The cosmetics industry is a perennial strong performer, generating billions of dollars in sales every year. Merle Norman Cosmetic Studios present the perfect opportunity to enter the retail cosmetics industry, with a nationally recognized brand and a network of 2,000 studios.

Merle Norman has carved out its niche by offering a private setting for customers to receive personal treatment, removing the department-store distractions. Studios are located in both mall and non-mall locations, and have bright, inviting and elegant interiors that offer user-friendly displays. The complete Merle Norman Cosmetics line fulfills a wide range of skin care and makeup needs, and products are easily accessible through the store�s �Try Before You Buy� policy. Customers receive the attention of an experienced Beauty Consultant, who offers a free skin-type analysis and will address any personal concerns for a skin-care or color makeover. The combination of personalized treatment and quality products creates strong loyalty to and repeat business for the Merle Norman brand. 

 

Investment Required
There is no fee for a Merle Norman franchise; however, franchisees must purchase an initial package of Merle Norman products. The prices for the initial package ranges from approximately $10,774 to $23,662.

Merle Norman provides the following range of investments required to open your initial franchise. The range assumes that all items are paid for in cash. To the extent that you choose to finance any of these expense items, your front-end investment could be substantially reduced. The following figures refer to a mall location.

 

On-Going Expenses
The only on-going costs are for purchases of additional Merle Norman products at wholesale prices.

What You Get�Training and Support
Franchisees receive training at corporate headquarters in managing a Merle Norman Studio. Training includes instruction in product knowledge, makeup application, sales, studio management, personnel and the point-of-sale system. Field training classes are offered on staffing, recruiting and more. Beauty consultants can be certified for Home Office Training on their own with The Box training kit.

Support begins with assistance with site selection, lease review, studio design and layout, and continues with promotion for the grand opening. After the Studio has opened, regional business consultants can meet with franchisees to assist in specific merchandising and business-related issues. Daily support is provided by a regional specialist at corporate headquarters. Franchisees also receive access to a broad selection of marketing materials for multiple media, from television and radio to press releases and product brochures. Merle Norman reimburses 60% of approved marketing costs for franchisees that participate in the co-op program.

Territory
Merle Norman does not grant exclusive territories.