The man behind budget US spa franchise Massage Green Spa has set his sights on overseas expansion for the fast-growing operation.

CEO Allie Mallad, who founded the business in 2008, currently has 45 locations open in six states, with more than 500 units under development.

Mallad said that the firm is seeking established overseas partners to break into new markets through franchise relationships, and believes the company’s low franchise fees are the secret to its speedy growth.

“We are SBA (Small Business Administration) qualified however, 98 per cent of our expansion is completed with franchisees funding stores themselves, as we have one of the lowest cost of entry franchises in the country,” said Mallad speaking to Spa Opportunities.

Advertising as a "luxury that everyone can afford," chains are open 80 hours a week across seven days and target professionals seeking stress relief on a budget.

The chain has gained attention for claiming to offer the ‘Best value in America,’ with an introductory one-hour full body massage for US$29.95 (€22, £18). There is also a continuation, whereby clients can continue to receive the same service for US$39.95 (€29, £24) thereafter, without having to sign a contract or pay a membership.

In-keeping with the name, Massage Green Spas are constructed with eco-friendly building materials such as recycled drywall, zero VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint and recycled cellulose insulation. They are also installed with low consumptive lighting and high efficiency furnace and water heaters.

“I believe in health and wellness and know that if massage services were more affordable, more people would incorporate the benefits of massage therapy into their lifestyles,” adds Mallad. “So I decided to create a business that would work to promote healthy bodies inside healthy, green, buildings.”

Massage Green Spas are typically 2,000sq ft (186sq m), with facilities including a tranquility room, quiet room, private couples suite, between 8-12 treatment rooms and a lobby/reception area.

The menu of services features facial treatments and massage varieties such as Swedish, deep tissue, prenatal, hot stone, aromatherapy, reflexology, sports, plus trigger and tender point.