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Glo Tanning Franchise Loan: Your Complete Financing Guide
If you are researching the glo tanning franchise cost and exploring how to fund your investment, you are in the right place. Glo Tanning is one of the fastest-growing luxury tanning and wellness salon franchises in the United States, with over 100 open locations and 250 more in development. For entrepreneurs who want to tap into the booming wellness industry, owning a Glo Tanning franchise offers a compelling business opportunity backed by a proven model, a membership-driven revenue structure, and strong brand recognition.
The challenge for most aspiring Glo Tanning franchise owners is not finding the opportunity - it is finding the financing. With a total investment range of $757,000 to $1,478,000, most prospective franchisees need outside capital to bridge the gap between their personal savings and the full cost of opening their salon. That is where franchise business loans come in. From SBA loans to equipment financing to business lines of credit, there are multiple paths to securing the funding you need to launch your Glo Tanning location.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about Glo Tanning franchise financing: what the franchise costs, what types of loans are available, how to qualify, and how Crestmont Capital can help you move from application to approval quickly.
In This Article
What Is Glo Tanning and What Does It Cost?
Glo Tanning is a luxury tanning and wellness salon franchise founded in 2010 by CEO Onyi Odunukwe in Arkansas. What started as a single salon grew into a franchise concept that began offering franchise opportunities around 2018 and 2019. Today, Glo Tanning operates over 100 locations across at least 17 states, with a development pipeline of 250 additional salons - making it one of the most ambitious growth stories in the wellness salon industry.
Unlike traditional tanning salons that focus solely on UV beds, Glo Tanning positions itself as a luxury sun spa. Services include state-of-the-art UV tanning, sunless spray tanning with customizable options, red light therapy, infrared sauna sessions, and exclusive skincare services. The brand also operates on a membership model, which creates recurring revenue and strong customer retention - a major selling point for investors and lenders alike.
Glo Tanning Franchise Cost Breakdown
Understanding the full glo tanning franchise cost is essential before you approach any lender. Here is what the numbers look like according to the brand's Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD):
| Cost Category | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $45,000 | $45,000 |
| Real Estate Improvements | $258,000 | $565,000 |
| Rent (3 months + deposit) | $6,000 | $91,667 |
| Equipment and Technology | $200,000 | $450,000 |
| Architect and Engineering Fees | $5,000 | $15,000 |
| Initial Training | $2,700 | $4,000 |
| Initial Product Inventory | $10,000 | $30,000 |
| Working Capital | $41,000 | $85,000 |
| Total Investment Range | $757,000 | $1,478,000 |
In addition to the initial investment, franchisees pay ongoing fees including a 6.5% royalty on gross sales and a 3% national advertising fund contribution. Glo Tanning also requires a minimum net worth of $700,000 and liquid capital of at least $200,000, though your total investment will be financed through a combination of equity and borrowed capital.
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Apply Now ->How Financing Works for Glo Tanning Owners
Financing a Glo Tanning franchise works similarly to financing any major business investment, but with a few important nuances specific to the franchise model. Because you are buying into an established brand with a proven track record, many lenders view franchise financing as less risky than funding an independent startup - particularly for franchises like Glo Tanning that appear on the SBA Franchise Directory.
The typical financing structure for a Glo Tanning location combines your personal equity injection with one or more loan products. Most lenders will want you to contribute between 10% and 30% of the total project cost from your own funds. For a $900,000 mid-range Glo Tanning build-out, that means bringing $90,000 to $270,000 of your own capital to the table. The rest - typically $630,000 to $810,000 - would be covered by your financing.
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, franchise businesses benefit from streamlined loan processing when the franchisor is listed in the SBA Franchise Directory. This can speed up approval timelines and make it easier to qualify for government-backed programs with favorable rates and terms.
Keep in mind that lenders will evaluate not just your credit score and financial history, but also the strength of the franchise system you are buying into. Glo Tanning's rapid growth, membership model, and experienced leadership team all work in your favor when presenting your case to lenders.
Types of Financing Available
Multiple financing products exist for Glo Tanning franchise owners. The right combination depends on your credit profile, the amount you need, your timeline, and how you plan to use the funds.
SBA 7(a) Loans
The SBA 7(a) loan is the most popular financing option for franchise buyers. These government-backed loans offer amounts up to $5 million, longer repayment terms of up to 10 years for working capital (and up to 25 years for real estate), and down payments as low as 10%. The SBA 7(a) program is particularly well-suited for funding a Glo Tanning franchise because it can cover construction, equipment, inventory, and working capital in a single loan package. Learn more about SBA loans and how they apply to franchise purchases.
SBA 504 Loans
If your Glo Tanning location involves a significant real estate component - such as purchasing the commercial property where your salon will operate - the SBA 504 loan program is worth exploring. These loans offer up to $5.5 million in fixed-rate financing for major fixed assets, structured as a partnership between a private lender, a Certified Development Company (CDC), and your own equity contribution.
Equipment Financing
Tanning beds, red light therapy units, infrared saunas, spray tanning booths, and point-of-sale systems represent a major portion of the Glo Tanning startup cost. Equipment financing allows you to fund these assets specifically, often using the equipment itself as collateral. This can make approval easier and leave your working capital untouched for day-to-day operations.
Business Line of Credit
A business line of credit is a flexible financing tool that works well alongside your primary loan. Rather than receiving a lump sum, you draw from a revolving credit facility as needed - ideal for managing fluctuating cash flow during the ramp-up period before your membership base reaches full capacity.
Long-Term Business Loans
For franchisees who need straightforward term financing without the complexity of an SBA application, a conventional long-term business loan may be the right fit. These loans typically offer fixed repayment schedules and predictable monthly payments, making budgeting simpler during your first years in operation.
Small Business Loans
Traditional small business loans offer another avenue for franchise funding, particularly for owners who want a straightforward loan structure without the complexity of government-backed programs. These can be used to cover anything from construction costs to initial marketing spend.
Fast Business Loans
If you need capital quickly to secure a location, pay a deposit, or move fast on a lease opportunity, fast business loans can deliver funding in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Speed matters in competitive real estate markets, and having a fast lender in your corner can make the difference between winning and losing a prime location.
Glo Tanning Franchise: Key Financial Stats
$757K - $1.48M
Total Investment Range
$45,000
Franchise Fee
6.5%
Ongoing Royalty Fee
105+
Open Locations
250+
Locations in Development
How to Qualify for Financing
Qualifying for a Glo Tanning franchise loan is a process that requires preparation. Lenders evaluate multiple factors before approving financing, and understanding what they look for can help you put your best foot forward. Here is what most lenders consider:
Credit Score
Most SBA and conventional lenders prefer a personal credit score of at least 650 to 700. Alternative lenders and some specialized franchise financiers may work with scores as low as 600. If your credit score is below these thresholds, consider working with a lender who specializes in bad credit business loans while you work on improving your credit profile.
Liquid Capital
Glo Tanning's minimum liquid capital requirement is $200,000, and most lenders will want to see that you have enough cash on hand to cover your equity injection plus several months of operating expenses. This demonstrates financial stability and reduces lender risk.
Net Worth
The franchisor's stated net worth requirement is $700,000. Lenders use this as a baseline to assess your overall financial health and ability to weather early-stage losses that are common in any new business's first year.
Business Plan
A detailed business plan is essential for any franchise loan application. Your plan should include a description of the Glo Tanning brand, a market analysis for your target location, a financial projection covering at least three years, and a clear explanation of how you will use the funds. Lenders want to see that you have done your homework and that your salon is projected to generate sufficient revenue to service the debt.
Industry Experience
While prior experience in the tanning or wellness industry is helpful, it is not strictly required. What matters more is demonstrating management capability - prior experience owning or operating any service-based business can strengthen your application significantly.
Collateral
Depending on the loan type, lenders may require collateral. Equipment financed through an equipment loan serves as its own collateral. For larger SBA loans, lenders may require a personal guarantee and potentially other business or personal assets as security.
According to Forbes, the most important thing franchise loan applicants can do is organize their financial documents before approaching a lender. Having your tax returns, bank statements, franchise agreement, and business plan ready to submit can shorten the approval timeline by weeks.
