Costco mentality. Costco makes buying so easy and reasonable, you go into a Costco to buy $10 paper towels or steaks, and you feel like you are stealing the stuff because the prices are so low, but then you end up walking out with $500 worth of stuff! And you keep going back to Costco – and buy again!
I'm sorry that massage places like Massage Envy must be shaking up the "old school." But yes, it is making massage more affordable for the masses, and I think this will increase the market share for everyone.
The "old school" massage salons must freshen up and compete and definitely should stop sneering and whining at the new upstart – I really do think they will grab market share from all sectors of the population, not just the mid-end. They will be able to snare the high end clients as well just through word of mouth.
The high end massage and day spas in Newport Beach are no dummies however, they are very competitive, they are smart operators. They have us on email lists and constantly send us enticing services, often with a special promotion that's too hard to turn down.
They also serve as a catalyst to bring us together into social groups to share the latest information on health and beauty. They no longer just focus on offering massage and spa services, but include healthy, stress reducing lifestyle services. Very much like the "healthy lifestyle" massage services that Massage Envy promotes.
In Newport Beach I know which masseuse specializes in what, so word of mouth gets out if you are good.
We will go where the quality is, and price – that is the cherry on top. I don't know anyone who will pass up that combination.
So far, my first experience tonight at Massage Envy was an A for Quality and an A for Price!
Susan — For the record, there is no state licensing for massage in California. It's really easy to get a license in Newport Beach.
Ok, I have actually WORKED at a business similar to ME. It is a new chain originating in Colorado, called Elements. They operate in the same manner as ME. Yes, the prices are a good deal for the consumer, but what about what it does to the therapists? No one seems to understand the intense physical work involved in giving a massage. You are lying there RELAXING your muscles, while we, the therapists are flexing most of ours. In a set-up such as ME or Elements, where massages are scheduled back to back, as many as 7 a day, that is like going to the gym and working out almost nonstop for what constitutes a full workday for most. The pay is an average of $15 per massage plus the tip, which is lower than what one would receive in a traditional spa, probably because the client is in the mindset of PAY LESS PAY LESS PAY LESS. I could do a massage in my home or a clients home for ONE hour and far exceed what my income for an 8 hour work day at Elements was. Granted, I was making great money, but I was working my body to death for it. The particular studio that I worked at was poorly constructed in that the walls were insufficiently insulated to block sound from the reception area, hallway, and other massage rooms. This was both distracting and unsettling for the client and the therapist. We had piped in music, which was often NOT relaxing or comforting, and after a long day, almost nauseating. Our break room consisted of TWO hard chairs and a folding card table… VERY RELAXING! There was one bathroom, expected to accommodate up to six clients and six therapists, the receptionist and manager at any given time. If we had a cancellation, we were expected to remain there, just in case there was a walk-in, but yet we were not paid for the down time. Often, clients would complain about services in a variety of areas (as do consumers of most any product), but even though the fault of the complaint may lie with the environment itself, rather than the quality of the service, the complaint was filed in the employees file and held against THEM for future evaluations. The old saying, "the customer is always right," was strongly believed in, so far that it was defective. I understand people's desires to get as good a deal as possible these days when purchasing anything. I would be the same way. BUT… do you really want to spend your money and support the massage mills? Please take the time to think about how hard your therapist worked to get through massage therapy school, obtain their license, etc, and how hard he/she works every single day (many work not only their 50 hour weeks at ME or Elements, but also doing massages at home or clients homes), how they too have families that because of the insane demands on their bodies by their job at ME/Elements, they are unable to function once they walk through their own front door. I know I for one was lucky to just get to the shower and then fall out on the sofa for the rest of the night!!! By purchasing services from these places you are condoning their practices of abusing therapists who only want to work at their chosen profession and make a decent living, not suffer burnout before having been out of school for even a year. Please, think about it!!!
Sandy — I hear you and many others do as well. Unfortunately, there are many who only see how getting a massage on the cheap benefits only them. These are the same people that couldn't care less that slave labor in Indonesia makes clothes for them or that what mounts to indentured servitude provides products they can consume cheaply. It's a sense of entitlement issue. But people like you need to keep speaking out to raise awareness. This will all come around. Massage school attendance is down and there will be less and less people enticed to enter the field given the conditions (less money for the practitioner and poor working conditions) that places like ME and Elements provide. My best advice is to go after good private clients. Places like ME can never compete with those who do outcall. Bear in mind that a lot of the positive reviews written here sound like they were scripted by MR PR people because they most likely were. The truth is out there.
