Sola Salons Franchise Growth – Why This Franchisee Expanded Before Opening

Scott Lefkowitz knew he wanted a change. After spending years as a multi-unit AAMCO franchisee, constantly on the move between locations and managing the daily challenges of the auto repair industry, he decided it was time to invest in something that brought more joy — both to him and his customers. That search led him to Sola Salons, the leading salon suites franchise.

What began as a single-unit agreement quickly turned into something bigger. After signing on for his first Sola location in Phoenix (and before that salon was even open), Lefkowitz committed to two additional units in Scottsdale. It was a strategic decision driven by his confidence in the brand and its business model, as well as the demand he saw in the market.

Lefkowitz’s journey with Sola was driven by a somewhat simple desire: more happiness in business.

“I would often tell my wife that I wanted to own an ‘ice cream shop’ — metaphorically speaking,” he said. “I wanted to be in a business where people were happy to be there, somewhere positive, unlike the stressful, uncertain atmosphere of the auto repair world.”

His search led him to the salon suites industry, where beauty professionals operate their own businesses in fully equipped, private studios. The appeal was immediate. Not only did it offer a more uplifting environment, but it also aligned with Lefkowitz’s vision of a scalable, semi-passive business.

Lefkowitz signed on for his first Sola location in North Phoenix, expecting to focus on building out a single unit. But while his first site was still under construction, another opportunity presented itself — one he couldn’t ignore. So, just 10 months after executing his first franchise agreement, he signed for another two units.

While the appeal of the available real estate was a major driver in doing this, it wasn’t the only factor at play. Even the best piece of real estate still needs a great business model to drive success. And Lefkowitz knew Sola offered just that.

“I’m the type of person that looks at the numbers (in detail) once. Once I know the business model is good, I trust in it and keep moving forward,” he said. “I had already looked at the Sola model and numbers, and it all made sense. The business was reliable, and this specific site was in a great part of town — especially for this type of business. I know it’d be a great investment, and I couldn’t pass it up.”

Now, with a commitment for three units, Lefkowitz is focused on expanding smartly. “My plan is to get these first two open then take a big, deep breath before starting on the third,” he said. “I’m 53, so once I’m operating and acclimated with all three locations, I might consider opening additional locations, but only if the circumstances are perfect. I do not want to scale like I did with AAMCO and find myself in a position where I’m in the car with the phone glued to my ear all day, just going from one location to another. This is going to be a fun venture for me.”