Dear Readers,
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There’s been a lot going on in our industry recently – from my conversations with many other tanning business owners, both large and small, it looks like we’ve got a great year ahead.
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One reason for my optimism: tax reform! Both the Senate and House bills include changes that would be favorable for small business, such as lower taxes and the expansion of Section 179 for accelerated depreciation, to name a few. These types of reform can help you buy new equipment and update your facility! I’ve already started investing in updates at my stores and will be buying new equipment in 2018. I’ve spent some time reaching out to my friends in Congress, and most are confident that we will see the Affordable Care Act repealed and the Tan Tax eliminated. If the last year has showed us anything, it’s that we have an administration focused on helping small businesses grow by eliminating unnecessary regulation and taxation, and achieving favorable tax reform. Let’s get ready to make our industry great again!
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Another thing that will help your business thrive this year: a well-trained team of employees who can provide your salon guests with a professional tanning experience. Investing in training and education reduces staff turnover and creates customer loyalty. The award-winning Sun is Life® Training & Certification Program will be offered at the Four Seasons National Tanning Expo in St. Charles, MO on January 19, because they believe in the value of our training program. If you’re attending the show – always a great event – be sure to get registered for the Sun is Life session (visit nationaltanningexpo.com for details.) And, you can also access this training online 24/7-365! Visit sunislife.com/99 for info about training your entire team for $99 – they’ll thank you for it.
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In other news, the annual IST Buyers Guide has gone green! Much has changed since we started the special issue a couple of decades ago; when it comes to offering a comprehensive product resource, digital is the way to go. The BG has been included in the digital version of the January issue for several years, as well as printed. This year, we’re saving a whole bunch of trees – and feeling pretty good about it!
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In closing, I have to say that 2017 was the best year my salons have had in the last seven, and that can be credited to the pro-business environment the Trump Administration is creating in our country. Make the most of it – IST is here to help.
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Best wishes for a profitable 2018!
