starting a salon business plan

Free Hair and Beauty Salon Sample Business Plan PDF

Elon Glucklich

6 min. read

Updated February 7, 2024

Looking for a free,  downloadable hair and beauty salon sample business plan Word doc  or  PDF  to help you create a business plan of your own? Bplans has you covered.

Keep in mind that you don’t need to find a sample business plan that exactly matches your business. Whether you’re launching an upscale, full-service salon in a bustling city or a neighborhood barbershop, the details will be different, but the bones of the plan will be the same.

Are you writing a business plan for your salon because you’re seeking a loan? Is your primary concern building a clear roadmap for growth? Either way, you’re going to want to edit and customize it so it fits your particular company.

No two salons are alike. Your business model will be different if you’re renting space to independent hairstylists, rather than taking on employees, for example. So take the time to create your own financial forecasts and do enough market research so you have a solid plan for success.

• What should you include in a hair and beauty salon business plan?

Your hair and beauty salon business plan doesn’t need to be hundreds of pages—keep it as short and concise as you can. You’ll probably want to include each of these sections:

• Executive summary
• Company summary and funding needs
• Products and services
• Marketing plan
• Management team
• Financial plan

One of the things that makes a salon business plan different from some service-based business plans is that you might decide to offer a combination of products and services.

Maybe you’ll sell shampoo, beard oil, or other cosmetics and beauty products, in addition to offering services like haircuts, manicures, or massages. If that’s the case, make sure you include your ideas for upselling products to customers to increase the value of every appointment you book.

Here’s an example of a salon business plan outline.

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• The 7 elements of an effective hair and beauty salon business plan

1. Executive Summary

The  executive summary  provides a high-level overview of your business plan. It should outline the objectives of your hair and beauty salon, such as to offer high-quality services, to expand the client base, or to break into a new market.

Your salon’s mission statement should describe its purpose and what sets it apart from competitors. For example, you may aim to offer a personalized experience for each customer or provide eco-friendly hair and beauty services.

The keys to success are the factors that will help your salon thrive. These may include a prime location, hiring experienced staff, excellent customer service, or a unique product and service range.

2. Company Summary and Funding Needs

The company summary offers a detailed overview of your salon, including its legal structure , location, and history. Also, it highlights your salon’s funding needs if you are seeking financial support.

Clearly state how much funding you need, what you will use it for, and how it will benefit the salon. For instance, you may need funds to renovate the premises, purchase equipment, or boost marketing efforts.

3. Salon Products and Services

This section should detail the products and services your hair or beauty salon will offer. These may include haircuts, hair treatments, manicures, pedicures, massages, and beauty treatments.

If you plan to retail beauty products such as shampoos, conditioners, or skin care items, include this information too. Highlight any unique services or products that differentiate your salon from competitors.

4. Salon Marketing Plan and Analysis

Your marketing plan should outline the strategies you will use to attract and retain customers. These strategies might include social media advertising, loyalty programs, partnerships with local businesses, and special promotions.

Additionally, you should conduct a thorough market analysis. Understand your target customers, their preferences, and their spending habits. Identify your competitors, their strengths and weaknesses, and how you can differentiate your salon.

5. Salon Management Team

The management team section provides information about the salon’s key personnel. This could include the salon owner, managers, stylists, beauticians, and other staff members. Highlight their roles, responsibilities, qualifications, and experience.

If you plan to rent chairs to independent stylists rather than hiring employees, describe how this arrangement will work and the advantages it offers for your business.

6. Financial Plan and Forecasts

Your financial plan should present detailed financial projections, including revenue, costs, and profitability. Include a cash flow statement, income statement, and balance sheet. This section should clearly demonstrate the salon’s potential profitability and financial viability.

Also, outline your pricing strategy. How have you priced your services and products, and how do these prices compare with competitors? What are your wage costs, and how will they affect your profitability?

7. Appendix

The appendix includes any additional supporting documents that complement your business plan. This might be market research data, lease agreements, employee contracts, or licensing and permit documents.

While not always necessary, the appendix can provide valuable context and proof to support your business plan’s content.

• Crafting a Successful Salon Business Plan: Key Considerations

Understanding your target clientele’s needs is crucial to writing a hair or beauty salon business plan that you can put into action. To ensure your business plan is the foundation of a growing operation rather than just checking boxes, ask yourself whether you’re taking these considerations into account.

