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December 6, 2005

Comment Raises Interesting Issue

I got a comment on my November 30th post about Quality Massage for the Masses. The article talked about a franchise which charged $39.95 for an hour of massage, making the service affordable for a wider audience. The reader thought the therapists that worked there were being underpaid.

My comment followed: I don't know this company's business model--have you worked for them? If they are providing health care and other benefits to their therapists, they may not be underpaid even if they are making only $12 an hour (that's $24 K a year). Remember, there's no overhead for the therapists. Also, keep in mind, this is a great way for beginning therapists to build experience and a clientele. I know Charlotte is a major metropolitan area, but here in north Alabama, where I'm located, the average hour massage is approximately $50-$55. My coworker charges $40 for hers (and is, admittedly, undercutting her competitors, including me) but her book is always full. Keep in mind, the article talked about massage rates in spas which are generally higher priced than those of us in private practice. Spa employees don't get to pocket that $100 that is being charged for the massage, either.

Thank you to all of my readers, and keep those comments coming.

Posted by linda at December 6, 2005 12:30 PM