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Massage franchise works out the kinks

Mike and Mary Jorgenson are introducing a new approach to massage therapy to Sarnia. They are franchise owners of Massage Addict, a membership-based massage provider with 15 locations in Ontario.
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The Massage Addict opened April 1 with seven registered massage therapists, including Nick Abrametz, left. With him are owners Mary and Mike Jorgenson. Cathy Dobson

Mike and Mary Jorgenson are introducing a new approach to massage therapy to Sarnia.

They are franchise owners of Massage Addict, a membership-based massage provider with 15 locations in Ontario.

The Jorgensons, each with 15 years of retail experience, have rights to the Southwestern Region. They opened their first Massage Addict on April 1 at 1000 Finch Dr. after spending $125,000 in renovations and another $35,000 in franchise fees. The couple is preparing to open a location in Windsor on June 2, and plans a third location eventually in Chatham.

“After our first two weeks here, we’re on target. Our numbers are exactly where we expected them to be,” said Mike.

The franchise founder presented Massage Addict’s business model on CBC’s Dragon’s Den four years ago. During the show, Jim Treliving agreed to invest, but Massage Addict had such a strong start that Treliving‘s money wasn’t needed, said Mike.

“But the TV exposure piqued interest across Canada.”

The franchise is based on convenience, accessibility and affordability.

Open Monday to Friday 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., no appointment is necessary.  The first visit costs $39 for one hour.

Members can sign on free-of-charge for 12 more sessions over 12 months at $59 each hour. Non-members pay $79/hr. Insurance benefits frequently cover the cost.

“We don’t see ourselves as any sort of threat to other Registered Massage Therapists or spas because we believe Massage Addict will introduce a large number of people to massage therapy, people who may otherwise not seek therapy,” said Mike.

There is a growing demand for massage, particularly among young adults seeking alternate therapies, said Mary.

“People are generally looking after themselves better. It’s a big market.”

Massage Addict has hired seven registered massage therapists, all graduates of Lambton College.  Their experience ranges from 14 years to six months in the profession.

The local franchise intends to hire at least five more as volume increases, said Mike.

To contact Massage Addict, call 519-427-6390 or visit [email protected].

NEW WIRELESS BIZ

A new WOW! mobile boutique is opening this week at the Lambton Mall.

The kiosk near Danier Leather carries five national wireless brands: Rogers, TELUS, Koodo, Fido and Chatr and calls itself a one stop shop for every wireless need.

The kiosk has product displays and innovative technologies like interactive digital screens to help customers find the right wireless product for them.

EXPANSION MARKS 40TH YEAR FOR VISION

Vision Nursing and Rest Home on Wellington Street is holding a grand opening on June 27 for a new addition that includes 68 long-term care beds.

The nursing home was founded in 1974 by a voluntary board of directors, making this its 40th year in business.

 - Cathy Dobson

Got an interesting business story? Contact Cathy Dobson at [email protected] or call 226-932-0985.


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