The paint-your-own pottery franchise is pairing a milestone studio opening with new technology, financial benchmarking and continued franchise expansion.
- Color Me Mine opened its 150th studio in Marietta, GA, marking significant expansion.
- Significant technology rollout includes KIN platform and financial benchmarking for efficiencies.
- The Merit-Based Expansion Program supports existing franchisee growth.
Color Me Mine has reached a milestone that would be difficult to overlook: its 150th studio is now open in Marietta, Georgia. But the paint-your-own pottery franchise is treating the achievement as more than a symbolic marker, pairing continued expansion with investments in technology, financial benchmarking and franchisee support.
The company opened 12 studios during the first half of 2026 and signed seven new franchise agreements. Three of those openings marked entries into new markets in Las Cruces, New Mexico; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Lexington, Kentucky, with eight additional studios expected to open before the end of the year. Color Me Mine has also introduced a Merit-Based Expansion Program designed to give qualified existing franchisees a streamlined path to opening additional locations.
The 150th studio, located in Marietta, was opened by Alysia and David Leyva and marks Color Me Mine’s first location in Georgia. Their opening comes as the company continues to strengthen the infrastructure supporting its franchise network. Its proprietary KIN technology platform provides owners with real-time visibility into studio operations, including kiln-room firing and customer pickups. About 80% of the system had transitioned to KIN by September 1, with the remaining studios expected to make the switch by the end of September.
Financial performance is another focus. Color Me Mine has introduced a financial roll-up initiative that measures rent, labor and cost of goods sold against systemwide benchmarks, giving franchisees information they can use to identify potential efficiencies. Gorilla Dash includes Benchmarking tools that can similarly help franchise teams compare performance across locations and use operational data to inform business decisions.
The company’s expansion comes alongside evidence of continued franchisee investment. Color Me Mine reported a record studio resale of $737,000, while its 2025 average unit volume was $513,044. The company cautions that individual resale values vary by location and other factors, but the figures underscore its broader emphasis on building franchise value as the system moves through the second half of 2026.
Key Facts:
| 150th Studio Opening | Color Me Mine celebrated the opening of its 150th studio in Marietta, GA, marking the brand's first entry into Georgia. |
|---|---|
| New Franchise Agreements | In 2026, Color Me Mine signed seven new franchise agreements, highlighting increased demand. |
| KIN Technology Rollout | The proprietary KIN platform offers real-time operational visibility, enhancing pottery studio management. |
| Financial Benchmarking | New initiative tracks rent, labor, and cost of goods sold to help franchisees achieve cost efficiencies. |
| Merit-Based Expansion | Program facilitates streamlined growth for existing franchisees, boosting confidence and investment. |
| National Recognition | Teresa Johnson featured on Forbes’ 2026 50 Over 50 list, highlighting leadership success. |
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