Massage Envy Spa is the largest system of franchised massage clinics in the industry, with nearly 900 locations operating in 48 states – but none in New York City, until now. Its first will be located in the Stuyvesant /Gramercy area, and is scheduled to open early 2014.

Franchisee John N. Vatistas, who is from Staten Island, has signed a lease for a 3,400 sq. ft. location at 312 East 23rd St., between 1st and 2nd avenues. It will employ approximately 20 to 25 massage therapists.

“We’ve been looking to expand into New York City for quite some time — and finally found the right location and the right franchisee to make it happen,” said Lori Merrall, Massage Envy Spa’s national director of franchise sales.

Over the next several years, Massage Envy Spa is seeking to expand across the country, and is looking for qualified franchisee candidates.