Sun Tan City, one of the nation’s fastest-growing chains of privately owned tanning salons, announced today it has extended its footprint to 18 states with the acquisition of tanworld, a franchise-based model of tanning salons originating out of Sioux City, Iowa, and currently based out of Omaha, Nebraska.

Tanworld was founded in 1995 by Cheri Cosgrove who soon decided to focus on the franchise business model. Since then, the chain has grown to more than 60 salons in operation throughout 11 states primarily located in the central part of the U.S. Cosgrove started the salons with the notion that tanning should be a pleasant, convenient experience in top-notch beds.

“We are excited to have joined forces with Sun Tan City, because the core tenets of the two companies are very similar,” said Cosgrove. “We both want the best experience possible for the customer.”

Sun Tan City, based in Elizabethtown, Ky., operates more than 125 premier salons in eight states in the eastern part of the U.S. and provides the latest technology, knowledgeable staff, friendly service and a relaxing salon experience. The acquisition makes Sun Tan City the third-largest tanning salon chain in the U.S based on number of locations.

Rick Kueber, Co-Founder and CEO of Sun Tan City, is looking forward to the growth opportunity provided by acquiring tanworld. “Tanworld is the premier operator in that part of the country,” said Kueber, “and we can increase the geographic footprint of Sun Tan City with a company that aligns with Sun Tan City’s corporate culture. We think it is a great fit for both parties.” Kueber also said the company is working toward a seamless transition for all franchise owners: “As we move forward, the franchise owners will have the benefits of being part of a much larger organization.”

Curt Bowen, a tanworld franchise owner of 13 salons, agrees: “I’ve been so pleased with the support that tanworld always provided, and with the partnership of Sun Tan City, I’m confident we’ll all be successful in taking the company to the next level.”