When I sit down to write this letter each month, I typically want to express thoughts about both the past and the future. This comes naturally to me, as I will soon celebrate 38 years of making a living in this industry. So, needless to say, I have a vested interest in our survival; which is why I continue to publish IST, and take great pride in the content that we offer to thousands of salon operators and industry professionals in every issue. All of our knowledgeable contributors are very thoughtful about what they write in their columns each month. And believe me, even the most veteran tanning pro can always learn something new from others – myself included.
There are so many people in the tan biz who have dedicated decades to the industry, offering products and services to salon operators. September is the month when we ask you to vote for their companies in our annual Industry Choice Awards. The nominees and recipients of these awards always take a great deal of pride in them; please log on to istmagazine.com this month and vote for your favorite products and people! It shows your commitment to our industry and gives the winners the recognition they work so hard for in a very competitive arena.
Now more than ever, the key to rising above your competitors is running a professional facility. Our Salon of Distinction feature highlights operators who have chosen to train their teams with the Sun is Life® program. Those salons won’t have to pay hefty fines for making illegal health claims about tanning, but will have a reputation of professionalism among their customers and in their communities. It’s so easy to do – I encourage you to check it out at sunislife.com and invest in your future TODAY.
The future of our business could be significantly affected by upcoming governmental activity with regard to increased regulation. I hope you stay on top of the status of these important issues! Each issue of IST has an update from our industry’s leading trade association, written by ITA Executive Director, John Overstreet. And, you can visit theita.com for the most current info. The best way is to be connected to the Indoor Tanning Association as a member – if you haven’t joined the ITA (yes, I’m still beating that drum), NOW is the time for you to get on board, support your industry organization and help protect YOUR business.
Thanks for reading.
