Merle Norman Cosmetics Franchise Owner Demographics Are Changing

A new wave of franchise owners is discovering the path to financial freedom with our iconic brand

As Merle Norman cosmetics franchise celebrates 90 years in business, our brand and products are still as relevant as ever. We are attracting a diverse range of new owners who are joining our time-tested brand as a way out of the traditional 9 to 5 path and a smart investment that offers flexible work/life balance, pride in ownership and the potential for profitability.

Merle Norman Cosmetics is an iconic American brand that attracts business owners with a passion for community and helping others. Founded by pioneering businesswoman Merle Norman from her kitchen, our products are still manufactured in the same Westchester, California, plant built by Norman herself in 1952. We’re also a brand that was “all natural” and “cruelty-free” long before it became a trend.

“Opening a Merle Norman Cosmetics franchise is an extremely rewarding business and one that could offer the flexibility and financial freedom that younger generations seek,” says Travis Richards, Vice President of Sales & Franchise Operations. “Merle Norman herself founded and grew the company on the goal of empowering women through outstanding customer service and entrepreneurial opportunity. We have never strayed from that original mission. Today’s new wave of franchise owners can become transformational pillars in their own communities with their own Merle Norman Cosmetics studio.”

The recent pandemic was a catalyst for people from all walks of life to reassess their career goals. Many younger people are considering business ownership, and for the next wave of entrepreneurs who are passionate about skincare and beauty, Merle Norman is a rewarding and potentially profitable business. The beauty industry was booming at $532 billion before the recent pandemic and is expected to continue to grow, with many consumers favoring American brands and local retailers as a way to support their local economy.

Our owners take pride in being part of a legacy brand that is a community pillar

Many job seekers in today’s post-COVID world are looking for an investment that transitions them out of the traditional 9 to 5. The initial investment to begin operations of a Merle Norman Cosmetics studio begins at a very affordable $37,671. With no franchising fees or ongoing royalty fees and a 60% reimbursement program on select advertising, we are an iconic brand you can join at an attractive price point. Our owners enjoy being a part of a legacy brand that is capable of adapting and changing during uncertain times – and it is a testament to the strength of our business model.

Owning a Merle Norman Cosmetics Studio offers Gen Z the flexibility, fun, and financial freedom they seek in a career. Gen Z tends to also seek financially secure opportunities, having seen their parents struggle during the Great Recession of late 2007 to mid-2009. Many women have found that owning a Merle Norman Cosmetics Studio enables them to govern their own life, allowing them the opportunity to work hard, serve others, and still have plenty of time to spend with friends and family, connect with others, and volunteer within their local community.

Arizona based multi-unit owner Barbara Norris chose to invest in Merle Norman after a successful corporate job with American Express. She encourages younger women to consider it as a potentially profitable path that could sustain them until retirement, especially in today’s uncertain economic times. In a word, Merle Norman has meant to her “freedom.” “It means I no longer work for corporate America,” she says.

“For a younger woman, Merle Norman is a great business to start now. They need to start when they’re younger because this is going to be a great retirement plan for them. I think that’s what I’ve learned. I started later in life, but these young women need to think about their futures. What are they going to do when Social Security is not around?” she says. “They can be in the business for 30 or 40 years, enjoying a career that’s fun and profitable. They can make their own hours and be their own boss. They won’t find an opportunity like Merle Norman franchise ownership anywhere else.”

The beauty industry was booming at $532 billion before the recent pandemic, and demand is expected to continue to rise with many consumers gravitating toward American brands and local retailers as a show of support. The next generation of Merle Norman Cosmetics Studio owners is ready to meet this consumer demand.

Ready to open a Merle Norman Cosmetics studio in your community?

Merle Norman Cosmetics franchise is poised for growth throughout the country. We anticipate adding many new studio franchise units this year. Extended to entrepreneurs beginning in 1931, then by Merle Norman herself, our franchise opportunity gives franchisees personal and professional fulfillment as Merle Norman Cosmetics studio owners. Fill out an inquiry form to learn more.