Small Massage Studio with a Few Therapists

Local residents, workers nearby, couples and gift buyers, plus corporate wellness customers.

Session fees across multiple rooms, with memberships, gift vouchers, add-on treatments and some retail products.

• Managing and scheduling staff
• Customer service and hospitality
• Basic bookkeeping and marketing

• Zoning, business licence and health or sanitation rules differ by municipality, check locally
• Employee versus contractor status is closely looked at, check CRA guidance and provincial rules
• WCB/WSIB coverage and payroll once you hire, rules vary by province
• Lease commitments and quiet seasons, so keep some cash in reserve
• Confirm each therapist meets provincial registration requirements where they apply

Estimates suggest startup costs typically run around $20,000 to $80,000, depending on the lease, the fit-out, the number of treatment rooms and your laundry arrangements. Get quotes before committing to a lease.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $30,000, depending on the number of rooms, therapists and bookings. The estimate assumes at least 30 hours a week from you. Revenue is not profit, as rent and wages come out of it.

Check zoning, business licence and health or sanitation rules with your municipality. Also check CRA guidance and provincial rules on employee versus contractor status, WCB or WSIB coverage and payroll, and that each therapist meets provincial registration requirements.