Macalla, I think you hit the nail on the head when you said many of these posts were done by ME PR people. They sound so brainwashed, just like the manager at the Elements where I was employed. So horribly hypocritical, but do whatever or be whomever it took to dupe the clients and crack the whip on the therapists. Oddly enough, many of the private clients I have now, I met while working at Elements. Many asked me (and granted I was hesitant to respond for fear of entrapment and repercussions by Elements) if I WOULD provide outcall services to their homes, for both them and various family members. Also, I was fortunate enough to meet someone whose therapies business contracts with Medicaid to provide therapeutic massage for individuals with special needs. It's nothing full-time, but the few hours a week I do that kind of work is so VERY rewarding. Also, for anyone out there NOT wanting to go the spa route, check out local resorts, and pass out flyers at the upper scale hotels and extended stay facilities. These places are safer in that they have on property security with whom you can check in with at the front desk before going to a clients room. They will (or have with me in most instances) come by as designated times, knock on the door, identify themselves, etc., and the front desk will call to check on you as well. If that total stranger lying there naked on your massage table has ANY ill thoughts, they will be quickly banished once he/she knows that so many people know exactly where you are and who you are with. Plus, the rate for outcalls to hotels is WONDERFUL!!! I've done a few late evening ones, after some local event has ended, and received upwards of $200 for a 90 minute deep tissue massage. That was barely equal to 12 one hour massages at Elements! Plus I have several clients who come to my home regularly for massages, and receive $80-$100 for a one hour massage from them. They are much more relaxed in a home type atmosphere where they don't feel your next client nipping at their heels while they are being rushed…
Hi Guys,
It is funny I came across this web site since I am looking into opening a ME myself. As I understand, in general the customers are happy and other local spas and its owners are upset with ME popping up all over the place.
I have numerous friends who work for luxe spas and make just as much if not less than ME offers to LMTs. Yes, the service is more expensive, but like with any business — by the time the owner is done paying for rent, heat, insurance, supplies, etc the LMTs is getting not much more than $20, plus they have to deal with VERY picky clients who expect the world from a $90 massage.
I look at it this way: for every product there is a customer. Do you go to an upscale salon and get a $50 pedicure? I do, I like the experience, I actually enjoy being able to talk to my nail tech, build relationship, etc. But what about thousands of other women who go to the "Lee's Nails" of the world and get both manicure and pedicure for mere $22 with NO appointment and NO waiting? There are a TON of these around each and every town. Why do people go there? Price and Convenience. Do they get the atmosphere — NO, conversation — NO, a pretty girl offering them coffee, tea, wine — NO. Do they get their nails and toes done in one hour with no waiting, barely any appointments and for close to nothing? Yes. Why aren't you talking about these 'poor' nail techs who work for probably MUCH less than ME offers to their therapists? Nail techs also go to school, also work hard, etc, etc.
As I said, for every product there is a right consumer.
My great friend who is a very successful real estate agent has a saying: if your house is not selling for 425K, would it sell for $1? If the answer is YES it means that the true price of your house is somewhere between $1 and $425,000 — now is the key to find out exactly what that price is.
In my opinion ME figured out what THAT price is, that's why they are so successful.
Good luck to all.
Dear Julie,
Since I looked at the franchises and decided that was not for me, here is some info you may not have considered in your search. From the business-franchisee side of things here is another way to look at things.
I looked at territory size. Seems they are working on around 50,000 people in a territory (subject to change???). That means that here in Saint Petersburg, FL they could have 5 (not to mention the surrounding towns). Now pop in another half dozen franchises in different companies and now how good does that base seem? Same target market. Those in earlier with annual contracts in place are in a much better position to be there in the long run. Whatever company you go to, build your business base fast with contracts because you will have lots of competition for your target market. It is only exclusive with the company you are in. And even then on the bordering territories will the locations within the territory be close enough to draw from you?
While figures vary, approximately 22% of the population has experienced a massage. Which means about 11,000 in your market area (of course you will be market to new people also). If 70% are in your level of service price range… then you have 7,700 in the main target market… add 6 more chains and now your market share shrinks substantially. And you have all the independents also. What advantages does the company have in getting, and keeping, a larger share of the market? Know your competition and potential competition if you want to have the business for the long run.
To all the therapists reading this, review each of these sites. There are lots of ideas on promoting your business that can be picked up. They spent lots developing their models.
When I look at a franchise I also search the net for problems with it. And you find things like this blog.
And there are lots more companies wanting to franchise…
And then there are the day spa franchises that are starting… each with massage. There is a Massage Envy for sale in California that claims gross income of $1,000,000 and is for sale for $650,000. Would be nice to know why they are selling http://www.healthclubforsale.com.
The chains may actually be doing the professional massage therapist a service in the long run. By getting more people to experience the benefits of massage. When people then want or need a better massage you are there to give it. With less competition on the mid and high end to a more massage educated base.
On the other hand if the chains follow the H&R Block approach and they use up their target market they will expand into the higher end market with a more professional/ specialized higher cost and paying to the therapist service. They are expanding into the business market and planning the medical massage side of things. The future sure will see lots of change.
I got into massage from the energy healing side of things and also have practiced as CPA and CFP. I look at things from the business side. Know what you want to do, find the best way to do it, find your target market and promote from every direction you can find.
And… I'm politically incorrect to.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
I believe I am within the target demographic many of the spa owners have mentioned: 29 y/old, married, female, professional with a household income of over $500K/year. I go to the spa at least once/month for facials and often add massage, wraps, or other treatments. And I drive a BMW (not a Toyota) and shop at Bloomingdales (not WalMart). Still, my husband and I both joined massage envy last month, signing up for a one year subscription.