1. Comprehensive Services Offering

In the beauty industry, customer preferences vary significantly, and staying versatile in your offerings can help cater to a broader clientele. Include a wide range of services that cater to different demographics. You may also consider offering unique or specialized services that distinguish your salon from others.

2. Pricing Strategy

Pricing can make or break your salon. Competitive pricing attracts customers, but your pricing should also cover your costs and ensure profitability. Effective market research can help you understand the average cost of services in your area, which you can use to set your prices competitively.

3. Salon Atmosphere

The ambiance of a salon plays a significant role in attracting and retaining customers. Consider factors like décor, cleanliness, and customer service when planning your salon.

4. Staff Training and Expertise

Quality service is crucial in the hair and beauty industry since word-of-mouth exposure from existing clients is a major driver of new business. Investing in ongoing staff training ensures that your team stays updated with the latest trends, techniques, and customer service skills.

5. Digital Presence

Although word of mouth is one business driver, many of today’s customers research online before visiting a salon. Having a strong online presence, including a well-designed website, effective search engine optimization and active social media accounts, can significantly boost your business.

• Download your free hair and beauty salon sample business plan PDF

Download this  hair and beauty salon sample business plan PDF  for free right now, or visit Bplans’ gallery of more than  550 sample business plans  if you’re looking for more options.

There are  plenty of reasons  salon business owners can benefit from  writing a business plan —you’ll need one if you’re seeking a loan or investment.

Even if you’re not seeking funding, the process of thinking through every aspect of your business will help you make sure you’re not overlooking anything critical as you grow.

Elon is a marketing specialist at Palo Alto Software, working with consultants, accountants, business instructors and others who use LivePlan at scale. He has a bachelor's degree in journalism and an MBA from the University of Oregon.

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How to Write the Perfect Salon Business Plan in 6 Steps

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As a salon owner, having a well-thought-out business plan is essential to the success of your business. A salon business plan outlines your business goals, market analysis, marketing strategies, financial projections, and other key details, serving as a roadmap that guides you through the process of starting, running, and growing your salon. In this article, we’ll go over the key elements of a salon business plan and provide tips on how to write the best business plan for salons in 2023.

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How much does it cost to run a salon .

Before you start writing a salon business plan, it’s important to get an idea of the startup and ongoing costs. As we discuss in this article , the costs of starting a salon range from $62,000 for an existing salon to $90,000 for a new operation. With some of the expenses, you’ll incur one-time costs – other expenses will be ongoing such as supplies and inventory. Here are some of the typical costs associated with starting a salon: 

Existing Salon 

When you buy an existing salon, be it a hair salon or nail salon, you save on the costs of buildout, salon equipment , and salon marketing, assuming the salon already has some of these elements in place. Here’s what you can expect to pay for the following:

• Rent deposit: $4,500
• Buyout of current salon: $10,500
• Leasehold improvements: $15,000
• Equipment: $10,000
• Initial supplies: $8,000
• Initial inventory: $4,000
• Certifications and licenses: $4,000
• Marketing: $5,000
• Legal or consulting fees: $1,000

Grand total: $62,000

The upfront costs of building out a brand-new salon, marketing it to local clients, and getting the business up and running will likely exceed those of buying an existing salon. Here are the typical expenses you can expect to incur for a new salon:

• Buyout of current salon: $0
• Leasehold improvements: $35,000
• Equipment: $25,000
• Marketing: $8,000

Grand total: $89,500

You may also want to budget for the following:

• If you need a loan or financing to cover startup costs, expect to pay interest rates of 1.25% to 10%.
• Salon insurance ranges from $50 to $1,000 per month.
• Salon booking software and a point of sale (POS) system range from free to $500 per month. GlossGenius starts at an industry-low $24 per month with low payment processing fees and includes a website, a branded card reader, and other extras.
• A salon website can cost you thousands, but with GlossGenius, it’s included free! Beautiful and customizable, your website is packed with scheduling features and is easy to navigate, helping to increase bookings and future appointments.

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How Profitable Is Owning a Salon?

If you owned a salon during the pandemic, no doubt you experienced your fair share of struggles between lockdowns, closures, and reduced business hours. According to Statista , the U.S. market size of beauty salons dropped from $69 billion in 2019 to $42.3 billion in 2020. Fortunately, things are beginning to look up for hair, skin, nail, and other types of salons, with the market valued at $53.6 billion as of 2022.

