ATS to Exit from Military Bases, Expansion into Off-Base Studios
September 22, 2025·By admin
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
American Tattoo Society Announces Staggered Exit from Military Bases, Expansion into Off-Base Studios, Laser Removal & Piercing Services, and Launch of New Conventions
FAYETTEVILLE, NC – September 22, 2025 – After nearly a decade as the first national tattoo brand to operate legally on U.S. military bases, American Tattoo Society (ATS) is announcing a strategic shift: a staggered exit from on-base locations and a major expansion into larger, full-service off-base studios with expanded services and new national conventions.
Since 2016, ATS has invested heavily in pioneering the military base model, building the framework that allowed tattoo studios to operate legally within the Department of Defense. While ATS proved the concept was possible, persistent issues such as unreliable HVAC, moisture control, and deferred maintenance at several facilities limited our ability to offer the consistent, high-end experience our brand is known for.
“Being first isn’t easy, but it proves what our team is capable of,” said Ryan Harrell, CEO and Co-Founder of ATS. “We poured years of work, capital, and leadership into this project, and in doing so we’ve established ATS as a market leader with unmatched experience. Now, the best way forward is clear: scaling off-base, where we control the environment, the customer experience, and the upside.”
On-Base Transition Timeline
FAYETTEVILLE, NC – September 22, 2025 – After nearly a decade as the first national tattoo brand to operate legally on U.S. military bases, American Tattoo Society (ATS) is announcing a strategic shift: a staggered exit from on-base locations and a major expansion into larger, full-service off-base studios with expanded services and new national conventions.
Since 2016, ATS has invested heavily in pioneering the military base model, building the framework that allowed tattoo studios to operate legally within the Department of Defense. While ATS proved the concept was possible, persistent issues such as unreliable HVAC, moisture control, and deferred maintenance at several facilities limited our ability to offer the consistent, high-end experience our brand is known for.
“Being first isn’t easy, but it proves what our team is capable of,” said Ryan Harrell, CEO and Co-Founder of ATS. “We poured years of work, capital, and leadership into this project, and in doing so we’ve established ATS as a market leader with unmatched experience. Now, the best way forward is clear: scaling off-base, where we control the environment, the customer experience, and the upside.”
On-Base Transition Timeline
- Nellis AFB and Fort Bragg (Liberty) by September 30, 2025
- Ft Irwin, Ft Benning (Moore), and Ft Drum by October 31, 2025
- Fort Bliss will remain operational
- 3,500 sq. ft. flagship studio near Ft Drum
- 4,500 sq. ft. buildout in Norfolk at gate to the port
- Additional development in progress near Ft Benning and Ft Bliss
- Five more expanded off-base locations to be announced by January 2026
- Elite tattooing from nationally recognized artists
- Professional body piercing
- Permanent makeup services
- Laser tattoo removal (where available)
- Retail, aftercare, and exclusive artist merchandise
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