CG Funk – the former vice president of product development for US-based franchise Massage Envy – has joined the board of The Massage Company – a UK-based franchise venture. She’ll help drive the company’s growth in the UK by consulting with the company on training and franchise systems.

Launched in 2016 by Charlie Thompson – the current UK Spa Association chair, who has also worked for QHotels and Virgin Active – and Elliot Walker, former managing director of Murad, The Massage Company offers a simple selection of four massage treatments: deep tissue, sports, Swedish and maternity.

Funk is a 25-year spa industry veteran and played a key role in the massive expansion of US-based Massage Envy, working with a team that grew the brand from 30 franchised locations to more than 1,100.

“I knew I could bring valuable insights and expertise to support The Massage Company’s growth and sustainability,” says Funk. “The Massage Company is the first franchise massage model to market in the UK, which gives them a unique and positive opportunity to grow faster than average with the lack of competitors. The UK market is currently an open playing field for The Massage Company model, which is a huge opportunity for quick expansion.”

Funk says she appreciates The Massage Company’s focus on training and education, its “tightened-down” sales process, and Thompson and Walker’s hands-on approach.

Thompson says he knew when he first met her that Funk was someone he wanted to work with. “Directing multi-site spa operations is my background, but we have a huge learning curve in both membership-based subscription services and franchising,” says Thompson. “We know CG brings solid credibility as we bring both new franchisees and properties into discussions.”

Funk says Massage Envy grew so substantially because the team spent time teaching consumers and franchisees the benefits of regular massage.

“We did this through an affordable membership programme and great marketing,” says Funk. “At the end of the day, it’s truly about helping the average consumer understand why these services are so important to their overall wellness, and helping franchisees understand the solid business opportunities the brand gives.”