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
Here’s what you can expect to spend to start a Deka Lash franchise.
Type of Expenditure | Amount |
---|---|
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
Here are the main ongoing fees the franchisor will ask you to pay going forward to run the franchise.
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
Opening a Deka Lash franchise involves several steps, designed to ensure you are a good fit for the franchise. Here are the main steps to follow 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
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