Massage Envy locations growing in suburban area

An interview with Fred Macciocchi, co-owner of Massage Envy Spa Geneva Commons.

Q: Describe your business. What do you do?

A: "We've owned the franchise for 7 years and we have multiple locations. We provide affordable massages so clients can take care of their health and wellness needs."

Q: What made you start your business?

A: "We saw a real opportunity to help people receive massages with the aging of our population and people needing an outlet that is available and affordable. We thought it was a perfect fit for our area."

Q: What has been the most difficult obstacle in running or starting a small business?

A: "The most difficult obstacle in running our business is finding enough therapists. Massage is really growing, not only our business, but in general. So finding enough therapists to serve the overwhelming demand can be challenging."

Q: What do you enjoy most about operating your business?

A: "Working with so many great people, from our front desk associates, to the therapists, to everyone at corporate. Everyone is very positive and upbeat. It's been a great experience."

Q: Is this what you pictured yourself doing when you were young? When you were young, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A: "Just like everybody else - I wanted to be a baseball player! I don't know how I ended up in the massage business. Life takes interesting turns."

Q: What keeps you up at night?

A: "Trying to keep all our customers happy."

Q: If you could give one tip to a rookie business owner, what would it be?

A: "Pay attention to details and always read the contract twice."

Q: What other Massage Envy locations do you own?

A: I own Massage Envy-Naperville North and Massage Envy Darien-Downers Grove.

Q: Why is massage becoming more popular?

A: As our population ages, people are focusing more than ever on their health and wellness.

Q: What did you do before launching the business?

A: I sold software to banks.

Q: What is one interesting fact about the business that most may not know?

A: That there are almost 1,000 Massage Envy locations open around the country.

Q: Do you have plans for growing the business?

A: Yes. We're adding another Massage Envy in River Forest this summer.

• Every Monday we feature a small, suburban business. We want to hear about yours. Contact us at kmikus@dailyherald.com.