Here's why we did it:
In short, Massage Envy gets the job done. It allows me to enjoy the benefits of massage at least once/month and to save money doing it. And for that reason, I think it is a misnomer to compare it to WalMart. It is not like WalMart at all – I wouldn't go to WalMart because the products are inferior, not because the ambiance is. A more apt comparison is to Marshall's or TJ Maxx, and in that case, I believe you should all be concerned because many people from your "target market" will shop at those stores if they know they are getting the exact same product at 1/4 the price.
That's not to say I'm over traditional spas all together. I'm not. I still get monthly facials at a traditional spa because that's where my facialist is. I still vacation at spa resorts. But am I going to become a regular at a place that charges me three times as much for a massage when I can get the same thing at Massage Envy? Absolutely not. I like the spa but I'm not an idiot.
I'm a student, expecting to graduate from the Ohio College of Massotherapy in 1 week. I've been in an 18 month program and have not worked during that time. I chose to make a career change on my 41st birthday, from computer training to massage therapy. I'm not a business minded person. I truly like helping others and this has been a field I've always been interested in.
However, I do better working for others. I don't have a mind for book keeping and filing and taxes and accounting… I never have! So working at a set wage for a company who is doing all the stuff I don't want to be bothered with is actually a benefit to me. At least for now. Once I get elbow deep into the field, I may change my mind.
One thing I have found a distaste for is now money hungry some in this industry seem to be! I'm not that way. I want to be paid a fair wage, work hard for that pay, not be taken advantage of by an employer OR a client. The person paying $40 deserves the same quality of care from me as the person paying more. I have a problem with MT's charging ghastly amounts of money! I have a problem with clients who think ghastly amounts of money entitles them to treat an MT like a slave. I don't have a problem with a company paying me a fair wage, offering me benefits and charging their clients a fair price.
If an MT is charging ghastly amounts of money, or a business is charging ghastly amounts of money, perhaps they are not providing the service for the reason you think they are. Just a thought.
Kathy– Once you have done massage for a while, and I hope you are able to, you come back and tell me if $15.00 to $20.00 an hour is a "fair wage" for the type of work you studied 18 months for. To me that's a "ghastly" amount of money for energetic healing work, "ghastly" in a whole different way than you intend.
As for "money hungry," that would describe the corporate mentality of Massage Envy to a tee.
I think there are some good points to be made here, but many of you are missing a key demographic that ME attracts – men.
As a man, and a customer of ME (and may I add, a household making roughly $190K/year), ME offers something that the more expensive spas in the Atlanta area don't offer — a decent massage without all the snootiness and $20 tip expectations that come with the $80 massage at other places.
While my experience at ME has thus far been about 50-50, it's pretty much on par with my experience at the other places, and since I don't have time to sit around all day in front of the fire sipping cocoa or wine, ME fits my schedule and price point.
So, ME isn't JUST meeting the needs of the lower middle income desperately trying to live the good life.
I just finished a school break vacation in South Florida and had two massage experiences, one at Massage Envy in Davie and the other at Marriott Harbor Beach in Fort Lauderdale. I had a less than moderate massage at Massage Envy, and had a spectacular spa experience and massage from a very experienced therapist at the Marriott Harbor Beach. For twenty dollars more, I spent the entire day at a spa resort with full access to the ocean. The therapist at Massage Envy complained about the fifteen dollars she was making for each session. She was very, very inexperienced. If you are looking for fluff and saving twenty bucks, Massage Envy is your Wal-Mart of choice.
Hi I am a student trying to become a RMT. I have read some of your blogs and I was just wondering if any one could tell me if it would be beneficial for someone like me to work for a place like ME to get experience or would I be better of staying away. I came across there web page and it sound's appealing but I'm not sure this is a whole new experience for me and my family and I really don't want to screw it up. I will take any help I can get.
Thanks, David
No matter what your opinion is, business is thriving for Massage Envy. Not everyone wants a in/out massage and others don't want a spa experience. Thank God we live in America ~ the right to choose which type of massage we want!
Wow! Look at all the passion and insight here…
I have owned a franchise much like ME and have been a member at ME. The sales are great at the ME my husband and I belong too! The sales at the franchise I owned were also great even in it's infancy stage. I can't comment on the franchise that we owned directly but I can say one thing…
You need to work in your clinic daily or be in constant contact in order to be successful! Just like any business franchise or otherwise be prepared to work for every dollar and never let up.
You can make any of these concepts successful even if the best spa in the world is located right next door. These concepts are here to stay especially in this economy where people are more stressed than ever! It is never about price alone… it is about the people you employ and the service that you give. There are enough clients for both the high end spa and the ME's of the world. Sometimes you feel like a steak and sometimes a hamburger can be just as filling if not more so…
Thriving? From what I've read it's already peaked and the novelty is over. The owner doesn't care, he's already cashed in. The people stuck with franchises that can't turn a hefty profit will get stuck with the tab.
Macalla,
how do you know this? where do you get your information from? I am looking into purchasing ME and would like to know all the pros and cons before I actually sign on the dotted line.
Thanks!!!
