Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa, the spa business with more than 650 locations across the US and Canada, has appointed franchise expert Carrie Walsh as CEO as the company plans to expand.

Walsh replaces Todd Leff, who was acting as interim CEO and chair. Leff will remain chair of the board.

Walsh has left her role as interim CEO of consumer franchise brand Subway to join Hand and Stone. In this role, she worked on the global profitability and expansion of the company, building on the work she did as president of Subway’s MENA region – where she oversaw 6,000 franchise locations. 

Before these franchise leadership positions, Walsh held senior marketing roles for brands including Subway, Pizza Hut, PepsiCo and North American art and crafts retailer Michaels.

Walsh told Spa Business exclusively: “We're at a really exciting point in Hand and Stone's growth. As we continue expanding our network of more than 650 locations across key markets, we're also identifying new ways to elevate the brand experience for our guests. Hand and Stone already has such a strong foundation. I'm excited to build on that by continuing to evolve our services, enhance our membership model and give more consumers an accessible place to go when they need to escape stress and just relax. 

“We're also preparing to unveil a refreshed brand look that reflects where the brand is headed and the future we're building together, a milestone I'm thrilled to help lead. 

“Equally important to me is supporting our franchisees. These entrepreneurs are at the heart of our brand, bringing the Hand and Stone experience to life in communities across North America every day. I look forward to partnering closely with them as we continue to strengthen the brand, serve our guests and grow together.” 

Hand and Stone says the company is expanding and membership levels are at their highest yet. It says sales are outpacing the industry, which it puts down to strong consumer demand for wellness and self-care.

Hand and Stone

The business, which launched in 2004, now has locations across 36 US states and Canada. The company provides facials and massage treatments for women, men and teenagers using products by Dermalogica and Image Skincare.