Sparkle Grooming, a fast-growing membership-based dog grooming chain, is mapping out 21 salons across central and southern Ohio, starting with Dayton, Cincinnati and Columbus. The regional push will be led by Ohio entrepreneur Jessa Barkan, who the company says will both develop some locations herself and recruit local franchisees. For pet owners, that could mean more routine, subscription-style grooming options, and for independent groomers it could mean a serious new player in the market.
In a press release via PR Newswire, the company said the 21-unit regional development agreement will focus on Columbus, Cincinnati and Dayton and that site selection is already underway. "We're excited to bring Sparkle to central and southern Ohio and introduce a better, more consistent grooming experience to pet parents across the region," Barkan said in the release.
As reported by the Dayton Business Journal, Sparkle has opened eight salons so far and has signed roughly 500 franchise licenses nationwide, with the Ohio rollout expected to unfold over the next decade. The outlet notes that Barkan has a background in franchise development and plans to combine self-developed locations with locally owned franchises.
How Sparkle's Model Works
Sparkle runs on a membership-driven, quick-service model that focuses on routine hygiene, same- or next-day appointments and streamlined drop-off and pick-up. According to Sparkle Grooming Co., the brand pitches salon-style care with standardized training and systems intended to support multi-unit franchise operators.
What This Could Mean Locally
The broader pet market is large and still growing: the American Pet Products Association reported U.S. pet industry expenditures reached $152 billion in 2024 and projected $157 billion for 2025, a backdrop that supports demand for more grooming options. Industry vendors also warn that salons are wrestling with a nationwide shortage of trained groomers, which could affect hiring timelines for new Sparkle locations, according to analysis from DaySmart Pet on staffing challenges. That mix of strong consumer demand and a tight hiring market means how quickly Sparkle scales in Dayton, Cincinnati and Columbus may depend as much on staffing and real estate as on customer interest.
Site selection for the first Ohio locations is ongoing, and final opening dates will depend on permits and franchisee recruitment, per the company's announcement via PR Newswire. Local groomers and business groups are likely to keep an eye on permit filings and job postings as the rollout moves ahead.
