Sun on the Run | Vista, CA

Celebrating two decades in the tan biz this year, Sun on the Run Tanning is a family-owned business that has established a reputation for providing a top-notch guest experience and a diverse service menu. Co-owner Frank Ewing was very excited to be featured as a Salon of Distinction and share his success story.

IST: How did you get started in the tanning business?

Frank: When my partner Gary and I decided to become entrepreneurs, we originally thought of franchising a Subway sandwich shop or something similar. Then, we had a lightbulb moment: “Why not a tanning salon?” I’ve been a sun worshiper since I was a kid! Gary and I love the sun and were already tanners at a local salon – it just seemed like a better fit. I talked to the salon owner a little bit about us opening one on the other side of town. One thing led to another and we ended up buying the salon from her … 20 years later, here we are!

IST: What challenges have you faced as a salon owner?

Frank: Gosh, the biggest challenge would have to be employees. It’s hard to find competent, qualified and motivated people who we can expect to act and behave like an owner. When you find them, it’s important to make them feel valued and appreciated.

It’s also been a challenge just keeping up with the evolving industry over the last two decades. Back when we got started, it was all about the tan. We’ve had to re-invest and diversify.

IST: Have you changed your business model to attract new clientele?

Frank: Our service menu has definitely changed! We added a leg-tanner 15 years ago and it’s really popular. Some people travel to our salon just because of that option – only a couple of salons in San Diego have one.

We also added FIT Bodywrap over ten years ago. It’s a great way to burn calories, relax, rejuvenate, detox, relieve muscle aches and pains. We have so many weight loss success stories from using it!

About five years ago, we added red-light therapy and it’s been a real game-changer! Many guests will have red-light and UV sessions on the same day. Some combine red-light and a spray-tan session. So, it’s brought in a different type of clientele from when we first opened our facility. It’s become so popular that we will be adding a second red-light unit this year!

IST: What sets Sun on the Run apart from your competitors?

Frank: The biggest advantage we have is our level of customer service – our reviews speak for themselves. We have a five-star review rating across all platforms. It’s pretty easy when you just treat guests like they’re important and always take good care of them. We’re a family-owned business and our tanners become part of the Sun on the Run family. We will never be the fanciest salon around and that’s okay. Our goal is to provide consistent, top-notch service and give guests what they’re looking for.

IST: How would you describe the atmosphere at your salon?

Frank: Our salon is upbeat, fun and full of good energy! We have fun with it! We know our guests and call them by name – to us, they aren’t just a number. Many of them tell us we’re the best part of their day, and that makes our day, too! Sometimes, we feel like therapists; guests come in and tell us their life problems or just vent. After doing this for 20 years, we know so much about them.

IST: What was your biggest takeaway from the Sun is Life® Salon Operator Training?

Frank: Having ALL employees on the same page with factual information for teaching our guests about responsible UV exposure is so important. We want our guests to get the quickest and best tans possible, while always keeping responsible tanning practices in the forefront.

IST: What are your future goals for Sun on the Run Tanning?

Frank: Our tanner numbers have gone down over the past ten years; the biggest goal would be to increase the per customer revenue. Everything we do is to achieve that goal without sacrificing profit. So, we will work hard to sell guests on the other services we offer. The tanning industry continues to evolve. It’s still all about the tan, but also skin care and overall health. Looking good and feeling great are what it’s all about!

Thanks for sharing, Frank! Cheers to 20 more years!

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