On this International Women’s Day, Massage Heights proudly aligns itself with the global community in commemorating the achievements of women and advocating for gender equality. As we approach our 20th anniversary milestone, we are thrilled to announce the return of our co-founder, Shane Evans, as our CEO. Shane's unparalleled dedication to our brand and franchisees has been a driving force behind our success.
“Looking back over two decades, my most significant source of pride comes from Massage Heights' growth and its positive impact on people's lives,” Evans said. “Prioritizing wellness and self-care, I take immense satisfaction in how we have enhanced the well-being of countless guests and members.”
What began as a single Massage Heights establishment under her stewardship has flourished into a robust franchise brand, with over 115 locations across North America, with approximately 70% of them being owned by women!
We are privileged to have exceptional female leaders, franchisees, and team members, whose contributions have been instrumental in shaping Massage Heights into the esteemed brand it is today.
One shining example of leadership within our Massage Heights system is Jen Burlington. Her passion, resilience, and entrepreneurial acumen fuel her daily endeavors. Based in San Antonio, TX, Jen recently expanded her portfolio by acquiring three additional Retreats, bringing her total ownership to eight Retreats. Her relentless pursuit of excellence serves as an inspiration to us all.
Similarly, Kaitlyn Innes embodies the values of strength and success within our Massage Heights network. Based in Florida, she embarked on her entrepreneurial journey by establishing her first Retreat in South Sarasota, Florida in early 2023. Recently, she expanded her footprint with the acquisition of a second location in Delray Beach, Florida. Kaitlyn's commitment to delivering exceptional experiences is truly commendable, and we eagerly anticipate her continued growth and success.
Another standout female franchisee is Kristy Serdinsky, whose remarkable contributions have left an indelible mark on our Massage Heights family. Her unwavering determination, visionary leadership, and steadfast dedication inspire us all to strive for greatness. Operating in Cornelius, NC, Kristy is the proud owner of our Jetton Village Retreat and has been an integral part of our brand for over seven years. Kristy and her husband's commitment to the massage and wellness industry extends beyond business ownership; they have also invested in a Massage Therapy school, where they cultivate a culture of wellness and community impact.
These exemplary women represent just a fraction of the incredible talent within the Massage Heights brand. Each female franchisee has a unique story worth celebrating. We extend special recognition to the women of Massage Heights, whose dedication not only propels them to success as business owners and entrepreneurs but also fosters a supportive environment within our organization, embracing women from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
"We women often have a strong sense of empathy and a holistic approach to health and wellness,” Evans said. “This translates into creating more comprehensive and caring service offerings. We are detail-oriented and nurturing which often gives us an advantage to creating elevated experiences. Our insights into family and community dynamics also play a crucial role in developing wellness programs that cater to a broader range of needs, making wellness more accessible and inclusive.”
Massage Heights has positively impacted millions of lives, and we recognize that the contributions of our female staff and franchisee owners have been indispensable to our journey. Without them, we would not have achieved the heights we stand on today. To all the remarkable women of Massage Heights, thank you for your unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions.