Founded to Fill an Important Need
Hand and Stone was founded by John Marco, a visionary entrepreneur with a keen eye towards changing consumer trends.  While operating a successful private practice as a physical therapist, John kept abreast of related industries.  Of particular interest was the massage industry.  John observed its explosive growth but noted that there were no recognizable national brands.  He also observed a lack of convenience and an ability get affordable spa services under one roof.  After careful research and planning John opened a Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa and refined the model.  Today John is the driving force behind developing the “perfect spa experience” and serves as the company’s founder and COO. 



 

In 2009, Todd Leff, a 20 year franchise industry veteran who had been President and CEO of a 1,100 unit automotive chain, became an investor in and part of the Hand and Stone Management team.  Todd brings to Hand and Stone franchise management experience having successfully grown other national franchise brands.  He is leading the company’s marketing, franchise development, real estate and finance functions and serves as the company’s President and CEO.