Dear Readers,
By the time you read this, I will have just returned from the ITA’s Tanning World Expo in Columbus, OH; I hope you were able to attend and found it a valuable experience. There’s always something to learn. I’m always energized by seeing new products and new people entering the industry, as well as re-connecting with people I’ve known for decades.
Quality education was the focus of the TWE, and I was proud that the ITA chose to feature our Sun is Life® Training & Certification. Over 30 years of experience went into developing the program, and salon operators all over the country are benefitting from the enhanced level of professionalism they achieve after completing the course. There’s no better time to get your team ready for busy season with increased knowledge and confidence. Sun is Life is available online 24/7! Visit sunislifetraining.com, check it out, and join the growing trend of salons that now have certified staff behind their counters.
November starts the ramp-up to busy season, and it’s exciting to see the products introduced. As always, you get a first look in IST Magazine! Your favorite lotion makers are advertising their latest creations in this issue, after spending millions to develop new formulas and packaging that will excite your salon guests and invigorate your cash drawer. At my salons, 26% of sales are from tanning and skin care products; if you’re not generating at least 25% from product sales, you could be doing better at running your business. Take advantage of sales training offered by lotion makers – they spend a great deal of money sending educators to salons to help their teams become more effective salespeople. In addition, many product distributors support and offer quality education; you should support them, as well.
Distributors are in the spotlight this month; they can play a vital role in your business, not only supplying you with products and equipment, but also with training and education at their regional events. In our feature “Salon Pros Say…”, tanning veterans offer their thoughts about what makes a good distributor. As always, look to IST for business articles and columns written by seasoned and knowledgeable tanning professionals.
Finally, thanks to all who voted in our Industry Choice Awards … look for the list of Nominees in our November issue!
Thanks for Reading!
