Dear Readers,
Well, even with the spread of COVID Fear, my salons are doing very well (thankfully). Tanning sessions are up slightly, but revenue increases are in double digits. I’ll take it!
As IST publisher, I have the opportunity to speak with members of every industry sector on a regular basis. Although the pandemic has interrupted the supply chain and made it difficult for manufacturers to deliver timely – affecting distributors, in particular – I’m happy to report that in all my recent conversations, the news is good and everyone has had a robust season.
In the past, I always budgeted up to $1 million every several years to update tanning systems at my stores on a rotating basis. It has been several years since I have done so, but with my confidence growing that our industry’s immediate future will stay healthy, I will be making this investment in 2021.
It’s a good time to think about investing in, installing or implementing processes that improve, streamline and update your operations. Over the last few years, salon operator software has incorporated many amazing and valuable tech features that offer you enhanced control over your database and everyday transactions. You must already be using software – it’s a basic tool that is crucial to success. If you’re considering a change, it’s important to ask yourself, “how green is my salon?” and check out Melissa Damiani’s article on p.34.
Of course, we have many great articles that will help you work smarter. The importance of sunbed sanitation is still a key issue; Brenda Fishbaugh has a refresher. Lisa Saavedra offers proven sales promos to keep guests tanning through the summer. I like to run a Memorial Day-Labor Day special, with super-affordable unlimited tanning to keep traffic steady. It’s simple: more tanners = more $. And, check out David McFarland’s piece on how to “Capitalize on Generation S” with skincare sales. From the UK, Gary Lipman discusses our “UV Positive” future. Let’s get on board!
We publish many articles about effective leadership – if you’re a hands-on type of owner, it’s crucial. If you’re like me (not on the front lines) you need to make sure your team leaders know what it takes to do the job. For some tips on how NOT to lead.
Last June, as we began to emerge from the pandemic storm, I predicted a strong comeback for the tan biz. I hope you’re among those who are on track to make 2021 a good year, and IST will be right here with you.
