Dear Readers,
I know it’s a cliché, but WOW!
I hope the steamy temperatures have brought some customers to your stores for a “cooler” tan; but, many operators I’ve talked to had low numbers for the past several weeks of summer. I’ve gotten dirty looks over the years when I told people that I was hoping for rainy weekends … I guess the weather is one thing that’s out of our control.
Well, if your salons have been a little slow, you have some time to read the summary of the IBISWorld report on our industry; “Tanning Salons in the U.S., July 2011”. IBISWorld is the world’s largest independent publisher of U.S. industry research. Their analysts provide economic, demographic and government data covering 700 different market segments. Senior Analyst, Caitlin Moldvay, sums up her findings with this statement – “The burning issue: Revenue will grow despite increasing health concerns about UV tanning.” Caitlin has written us a summary of her report (pg. 90) and you can find the entire, in-depth version at istmagazine.com. Look for quarterly summaries of the report in future issues. Another exclusive … only in ist!
Also in this issue, a profile of lotion maker Devoted Creations – with Lewis Henry’s solid leadership, this company has great energy and a real passion for what they do. They’ve also come aboard as the top sponsor of our Sun is Life® program, which shows their commitment to quality education for our industry. In the “Industry Close-up” spot is Eye Pro President, Brenda Fishbaugh. Such a cool lady – she’s been a very close friend for many years – we share the “world travel bug” and a love of animals. I’m proud to have Eye Pro as a Bronze sponsor of our Sun is Life program. Brenda’s story is unique; be sure to check it out.
Consider this: the worst thing a customer says about your business can be the best thing for it. The way your team addresses service breakdowns is key to customer loyalty. The Cover Story, “From Breakdown to Breakthrough – Handling Customer Complaints ” includes input from a group of salon pros who represent more than 300 salons and nearly 50 years of combined experience, and were kind enough to share their expertise.
Of course, the key to happy customers is a well-trained staff! If you haven’t done so yet, I invite you to check out a free preview of our Sun is Life Training & Certification. I know you’ll like what you see! Since my last letter, four top industry companies stepped up to sponsor the program: Devoted Creations (Diamond Level), Four Seasons Sales & Service and Norvell Skin Solutions (Platinum) and Eye Pro (Bronze). I’m very grateful that like me, these forward thinkers realize the need to promote the right message and a professional image of the tanning business, as well as the crucial role of education and certification in our industry’s future.
Stay positive – and thanks for reading!
