Massage Envy named one of nation’s top retailers

A corporation that offers massage-outlet franchise opportunities was named one of the five top “hot retailers” by the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) in late May.

Massage Envy has 101 franchises and plans to open 74 additional outlets in 2006. It employs about 2,400 massage therapists nationwide.

“Massage Envy, established in 2002, is dedicated to bringing the spa experience to the masses,” reads a statement by the ICSC. “Like gyms, the chain offers monthly memberships, which cost from $49 to $59. Clients call up and can get a massage at a moment’s notice, and at a convenient location … The fee includes the month’s first massage, with each additional session costing $39.”

“We’re finding that people are adding massage as part of their health-and-wellness routines, and so [Massage Envy’s growth is] really driven by demand,” CEO and Co-founder John Leonesio told MASSAGE Magazine. “We try to be as professional and convenient—that’s really one of the main concerns of our customers—and affordable as we can.”

The following is a complete list of this year’s top retailers named by the ICSC in late May, along with each headquarter’s location and type of business:

• Citi Trends, Savannah, Georgia, discount fashions.
• Justice Just for Girls, Columbus, Ohio, apparel and accessories for girls 7 to 14.
• Muttropolis, Solana Beach, California, pet accessories and supplies, canine apparel and luxury bedding.
• Massage Envy, Scottsdale, Arizona, discounted-massage membership packages.
• Teavana, Atlanta, Georgia, all things tea, including teapots, kettles, tea sets and strainers.