How Crestmont Capital Helps Glo Tanning Owners
Crestmont Capital is the #1 business lender in the United States, and our team has direct experience helping franchise owners secure the financing they need to open and grow their locations. Whether you are opening your first Glo Tanning salon or expanding to multiple locations, we have the products and expertise to structure the right deal for your situation.
Here is what sets Crestmont Capital apart from banks and traditional lenders:
- Speed: We can often provide term sheets within 24 hours and fund loans in days, not months. When you need to move fast on a lease or secure a contractor's schedule, speed matters.
- Flexibility: We offer a wide range of loan products - from SBA programs to equipment financing to lines of credit - so you can find the right fit rather than squeezing your needs into a one-size-fits-all solution.
- Franchise expertise: Our lending team understands the franchise model, the typical cost structure of a Glo Tanning build-out, and what lenders need to see in a franchise loan application.
- Multiple funding paths: If one loan product does not fit your situation, we have others. We work with entrepreneurs at every credit level and business stage.
Our clients who have opened franchise locations in the wellness and beauty space consistently point to Crestmont Capital's responsiveness and willingness to structure creative solutions as key differentiators. When your SBA application is taking too long, when you need bridge capital to get started, or when a traditional bank says no, Crestmont Capital often says yes.
We also support Glo Tanning owners who are already operational and looking to refinance existing debt, open additional locations, or fund equipment upgrades as the brand rolls out new technology and service offerings. If you have found success with your first location and are ready to grow, our multi-unit franchise financing options can scale with you.
For owners exploring the beauty and wellness franchise space, our blog posts on European Wax Center franchise financing and Massage Envy franchise loans offer additional insights into how we structure financing for similar brands. The fundamentals are the same: we understand your industry, we move quickly, and we build financing packages designed around your actual cash flow needs.
Ready to Finance Your Glo Tanning Investment?
Get fast, flexible financing from the #1 business lender in the U.S. No obligation - apply in minutes.
Apply Now ->Real-World Financing Scenarios
To make this more concrete, here are four representative scenarios showing how different types of Glo Tanning franchise owners might structure their financing.
Scenario 1: First-Time Franchisee with Strong Credit
Maria is a former regional manager at a national retail chain with a credit score of 730, $250,000 in liquid assets, and a net worth of $800,000. She wants to open a Glo Tanning salon in a growing suburban market. Her projected total build-out cost is $900,000.
Maria works with Crestmont Capital to secure an SBA 7(a) loan for $720,000 (80% of the project cost), contributing $180,000 of her own capital as the equity injection. The loan carries a 10-year term with a competitive interest rate, and her monthly payment fits comfortably within the projected cash flow from her membership revenue. She also adds a $50,000 business line of credit to handle unexpected costs during the ramp-up period.
Scenario 2: Existing Salon Owner Converting to Glo Tanning
Derek owns an independent tanning salon that has been operating profitably for four years. He wants to convert his location to a Glo Tanning franchise to access the brand's marketing, technology, and membership infrastructure. His conversion cost is estimated at $400,000, primarily for equipment upgrades and build-out improvements.
Because Derek has existing business revenue and two years of tax returns demonstrating profitability, he qualifies for a conventional long-term business loan. He also uses equipment financing to fund $200,000 of the tanning and red light therapy equipment, keeping the equipment loan separate from his working capital needs. His total monthly debt service is manageable against his current revenue base.
Scenario 3: Multi-Unit Developer Expanding to a Third Location
Sandra already owns two successful Glo Tanning locations and is ready to open a third in a new city. Her existing locations generate strong membership revenue, giving her a proven track record that lenders value. However, her personal credit took a hit during a difficult period several years ago, leaving her score at 620.
Working with Crestmont Capital's bad credit business loan team, Sandra secures an alternative financing package that accounts for her business performance rather than focusing solely on her personal credit score. Her existing franchise cash flow serves as the primary underwriting basis, and she is able to fund the third location without a lengthy SBA application process. As noted by CNBC's small business team, revenue-based lending has opened doors for franchise owners who do not fit the traditional bank borrower profile.
Scenario 4: First-Time Owner on a Tight Timeline
James signed a letter of intent on a prime retail space but has only 30 days to close on his lease and demonstrate financing commitment to his landlord. His SBA application is in process but will not close in time. He needs a fast bridge solution to keep the deal alive.
