Entrepreneur Magazine Names Merle Norman Cosmetics Franchise to “Franchise 500”

The iconic cosmetics franchise is named to prestigious annual list of the top franchise opportunities for 2020

There aren’t many brands that survive for more than 100 years – let alone thrive. For Merle Norman, the iconic cosmetics franchise, staying ahead of trends and providing a profitable business model for our franchise owners is a way of life. And don’t just take our word for it — Entrepreneur magazine thinks so, too.

In the 2020 Franchise 500 list, the magazine ranked our iconic beauty cosmetics franchise No. 366. For more than 40 years, the Franchise 500 has become the preeminent ranking system of the top franchise opportunities. This year, the publication researched hundreds of franchise opportunities on the merits of growth, franchise support, brand recognition and more, to determine the ranking. Merle Norman’s position on the ranking is a testament to its strength as a franchise opportunity. 

Founded in the 1920s, Merle Norman started an empire in the kitchen of her California home. The result was the innovative “3 Steps to Beauty” featuring PowderBase™, Cleansing Cream™ and Miracol® PowderBase™. Nearly a century later, the latter two are still bestsellers and the cosmetics and product standards she created are still highly respected across generations. More importantly, our unique skincare and beauty products cannot be found in any other brick-and-mortar beauty shop, department store or multi-branded cosmetic store. 

Our beauty supply franchise is one of the most affordable opportunities in the beauty industry. The initial investment to begin a Merle Norman Cosmetics studio ranges from $34,803 to $186,500, depending on the floor plan and site where you choose to locate. There are three ways to franchise with Merle Norman, which include opening a new franchise, purchasing an existing franchise, or adding a Merle Norman Cosmetics studio to your existing retail business.

Why Merle Norman Cosmetics Is The Right Business For You

As a Merle Norman studio owner, you will become part of our story, which is building on our past to create a brighter future. Our brand enjoys a time-honored legacy with loyal, lifetime customers. Ultimately, their graceful aging and beautiful skin are a testament to the quality of our products. 

More importantly, Merle Norman is committed to our franchisees’ success. We offer a proven business model designed to maximize your return on investment. This is why our studio floor plans vary in startup costs and are designed to fit most every location and budget. Our franchise owners do not have to pay any franchise or royalty fees, and we reimburse up to 60 percent for local marketing and advertising costs. Merle Norman will also supply your studio with sample and demonstration products so your customers can “try before they buy.”

Additionally, whether you have retail experience or not, you can still thrive in business with Merle Norman Cosmetics. From startup tasks to opening, initial training, marketing, advertising, best practices and more, we will be right by your side from the moment you sign your franchise agreement. Merle Norman is committed to helping our studio owners thrive over the long-term. We also proudly carry on Merle Nethercutt Norman’s original goal of empowering women as we work with franchisees today. 

“Merle Norman’s has stood the test of time, and we’re going to march headstrong with our arms wide open into the next 90 years,” says Travis Richards, family member, Board of Director and Executive at Merle Norman.

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 at least 42 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.