Dear Readers,
As summer comes to an end, I hope you’ve all been able to take some time to enjoy it! But, as all tan biz veterans know, busy times are ahead and it’s now time to prepare for the upcoming season. You read that correctly, it’s NOW time to gather the tools necessary to effectively manage your salons and prepare them to thrive in the upcoming season. There is list of “must do” items that all salon owners must be aware of in order to succeed. For over 20 years, I’ve spoken to audiences at tanning trade events and it still amazes me how many times I asked a room of 500 salon owners if they had prepared their budgets for the following year and saw just a few hands go up.
Sun is Life®, with IST head writer John P. Ribner, will cover those “must do” items in an upcoming series of articles. We will also present our case for the importance of educating your team with Sun is Life Training and Certification.
It’s kind of cliché at this point, but succeeding in this business is all about working smarter. Our Cover Story “Summer Slip-Ups” looks at the importance of reinvesting in your business, especially during the slower months. Ribby talked with a group of salon operators – with a combined 110 years of experience – about some of their best summer plans and promotions.
This summer was a rough one for a close friend of mine and of many others in the tanning community – Max Recone lost his beloved dog, Isabella. For many years, she traveled the country with Max to salons and trade events and was such a sweet girl. We can probably all relate to their special relationship. We prepared a tribute to Isabella, and Ribby reached out to some of Max’s friends who shared fond memories of her. We appreciate their participation.
Salon pros also shared their most significant tradeshow experiences, as we ramp up for this year’s National Tanning Expo which returns to St. Louis, MO on October 17-19. Check out the story about the Expo on p. 74. It’s going to be a great show – tons of education, including Sun is Life Certification, as well as many opportunities to grow your business. If you haven’t yet booked your ticket, now is the time.
Now is also the time to cast your votes for the Industry Choice Awards! Show support for your favorite tan biz products and people – they truly appreciate it.
As always, this issue is packed with great input from our excellent group of contributing writers. There’s always something to learn in ist Magazine – we are YOUR industry resource.
Thanks for reading!