I am a customer with Massage Envy.. I have been to three massage evny places. It is ironic how different they are The best one is Massage in West University. There is a person named Brian who gives the best massages I have ever had including ones where I have paid $60.00 to $70.00 an hour. The staff is very professional and customer serivce oriented. The Galleria one is great too.
The River Oaks Massage Envy is awful. I have had the worst problems with the therapist refusing to giving me the type of massages I asked for, therapist wanting to talk to me instead of massaging me telling me their problems and ripping me off on time. When I have complained the staff says they will have the manager call me back which the manager never does. I think the manager trains her staff to say in a very empathic voice say that they are sorry and the manager will call back while the manager knows he or she will not.
The irony is I have been told that all three of these Massage Envys are owned by the same owner. It seems like the owner weeds out all the awful therapist, desk workers and managers and puts them in the River Oaks location.
The business model of massage envy may be a good idea, but if you begin to speak to employees and therapist who work or have worked there, you will begin to uncover a whole different set of ideals! THEY PAY & TREAT THEIR THERAPIST CRAPPY and there is something left to be sid for their customer service! Wait till you sign the contract on the dotted line!
I like the concept because I too cannot afford to pay the exhuburant prices charged at the spas (especially here in S. Florida), but the therapist work like fatory workers and can do as many as 6-8 massages a day and make only $150 – $200! That's insanity and totally taking advantage of newly graduating students! Not to mention they make them sign a 3yr agreement to not take any customers! Well what happens to the customers who want to stick with the therapist that helped their decision to sign up and their therapist QUIT, LIKE ALL THE GOOD THERAPIST DO? The what for the customer…oh…just choose someone else. No big deal! But is is a big deal and that's the problem I have. They treat massage like you are getting your car washed!
The front desk reception is rude and probaly because they never know who's going to be fired or quit today! Everybody is always on edge because of meeting quotas and trying to signup memeberships. There is nothing healing, theraputic or honest about this company at all!
I think it's time to quickly interject about the comments to this blog. We at SpaBoom want to maintain transparency and an open spirit of dialog and debate, and therefore have allowed almost all submitted comments (that weren't obviously spam or egregiously hostile vitriol) to appear.
We request, however, that comments refrain from gossip and unsubstantiated, subjective attacks. In other words, please talk about YOUR observations and experiences, not what "what you heard." If you read about something, provide a reference to the material. Instead of using subjective phrases like "crappy," consider simply stating the facts, such as, "it's X, versus the industry standard Y," and let the reader come to the conclusion on whether something is "crappy."
In short, we ask that you please:
Thank you. Larry.
Interesting discussion. I, too, am a consumer. I was introduced to massage at a very high-end day spa in San Antonio. I would also purchase packages for my wife, mother, and mother-in-law as gifts. The service was great, but I feel there was also a sales side happening too. For those who are "purist" on these posts, would you perform what you do for FREE? A true purist would. If health of the customer is the goal and you feel it is meaningful, give the products and services away that you currently sell in the spas. I continue to get massages at high-end spas, twice a year, to go along with the three per month that I get a t Massage Envy.
The labor force for providing massages is not shrinking. However, I do not believe that the high-end spas can or will hire every massage therapist that is licensed and certified. The only way for a massage therapist to get better is to work at it, so how do you propose to get all of the qualified therapists a chance to improve their services? If you are posting because you believe the MT's are being abused and misused, will you allow all of the therapists who are qualified to work in your spa any time they want and split some of the profits with them?
Lastly, I did not see a used car comparison in the post until someone mentioned it by misunderstanding an analogy. The make, model, and manufacturer of a vehicle does not determine who buys it, new or not. Wal-mart or Macy's name is not what determines who buys merchandise. The customers' desires at the time of purchase along with the value proposition they are willing to convey is the determining factor. It makes no sense to say to a person with a Yugo, "You should buy a BMW because it is a better car." If getting from one place to the next is the determining factor, the better car is the one that does it for the best value. Best value to one person is not the same as for another person. So, preferences will always be different and purchases will always be different. Otherwise, we will never have more than one manufacturer, store, or massage provider.
I recently moved from San Antonio to Raleigh. I was able to transfer my Massage Envy membership and I have visited a location and tried two different MT's. I tip well when the service is great (same at high-end spas) and typical when the service is not so great. In both instances at both types of places, I let it be known to the MT and the management which type of service I received. In the case of not-so-good service, I anticipate that the management will take steps to rectify the problems. In the case of great service, my tipping generally assures great service next time.
To the high-end owners and the franchise owners, never forget the customer's prerogative to say "No" to anything that you offer. But also remember, the answer is always "No" if you do not ask. Customers will say "No" when they want to. That generally ends the discussion. If it does not, it ends the patronage.
Larry, I enjoy what you are providing. Keep it up.
