Massage franchise comes to Newport Beach

Massage Heights, a national membership-model massage franchise, opened its first Orange County location in Newport Beach on Aug 20.

The San Antonio-based franchise company plans to open six more locations in Orange County and 1,620 new locations nationwide over the next three to five years, according to a press release.

Massage Heights offers massages and other services such as aromatherapy sessions, foot scrubs and stone facial massages. Monthly membership fees start at about $60, with prices varying for additional services.

"We appeal to people seeking to relieve anxiety or stress, or back or muscle pain issues, as well as licensed massage therapists looking to improve their lifestyle with set hours and consistent traffic," said Newport Beach resident Bill Bousema, who opened the location at 1334 Bison Ave. with his wife, Bonnie .

The facility opened by the Bousemas had a record-breaking opening weekend for the franchise, which has about 60 location nationwide, Bousema said.

About 80 clients signed on or enjoyed services within the first few days, he said.