AN INSIDER VIEW

1. AN INSIDER VIEW

2. Why Business Barometer?

6. How was business in the run-up to Christmas 2012 compared to the same time in 2011?

7. How was Christmas 2012 compared to Christmas 2011?

8. “We noticed that clients were using their debit rather than their credit cards – they were being much more cautious.” Anne Pillegi of Hairworks, Swindon

9. “The vibe from clients was that they were cutting down on gift buying – some were not even buying Christmas cards.” Beverley Bates of Ekko Hair, Banbury

10. How was business in January 2013 compared to January 2012?

11. “I think people are still nervous about committing and spending (unless there’s a sale), but we keep our client confidence by offering fantastic loyalty rewards and promotions. It’s all about how you treat your clients and give them luxury and care without extortionate pricing.” Lauren Turner of Spirit Hair Company, High Wycombe

12. “I had a strong talk with the team about re-booking, and said no one should let their client leave without booking another appointment, ideally six weeks later. We talked about incentives and commission, and now all the staff are really fired up. This has flipped January and made it positive and profitable.” Paul Knights, Paul Knights Hair Studio, Oulton, Leeds.

13. “Business in January and February was actually pretty good. Back in October 2012 we’d set up promotions and special offers that encouraged clients to book appointments during the first three months of 2013.” Victoria Stevens, Tops Salon, Melksham, Wiltshire

14. “We are advertising low-cost blow-drys with our apprentices – it gives our clients the opportunity for a really affordable treat, while giving vital experience to our younger team members. We don’t mind taking the hit now as we feel we’ll gain in the future. And we are very busy - doing a little bit more for a little bit less.” Paul Davies, Top to Toe, Wisbech

15. How did the following areas perform in February 2013?

16. The average client now visits the salon every 7 weeks and 5 days.

17. The average client now spends £37.59 on each visit to the salon.

18. FOCUS ON TRAINING 76% of salons have a structured training programme in place

19. FOCUS ON TRAINING Of those salons with a structured training programme in place, the programme is planned: In September – 20% In October – 40% In November – 20% In January – 20%

20. FOCUS ON TRAINING The person responsible for organising the salon training programme is: 76% Owner 24% Manager

21. FOCUS ON TRAINING On average, salons allocate 7% of their budget to training

22. FOCUS ON TRAINING 95% of salons use both the salon and external venues for training their staff 5% use the salon exclusively

23. FOCUS ON TRAINING 68% of salons use a mix of both internal and external training providers 16% use internal providers exclusively 16% use external providers exclusively

24. FOCUS ON TRAINING How often do you hold your training sessions? 65% – weekly 15% – fortnightly 10% – monthly 10% – quarterly

25. FOCUS ON TRAINING 95% of salons receive training from their product suppliers

26. FOCUS ON TRAINING 66% of salons have used online training resources

27. FOCUS ON TRAINING 95% of salons have one or more staff members working towards a NVQ qualification

30. Learn from award-winning salon owners Get free advice from PR and business experts Meet Andrew Barton, Carolyn Newman, Errol Douglas MBE, and more… 'Shoot for Success' in practical workshops Enjoy a hair show by the Trevor Sorbie art team Network with 100's of salon owners, just like you!

32. 28 – 29 April Park Plaza Riverbank, London