I just happen to stumble on this blog site while I was doing my homework about ME. I'm glad to see so many different views on one company. I'm in the process of owning a ME. My business partner Krysta has a sister that works in a ME in Texas. She said that owning a ME would be perfect for me. She knows that Krysta and I want to give new therapists a chance to get their feet wet in the massage industry. When Krysta and I were fresh out of massage school (2004) we started working for a person who had grand ideas about a big spa. That's where "every therapist wants to work" lol. We worked with her for almost in a year. What we got was a year of of learning what we DIDN'T want. The owner of the place we started working at never built the spa that was talked about. The greed set in when Krysta and I working out butts off selling gift certificates and doing massages. The money started coming in for the owner and Krysta and I hardly saw any of until after the $800 a month rent for 2 very small rooms were paid first . On the off chance that we didn't bring in enough money to cover rent, it came out of our pocket. We got tired of getting abused there and we decided to start over and do it our way. We found an office space that was 900 sq.ft. and only $400 a month. We build the office from the ground up. We learned to drywall,paint, tile,and decorate. It was a lot of hard work for 3 months but it is truly a labor of love. We marked ourselves the way we wanted to, gave a lot of free massages, joined the chamber of Commerce and did a lot of volunteer work with the soldiers here at Air Force Base and the National Guard Education Center here in town. Our business has grown by word of mouth to the point that I had to stop advertising for a while.
We love what we do. It's a heartfelt passion and joy of ours. There is no greater satisfaction than having someone give you a hug and say, "Thank you for making me feel better I really needed it." Everything else in the world just doesn't seem to matter for a little bit. We want to open a ME so we can give new students a chance to get started on the right foot and not get disenchanted with something so wonderful because someone is taking advantage of a "newbie." I agree that new students don't have the experience but they have to start somewhere. Krysta and I have high expectations about the quality of the massage. Perhaps too high so I've been told. Nobody has a perfect day everyday. Time is the only way you can get experience. We will be looking for students that have the heartfelt passion for what it is and just not how much money they can make. The passion OR lack there of shows in the quality. You can't lie about it. The clients pick up on it. We also believe that incentives, a great working environment and quality equipment to get them started will motivate a therapist. The owners make a lot of money after the first year. There's no reason in the world why an owner can't show their appreciation to loyal employee that works hard by maybe giving a gift card for dinner or something. Massage Envies are independently owned so each one is going to be different. I know that we will have a lot of trial and error. Every new business has that. Bottom line? We want to have a clinic that is friendly and inviting to the consumer that would be intimidated by big spas and prices and have the consumer discover that the employees are happy to be there too.
So interesting how Massage Envy is bashed for low prices. Then Massage Envy is bashed for being money hungry. Hmmm. Which is it? From a business standpoint, if they are so successful and expanding so rapidly, clearly there is a market niche they are filling. More people need massage than currently get them; and those that do get them should get massages more frequently!
I received a terrific massage from a Massage Envy in Phoenix (while traveling). The LMT had graduated in June and I received the massage in November, so she had less than 6 months experience. But it was one of the best massages of my life.
About a month before, I received a massage from Bella Sante, a high, high end spa near me. The LMT was nice enough, but surely did not give a very good massage. I actually felt ripped off.
In retrospect the high end spa was double the money, half as good. I'd join a Massage Envy if one opens near me.
Larry: Thanks for providing a forum that allows for a balanced (albeit competing) perspective. Trust me, after having spent some time on other forums it's refreshing to see actual intelligent conversation rather than someone just advancing an agenda (which usually just rips on ME). I'm a clinic owner (3) and would add this to the mix: There are 375+ ME clinics open. ME employs over 10,000 therapists across the country. Not all therapists are going to give a great massage but most will. Most clinics are owned by business people who like (love) massage but are not therapists. The massage clinic business is very different from many other businesses and, therefore, more than a few clinic owners make mistakes when opening and running their new business. The company is young, however, and I believe that most of us are still learning and will become better at what we do. We are not out to run therapists in private practice out of business. We don't compete at that level and it wouldn't work anyway. We don't really compete with the high end spas – they are usually in either a resort setting or provide services other than massage. We're pretty much in a category unto itself. In that category price of service is a determining factor and professionalism is a must but convenience more than anything is a driving force for this market segment.
I would agree with Gary about the idea that ME is a category unto itself and that ME is not out to run off private practices and fluffy spas. Actually, having my own private practice is what inspired me to pursue the idea of owning a ME. I have several clients that would actually benefit more from having access to a ME here in Little Rock just because of the business hours that they have. I know that they would go there because they trust me. I have a few diehard clients that have supported me 100% on this idea since I asked their opinion on it although I did have to promise that I would keep my office and work on them privately. I don't feel threatened at all by having a corporate clinic around. What I do in my little office is different from what ME does, it really is comparing apples to oranges.
Wow, what a great blog. I agree with almost all of the comments. I am a Massage Envy clinic owner, and a massage therapist myself. I am in my clinic almost daily and do everything from massage, to cleaning the break room. I do believe that the owner makes the clinic. Having a hands on owner definitely shows. By no means am I saying our location is perfect, but I am proud of what we have built. I am proud of my therapists (I have most of my initial staff I started with almost a year ago, with a few gone because of moving, etc.). I receive compliments daily on what wonderful therapists we have. My turnover is very low, but we add therapist regularly since we are getting busier and busier. All clinics are run differently. I let my therapist dictate how much massage they can do and stick to it. I have a deep respect for what they do. I interview potential therapists myself and have the therapist provide me (or a trusted lead therapist) with a session to evaluate their skills. I've had therapists fresh out of school that were amazing that I have hired on the spot, and therapists with tons of experience that I did not hire. Currently, we have a well balance staff with some therapists with less than one year under their belt, and just as many seasoned therapists. Both types of therapist are regularly requested. Our therapists get bonuses when they are requested and receive tips that most feel are generous. One therapist recently told me that she couldn't be happier. She is booked according to how she likes to work, almost exclusively with requests (so she can get to know her clients needs) and with bonuses and tips makes more than she would in private practice. I also offer continuing education, which I pay for and my therapist love it (and in turn the clients love the therapists with more "tools in their toolbox").