Crestmont Capital provides a fast business loan commitment within 48 hours, giving James what he needs to satisfy his landlord's requirements. Once his SBA loan closes, he uses those proceeds to pay off the bridge loan and establish his longer-term financing structure. The speed of Crestmont Capital's response saved him the location - and potentially years of searching for another comparable space in that market.
How to Apply for a Glo Tanning Franchise Loan
Applying for franchise financing through Crestmont Capital is a straightforward process. Here is what to expect:
- Review your financial profile. Pull your personal credit report, gather your last two to three years of tax returns, compile your bank statements for the past three to six months, and calculate your current net worth and liquid assets. Understanding where you stand before you apply helps you approach the right loan products and anticipate any questions lenders might have.
- Secure your Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). Before approaching a lender, you should have your FDD in hand. This document contains all the financial details lenders need to evaluate the franchise opportunity, including the Item 19 financial performance representations if Glo Tanning provides them.
- Develop a business plan. Your plan should include a market analysis for your target location, projected income statements and cash flow for three to five years, a description of your management team, and a clear breakdown of how you plan to use the loan proceeds.
- Submit your application to Crestmont Capital. Visit the Crestmont Capital application page and complete your initial application. Our team reviews applications quickly, and you can typically expect a call from a loan specialist within one business day.
- Work through due diligence. Your Crestmont Capital specialist will guide you through the documentation requirements, which typically include your franchise agreement, lease agreement or letter of intent, financial projections, and personal financial statements.
- Receive your term sheet and review your options. Once underwriting is complete, you will receive a term sheet outlining your loan amount, interest rate, repayment term, and any conditions. Review this carefully with your attorney or financial advisor before accepting.
- Close and fund. After you accept the term sheet and any remaining conditions are satisfied, your loan closes and funds are disbursed. For fast business loans, this can happen within 24 to 48 hours. SBA loans typically take 30 to 60 days to close from the time a complete application is submitted.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Glo Tanning franchise cost?
The total investment to open a Glo Tanning franchise ranges from $757,000 to $1,478,000, depending on location, size, and whether you are converting an existing space or building out a new one. The initial franchise fee is $45,000.
Can I finance a Glo Tanning franchise with an SBA loan?
Yes. SBA 7(a) loans are one of the most commonly used financing tools for franchise businesses. If Glo Tanning is listed in the SBA Franchise Directory, the application process is streamlined. SBA loans offer amounts up to $5 million with favorable rates and longer repayment terms, making them ideal for franchise startups.
What credit score do I need to get a Glo Tanning franchise loan?
Most SBA and conventional lenders prefer a personal credit score of 650 or higher. Alternative lenders may work with scores as low as 600 in some cases. If your credit score is below these thresholds, Crestmont Capital offers bad credit business loan options that evaluate your overall financial picture rather than credit score alone.
How much liquid capital do I need to open a Glo Tanning franchise?
Glo Tanning's stated minimum liquid capital requirement is $200,000. Most lenders will also want to see that you have enough cash to cover your equity injection, which is typically 10% to 30% of the total project cost.
What ongoing fees does Glo Tanning charge franchisees?
Glo Tanning charges an ongoing royalty fee of 6.5% of gross sales and a 3% national advertising fund contribution. These fees should be factored into your financial projections when calculating whether your projected revenue will support your loan payments and operating costs.
Can I use equipment financing for tanning beds and wellness equipment?
Yes. Equipment financing is an excellent option for funding the tanning beds, red light therapy units, infrared saunas, and other equipment needed to operate a Glo Tanning salon. The equipment itself typically serves as collateral, which can make approval easier and allow you to preserve working capital for other needs.
How long does it take to get a franchise loan approved?
Approval timelines vary by loan type. Fast business loans through Crestmont Capital can be approved and funded within 24 to 48 hours. Conventional business loans typically take one to two weeks. SBA loans generally take 30 to 60 days from complete application submission to funding.
Does Glo Tanning offer any financing assistance to franchisees?