You can take advantage of the comeback by approaching your salon startup with a solid plan in place, a realistic budget, and a marketing strategy. A beauty salon business plan can help you identify any questions , opportunities, and potential roadblocks so you can have the best chances of getting funding, earning a return on your investment and achieving profitability. The more you control your expenses and market your business successfully, the more profitable you will be – so be sure to take your time creating a salon business plan for your needs.

6 Steps to Writing a Hair Salon Business Plan

The business plan is the most important document for any salon owner. It’s a formal, written plan that describes the future of your business and how you intend to achieve it. A good business plan will help you stay on track, get funding if you need it, and avoid costly mistakes as you navigate through choppy waters in this industry. 

We know what you’re thinking – that a business plan is a monster of a document that will take a ton of time to create. But, it doesn’t have to be. In fact, you can pare it down to one page and still have an effective, clear document that outlines everything you (and any other interested parties) need to know about your new salon. Below are six steps to writing a salon business plan that will ensure your success.

Here are six steps to creating your salon business plan:

• Create an Executive Summary
• Map Out Your Branding Vision
• Research Your Industry
• Create a Client Acquisition Strategy
• Management and Operations
• Financial Planning

Let's dive deeper into each one.

1. Create an Executive Summary

The executive summary is the first section of your business and management plan and provides a brief overview of your salon business. This section should include your mission statement , business objectives, target market, products and beauty services, and financial projections. It should be concise, engaging, and compelling to grab the attention of potential investors, lenders, or partners. It also serves to clarify your goals so you can come back to them anytime you need a refresher or wish to update this information.

Your executive summary is just that: a summary. This means you do not have to get into every detail in this section; you’ll provide a more complete analysis in the individual sections of your business plan. Here are some key elements to include in the executive summary:

• An opening “hook.” The first sentence or two of your executive summary needs to draw in the reader; otherwise, your business plan might not get the attention it deserves. Grab your audience’s attention by sharing a compelling fact about your company, a memorable story related to your industry, or some other well-crafted description of your business that will make your business plan stand out.
• Summary of your business. Describe what your company does, what services and products you will offer, who will run the company, and other high-level details.
• Market analysis. Briefly describe the market landscape for your own salon to show there is a proven need for your services. Be sure to address who your competitors are, any advantages you have compared with others, and any research you’ve conducted to demonstrate there is a demand for your services in the area. 
• Products and services. Highlight the specific services your salon will offer, any products you will sell, and any other information showing that your salon will fill the need you’ve described in your market analysis summary – and how you’ll do it better than the competition.
• Financial information and projections. Give your reader an overview of your business financials, including any current sales and profits, the funding amount you’re looking to acquire or any funding you already have, and your projections for growth.
• Future plans. Tell your reader exactly how you plan to use any funds you acquire and how their investment could pay off. Imagine where you want your business to be in a year, five years, and so on. Make it clear how funding will help you get there.

2. Map Out Your Branding Vision

Branding isn’t just about creating a unique identity for your business; it’s also about helping people connect with that identity and remember your name anytime they need your services. Branding helps both current clients and new customers recognize who you are and why they would want to seek out your salon. In your business plan, be sure to map out your branding vision by including:

• A description of your salon business. Describe who you are and what you do.
• Your mission and vision statement. Briefly summarize why your salon should exist, its primary objective, and how you plan to achieve your goals.
• An overview of your products and services, your pricing strategy, and any unique features or benefits that differentiate your salon from others in the market. Discuss the specific services you will offer and their price points, plus any product lines you will carry, such as hair care products, makeup, or skincare.
• A description of the target audience and customer demographics. Include relevant research on your market and the people who will buy what you’re offering.

3. Research Your Industry

This section should include a market analysis that provides an in-depth look at the salon industry, including trends, customer demographics, competition, and opportunities. It should also identify your target market and describe how you plan to reach them. This section should demonstrate your knowledge of the market and your ability to capitalize on it, with details on:

• The industry and trends. Provide an overview of the salon industry with relevant statistics, especially those that pertain to your area of expertise and geographic location.
• Your competition. Conduct a competitive analysis to gain insights into your competition, their marketing strategies, and the services and products they offer. The goal is to show how you will capture market share using stronger business strategies that set you apart from your competitors.
• Market segmentation. With market segmentation , you break down a larger target market into a smaller group of customers you plan to serve. Demographics such as age and income, geographic location, lifestyles or psychographics, and behavioral factors like price sensitivity or product loyalty are just a few approaches to market segmentation that you can consider for your business plan.
• SWOT analysis. The SWOT analysis is a way to assess your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. It's an effective method for identifying your business strengths and weaknesses as well as external factors that may affect the success of your salon business.

