Established
1999
Franchise Units
250
Minimum Investment
$800,000
Franchise Fee
$40,000
Total Investment Range
$1,200,000
Home Based
No
Description
Sun Tan City is one of the most recognized and established indoor tanning and wellness brands in the United States. Built on a modern retail experience, premium equipment, and a strong membership-driven model, the brand has secured a dominant position in the personal care and beauty industry.
The concept blends technology, lifestyle, and convenience to serve customers seeking UV tanning, spray tanning, red light therapy, and professional skincare services in a clean, upscale environment. Each location is designed to feel like a boutique wellness studio, featuring advanced tanning equipment, contemporary interiors, and a seamless digital customer experience.
A key strength of Sun Tan City is its recurring-revenue model. Monthly memberships, bundled service packages, and retail skincare sales generate consistent cash flow and encourage frequent customer visits. This predictable income structure, combined with strong brand loyalty, has helped the system scale successfully across multiple states.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Sun Tan City delivers a powerful mix of brand credibility, recurring revenue, and operational efficiency.
• Established national brand with decades of market presence
• Membership-based model creating predictable monthly income
• Multiple revenue streams beyond traditional tanning
• Technology-driven operations and centralized systems
• Scalable for multi-unit ownership and territory development
• Lifestyle-friendly structure suitable for manager-led operations
Background
• Established Year: 1999
• Industry Category: Beauty, Wellness & Personal Care
Franchise Active Units: 250+
Founded in 1999, Sun Tan City has grown into one of the largest indoor tanning franchise systems in the United States. What began as a regional tanning concept evolved into a professionally managed, multi-state franchise brand known for innovation, cleanliness, and customer experience.
The company has consistently invested in advanced equipment, proprietary technology, and brand consistency. These investments allow franchisees to operate efficiently while delivering a premium customer experience. Leadership focused early on standardized processes, centralized marketing, and scalable systems, positioning the brand for long-term growth.
Support Training
Sun Tan City offers comprehensive support throughout the entire franchise lifecycle.
Pre-Launch Support
• Site selection and market analysis
• Lease review and layout planning
• Equipment sourcing and vendor coordination
• Pre-opening marketing and launch planning
Training & Operations
• Initial training programs for owners and managers
• In-store operational systems and staff training
• Sales processes, membership conversion strategies, and service standards
• Health, safety, and regulatory compliance guidance
Marketing & Brand Support
• National and regional marketing campaigns
• CRM, POS, and automated customer communication tools
• Local store marketing strategies and social media playbooks
• Seasonal promotions and promotional calendars
Ongoing Support
• Dedicated franchise support team
• Performance tracking and benchmarking
• Continuous system updates and training refreshers
• Strategic guidance for multi-unit expansion
This structured support allows franchisees to focus on growth while relying on proven systems.
Ideal Candidate
Sun Tan City is well-suited for entrepreneurs and investors who bring strong business acumen rather than industry-specific experience.
• Retail, hospitality, or service-based business background preferred
• Strong people-management and customer service skills
• Financial capability to meet investment and operating requirements
• Interest in semi-absentee or manager-led ownership
• Growth-oriented mindset with multi-unit ambitions
• Understanding of local retail markets and demographics
The model appeals to owners seeking a scalable, lifestyle-oriented business with recurring revenue.
Financial Detail
Figures are estimates and may vary by location and market conditions.
• Total Investment Required: $800,000 – $1.2 million
• Minimum Investment: Approximately $800,000
• Franchise Fee: Around $40,000
• Franchise Units: Single-unit and multi-unit opportunities
• Infrastructure & Build-Out: $450,000 – $650,000
• Equipment & Technology: $200,000 – $300,000
• Marketing & Grand Opening: $25,000 – $40,000
• Working Capital: $50,000 – $100,000
• Royalty Fee: Approximately 6% of gross sales
• Marketing Fund Contribution: Approximately 2% of gross sales