Franchise systems vary in the financing support they offer. Some provide introductions to preferred lenders or have negotiated financing programs on behalf of their franchise network. Check directly with the Glo Tanning franchise development team to understand what financing resources they make available to incoming franchisees.
Can I open multiple Glo Tanning locations with a single loan?
Multi-unit franchise financing is available through Crestmont Capital and select SBA lenders. A multi-unit loan or development agreement financing can cover the capital needed for two or more locations, often with terms structured to match your planned development timeline.
What documents do I need to apply for a Glo Tanning franchise loan?
Typical document requirements include your personal tax returns for two to three years, business tax returns if you have existing businesses, three to six months of bank statements, a personal financial statement, your franchise agreement or signed FDD receipt, a business plan with financial projections, and a lease agreement or letter of intent for your salon location.
Is a Glo Tanning franchise a good investment?
Glo Tanning's membership-based revenue model, rapid expansion, and premium positioning in the wellness sector are all positive indicators. As with any franchise investment, the profitability of your specific location will depend on factors like local market demand, your management capability, and your ability to build a loyal member base. Review the FDD's financial performance representations carefully and speak with existing franchisees before making your final decision.
What is the royalty fee for a Glo Tanning franchise?
The ongoing royalty fee for a Glo Tanning franchise is 6.5% of gross sales. This fee is paid to the franchisor in exchange for the right to operate under the Glo Tanning brand, access to the brand's systems and support, and ongoing operational guidance.
Can I get a Glo Tanning franchise loan with bad credit?
It is possible to secure franchise financing with less-than-perfect credit, particularly if your business plan is strong, your liquid assets are substantial, or you have existing business revenue. Crestmont Capital works with borrowers across the credit spectrum and offers alternative financing solutions designed for owners who may not qualify for traditional bank loans.
What types of loans work best for tanning salon equipment?
Equipment financing is typically the most efficient way to fund tanning and wellness equipment. These loans are secured by the equipment itself, often feature terms of three to seven years, and preserve your working capital for other startup expenses. Some borrowers also roll equipment costs into a broader SBA 7(a) loan to simplify their financing structure.
How do I prepare a business plan for a Glo Tanning franchise loan?
A strong Glo Tanning franchise business plan includes an executive summary describing your business and goals, a market analysis for your target location including population density and competition, detailed financial projections for three to five years, a description of your management team and relevant experience, and a clear use of funds statement showing exactly how loan proceeds will be deployed. According to Bloomberg, lenders consistently cite a well-organized business plan as one of the top factors in loan approval decisions for franchise businesses.
Next Steps
Your Action Plan to Secure Glo Tanning Financing
- Check your credit score and address any errors or delinquencies before you apply.
- Confirm your liquid assets meet Glo Tanning's $200,000 minimum requirement.
- Request the Franchise Disclosure Document from the Glo Tanning franchise development team.
- Research your target market and identify potential locations for your salon.
- Develop a business plan with realistic financial projections based on comparable franchise data.
- Contact Crestmont Capital to discuss your financing options and get a free consultation with a franchise loan specialist.
- Submit your application and gather your required documents for a fast, efficient review.
Conclusion
The glo tanning franchise cost represents a significant investment, but for the right entrepreneur, it also represents access to one of the fastest-growing wellness brands in the country. With 105 locations already open, 250 more in development, and a premium membership model driving recurring revenue, Glo Tanning has built a system designed to help franchise owners succeed.
The key to making that success a reality is securing the right financing from the start. Whether you need an SBA loan to cover the full build-out, equipment financing to fund your tanning and wellness technology, or a fast business loan to move quickly on a prime location, Crestmont Capital has the products, expertise, and speed to help you get there.
Do not let financing complexity slow you down. Our team works with franchise buyers every day, and we understand the timelines, documentation, and deal structures that make franchise loans work. Apply today and take the first step toward opening your Glo Tanning location.
Ready to Finance Your Glo Tanning Investment?
Get fast, flexible financing from the #1 business lender in the U.S. No obligation - apply in minutes.
Apply Now ->Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and is not financial, legal, or tax advice. Funding terms, qualifications, and product availability may vary and are subject to change without notice. Crestmont Capital does not guarantee approval, rates, or specific outcomes. For personalized information about your business funding options, contact our team directly.
