WellBiz Brands name new VP of franchise growth

WellBiz Brands has named a new vice president to its executive team, charged with expanding the company’s footprint.

The global franchisor announced that it has appointed John Thuringer as its vice president of franchise growth. In addition to growing the business, Thuringer is charged with attracting new franchisees and advancing development opportunities.

“John brings vast franchise development experience and a proven understanding of what it takes to grow brands at scale,” said Amanda Clark, CEO of WellBiz Brands. “His industry expertise and ability to build strong relationships with franchisees and internal teams will be valuable as we pursue the next phase of expansion across our brands.”

The WellBiz Brands portfolio, focused on beauty and wellness, includes Drybar, Elements Massage, Fitness Together, Radiant Waxing, and Amazing Lash Studio.

Thuringer arrives at WellBiz Brands after 17 years with Purpose Brands, where he helped drive development for Anytime Fitness and Waxing the City. During his time at Purpose Brands, Thuringer sold more than 800 new licenses, including more than 250 in the past three years alone, according to WellBiz Brands.

“I’m thrilled to join WellBiz Brands at such an exciting point in its journey,” said Thuringer. “I see many parallels between my time at Purpose Brands and the opportunity here. We have category-leading concepts, a talented development team and significant potential. My approach has always been centered on building trust, creating lasting relationships and helping franchisees pursue their business goals. I’m ready to bring that experience to WellBiz Brands and help more entrepreneurs build businesses that create value in their communities.”

In June, WellBiz Brands reported that it signed 15 new franchise agreements, opened 6 new studios, and had 9 franchise renewals. New openings include Drybar and Radiant Waxing studios in Buffalo, New York, as well as Drybar locations in Kansas and California. Fresh growth in the second quarter has pushed the company to 737 locations.

During the first quarter of 2026, WellBiz Brands reported that it reached 56 new franchise agreements. In another leadership move made earlier this year, the company named Michelle DeVore as its new chief marketing officer.