No recession scars in beauty franchising

The beauty and wellness sectors are on the brink of a boom. Time and again, kind elders and considerate friends have reassured us that beauty is only skin-deep. Nevertheless, it continues to be a big concern. Higher paying jobs and increasing awareness of the western world and beauty trends there have served to change the tastes and customs of the middle-class and higher strata of the society, with the result that a woman from such social strata now is more conscious of her appearance and is willing to spend extra cash on enhancing it further. This actually has fuelled a growth in the salon industry and certain product categories in the market that hardly were experiencing it earlier. Till a few years back it used to be an out of ordinary situation for men visiting salons or parlours. But as per now number of branded salons has turned unisexual and many men’s salons have opened.

As per the growing beauty care demands an entrepreneur can opt for a specailised hair or beauty salon if he finds it too hectic to run a multipurpose parlour or can even branch out for new and better treatments and even spas if you want to venture out in something really big.

As far as beauty business is concerned it has not been touched by the economic slump but still being on the safer side an entrepreneur can consider that how can a franchised salon be better than a salon started from scratch! Firstly, the franchisor offers you a brand name which is already popular among the clients. Further franchising helps in salon designing, vendor selection, full management training, staff training and other small beginning problems. Taking a beauty franchise is especially beneficial for the home makers, who have a desire to make it big in life but due to family pressure could not do so. Not only the fairer sex but also men can do wonders in this business, a living example is Jawed Habib.

Shahnaz Husain, Chairperson, Shanaz Group of Companies explains, “Indians are spending much more on beauty and wellness than they did before. This is due to increasing awareness of fitness and grooming, global trends, work pressure, competitive work environment, as well as higher disposable incomes. There is a growing awareness that looking good is also a matter of feeling good.”

Most people visit a salon and hope to look and feel different when they come out. Therefore not only complete training to the beauticians is satisfactory but along with it an ability to make customers feel welcome and special are the most important characteristics that a salon should have. The franchisee should also keep up with the latest beauty trends, techniques and treatments to make the salon different from all other competitors. Along with it an eye for beauty is also necessary.  Husain informs, “The franchisee is required to complete our beauty diploma and Advanced Courses, in order to be trained in basic beauty, as well as our specialised treatments and products.” She further says, “Consumers today expect a high level of service and professionalism. Keeping this in mind our franchisees are required to have standardised interiors, equipment and a commitment to a positive customer experience.”

Considerations

Doubtless that the beauty franchise industry is very paying and popular but requires much contemplation to be successful. A franchisee has to make sure that the treatments or facilities introduced in the salon will be appreciated by the clientele of that town or city. He also has to choose the perfect location. The franchisors assist but a franchisee needs to do all the ground work himself as setting a beauty franchise requires a big investment. Service marketing is essential as no matter how good the location and treatments are, people will not turn up till they have been made aware of the outlet. Husain points out the criteria of running a successful franchise, “The franchisee is responsible for protecting, enhancing and promoting the name. In fact, the franchisee’s own success depends on it. Upholding the name and enhancing it, by following the highest standards, will actually lead in making the franchise business a profitable one. Building up a loyal clientele is also very important.”

Running a salon can be a tough job and franchisees should be prepared to learn and work long hours. But it is also a very rewarding and satisfying profession as it is you who can make others look and feel great!! Don’t you agree??