(September 2009) posted on Tue Sep 22, 2009 EDT Franchising could help reach growth goals in 18 months
Mumbai-based Core Wellness is hoping to leverage a franchising model to add nearly two dozen spas across India by mid 2011. A Business Standard report states that “at least” 12 of the new units would be located in five-star hotels. The company reportedly is considering a presence in high-profile club settings in urban locations such as Ahmedabad, Indore and Gwalior as well as free-standing units.
Beheram Mehta, Core Wellness' global operations director, was quoted in the report as saying the first franchise agreement is nearly complete and that the first franchised unit should be online within six months. Core Wellness operates under the Sohum Spa and Wellness Sanctuary brand. Its portfolio currently includes three hotel spas and one free-standing location.
The timing looks good, according FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry) the nation's wellness industry totals more than $300 million and is growing at 20 percent annually.
