As a leader in the $1.8 trillion wellness industry, Hand & Stone has become the go-to destination for top-tier self-care offerings and with a focus on strengthening its market presence in the Volunteer State, the brand is committed to bringing wellness options to underserved communities. </span></p>

“Tennessee’s dynamic cities are growing at a rapid rate, providing an excellent opportunity for aspiring business owners to cater to the overall increasing demands for results driven, innovative wellness solutions in major metropolitan areas,” said Jennifer Durham, Hand & Stone’s Chief Development Officer. “We understand the need for an oasis that focuses on professional and customized wellness services to help  these bustling communities and are looking forward to introducing our premier massage and facial services to even more Tennessee residents.”  </span></p>

Adding more than 700,000 people to its population last year, Tennessee is among the top 10 states with the highest population growth, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. With an increasing population across the state, including in major markets like Nashville and Knoxville, the Volunteer state is in great need of wellness options for its residents. In addition to having some of the fastest growing cities in the nation, the state has an overwhelmingly positive business climate, with a wide range of large companies calling Tennessee home. Spanning across many industries, including agricultural, manufacturing, healthcare and tourism, Tennessee’s hardworking residents need to create a ritual for self-care, and Hand & Stone has strategic plans in place to deliver on this surge in demand.  </span></p>

To further serve the Tennessee market and provide affordable health and relaxation options, Hand & Stone has partnered with several seasoned entrepreneurs and franchisees who share a passion for wellness to expand the brand’s reach in the state while maintaining a connection to the communities they serve. This includes franchisees Gary Millender and Thomas DuBose, experienced franchise owners who currently operate an Urban Air franchise and are opening a spa this year in Germantown. Gary and Thomas also have experience spanning across the pharmaceutical, finance, insurance and real estate industries before their pursuit of their franchise venture. The business duo is enthusiastic about their introduction to the Memphis market with their first spa in Germantown. </span></p>

 “Memphis is a vibrant city filled with energy and a growing awareness of the importance of self-care,” said Gary Millender, Hand & Stone franchise owner. “Which is why we believe that our community is in need of a unique wellness space like Hand & Stone, where individuals can truly prioritize their well-being amidst their active, busy lifestyles. We are thrilled to offer innovative wellness technologies and services, from massages to advanced esthetics, and more, to the people of Greater Memphis.” </span></p>

Hand & Stone’s existing franchise owner Don Williams, who currently operates spas in Florida, was eager to serve as Area Developer and pursue his own new spa development in Tennessee. Don serves a unique role to provide prospective franchise owners with his decade of experience operating very successful spas and continuing to invest in growth in underpenetrated markets like Chatanooga. Don was instrumental in welcoming new owners Erin Powell and Dale Goodrich who secured 3 agreements for new spas in the Nashville market in 2023 and after an exhaustive search, landed an exciting opportunity in Nolensville in a new development that has just broke ground and will open in 2025. </span></p>