Sparkle Grooming Celebrates Rapid Expansion with 340 Franchise Licenses in 18 Months

When Ben Crawford and Joe Aeppli launched Sparkle Grooming Co. in 2022, they weren’t just entering the $11 billion U.S. pet grooming industry, they set out to fix it. Their goal: create a modern, wellness-focused grooming experience that better supports pets, pet parents, and franchise owners alike.

Just two years later, Sparkle has become one of the fastest-growing franchise brands in the country, awarding 340 licenses across 18 states in less than 18 months.

“Every new license represents more than expansion,” said Ben Crawford, CEO. “It’s about creating opportunities where pets receive the care they deserve, groomers feel supported, and franchise owners can build a low attrition membership model that delivers real, predictable earnings.”

Sparkle’s Quick-Service Pet Care (QSPC) model combines salon-quality grooming with a membership-based approach, delivering consistent, wellness-focused care for pets while building predictable revenue streams for franchisees.

The compact salon footprint, technology-enabled operations, and scalable systems have made Sparkle appealing to both multi-unit operators and first-time franchise owners.

“Our goal was never just to open grooming salons,” added Joe Aeppli, COO. “We set out to elevate an essential service, making pet care better for families and the professionals who care for them.”

Since opening its first salon in Gilbert, Arizona, in October 2023, Sparkle has grown rapidly:

• April 2024: Official franchise program launch
• March 2025: 200 licenses across 10 states
• August 2025: Expansion to 340 licenses across 18 states

What’s driving the momentum?

• Pet Wellness Meets Convenience: Pet parents want safe, reliable grooming. Sparkle delivers.
• Membership Revenue Model: Predictable income builds stability and loyalty.
• Values-Driven Partnerships: Franchises awarded to operators who share Sparkle’s ethos of care, community, and quality.
• Franchisee Appeal: Scalable systems attract both multi-unit operators and new entrepreneurs.

Looking ahead, Sparkle aims to expand beyond its current footprint, continuing to professionalize pet grooming while delivering care that is consistent, efficient and meaningful.