Sola Salon Studios
Sola Salon Studios franchises independent salons under their brand, offering turn-key studio operations. Known for providing salon professionals with a comprehensive business system, it operates in the beauty services industry.
About Sola Salon Studios
Sola Salon Studios franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total estimated initial investment for a Sola Salons franchised unit ranges from $950,214 to $1,748,296. This range includes between $80,447 to $80,546 that must be paid to the franchisor or its affiliate(s). [p.1]
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee varies based on whether the franchisee is new or has existing franchises. A new franchisee must pay $60,000, while an existing franchisee can purchase additional units for a discounted fee of $45,000 [p.13]. This fee is due in full upon signing the Franchise Agreement and is non-refundable [p.220].
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
The ongoing royalty fee is based on a percentage of the franchisees' gross monetary sales, paid monthly [p.76]. For advertising, each franchisee must spend at least $3,600 per year on local advertising, marketing, and promotion, with expenditures like marketing mailings counted towards this amount [p.105]. This includes a one-time market introduction fee of $20,000 to promote the franchise in the individual market 60 days after signing the lease [p.105].
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
The initial term of the franchise agreement is typically 10 years [p.77], and you have the option to renew for a fee or transfer the franchise agreement to a new or existing franchisee at that time [p.77].
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
According to the FDD, you can transfer your franchise under certain conditions. The franchisor has a right of first refusal to purchase the franchise if there is a proposed transfer, except for good cause [p.5]. If the franchisor does not exercise this right within the required timeframe, you may then transfer the business to a third party, but only at or above the price and on terms no more favorable than those disclosed to the franchisor in writing [p.125].
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
The franchisor can terminate the agreement on any grounds available by law [p.199]. However, under certain circumstances, such as in Virginia, termination without reasonable cause is unlawful [p.203]. Good cause for termination includes failure to comply with lawful provisions of the franchise agreement and not curing such failures within a reasonable time frame [p.5].
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
You will have a protected, but not an exclusive, territory. The size of the protected territory can be 0.5 mile, 1 mile, or 2 miles around your unit, depending on factors determined by the franchisor [p.38, p.98]. This territory prevents other Sola Salons locations from operating using the Marks within it, but does not prevent competition from other franchisees, outlets owned by the franchisor or its affiliates, or other competitive brands controlled by them [p.38].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides an initial training program as specified in Sections [p.104, 8.04] and [p.32], which includes on-site or virtual training at its headquarters or another designated location. This training covers system operations, techniques, procedures, methods of operation, ordering, accounting, support procedures, quality standards, and practical experience. Ongoing support is provided by telephone, email, or other forms of communication during normal business hours as per Section [p.104, 8.06]. Additionally, the franchisor may require attendance at periodic conferences and offer continuing advanced training, though these are not mandatory.
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
As of December 31, 2025, there were 677 Sola Salons franchised locations open in the United States [p.52, p.53, p.50]. Four franchised outlets permanently closed during 2025, all of which had been open for more than 12 months [p.52].
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
The franchisor can provide financial performance information if there is a reasonable basis for it, as long as this information is included in the disclosure document [p.49]. However, the specific earnings claims do not reflect costs like sales and operating expenses, and prospective franchisees should conduct their own investigation [p.192]. The franchisor does not make any financial performance representations except possibly providing actual records of an existing outlet if purchased [p.57].
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are restricted to offering only those products and services that are authorized and approved by Sola [p.43]. Additionally, if required, you must purchase salon equipment and beauty supplies from Sola's designated suppliers [p.43], though Sola reserves the right to designate alternative vendors [p.43].