Main Line Mahjong launches U.S.’s first mahjong franchise

Main Line Mahjong, the mahjong studio brand founded on Philadelphia’s Main Line, Wednesday announced the launch of its franchise platform, the first of its kind in U.S. history.

The brand’s franchise offering will enable franchisees to host a variety of activities connected to one of the country’s fastest-growing pastimes. Main Line Mahjong studios offer experiences for mahjong enthusiasts of all ages and experience levels, include lessons, competitive leagues, private events, open play, and curated retail.

“The magic of Main Line Mahjong is that someone can walk in never having touched a tile – feeling slightly intimidated – and walk out wanting more,” said Suzett Hamilton, co-founder and head of teacher & people training. “We’ve distilled our method into a teacher-training and certification program so every franchise studio delivers the same warm, hands-on, confidence-building experience that has made people fall for us in the first place.”

Main Line Mahjong’s mission isn’t just to capitalize on mahjong’s growing popularity in the U.S.; its founders and leadership team stress that the brand is also focused on creating thriving third spaces, where people can relax and make meaningful connections with likeminded members of their communities. According to data provided by the brand, 47% of Americans experience loneliness and 68% say they struggle to build in-person community.

“Mahjong isn’t just having a moment—it’s meeting a fundamental, long-term societal need: real, in-person connection,” said Karla Crockett, co-founder and head of franchise operations and marketing at Main Line Mahjong. “We are proud to be the first brand to offer passionate entrepreneurs a proven blueprint to build a fulfilling and successful gathering place that brings joy to members in their own communities. We’re taking the studio game to the next level and could not be more excited.”

Main Line Mahjong’s launch also comes at a time when 47% of Americans under 30 and 32% of older people are looking to reduce screen time in favor of in-person experiences. The brand’s mahjong studios are specifically designed to create fun, positive spaces where players can engage with each other and play a game that provides a rewarding tactile experience.

“People don’t just want to play—they want to belong somewhere beautiful that brings a little happiness to their day,” said Megan Boss, co-founder and head of franchise sales and design/retail. “From the tiles on the table to the products on the shelf, every detail is intentional. We’re giving franchisees a brand that looks as good as it feels, and a retail engine that only makes the experience better.”

Moving forward, Main Line Mahjong is awarding franchises in select markets nationwide and is looking to connect with prospective franchisees looking to bring a growing hobby and thriving community space to their areas.