Merle Norman is highlighting our longest multi-unit franchisees as we celebrate our 90th birthday
This picture conveys a family of spirited women whose love runs deep – for business and for one another. The Edgar family’s story defines the true essence of Merle Norman cosmetics and skincare franchise – finding and creating beauty through passion and hard work – learning from the past, working for the present, and planning for a bright future.
As Merle Norman approaches the anniversary of its 90th year in the beauty industry and skincare franchise, we are reminded of our past because it paved the way for our future and current success. As we look back on our fearless leader’s entrepreneurial spirit, we are also reminded of the Edgar family – a generational story about Merle Norman’s longest multi-unit franchise owners.
In 1977, Corene Edgar achieved her dream of becoming an entrepreneur and business owner when she opened her first Merle Norman studio in Ozark, Alabama. Over the years, she has been cultivating her own family enterprise with our multi-unit beauty and skincare franchise.
Corene Edgar, beloved by her grandchildren and known as “Mama Rene” or “Queen Rene,” has always possessed an intense passion for helping others feel beautiful – inside and out. She is not only doing what she loves but also sharing that entrepreneurial passion – and looking great while she’s doing it!
From the beginning, Edgar’s daughter Kim has been by her side. Embodying her mother’s passion and vision as she continues her legacy. Likewise, in 2018, Edgar’s granddaughter Brooke joined the family business. Together, Brooke and her mother, Kim, embarked on a new business journey to open a new Merle Norman studio in Enterprise, Alabama. Opening the new Enterprise location proved particularly special as it reflected the true epitome of a family-owned business – much like the Merle Norman brand today.
But the Edgar family has more reasons than a successful enterprise to collaboratively observe Merle Norman’s anniversary. As the long-established brand celebrates its 90th birthday, so will Corene Edgar! Additionally, her daughter Kim will commemorate her 60th birthday and her granddaughter Brooke will turn 40!
The same dream that Corene Edgar had for combining her passion with business ownership was the same dream Merle Mozelle Nethercutt began pursuing in the 1920s. Known today as Merle Norman and opening her first studio in 1931, her cosmetic and skincare franchise has since grown to an iconic brand across more than a thousand locations. Both women serve as a celebratory symbol and inspiration for turning their dreams into reality.
Just as Merle began and grew her business by sharing her products with family and friends, Corene Edgar teaches those around her that customers are more like family. As a brand, Merle Norman Cosmetics is committed to helping women feel beautiful. While beauty is considered apparent on the outside, it begins with women feeling comfortable inside their own skin. Merle Norman’s mission is to give every woman a more beautiful life – proud of their appearance and confident in who they are.
The Edgar’s take pride in providing that vision with superior customer service. Their cosmetic and skincare franchises are about more than selling makeup – they are a true ministry and honor that uncover and put on display the beauty in every woman. By building strong relationships and connecting with customers on a personal level, the Edgar family enhances their communities and personal profit potential.
As a result of local businesswomen like Corene Edgar, Merle Norman clients are loyal to our brand and patrons to our product. Customers trust our iconic brand power for its consistency, quality, and value, seeing as some have used Merle Norman products for more than 60 years.
For almost a century, Merle Norman has been creating beauty with high-quality, affordable skincare. Franchise owners benefit from a broader scope, branded resources, pertinent industry data, and marketing materials, along with ongoing support and training. Through Merle Norman’s established franchise model, hundreds of entrepreneurs have lived out their dreams of building a successful business.
Corene started four generations of Merle Girls that show a picture of strong dedication and connection to the rich history of Merle Norman’s story and the beauty in family business. Her strength and story is near and dear to our hearts as she continues to illuminate the future of Merle Norman’s wonderful and exciting franchise opportunities.
We are looking forward to celebrating this special time with our family and the Edgar’s!
Happy 90th Birthday, Merle!
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Almost 90 years ago, Merle Norman founded the company on the belief that our franchise business can help entire communities look and feel better. For entrepreneurs who are passionate about the beauty industry and want to be that go-to expert in their community, owning a Merle Norman cosmetic and skincare franchise is as attractive as our customers! Fill out an inquiry form to learn more.