Maybe this isn't the case with all locations, as I can only speak for mine. I think in the discussion of pay, we should keep in mind that the clinic owner spends thousands of dollars per month on advertising. The thousands more on rent, linens, lotions, utilities, insurance, uniforms, and front desk staffing. When computing all of this, the therapist actually makes more than the clinic per session (which I feel is just great!), and without all that overhead and scheduling, etc., the therapist can concentrate on starting their practice with us. Like I said before, some of my therapist are fully requested all day with repeat clients. For the newer additions, it's just a matter of time. Yes, our starting pay is less that the big time spas, but we are also charging much less. I am more concerned about the spas that pay therapists a bit more, but charge $65-$120 per massage session, making the split much more unfair.
We are not a spa, but are spa-like. We respect our clients, and fit perfectly in to the busy lifestyle. We also are more comfortable to the male clientele, and those who have allergies to smells as we do not offer aromatherapy. We have a couples room which is thoroughly enjoyed, and pneumatic tables and are completely ADA approved, and wheelchair accessible. My favorite story is one of a woman who had never received a massage before. She had been given a gift certificate, and booked an appointment. She was set up with a therapist that specialized in her needs (chronic migraines). (I should add that our front desk staff has a very good understanding of all of our therapist's work so that the client and therapist is set up for a successful session.). Long story short, she is now a Wellness Program Member. She visited us once a week for a while and set up her appointments in advance with the same therapist. As the migraines subsided, she went to twice a month and now does once or twice a month sessions (she still sees the same therapist, but has a back up, in case she is out that day). She told me in passing in the hall last week how grateful she was that she found us, and how it has changed her life. She would have never been able to afford regular massage without us, and that's what it's all about.
We have clients from age 5 to age 95 right now, and are happy that our vision to provide quality massage at a reasonable price to the community has been a success.
The MTs at ME are, for the most part, unlike many posters I read above. Most do not rely on ME for their sole income, some have their own offices, others may work at chiropractors, an expensive day spa etc. But when you ask them why would they work at ME you get 2 basic responses:
This is probably the smartest move a MT can make, ME cannot overwork the therapist unless they agree, MTs are allowed to choose what days they work, hours, and even when they would like to schedule their own breaks. Even just working 1-2 days a week at ME, you get many opportunities to spread word about your own business, pass out cards, network, teach reiki classes whatever. And they get clients brought in by ME's advertising- very smart move. And speaking from experience, most consumers who go to ME want therapy, be it from injuries or stress etc. Consumers don't go to get a feel good massage, they need to be helped/fixed/worked on by someone who cares, not by someone full of themselves and looking to empty their wallets. Indeed there are exceptions and ME does hire people right after natl's and certification, but think about it, if you're willing to subject yourself to lower pay to give the general public something you believe they need, doesn't that make you a bigger person? For christs sake massage is about caring for people, and clients can tell don't look at the hourly rate ME pays, look at the tips clients give. A client might shell out more in tips then they did for the price at ME–that's how you know you've done a good job, not by what you charge, but by what you're worth.
ME Worker — I find so many disingenuous statements in your post where do I start… How can one possibly build up a client base when a non-competition clause is required that would prevent an MT from having access to any client they meet at an ME? Do you really think that ME supports the idea of "spreading the word" about your talents by passing out cards promoting your own work and "networking?" That's ridiculous. They would never support that. Ask any of the owners here. Ask Gray Neher. "Subjecting yourself to lower pay" to give people what they need (talk about full of oneself) is something you can do without an ME right? Why not cut out the middle man and offer cheap massage on your own? If you are so into just "helping" people why charge anyone anything at all? And why put down those that do try to make a living? This is a capitalistic society, the very definition of which is you do charge what you're worth. There is no crime in that. The future for good MT's is to stay independent and run your own show. Do outcall. No spa or ME can touch you and the money and freedom are great. The best MT's I've ever known work this way and always have. They don't need to work for anyone else.
