IMAGE Studios: Redefining Independence for Beauty Professionals

IMAGE Studios is a standout salon suite franchise that empowers beauty and wellness professionals with sleek, contemporary studio spaces designed for independent business ownership—without the high costs of running a traditional salon.

Established in 2010 by Jason Olsen in Draper, Utah, the brand now operates out of its headquarters in Salt Lake City. By 2015, IMAGE Studios launched its franchising program, opening the door for entrepreneurs to tap into the booming beauty industry with a proven and supportive model.

The franchise offers ready-to-use, upscale studio suites to a broad spectrum of professionals—ranging from hairstylists and estheticians to nail technicians and massage therapists. This model allows them to build their own brands while enjoying a community-driven, professional setting.

What sets IMAGE Studios apart is its dedication to exceptional design. Each location features sophisticated details like European glass doors, open ceilings, and LED lighting, creating an inspiring environment that encourages creativity and success.

Training

IMAGE Studios provides a structured set of training programs designed to equip franchisees and their managers with the skills and knowledge necessary to operate a salon franchise. The types of training provided by the Franchisor include:

1. Initial Training Program
   Franchisees and their designated managers must complete a comprehensive initial training program, which is mandatory before opening the salon. This includes a minimum of 32 hours of classroom instruction, covering topics like Orientation, Accounting, CRM, Site Selection, Marketing, Studio Leasing, and Operations. This training is conducted either online or at the headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah.
2. Business Coaching Program
   After successful completion of the initial training, franchisees are required to engage in monthly business coaching meetings with a designated trainer to ensure continuous development and support.
3. Certified Training for Operations Personnel
   Operations personnel, including replacements for any key roles such as the designated manager, must complete certified training modules. This includes passing certification tests and may involve additional training fees.
4. Refresher and Additional Training
   The Franchisor may mandate periodic refresher courses for franchisees and operations personnel. These may incur fees and are designed to ensure compliance with operational standards and updates. Franchisees can also request additional training beyond the required programs.
5. On-site Opening Assistance
   The Franchisor provides certified trainers to assist during the opening of the salon. While there is no fee for the training itself, the franchisee is responsible for covering travel and living expenses for the trainer.

Territory Protection

IMAGE Studios grants franchisees a “Protected Territory,” typically a 0.5, 1, or 2-mile radius around the approved salon. However, this territory is not exclusive, and franchisees may face competition from other franchisees, company-owned locations, or franchisor-authorized outlets.

The franchisor may adjust the territory upon renewal and reserves the right to operate or license other businesses, even competitive ones, outside the defined radius. Additional territorial rights require a separate Development Agreement.