Color Me Mine Hits Its Stride: 150th Studio Opens as Brand Invests in Technology and Franchise Equity Across the System

• 20 new studios projected in 2026, with 12 already opened in the first half of the year
• Proprietary technology platform, KIN, built specifically for paint-your-own pottery studios is nearly systemwide
• Record studio sale of $737,000 reflects the long-term equity for franchisees*

NEW ORLEANS, Sept. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Color Me Mine, the nation's leading paint-your-own pottery franchise, is closing out the first half of 2026 with its strongest run yet – a record-breaking studio sale, a nearly systemwide technology rollout and 12 new studio openings, including a milestone 150^th location. The momentum reflects both new and existing owners doubling down on their investment, a signal of confidence that's setting Color Me Mine up for an even stronger second half of the year.   

System Growth Reflects Strong Brand Momentum and Owner Confidence

Color Me Mine's growth in the first half of 2026 is fueled by two forces: new franchisees joining the system and existing owners doubling down on the brand. Together, they underscore the demand for the franchise opportunity and overall franchisee confidence in the brand. Highlights include:

• New studio development: Color Me Mine has signed seven new franchise agreements in 2026 to date. In the same period, 12 new studios have opened, including three new market entries – Las Cruces, NM; Charlotte, NC and Lexington, KY – with eight more slated to open before year-end.
• Reinvestment from proven operators: The brand's new Merit-Based Expansion Program gives qualified owners a streamlined path to add locations – letting Color Me Mine grow with franchisees who already know the system inside and out.
• Building long-term equity value: A Color Me Mine studio recently sold for a record $737,000, proof of the resell strength and long-term value owners can build in an established studio.*
• Milestone 150^th studio opening: Color Me Mine opened its 150^th location in Marietta, GA this summer, marking the brand's debut in the state. The milestone location was opened by husband-wife duo Alysia and David Leyva, local entrepreneurs with experience in marketing and youth mentorship.

"The moment we were introduced to Color Me Mine, we fell in love with the brand's warmth and creativity," said Alysia Leyva, co-owner of the new Marietta studio. "Since starting our journey as new franchise owners, the corporate Color Me Mine team has made every step smooth and exciting, giving us the confidence to bring our vision to life. We couldn't be prouder to bring Color Me Mine to Georgia for the first time to create a welcoming space where families can come together, express their creativity and make lasting memories."

Investments Built for Every Studio's Success

Color Me Mine is building the tools to help every studio grow smarter. This year, a significant investment was made in technology to give franchisees what they need to run leaner, more efficient and more profitable businesses: 

• Proprietary tech platform for pottery studios: KIN, Color Me Mine's proprietary technology, gives owners real-time visibility into everything from kiln room firing to customer pickup. Roughly 80% of the system has made the switch, with the rest transitioning by the end of September.

• Financial benchmarking: A new financial roll-up initiative tracks the three biggest cost drivers in any studio: rent, labor, and cost of goods sold, against systemwide benchmarks. The result: targeted training and strategies franchisees can use to find real efficiencies in their own business.

"We are thrilled with the momentum we've built this year and inspired by franchisees who keep investing in their studios and their communities," said Teresa Johnson, CEO of Color Me Mine. "Our focus has been on giving franchisees what they need to succeed from day one – and it shows. We're proud of how far they've come, and excited to build on that in the second half of the year."

National Recognition Validates Color Me Mine's Leadership

This month, Johnson was named to Forbes' 2026 50 Over 50 list. The honor follows Color Me Mine's recognition as the No. 1 DIY/Paint-&-Sip Studio in Entrepreneur's 2026 Franchise 500®, the world's first and most comprehensive franchise ranking.

Color Me Mine is actively seeking qualified franchisees throughout the U.S. to join in on the fun. The brand had an average unit volume of $513,044 in 2025 and the total estimated initial investment to open a franchise is between $219,180-$475,410. Color Me Mine's proven model is a fit for first time business owners, families looking to build their legacy and passionate entrepreneurs who are excited about making meaningful connections with their community. For additional information regarding the total estimated initial investment and average unit volume, please refer to Items 7 and 19 of the Color Me Mine Franchise Disclosure Document. 

*One studio sold for this amount. Studio resale amounts vary depending on location, studio sales, amount of time studio has been in operation and other factors. There is no assurance that you will resell your studio for this amount.

To learn more about franchising opportunities with Color Me Mine, visit www.colormeminefranchising.com. To find a studio near you, visit www.colormemine.com. 

About Color Me Mine® 

Color Me Mine was founded in 1991 and is based in New Orleans, LA. It is the only contemporary paint-your-own pottery franchise in the industry and has an international presence with more than 150 locations across the United States, Canada, Costa Rica, and the Philippines. Acquired by Twist Brands LLC in 2020, Color Me Mine provides guests with the "The Art of Having Fun" through a unique pottery painting experience in a welcoming, relaxing environment. Guests can choose from hundreds of ceramic pieces to paint and enjoy an hour or two of entertainment while making meaningful connections and memories with friends and family while creating a unique piece of art. Ceramic pieces are then glazed, fired, and picked up later. For more information, visit www.colormemine.com.

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SOURCE Color Me Mine LLC