4. Create a Client Acquisition Strategy

The client acquisition section of your salon business plan should describe how you plan to attract and retain customers as a hairstylist . It should outline your advertising and promotional strategies, such as social media marketing , SMS marketing , email marketing, and referral programs. This section should also discuss your sales strategy, including how you plan to increase sales and generate revenue.

• Description of marketing channels and tactics . Outline the different channels you will use to generate leads, such as social media, blog articles, emails, and text messages. 
• Sales forecasting and projections. Discuss how you will convert leads into clients, nurture them through the pipeline, and retain a loyal clientele. Include a realistic estimate of the quantity of goods and services you can sell within the forecast period (for example, monthly, quarterly, and annually). For a salon business, it’s helpful to determine the customer lifetime value of your typical client as well as the customer acquisition cost. You can then break down this number for the forecast period to determine the costs and sales projections.
• Customer acquisition and retention strategies. Include which strategies you will use and the associated costs, such as pay-per-click (PPC), search engine optimization (SEO), and paid ads on social media. Describe how you will retain customers – for example, through loyalty programs and responses to feedback and reviews on social media and Google. ‍
• Pricing strategy. It’s critical that you price your services and products competitively to drive revenue and profits. Detail the pricing strategy you plan to implement based on your buyer persona and competitive analysis. The strategy could be based on a variety of factors, but geographic location and local competition will likely be the biggest factors dictating your salon pricing strategy.

5. Management and Operations

The management and staffing section of your salon business plan should describe the organizational structure of your salon, including the roles and responsibilities of each staff member. It should also discuss your hiring and training practices, employee benefits , and compensation plans. This section should demonstrate your ability to attract and retain a skilled and motivated team, with information on your:

• Organizational structure. Spell out who runs the show and who reports to whom.
• Management team and staff. If you plan to hire a manager , look for someone who has experience in the industry and understands what it takes to run a salon. This person should also have good people skills and be able to work well with others.
• Business operations and processes. Consider which other support personnel you will need, such as an accountant and a dedicated marketing specialist. Don’t be a hero; you can’t do it all alone. ‍
• Legal and regulatory requirements. Include information on any legal advice you will employ to stay compliant with local, state, and federal guidelines.

Note that with GlossGenius, you can manage your team and collaborate with them to make your operations run more smoothly. Our software helps you delegate, mentor, and partner with others based on customizable permissions that let you grant as much or as little access as you wish. Easily manage your scheduling, booking, commissions, and reporting from one intuitive dashboard.

6. Financial Planning

Financial planning is a crucial section to include in any salon business plan. A cash flow forecast shows the anticipated amount of money coming into the business, as well as what you will spend on expenses. It also projects growth over time, which allows you to make predictions about future revenue and expenses so that you can better plan for them in advance.

The best way to get started with your financial projections is by creating an income statement (also called a profit and loss statement), which breaks down all income sources by category (e.g., retail sales and commissions), along with their associated costs (e.g., salaries). This will help provide insight into where your profits are coming from as well as areas where they could improve. Here are some key areas to cover in your salon business and marketing plan:

• Revenue and expense projections. Your revenue projections should consider the number of clients you expect to serve, as well as the average price per service. Your expense projections should reflect all costs associated with running your salon, such as utilities, rent, and supplies.
• Capital requirements and funding sources. Detail how much money you need to start and run your small business, including all costs associated with opening the salon. Describe the funding sources that you intend to use for starting your salon business, whether from personal funds, salon loans , or investors.
• Break-even analysis and profitability projections. A break-even analysis is a financial tool that shows how much revenue you need in order to cover your fixed costs (rent, utilities, etc.) and variable costs (such as salons supplies and staff wages). Profitability projections show how much profit you expect from your salon business for each year of operation. This is based on your estimates of revenue and expenses. You can use this information when seeking funding from investors or lenders.
• Financial ratios and metrics. A financial ratio is a measurement of the relationship between two numbers, usually expressed as a percentage or a fraction. For example, the working capital ratio compares your current assets to liabilities; this metric allows you to measure liquidity. Include the appropriate ratios and metrics in your business to demonstrate your company’s financial health.

A well-written salon business plan is essential for the success of your business. It provides a roadmap for achieving your business goals, attracting investors, and securing funding. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can write the best business plan for your salon and ensure your salon’s success!

