Business Description

This is a rare opportunity to acquire a premier cosmetology and beauty school franchise with nearly two decades of proven performance in one of the most competitive beauty markets in the country. The school operates under a nationally recognized brand - widely considered the gold standard in the beauty industry - and is consistently the highest rated location among Southern California franchisees.

The Business

Established in 2006, the school graduates over 200 students annually across cosmetology, barbering, and esthetician programs, who go on to work at top salons across the country. As both a Title IV and VA approved institution, students have access to federal financial aid and GI Bill benefits, a dual approval that broadens the eligible student population and has supported stable, recession-resistant enrollment through multiple economic cycles.

Beyond the school itself, the business includes a retail component that sells high-quality beauty products. It currently accounts for 15% of total revenue, presenting an excellent opportunity for expansion. A new owner could continue selling the existing branded products or introduce their own line of beauty supplies, capitalizing on the high-margin nature of the retail segment. In addition, the school also offers beauty services to the public, which are performed by students under the supervision of licensed professionals, providing them with hands-on training while generating additional revenue for the business.

Financials

The school has consistently generated approximately $4M in annual revenue. The 2022–2023 period saw a temporary revenue reduction when California reduced required cosmetology training hours from 1,500 to 1,000, compressing billable hours and top-line revenue. The school moved quickly to restore the full 1,500-hour program structure, and the rebound was sharp: 2024 performance returned to historical levels, and 2025 revenue reached approximately $4.3M, generating roughly $720K in Seller's Discretionary Earnings.



Facility & Assets

The school occupies an expansive 15,000-square-foot facility in a high traffic mall. 6 years remain on the lease with the option to extend for 10 years. Rent is a~$44,000/month, and the lease is guaranteed by the franchisor up to $1 million, a highly unusual and valuable provision. The buildout includes over $2 million in leasehold improvements and more than $650,000 in furniture, fixtures, and equipment, making it fully equipped to handle all cosmetology, barbering, dermatology, and esthetics services. All assets will be included in the sale, ensuring a seamless transition for the new owner.

Transition

After 20 years of ownership, the seller is relocating out of state and has shifted his focus to other ventures. He is committed to a full and structured transition to ensure continuity for staff, students, and the franchise relationship.

This is an exceptional entry point into a high-barrier, institutionally credentialed business with a long track record and a strong foundation for continued growth.

Qualified buyers must be able to demonstrate $1M+ in liquid capital.