"Help maintain professionalism and cleanliness of therapy rooms and common areas." This is part of the requirements for employment with Massage Envy in Houston. Excuse me, but if I wanted to be a maid, I sure wouldn't have spent $5k plus and a year or more of my life obtaining a license to massage. It's bad enough that I would be receiving an hourly (only for the hours I massage mind you, NOT the ones where I'm cleaning up somebody else's mess in the facility… because THOSE hours are FREE!!!) equal to less than the lucky guy parking BMW's at the Hilton. I'm sorry, I know most of you only look at the benefits to the customer, i.e. low prices, convenience, etc. But sweat shops offer customer benefits of the same level too… do we approve of THOSE??? I'd hope not. Basically, that is what places like ME and Elements are like. And the MTs are the poor third world country slaves. With the volume of customers these places get, I don't see why they cant be more generous to the ones doing the work. Their rates are not THAT much lower than the traditional spa… $65 vs $75, whereas at a "spa" setting, there is a 60/40 split in most cases. Plus, the customer receives a higher profile service and is therefore in the mindset of compensating their therapist accordingly. And as stated in the previous posting by Macalla, ALL therapists are required to sign a contract in which they agree NOT to solicit customers for themselves outside of ME via passing out business cards or any other contact method. So no, it's doubtful that this is an avenue for anyone to "build up" their own clientele for their future. Besides, YOU try doing 6-7 massages a day, back to back. See just how much strength and energy YOU have to do anything other than go home and die! 6 x $15 (what ME pays you per massage) = $90 + $48 (average tips) = $138 (what YOU make)… 6 x $65 = $390 – $90 = $300 (what ME made off you that day)… 6 x $65 = $390 + $120(tips) = $510 (what you could've made doing the same work at home on your own) OR 2 x $65 = $130 + $40 (tips) = $170 (what you could've made in just TWO hours on your own instead of breaking your back for 6 or more hours with ME)! Isn't math a WONDERFUL tool???
Macalla: Okay, since you bring it up and want ME worker to ask me about this I'll answer. I have a number of therapists that came to me from private practice. Some of them keep THEIR clients and see them NOT at my clinic. I have no problem with that. I do require that they not try to steal MY clients should they choose to leave my clinic just as I don't ask them to bring THEIR clients into MY clinic. I blows me away to see therapists post here blasting ME. If you don't want to work there then don't work there. Geez, how complicated is that?
Oh, by the way. When a therapist starts at my clinic they tell me how many appointments in a row and total for their shift they can see. We will book them up to the levels they tell me they want to work – not beyond. Work my therapists to death? I don't think so.
Gray, I apologize for getting your name wrong, I bet you get called Gary all the time.
Macalla, I'm not sure that I could follow your math skills at all. LOL, I guess that's why I'm not an accountant and you should have been. I understand though what you're saying. However, when you factor in the cost of insurance, CEUs, supplies, advertising, rent, utilities you're pretty much making the same amount or less and having all the headaches. I know this because I have a private practice. I love my office and my clients and what I do, but it was a LOT of trial and expensive error. I can't massage forever and I need to have a plan B to fall back on. I want to give new students a chance to learn the business and support their careers without out them getting discouraged. No one is making them work there and they can quit at anytime. As far as hours go. They would call the shots as far as how many people they can work on. It's in my best interest to keep them healthy and not overworked. Overworking an employee would be cutting off my nose to spite my face now wouldn't it? As far as cleaning? I would think that a therapist would want to be neat and clean to keep the ambiance pleasing to their client's comfort not to mention picking up and cleaning up after yourself is just plain common and professional courtesy.
Gray Neher — You seem put out that I was asking you to give "ME Worker" a little reality check regarding using ME as a place to "build their own business" by "handing out cards." No one was asking about the hypothetical you brought up, about a person in private practice keeping their own clients. Totally different issue. But actually the very point ME worker was bringing up as a big "plus!!" is indeed not allowed nor should it be.
I personally have no problem with anyone wanting to work there. I am grateful that I don't have to. But let's at least keep the arguments reality based.
Shari — You have me mixed up with "Sandy Jenkins" regarding accounting. But I will speak from my own experience that there is no way someone working for someone else will make as much as someone working on their own. Especially someone working for an ME where the pay is very low. It's another disingenuous comparison. The overhead and initial start up cost in running a private practice is very small. You don't need to be an accountant to know that. If people want to work at an ME they need to know that they will not be making much money. It's their choice. I have no problem with that but let's just be honest about it. Not everyone can cut it in private practice but you will find that the best ones do and don't wind up working for an ME. Personally I'd rather support those people and I encourage others to do so as well.
Macalla, I'm sorry, you're right, I did get you mixed up with Sandy Jenkins,that s what I get for scrolling to fast. I reread the math again and it does make sense but its still a lot of work to keep up on. To do 6 hour long massages 5 or six days a week is crazy to begin with. I'll do 5 in one day maybe 1 day a week but average 3 to 4. I also do massages backstage for a concert venue here and the shift are from 3 to 9 p.m. THAT is a lot of rubbing so I try not to book any appointments the night before or the day after so I can rest anyway. I absolutely support independent therapists too. There's more freedom to do what you want to do, but I can't do it forever so I figured to stay in the biz I need to have something a lot bigger and have people work for me who aren't sure what they want to do yet…
I am a Massage Envy customer/member. From a customer perspective I could not more pleased. I am a 50 year old heterosexual male; I have a demanding job, and of late, a demanding home life. I use my every other week massage as a chance to relax, disconnect, and take care of the sore mussels I have after working out at my age. Massage envy works for me because I get generally get an appointment in the evenings and with 3 clinics within driving distance from my home I generally only need to give them a day or two of notice. I don’t want the full spa treatment just the massage. I am uncomfortable with all of the rituals and pretension of most day spas.