As you’re creating your salon business plan, remember to start your free trial with GlossGenius and give yourself the best chances for success. From salon management to payment processing, we’ve got your new salon covered – making it easier to get up and running sooner rather than later.

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Home >> #realtalk Blog >> Manage a business >> How To Write a Salon…

How To Write a Salon Business Plan

By Homebase Team

So you’re thinking of opening a salon business—congrats! Gearing up to owning your own business is a huge step.

But if you’ve never owned a salon before or are simply looking to give your existing business a refresh, you’re probably thinking, “Where do I even start?”  Well, the first step is to write a salon business plan.

What is a business plan for a salon?

A salon business plan is a written document that covers your business goals and how you’re going to reach them.

Every business plan looks different. But for a salon, your business plan will likely include details like who your target customer is, where your salon is going to be located , what salon services you’ll offer, and more. 

Why you need a business plan for your salon

As a salon owner, the thought of writing a detailed business plan might immediately put your stomach in knots. But we promise that the time and effort you take to put a business plan together for your salon will pay off in spades.

Here are some reasons why you should have a business plan for your salon.

To prove your salon business is a good—and profitable—idea

As entrepreneurs, we often have a million great ideas.  But a new business is a big commitment and investment.

Your decision to launch a salon is most likely a great one. But a business plan doubles as a gut check to make sure that you have a solid plan in place. This way, you can open your salon doors with confidence knowing that you’re almost guaranteed to be a success.

To help you reach your short and long-term salon goals

What are your business goals? What steps do you need to take to reach them? How long will it take to reach those goals?

A well-written business plan answers these questions and more. It’s essentially a roadmap that answers all and helps outline how you’ll reach your business goals. Then as you open and grow your business, you can look back and make sure you’re on track!

To help you get funding (and other loans)

Banks and investors often want to see a business plan before they provide you with funding. Having a business plan shows that you’ve done your research, have a plan in place, and that you’re less likely to be a risk.

Even if you don’t need a loan or an investment, financial products like credit cards can be hard to come by if you don’t have a business plan.

To determine your revenue and labor costs

Salons often need multiple stylists and administrative staff. Depending on your goals and the size of your salon business, a business plan can help you determine how many employees you need to hire and train to serve your customers.

Without forecasting your labor costs, you can find yourself with too many customers and not enough workers—or vice versa.

Things to consider before you start writing a business plan for your salon

Before you can start writing your business plan, it’s time to do a bit of brainstorming and research. There are some key questions you’ll want to ask yourself before you start putting pen to paper.

• Where will your salon be located?
• What experience do you have that will help you grow your business?
• Are there similar salons in your area?
• Is there something that will make your business stand out from other salons?

Once you’ve spent some time thinking about these factors, it’s time to get writing.

How to write a salon business plan in 7 steps

Here’s a simple step-by-step breakdown of how to write a business plan and the important tidbits you need to know as you get started.

1. Executive summary

The first thing anyone will read in your business plan is the executive summary. Think of it like an elevator pitch. It’s a brief summary that covers all the most important details so the reader wants to learn more about your business.

As a general rule, your executive summary should cover:

• A short overview of your business venture
• Your salon mission or vision
• Your short and long-term business goals
• Highlights around why \ your salon will be successful

2. Company overview and description

This section should be an overview of your company and what makes it unique. Who are you? What do you do? Why do you do it?

Don’t be afraid to dive into your background and the circumstances that led to you wanting to start your salon business. This is your opportunity to tell your story and share what makes you and your business special as an entrepreneur.                                                                                                                     

3. Market analysis

There are almost a million salons in the US—and that only covers hair salons. The thing about salons is that they can be similar and still be successful. But it’s important to understand how your particular salon will stack up. A market analysis looks at all the competing salons in your region—and beyond—to help you understand your positioning in the market. This then influences everything from your pricing strategy, your service offering, or even your location. 

For example, in your market analysis, you might find that you fall into the category of a premium salon, which means you’ll need to target a more affluent market. Or you might find yourself looking in an oversaturated area, so you’ll want to choose a location with less competition.

4. Salon business offerings

Not all salons are alike. For example, your salon may specialize in blowouts. Or you may have a full-service nail salon. 

Before you open, you should have a clear understanding of the services and products that your salon business might offer. Think of this section of your business plan as a menu of services that your potential customers can choose from.

