Entrepreneur Zhang Xiaoqiao has turned a simple act of scratching itches into a lucrative business in Shenzhen, China, generating 100,000 yuan monthly.
- 32-year-old Zhang Xiaoqiao launched 'Suma' brand in Shenzhen, China.
- Customers pay roughly 300 yuan (Rs 4,200) for a one-hour session.
- The business generates approximately 100,000 yuan (Rs 14 lakh) per month.
- Clientele consists of 70% men and 30% women.
While scratching an itch is typically a favor exchanged between friends or family, in Shenzhen, China, it has become a high-revenue professional service. Zhang Xiaoqiao, a 32-year-old entrepreneur, has successfully commercialized the simple act of back scratching through his brand, Suma.
Operating two outlets in the Baoan and Futian districts, Zhang offers specialized sessions where trained staff use custom-designed pointed nails to gently scratch specific areas requested by clients. A single one-hour session costs approximately 300 yuan (about Rs 4,200), providing a unique form of relaxation designed to combat stress and improve sleep quality.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that as urban stress levels rise in first-tier cities, unconventional wellness services are finding massive success. Zhang's business model capitalizes on the growing demand for sensory-based relaxation techniques that differ from traditional massage therapy.
The transition of a domestic comfort into a professional service highlights the immense potential of the modern niche wellness economy.
The inspiration for this venture came from a viral social media clip of a woman scratching her husband's back. Noticing the comments where users expressed a willingness to pay for such a service, Zhang decided to conduct deep research into human anatomy and specialized scratching techniques to ensure consistency and professionalism.
Historical Background
The concept of tactile stimulation for relaxation is not new, but formalizing it into a structured service is a modern phenomenon. Zhang combined his professional research with personal nostalgia, recalling the comfort his father provided by scratching his back during his childhood, which helped him sleep.
Currently, the business is highly profitable, with men making up 70% of the customer base and women 30%. Zhang is not stopping at two locations; he has ambitious plans to expand the Suma brand to 100 stores across China, aiming to transform this novelty into a mainstream wellness staple.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: How much does a session cost?
Answer: A one-hour session costs approximately 300 yuan, which is roughly Rs 4,200.
Question 2: Is the service popular among women?
Answer: Yes, while men make up 70% of the clientele, women account for 30% of the customers.