Deka Lash Franchise Costs $286K – $449K (+ 2024 Profits)

Deka Lash, a prominent franchise in the beauty industry, specializes in eyelash extensions and was founded by Jennifer Blair. The brand began its franchising journey in 2011 and has grown to include over multiple locations throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Deka Lash has established itself as a leader in the lash extension market with a strong emphasis on innovation and customer experience.

Deka Lash distinguishes itself in the competitive beauty sector by offering a luxurious and client-focused service environment.

The franchise’s unique studio design includes ergonomic beds and a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the overall client experience.

Deka Lash also provides a comprehensive range of services beyond lash extensions, such as brow lamination, tinting, and facial hair sugaring, catering to a broad beauty care need.

Initial investment

Type of ExpenditureAmount
Initial Franchise Fee$59,900
Operations Onboarding & First Studio Opening Support Fee$5,450
Initial Staff Training & Certification$3,750
New Franchisee Training Travel, Meals & Lodging$300 – $3,000
Design / Architectural Plans$1,000 – $5,000
Leasehold Improvements & Project Management$75,000 – $150,000
Rent & Security Deposits$12,000 – $25,000
Signage$5,000 – $10,000
Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment$60,000 – $86,000
Flooring$5,000 – $8,000
Computers and Hardware$2,000 – $5,000
Start-up Supplies / Inventory$13,500
Grand Opening / Marketing$9,000 – $12,000
Insurance & Permits$3,250 – $7,500
Professional Fees$1,250 – $3,750
Utilities$500 – $1,500
Payroll$23,000 – $35,000
Additional Funds$6,000 – $15,000
Total$286,000 – $449,000

Note: The table above provides a snapshot of the main costs associated with starting the most common franchise format (as disclosed in the Item 7 of the Franchise Disclosure Document). For a complete overview of all the expenses involved with the various formats offered by the franchisor, please consult the Franchise Disclosure Document.

Franchise fees & Royalties

Initial Franchise Fee

The initial franchise fee is $59,900, which is fully earned and non-refundable upon signing the franchise agreement.

Royalty Fee

The royalty fee is the greater of 6% of gross studio sales or $600 per month. After the first year of operations, the minimum royalty fee increases to $1,000 per month.

Marketing/Advertising Fee

The marketing fee, referred to as the brand development fee, is the greater of 3% of gross studio sales or $500 per month after the first year.

Technology Fee

The technology fee is $199 per month per executed franchise agreement from the effective date of the franchise agreement through the date of opening of the studio. After opening, the fee increases to $399 per month per franchise location.

Lease or Rent Fee

Details on lease or rent fees were not directly provided in the extracted information.

Transfer Fees

The transfer fee is $10,000 for a complete transfer or transfer of a majority interest in the franchise.

Renewal Fees

The renewal fee is $3,500 to enter into a new franchise agreement for an additional term.

Management Fees

Specific details on management fees were not provided in the extracted information. Typically, these would cover ongoing support and services provided by the franchisor.

Franchise pros and cons

The Pros:

  • Recurring revenue model: the monthly membership model is a convenient way to earn predictable income from repeat clients. 
  • Financial support: Deka Lash has financing options to get franchises up and running by covering the cost of equipment, franchise fee, inventory, startup costs and accounts receivable.
  • Exclusive territories: franchisees operate in fixed locations without competition from other Deka Lash studios. 
  • Multiple income sources: franchisees earn from the tested and proven monthly membership model and product sales. 
  • Innovative technology: the brand uses future-focused innovations to support clients, franchisees and business owners. The concept is built around optimization with a reception-less business model thanks to the AI program, dekaAI and the inbound/outbound Customer Service Center to reduce operating costs
  • Future-oriented: the franchisor’s Research and Development Department is always looking to the future to identify new services and help franchisees stay ahead of the competition. 
  • Lead generation programs and in-house marketing tools: the franchisor provides valuable marketing, advertising and lead generation tools to help franchisees attract traffic. The franchisor tailors the marketing tools by territory, studio location, competition and population. 
  • Semi-passive ownership: the franchisor allows semi-absentee ownership, with business owners relying on optimization tools and the corporate team to handle the daily operations. 
  • Intensive, in-house training: the franchisor provides comprehensive initial on-site and ongoing training to help new franchises thrive.
  • No mandatory lash experience required: franchisees don’t need a lash extension experience or beauty background to own a Deka Lash franchise. The dedicated corporate team trains, guides and hires a brilliant workforce. 
  • Scalable business: the multi-unit model allows franchisees to scale their businesses and achieve financial goals.  

The Cons:

  • Minimum employee requirement: 6-8 employees are required to operate a Deka Lash franchise. 
  • Can’t be run from home or as a mobile unit: Deka Lash franchisees must operate from physical locations such as office spaces, retail facilities, or warehouses. 
  • Not a part-time opportunity: the franchisor doesn’t allow part-time ownership. 
  • Competition from similar lash extension studios like The Lash Lounge & Amazing Lash Studio to name a few.

How to open a Deka Lash franchise

1: Research and Inquiry

  • Understand the Franchise: Learn about Deka Lash’s business model, the beauty services it offers, and its unique market position.
  • Contact Deka Lash: Reach out through their official website to express interest and request detailed franchise information.

2: Review Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)

  • Obtain and Review FDD: Carefully review the Franchise Disclosure Document provided by Deka Lash to understand the investment details, obligations, and rights as a franchisee.
  • Consult with Professionals: It’s advisable to consult with a franchise attorney and a financial advisor to help interpret the FDD and assess the viability of the investment.

3: Financial Qualification and Application

  • Financial Requirements: Ensure you meet the financial requirements, which typically include a minimum net worth and liquid capital.
  • Formal Application: Submit a formal application demonstrating your financial capabilities and business acumen.

4: Site Selection and Lease Negotiation

  • Location Scouting: Collaborate with Deka Lash’s real estate team to identify a suitable location that aligns with the brand’s demographic and geographic criteria.
  • Lease Negotiation: Negotiate the lease terms with assistance from Deka Lash, ensuring the location is secured under favorable conditions.

5: Training and Certification

  • Attend Deka University: Participate in a comprehensive four-day management training program, which is essential for new franchisees.
  • On-site Training for Staff: Arrange for on-site training for your lash artists, ensuring they meet Deka Lash’s service standards.

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: This content has been made for informational and educational purposes only. We do not make any representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness, or completeness of the information presented in the article. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other professional advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, advertisement, or offer to buy or sell any franchises, securities, or other financial instruments in this or in any other jurisdiction in which such solicitation or offer would be unlawful under the franchise and/or securities laws of such jurisdiction.

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