goGLOW Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
goGLOW was established in 2010 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, by Melanie Richards, who transitioned from a career as a probation officer to becoming a licensed esthetician. Her vision was to create a business that empowered women through beauty, confidence, and overall wellness.
Over time, the company grew from its beginnings as a mobile tanning service into a recognized franchise specializing in skincare and sunless tanning, now headquartered in Edina, Minnesota.
In 2023, goGLOW opened its doors to franchising, giving entrepreneurs the chance to enter the beauty sector with a distinctive concept. The franchise delivers personalized airbrush tanning sessions using exclusive formulas that are plant-based, vegan, and cruelty-free.
Unlike many spray tanning providers, goGLOW’s products are designed for a streak-free, odorless, and non-sticky finish, offering a more natural result. Beyond tanning, the brand stands out for its focus on skin health, educating clients on proper pre- and post-care practices to maintain radiant, healthy skin.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a goGLOW franchise? It costs on average between $283,000 – $497,000 to start a goGLOW franchised center.
This includes costs for build-out, specialized tanning equipment, skincare product inventory, and initial operating expenses. The total investment varies based on factors such as the size of the studio, the market location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or purchase the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $60,000 |
| On-Site Initial Training Fee | $5,000 |
| Costs and Expenses Associated with Training | $500 – $2,500 |
| Lease – Deposit and Rent (First 3 Months) | $5,000 – $18,000 |
| Design, Architecture, and Engineering Fees | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Site Survey – Due Diligence | $0 – $7,000 |
| Permits and Permit Management | $1,500 – $6,500 |
| Construction Project Management | $0 – $17,500 |
| Utility Deposit | $500 – $1,000 |
| Professional Fees | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Net Leasehold Improvements | $50,000 – $180,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment | $42,000 – $45,000 |
| Interior and Exterior Signage | $2,500 – $9,000 |
| Business Management System | $9,500 |
| Technology Fee – 6 Months | $6,000 |
| Digital Marketing & Advertising – 6 Months | $6,000 |
| Grand Opening – Project Management Fee | $5,000 |
| Business Licenses | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Computer System Hardware | $0 – $3,500 |
| Financing/Leasing (Initial Equipment) | $6,000 – $8,000 |
| Initial Inventory Package | $25,000 – $27,500 |
| Other Office Supplies | $500 – $1,000 |
| Initial Marketing Spend | $30,000 |
| Business Insurance (3 Months) | $400 – $1,500 |
| Additional Funds – 3 Months | $15,000 – $25,000 |
| TOTAL ESTIMATED INVESTMENT RANGE | $282,900 – $497,000 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many goGLOW locations are there?
As of the latest data, goGLOW operates a total of 10 locations. This includes 3 company-owned studios and 7 franchise-owned studios.
What is the total investment required to open a goGLOW franchise?
The total investment required to open a goGLOW franchise ranges from $283,000 to $497,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a goGLOW franchise?
A goGLOW franchise requires ongoing fees that include an 8% royalty fee on net revenue. Franchisees also contribute 1% of net revenue to the brand fund, which can increase to 2%. In addition, there is a fixed digital marketing and advertising management fee of $1,000 per month, along with a local advertising requirement equal to at least 1% of net revenue each month.
What are the financial requirements to become a goGLOW franchisee?
To qualify as a goGLOW franchisee, candidates must have a minimum net worth of $500,000 and at least $150,000 in liquid capital available.
Who owns goGLOW?
The goGLOW franchise is owned by its founder, Melanie Richards, who established the brand in 2010 and continues to lead its growth as it expands through franchising.
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