It always sounds cliché, but WOW! Another year has gone by, and we’re happy to celebrate another anniversary of producing our magazine!
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It was 23 years ago that we launched this publication in a tabloid, newsprint format. So much has happened in our industry since then – consolidation and attrition of tanning product makers and distributors – just seven years ago, our January Buyers Guide issue was over 300 pages! This year’s Buyers Guide is all digital: our effort to save a few trees. But, while many things have changed, others have stayed the same: as a salon operator for 39 years, I’ve always had a vested interest in the success of our industry. To that end, I’ve remained dedicated to creating a valuable resource for my fellow members of the tanning community. And, my team has done it with the help of our contributing writers – experts in their fields who share their knowledge each month – and, the advertisers who support our efforts. I’m grateful for their roles in IST’s success.
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As I write this, I’m looking forward to attending the Four Seasons National Tanning Expo in St. Charles, MO. It’s great to catch up with friends I’ve known for decades, and meet those who are new to the tan biz, as well. It’s energizing to see people who are still passionate and excited about our industry. Many salon operators registered for the Sun is Life® Training that was offered at the show, and I know they will be glad they invested in our top-notch education program. It’s a great time to get your team ready to kick butt for you in your stores this season! So affordable, too – see p. 55 for details and visit sunislife.com to check out how Sun is Life can improve your business.
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Of course, small business owners should be feeling optimistic … 2017 was the first in over six years that my entire salon chain was up in sales of both services and products. Also, it’s the first time in six years that my tanner numbers were up, chainwide. I won’t dive into politics here; however, every citizen and business owner should spend some time researching the new tax code. There are several provisions, on top of the lower corporate tax rate, that will be very important to your business growth. I’m feeling VERY hopeful for significant growth in 2018.
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On that note, let’s get busy and prepare for a great season!
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Thanks for reading,
[gap height=”15″]If there’s something you’d like to see in your IST, please email vince@istmagazine.com.