5. Salon operations and management

This is where you’ll talk about the operational side of your business. Some things to think about around salon management might include:

• Will you rent out chairs to stylists or will you hire them as employees? 
• What will your business hours look like?
• How will you schedule salon appointments ?
• What overhead costs will you have?
• What salon management software will you use?

6. Marketing and public relations (PR) strategies

As much as we wish customers would appear out of thin air, for the most part, you need to drum up excitement for your business. That’s marketing. 

In the marketing section of your business plan, you’ll want to Include details such as your brand messaging, how you’ll reach potential customers, and what marketing and PR investments you plan to make.

7. Financial projections

Calculating your financials isn’t the most glamorous part of owning a salon business, but it’s one of the most important.

When writing a business plan, you need to review your short- and long-term financial projections. This is essentially an estimate of how much money you expect to spend and make over the course of the next few years. 

The goal is to show that you’ll have a profitable business. And if not, it allows you to tweak your business strategy so you can create a financial plan that you feel comfortable with.

Free salon business plan template

Need some help getting started? 

We’ve put together a free template that covers all the basics. Use this as a starting point, so you know that your business plan is comprehensive and includes everything you need ahead of opening day.

Download your free salon business plan template here.

Business tools as sharp as your shearing scissors

Once you have a salon business plan, it’s time to make a plan for hiring and managing your employees. Homebase is the all-in-one employee management tool loved by 100,000 + salons and small businesses. 

With Homebase, you can:

• Schedule employees for your salon in just a few clicks.
• Track employee hours and run payroll from one app.
• Stay on top of employee compliance and labor laws with expert HR guidance.

Salon business plan FAQs

Why should you create a business plan for your salon even if you aren’t looking for financing.

A business plan is more than just a document to help you secure financing for your salon business. It can help you organize your business strategy and outline the steps needed to reach your business goals.

What is the best way to create your salon business plan?

The best way to create your salon business plan is by following these steps:

• Write an effective executive summary.
• Create a company overview and description.
• Conduct a thorough market analysis.
• Outline your services and business offerings.
• Decide how you want to manage your salon business.
• Make a plan for marketing your business.
• Put together your financial projections.

You can also use our free salon business plan template to get started.

Remember:  This is not legal advice. If you have questions about your particular situation, please consult a lawyer, CPA, or other appropriate professional advisor or agency.

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How to Start a Salon Business

Starting your own salon business is a great way to make money and control your destiny. This article covers how to start a salon step by step, including what you need to do before opening your doors for business so that when the day comes, you’ll be able to jump right into making money.

This article covers how to start a salon step by step, including what you need to do before opening your doors for business so that when the day comes, you’ll be able to jump right into making money.

Importantly, a critical step in starting a salon is to complete your business plan. To help you out, you should download Growthink’s Ultimate Salon Business Plan Template here .

Download our Ultimate Salon Business Plan Template here

15 Steps To Start a Salon Business:

• Choose the Name for Your Salon Business
• Determine the Type of Salon Business You Will Launch
• Develop Your Salon Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Salon Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Salon Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Salon Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Salon Business
• Buy or Lease the Right Salon Business Equipment
• Develop Your Salon Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Salon Business
• Open for Business

1. Choose the Name for Your Salon Business

The first step to starting a salon is to choose your business’ name.

This is a very important choice since your company name is your brand and will last for the lifetime of your business. Ideally you choose a name that is meaningful and memorable. Here are some tips for choosing a name for your salon:

• Make sure the name is available: Check your desired name against trademark databases and your state’s list of registered business names to see if it’s available. Also check to see if a suitable domain name is available.
• Keep it simple: The best names are usually ones that are easy to remember, pronounce and spell.
• Think about marketing: Come up with a name that reflects the desired brand and/or focus of your salon business.

2. Determine the Type of Salon Business You Will Launch

The next step is to determine the type of salon business you will launch. The four main types of salon businesses are:

• Hair Salon : : A hair salon primarily focuses on providing a range of hair-related services such as haircuts, hairstyling, hair coloring, hair extensions, and treatments. Hair salons cater to both men and women and may offer additional services like scalp treatments, blowouts, and specialized haircare products.
• Nail Salon : A nail salon specializes in nail care services, including manicures, pedicures, nail art, acrylic or gel nail enhancements, and nail treatments. These salons often offer a variety of nail polish colors, designs, and techniques to enhance the appearance and health of clients’ nails.
• Spa Salon : A spa salon offers a broader range of services, including skincare treatments, massages, body treatments, facials, and relaxation therapies. These salons aim to provide a holistic experience focused on relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall well-being.
• Beauty Salon: A beauty salon is a comprehensive establishment that offers a combination of various beauty services. In addition to hair and nail care, a beauty salon may provide services such as makeup application, waxing, eyebrow and eyelash treatments, and skincare. Beauty salons aim to provide clients with a complete range of beauty enhancement options.

