Foot massage studio: open a small wellness business

Shoppers, office workers, people on their feet all day, older clients, and gift buyers. Tourist areas and busy shopping streets can bring walk-ins.

A fixed price per session by length, with add-ons such as hot stones, scrubs or herbal soaks. Gift cards, memberships and multi-session packs bring repeat visits.

• Foot massage or reflexology techniques
• Customer service and a calm manner
• Basic bookkeeping and scheduling
• Hygiene and cleanliness standards

• Some provinces regulate massage therapy as a protected title. Check what you can call your service and what you can claim, and avoid medical claims
• Some municipalities have special licensing for massage or body-rub businesses. Check the rules and zoning with your city before signing a lease
• Commercial general liability insurance, and WCB/WSIB coverage once you hire staff (rules vary by province)
• Hygiene rules for towels, basins and equipment. Check with your local public health unit
• Lease commitments and slow winter months, so keep some cash in reserve
• Collect GST/HST once revenue passes the small supplier threshold

Startup costs are typically around $12,000 to $45,000, depending on the rent and fit-out of your space, the number of reclining chairs and basins, and your insurance. Keep some cash in reserve for slower winter months.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $4,000 to $15,000, depending on location, pricing, opening hours and how many clients book or walk in. The estimate assumes at least about 30 hours a week.

Check whether your province regulates massage therapy as a protected title and avoid medical claims. Check municipal licensing and zoning for massage businesses before signing a lease. Also check insurance, WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire, and local public health hygiene rules.