Merle Norman Franchise
Merle Norman Cosmetics Studios offer customers a range of high-quality skin care and makeup products along with beauty consultant services.
$25,000
$0
797
1989
Los Angeles,CA
Jack Boison Nethercutt
About Merle Norman
Merle Norman Cosmetics Studios primarily sell Merle Norman brand cosmetics, including makeup and skin care products. Customers who visit a Studio can enjoy a free makeover as well as advice about skin care and makeup application. The brand is committed to its "Try Before Your Buy" slogan and focuses on the quality and longevity of its made-in-the-USA products. Merle Norman products aren't tested on animals.
There are several types of products customers can find at a Merle Norman Studio. Skin care items include scrubs, moisturizers, and anti-aging treatments. There are several makeup products, including foundation, concealer, and coloring collections for eyes, lips, and cheeks.
MNC is currently moving toward adding spa-inspired services and products to its line. These updated Studios offer facial services using exclusive MNC products. The company's line of spa products includes facial exfoliants, peels, and masks.
Franchise Unit Trends
797
5
-
* in 2024
Franchise Fees
$0
0.0%
-
Why Choose Merle Norman?
Merle Norman may be a good choice for entrepreneurs who want to work in the cosmetics and beauty industry. The company has been around for a long time, so there may be a high level of brand recognition and customer loyalty. Additionally, there is no initial franchise fee, though new owners are required to purchase a package of initial inventory. Owners may also open multiple branch Studios after they meet MNC's requirements for the Gold Medallion Program. Upcoming additions to the business model, including spa services and online sales, may draw in new customers in a younger demographic.
Starting Costs & Investment Requirements
$34,803 - $186,500
-
$25,000
Training & Support
A franchisee (or manager) must complete required training from MNC prior to opening his or her Studio. Training includes both online modules and in-person training at the MNC Training Center in California. The in-person portion of training is approximately five days long, and there are two 4.5-hour online courses. Additional optional training seminars may be available to franchisees.
History
Merle Nethercutt Norman began her cosmetics business in California in the 1920s, testing ingredients and products in her kitchen to find the best combinations for her own skin. Some of her original product formulations, including PowderBase, CleansingCream, and Miracol remain bestsellers in MNC Studios. Merle started selling her cosmetics to friends and family members, and she moved from her kitchen to a retail space in 1931. She enlisted the help of her nephew, J.B. Nethercutt, to help develop products and expand the manufacturing side of the business. Merle started offering others the chance to own and operate their own MNC Studios shortly thereafter, and within three years, there were 94 open Studios. The company is still run by third-generation members of the Norman/Nethercutt family.
Merle Norman Cosmetics has offered "franchises" since before the idea was a mainstream concept. The company incorporated in 1974 to become the official franchisor of MNC Studios. Over the years, it modified and solidified the concept of a Studio, moving toward an "open-sell" environment and adding interactive stations for certain products. Currently, the company is also encouraging franchisees to include new spa services, offering customers facials that utilize MNC products. The company also operates two Studios of its own. There are plans to launch an online e-commerce platform to sell MNC products in 2019.
Ideal Candidate
While many MNC franchisees are women, the company seeks owners of any gender who are passionate about helping others discover skin care and makeup products that make them feel beautiful. Retail and cosmetics experience are not required but may help potential owners be successful. Owners are not required to physically manage their Studios but must hire and oversee managers. MNC is actively targeting certain areas of the U.S. and Canada for expansion opportunities, so ideal candidates may be people who are interested in working in those specific regions.
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