IMAGE Studios is a salon suite franchise for entrepreneurs who want to build a business around leasing, facilities management and relationships with independent beauty professionals. Franchise owners develop a location containing individual studios, then lease those spaces to professionals who operate their own businesses. The concept offers a focused way to participate in the beauty and wellness sector through property operations and tenant service.
How the IMAGE Studios salon suite business works
A typical location contains 20–45 individual studios within a larger property. Independent hairstylists, nail artists, estheticians and massage therapists lease studios and manage their own appointments and businesses. The franchise owner manages the location, leasing and facilities. Optional tenant services include cleaning, marketing and technology resources.
This distinction matters when considering the franchise: owning an IMAGE Studios location involves supporting the professionals who rent its spaces. Tenants remain responsible for their own professional licenses, insurance and business operations.
The brand’s history and franchise development
The 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document identifies Jason Olsen as the founder and records his service as President and CEO since September 2014. The predecessor franchisor, IMAGE Studios 360 Franchise, LLC, offered franchises from April 2015 through March 2024.
The current franchisor, Image Studios Franchise, LLC, was formed in Delaware on February 7, 2024, acquired the franchise system in March 2024 and began offering franchises in May 2024. Based in Salt Lake City, it uses names and marks licensed from its parent, IMAGE Studios HOLDCO, LLC. Affiliates opened the Foothill location in October 2021 and the Ogden location in September 2024. Qualified applicants may also enter development agreements for additional locations under an agreed opening schedule.
IMAGE Studios franchise cost and investment
The January 26, 2026 FDD estimates a single-location investment of $773,392–$1,734,462. That estimate includes a $64,500 franchise fee and a separate $6,500 site development fee.
The leasehold-improvement estimate assumes a landlord tenant-improvement allowance has been paid. An allowance is not guaranteed and may arrive after construction. The three-month startup-funds estimate assumes an owner-operated business without payroll expenses. Development agreements involve separate fees, and opening additional locations requires additional investment. Item 10 states that the franchisor does not offer direct or indirect financing.
Initial training and opening support
Item 11 lists at least 32 hours of virtual classroom-style instruction, covering orientation, accounting and customer-management systems, site selection and construction, marketing, studio leasing and documentation, and operations. The initial curriculum lists no on-the-job hours. Training is provided within 90 days of signing, or another mutually agreed time, and must be completed successfully before operation.
Initial training for up to two people is included in the franchise fee. The franchise agreement provides for an additional charge of $250 per person, per module for extra personnel. Owners pay trainee compensation and applicable travel, lodging and other expenses for in-person or additional instruction. The owner and designated manager receive the required business training; replacement managers must complete it before taking responsibility.
Opening assistance includes site evaluation and approval, advice about lease or purchase negotiations, design-plan review, operating manuals, purchase specifications and approved-supplier information. Owners secure the premises, pay for construction and equipment, arrange installation and handle local codes and permits. First-location on-site opening training is available under the franchise agreement without a training fee, although reasonable trainer travel and living expenses may be charged.
Ongoing coaching, support and management
Required monthly trainer meetings begin after initial training. Business coaching continues through site development, construction and operation until occupancy exceeds 70%, or as determined by leadership. Continuing assistance includes updated manuals, telephone and email advice during normal business hours, a salon listing on the corporate website and access to marketing materials and services purchased at the owner’s cost. Additional on-site advice may carry a fee.
Refresher courses and conferences may be required. Owners pay applicable fees, trainee compensation and travel expenses; the FDD estimates conference travel and living expenses at $750–$2,500 per person. The owner or a trained, qualified manager must actively supervise daily operations.
Why consider an IMAGE Studios franchise?
IMAGE Studios may suit a buyer interested in leasing, local business development and creating a professional environment for independent beauty specialists. Its studio format, business instruction and coaching provide a framework for attracting tenants and managing facilities. For an entrepreneur who enjoys property operations and tenant relationships, the concept offers a distinct ownership role within the beauty and wellness industry.
Explore the IMAGE Studios franchise profile for the brand overview and next steps.
Source: IMAGE Studios Franchise Disclosure Document issued January 26, 2026, Items 1, 2, 5, 7, 10, 11 and 15, and the franchise agreement’s training provisions. Later amendments have not been independently verified. Prospective buyers should review the current FDD provided by the franchisor.