3. Develop Your Salon Business Plan

One of the most important steps in starting a salon business is to write a salon business plan . The process of creating your plan ensures that you fully understand your market and your business strategy. The plan also provides you with a roadmap to follow and if needed, to present to funding sources to raise capital for your business.

To enhance your planning process, incorporating insights from a  sample salon business plan  can be beneficial. This can provide you with a clearer perspective on industry standards and effective strategies, helping to solidify your own business approach.

Your business plan should include the following sections:

• Executive Summary: This section should summarize your entire business plan so readers can quickly understand the key details of your salon business.
• Company Overview: This section provides the reader with information about the background of your salon business and the specific type of salon services you offer. For instance, do you specialize in hair salon services, nail salon services, spa and relaxation treatments, or a comprehensive range of beauty services.
• Industry Analysis: Here you will document key information about the salon industry. Conduct market research and document how big the industry is and what trends are affecting it.
• Customer Analysis: In this section, you will document who your ideal or target customers are and their demographics. For example, how old are they? Where do they live? What do they find important when purchasing the services like the ones you will offer?
• Competitive Analysis: Here you will document the key direct and indirect competitors you will face and how you will build competitive advantage.
• Marketing Plan: Your marketing plan should address the 4Ps: Product, Price, Promotions and Place.
• Product : Determine and document what products/services you will offer 
• Prices : Document the prices of your products/services
• Place : Where will your business be located and how will that location help you increase sales?
• Promotions : What promotional methods will you use to attract customers to your salon business? For example, you might decide to use pay-per-click advertising, public relations, search engine optimization and/or social media marketing.
• Operations Plan: Here you will determine the key processes you will need to run your day-to-day operations. You will also determine your staffing needs. Finally, in this section of your plan, you will create a projected growth timeline showing the milestones you hope to achieve in the coming years.
• Management Team: This section details the background of your company’s management team.
• Financial Plan: Finally, the financial plan answers questions including the following:
• What startup costs will you incur?
• How will your salon business make money?
• What are your projected sales and expenses for the next five years?
• Do you need to raise funding to launch your business?

4. Choose the Legal Structure for Your Salon Business

Next you need to choose a legal structure for your salon business and register it and your business name with the Secretary of State in each state where you operate your business.

Below are the five most common legal structures:

1) Sole proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is a business entity in which the owner of the salon business and the business are the same legal person. The owner of a sole proprietorship is responsible for all debts and obligations of the business. There are no formalities required to establish a sole proprietorship, and it is easy to set up and operate. The main advantage of a sole proprietorship is that it is simple and inexpensive to establish. The main disadvantage is that the owner is liable for all debts and obligations of the business.

2) Partnerships

A partnership is a legal structure that is popular among small businesses. It is an agreement between two or more people who want to start a salon business together. The partners share in the profits and losses of the business.

The advantages of a partnership are that it is easy to set up, and the partners share in the profits and losses of the business. The disadvantages of a partnership are that the partners are jointly liable for the debts of the business, and disagreements between partners can be difficult to resolve.

3) Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company, or LLC, is a type of business entity that provides limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners of an LLC are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The advantages of an LLC for a salon business include flexibility in management, pass-through taxation (avoids double taxation as explained below), and limited personal liability. The disadvantages of an LLC include lack of availability in some states and self-employment taxes.

4) C Corporation

A C Corporation is a business entity that is separate from its owners. It has its own tax ID and can have shareholders. The main advantage of a C Corporation for a salon business is that it offers limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The disadvantage is that C Corporations are subject to double taxation. This means that the corporation pays taxes on its profits, and the shareholders also pay taxes on their dividends.

5) S Corporation

An S Corporation is a type of corporation that provides its owners with limited liability protection and allows them to pass their business income through to their personal income tax returns, thus avoiding double taxation. There are several limitations on S Corporations including the number of shareholders they can have among others.

Once you register your salon business, your state will send you your official “Articles of Incorporation.” You will need this among other documentation when establishing your banking account (see below). We recommend that you consult an attorney in determining which legal structure is best suited for your company.

5. Secure Startup Funding for Your Salon Business (If Needed)

In developing your salon business plan, you might have determined that you need to raise funding to launch your business.

