Merle Norman offers skincare and cosmetics, providing a range of beauty products and services to enhance clients' appearance and self-confidence.
KEY FRANCHISE STATS
Franchisees
?
797
+
-7%
-7%
Franchise fee
?
$0
Investment
?
$48,000 - $260,000
Revenue (AUV)
?
Undisclosed
$0
+
n.a.
n.a.
Upgrade
Merle Norman Cosmetics is an established American beauty franchise. It began in 1931 in Santa Monica, California, when chemist Merle Nethercutt Norman created her signature “Three Steps to Beauty” skincare system. The company is still family-owned and operates from its Los Angeles headquarters.
The brand embraced a franchise-style model as early as 1931 and formalized modern franchising in 1973. Today, hundreds of independently owned studios span the United States, Canada, and select international markets.
Merle Norman Studios sell cruelty-free skincare, makeup, and personal-care products made in the company’s own U.S. manufacturing facility. Many locations also offer spa-style services such as facials and makeovers.
The franchise stands out with its “Try Before You Buy” philosophy, personalized consultations, and small-studio ambiance. Consistent American production, owner-operator flexibility, and strong franchisor support further differentiate Merle Norman from department-store beauty brands.
Initial investment
The initial investment required for a Merle Norman franchise is
$48,000 - $260,000.
That is the total cost you would need to finance if you were to start this franchise.
These costs are provided by the franchisor in the Franchise Disclosure Document.
Merle Norman offers 3 types of franchises:
Franchise Option
Initial Investment
Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio located in a regional mall
$129,489 to $260,437
Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio that is not located in a regional mall
$88,787 to $154,712
Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio located within an existing business
$47,566 to $82,135
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio located in a regional mall.
For more information on the various types of franchises and its costs, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
Type of Expenditure
Amount
Real Estate
Variable
Initial Package of Inventory and Supplies
$23,348 - $45,111
Fixtures and Furnishings
$19,975 - $23,025
Millwork Fixtures
$4,720 - $6,730
Acrylic Organizers
$1,160 - $1,685
Tables & Chairs
$350 - $620
Graphics
$350 - $500
Mirrors
$759 - $1,201
Merchandising Pieces
$3,000 - $5,300
Flooring
$1,850 - $2,600
Lighting
$2,500
Interactive Play Table
$0 - $250
Digital Compu Stick
$3,500 - $6,000
Exterior Signage
$18,900 - $84,000
Construction
As Incurred
Computer (hardware/software)
$1,800 - $5,390
Working Capital, Deposits, Insurance, and Advertising
$46,200 - $63,525
Total (excluding real estate)
$129,486 - $260,437
Create a free account to access this table and more. For more information see our plans here.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Merle Norman offers 3 types of franchises:
Franchise Option
Initial Investment
Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio located in a regional mall
$129,489 to $260,437
Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio that is not located in a regional mall
$88,787 to $154,712
Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio located within an existing business
$47,566 to $82,135
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio located in a regional mall.
For more information on the various types of franchises and its costs, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
Type of Expenditure
Amount
Real Estate
Variable
Initial Package of Inventory and Supplies
$23,348 - $45,111
Fixtures and Furnishings
$19,975 - $23,025
Millwork Fixtures
$4,720 - $6,730
Acrylic Organizers
$1,160 - $1,685
Tables & Chairs
$350 - $620
Graphics
$350 - $500
Mirrors
$759 - $1,201
Merchandising Pieces
$3,000 - $5,300
Flooring
$1,850 - $2,600
Lighting
$2,500
Interactive Play Table
$0 - $250
Digital Compu Stick
$3,500 - $6,000
Exterior Signage
$18,900 - $84,000
Construction
As Incurred
Computer (hardware/software)
$1,800 - $5,390
Working Capital, Deposits, Insurance, and Advertising
$46,200 - $63,525
Total (excluding real estate)
$129,486 - $260,437
Franchise Disclosure Document
Below is Merle Norman's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document. Upgrade to Pro or purchase the FDD to view and download the document.
Number of units
Merle Norman had 797 total units in 2025, of which 797 were franchised-owned and 0 company-owned.
Merle Norman provides a structured and supportive training program to ensure franchisees are equipped for successful studio operation. Below are the key training components:
Initial Training Program: Merle Norman offers a comprehensive Initial Training that includes both online training modules and virtual classes prior to the studio’s opening. This training covers essential business operations and prepares the franchisee for managing daily studio functions.
Operations Manual: Franchisees receive access to a detailed Operations Manual, the Studio Resource Guide, which is 181 pages long. This manual acts as a continuous learning and reference tool throughout the franchisee’s business journey.
Ongoing Support: Post-launch, Merle Norman continues to support franchisees with consultation and advice regarding studio operations. Additionally, the franchisor periodically updates the MN System, including training materials and store design standards, ensuring alignment with brand expectations.
Territory Protection
Merle Norman does not offer exclusive or protected territories to its franchisees. Studio Owners may operate their studios in approved locations, but the franchisor retains the right to open or authorize other studios in the same geographic area.
This includes new branch studios or those opened under the Gold Medallion Program, as long as they meet the brand's criteria. The Gold Medallion Program, while offering additional marketing and branding advantages, does not provide territorial exclusivity.
Studio Owners must rely on their performance and adherence to quality standards to maintain eligibility in such programs. Thus, territory operation is not safeguarded against internal competition from other franchisees or new openings.
.png)