Although some of the therapists have been better then others I have been pleased with every massage I have gotten. I had a therapist who was fantastic (she fixed a problem with my hamstring that I had for years) but she left after a couple of months. I am trying out a couple of others and am having a hard time picking between the two (I may alternate) because they are both good. After reading this blog I am defiantly going to increase how much I tip.
The Massage Envy concept works for people like me. You should not be threatened by them because people like me would not be getting a massage on a regular basis were it not for places like Massage Envy. Like someone mentioned earlier they may be expanding the market instead of stealing any ones customers so relax. I also feel the working conditions and compensation will sort themselves out over time. If they have trouble getting good therapists their business will die. They will need to adjust what they pay and how they operate in order survive.
V.C. — Nice thoughtful post. How could one not respect your commitment to take better care of yourself. It is good to get massaged. (and kudos on becoming a better tipper!)
See the thing is, getting worked on is something you could always have done anytime in your life before this franchise ever arrived. There have always been places around that do good work. You just weren't looking for them then. Since you are into massage now and can tell when someone is good why not seek someone in your community that is really good and works for themselves? That gal that fixed your hamstring and you thought was really good? She left for whatever reasons and now she can not work on you anymore because of a contractual obligation with the franchise. There goes your free will and the connection with this professional that you trusted. Really exceptional consistent body work is so much better when building a relationship with people that really get to know you.
But again I respect that you like this concept and that it works for you. My thoughts are if you're going to the effort to get worked on why not get the best you can? Or at least better. In many cases it really doesn't cost that much more. Find someone amazing that is not going to disappear. It's like choosing to support a corporation or an artist. Because all of the really great body workers I've known are healing artists and true artists damage their souls in a corporation.
I wish you good health always.
Hmmm… Macalla, I would have to agree with you about encouraging V.C. to find a therapist that he can be close to. I have several clients like that that . One of the the other reasons I want to open a ME is that massage is SO wonderful. Here in Little Rock massage is popular but let's face it… we're in the heart of the Bible belt and massage therapists in general are struggling with that. It is coming around and that's a fantastic thing. I think that if a ME was opened here it would be a commercial thing as opposed to a private office. Massage is intimidating to the general public. If it's a "New Store" in a mall or shopping center then it must not be one of "Those" places. It more safe and in public so there's no social stigmatism. I'm originally from Los Angeles so I grew up with it but OMG NOT here, LOL… It's a slow process. I just want to turn people on to it. After they figure out what it is and educate them, then they can make a decision about exploring other avenues.
Macella,
Thanks for the response. Truth is I don't know how to go about finding so "someone else". I don't have any friends who go to someone, I don't want to go to a day or hotel spa, and I don't feel confident picking someone out of the yellow pages or on the web. Is there a group our referral service that I could go to? The beauty of ME is if you find someone you don't like you have not put a lot of work into it and you have not spent a lot. I live in the Phoenix area.
Thanks,
V.C.
I used to be a front desk/sales person at the first ME in Albuquerque. The owner is a loon, she could really care less about the clients, the image of the company, or the therapists. I worked there from the start, and quit after commission was taken from my check without consent.
However, for the purpose of this blog, I want to add that I think the idea behind ME is great!!! I think the company itself is great. Stacy, who opened the first ME here in Albuquerque, does not follow any of the rules of the company. That is why many people have a horrible experience. The sales staff are urged to hard sell, (which corporate policy is against), therapists cannot choose their own schedules and are over worked and many times upset by the time they leave for the day. Stacy is more worried about making the most money, that she has completely lost the idea behind ME. On weekends when she was in town we were forced to cold call people who had been to the clinic and had not signed up for a membership. I suggest that you go to a clinic owned by someone else, you will get the right experience.
To Macalla, the independent, good for you to be able to market yourself, pay your bills (rent, linens, insurance, just for start…). Unfortunately they don't always teach therapists those things in Massage School. As a matter of a fact the therapist we employed, new and experienced, did like that we offered a safe environment to work and took care of all the costs down to the lotion and were never taught how to market themselves or to have a business plan. It is what it is… you should applaud these clinics not insult them. They are adding awareness to the industry for more than one therapist could ever do which will probably actually benefit independents out there such as yourself.
To Holly, you are absolutely right, just because someone made an investment to own a clinic ME or other does not make them the best operators however before you judge walk a mile in their shoes, there may be a reason for the cold calls and hard sales pitch, corporate gets 4% royalties or more Stacy may need the money to make payroll and keep employees employed such as yourself.
Katharine — An independent MT has a low overhead. Linens, lotion etc. just don't really cost all that much and you don't need an MA in business to figure that out. Marketing yourself is not very hard to do. Word of mouth for a single MT usually works just fine. If you're good you'll work. That's one reason why it's such a great business for people to get into in the first place. As for the "awareness" that ME brings the profession I think that's part of the problem as the rap on them as you can see is not entirely positive. Plus their efforts to "mass market" undercut the amount of money the MT gets for their work. No one should ever let anyone profit more from their labor than themselves.