The massage franchise is placing Aescape’s AI-powered robotic massage beds in select locations as operators explore staff-light models
Hands-on care is getting a hands-free counterpart.
Massage Envy is adding a few robotic hands to select franchise locations, giving clients the option to book Aescape, an AI-powered, self-guided massage service that lets users personalize pressure, music, muscle targets and recovery goals through a touchscreen.
The experience varies from a traditional human-performed, hands-on massage, with users staying fully clothed, although several elements feel familiar. The system adapts to body contours and preferred pressure levels, much like a human massage therapist, and offers 30 or 60-minute sessions in either targeted or full-body formats. Each appointment includes up to 10 minutes for machine adjustment and dressing, which take place before and after the session.
The massage franchise joins a growing list of well-known names that have tapped Aescape’s massage technology, including high-end fitness clubs such as Life Time and Equinox and hotel brands Four Seasons, Marriott and Ritz-Carlton.
“Massage Envy’s mission has always been to make wellness a regular part of everyday life,” Massage Envy CEO Todd Schrader said. “Aescape complements that mission by giving members and guests another way to stay consistent with their self-care.”
“Aescape is also great for people who enjoy exploring new technology, want an alternative convenient recovery option between workouts or have been curious about massage and find a self-guided format appealing,” Schrader added.
While select Massage Envy locations have begun offering Aescape, additional sites are expected to join in 2026.
Aescape Is Growing Fast
The partnership caps off a big year for the robotic massage company, which formed an alliance with NFL legend Tom Brady, acquired the exclusive rights to his recovery and pliability protocols and brought Brady on as chief innovation officer. Brady’s longtime business partner, Alex Spiro, also joined as a strategic advisor.
Investors are on board, too. Aescape has raised more than $130 million to date from Valor Siren Ventures, Valor Equity Partners, creator and athlete Logan Paul and others.
“Massage Envy has built one of the most trusted wellness networks in the country, and their commitment to accessibility aligns with our desire to democratize great self-care,” Aescape founder and CEO Eric Litman said. “We’re expanding access to the restorative power of massage, whether through the hands of a licensed massage therapist or through our autonomous, customizable experience. This collaboration brings together two brands committed to making personalized wellness more accessible.”
Are Robots the Future of the Massage Industry? Maybe Not…
The broader labor picture adds another layer to the partnership. Despite rising interest in automation, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects massage therapy to be one of the fastest-growing occupations through 2034. Employment is expected to rise 15%, with about 24,700 openings annually, and schools like The Soma Institute say there simply aren’t enough trained practitioners to meet demand.
From an operator perspective, Aescape sells itself as much on efficiency as experience. The company lists its pricing transparently ($4,000 a month for one year plus a $10,000 installation fee or a $150,000 upfront purchase) and pitches the AI-powered service as therapist-supportive rather than therapist-replacing. It’s marketed as a way to offer 24/7 massage services, ease staff demand and turn unused rooms into steady revenue.
Massage Envy isn’t the only operator tapping Aescape for its autonomous massage capabilities.
Wellness franchise Pause Studio has expanded its partnership with Aescape to bring its massage experience to more locations across the country, following a successful Los Angeles pilot that exceeded expectations.