If so, the main sources of funding for a salon business to consider are personal savings, family and friends, credit card financing, bank loans, crowdfunding and angel investors. Angel investors are individuals who provide capital to early-stage businesses. Angel investors typically will invest in a salon business that they believe has high potential for growth.

6. Secure a Location for Your Business

Having an appropriate space holds significant importance for your salon business.

To discover the perfect location, consider the following steps:

• Exploring various neighborhoods while keeping an eye out for “for lease” indicators.
• Getting in touch with a commercial real estate agent specialized in retail spaces.
• Conducting online searches focused on commercial real estate options.
• Sharing your requirements with your contacts and checking if anyone within your network has valuable connections to assist you in securing the ideal salon space.

7. Register Your Salon Business with the IRS

Next, you need to register your business with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which will result in the IRS issuing you an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Most banks will require you to have an EIN in order to open up an account. In addition, in order to hire employees, you will need an EIN since that is how the IRS tracks your payroll tax payments.

Note that if you are a sole proprietor without employees, you generally do not need to get an EIN. Rather, you would use your social security number (instead of your EIN) as your taxpayer identification number.

8. Open a Business Bank Account

It is important to establish a bank account in your salon’s name. This process is fairly simple and involves the following steps:

• Identify and contact the bank you want to use
• Gather and present the required documents (generally include your company’s Articles of Incorporation, driver’s license or passport, and proof of address)
• Complete the bank’s application form and provide all relevant information
• Meet with a banker to discuss your business needs and establish a relationship with them

9. Get a Business Credit Card

You should get a business credit card for your salon business to help you separate personal and business expenses.

You can either apply for a business credit card through your bank or apply for one through a credit card company.

When you’re applying for a business credit card, you’ll need to provide some information about your business. This includes the name of your business, the address of your business, and the type of business you’re running. You’ll also need to provide some information about yourself, including your name, Social Security number, and date of birth.

Once you’ve been approved for a business credit card, you’ll be able to use it to make purchases for your business. You can also use it to build your credit history which could be very important in securing loans and getting credit lines for your business in the future.

10. Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits

To establish a salon business, you typically need several licenses and permits to ensure legal compliance and operation. The exact requirements can vary based on your location and the services you intend to offer. However, here is a general list of licenses and permits you may need:

• Business license – You need to register your business with your state and local municipality. Requirements vary but generally you’ll need to provide your business name, address, owner’s name, etc.
• Salon license – Most states require a special license to operate a salon. This involves submitting an application, paying a fee, and passing an exam on salon practices and regulations.
• Cosmetology licenses – Stylists need to be licensed cosmetologists in the state where the salon is located. This requires completing a certain number of training hours (often 1,500+ hours) and passing written and practical exams.
• Building permits – If you’re constructing or renovating your salon space, you’ll need permits for the construction work being done. Requirements depend on where you’re located.
• Sales tax permit – You need to register with your state department of revenue to collect and remit sales tax. You may also need a local business tax license.
• Insurance – Salon business insurance is highly recommended to cover liability, property damage, etc. Make sure your policy meets your state’s minimum requirements.
• Health department license – Most states require salons to have a health/sanitation license demonstrating you meet safety and cleanliness standards. An inspection is usually required.

So in summary – business license, salon license, individual stylists’ cosmetology licenses, building permits if renovating, sales tax permit, business insurance, and health department license are typical requirements to operate a hair salon legally. Check with your state and local government for specifics.

11. Get Business Insurance for Your Salon Business

Operating a salon business comes with potential risks, and having the right insurance coverage is crucial to protect your business, assets, and clients. Here are some types of insurance you may need for your salon business:

• General liability insurance – This covers any injuries to customers or damage to property that occurs in your salon. It protects you in case of slip-and-fall accidents, injuries from services, equipment damages, etc. Liability limits of $1 million per occurrence are common.
• Professional liability insurance – Also called errors and omissions insurance, this covers negligence claims if a stylist damages a client’s hair or scalp during a service. Limits of $1 million are typical.
• Workers’ compensation insurance – Required in most states, this covers medical bills and lost wages if an employee gets injured on the job. Rates vary based on salon size and location.
• Property insurance – Protects against loss due to damage/theft of your salon equipment, furnishings, inventory, etc. Make sure to get adequate coverage for high value items.
• Business owner’s policy – A BOP bundles general liability, property coverage, and business interruption insurance into one policy. This can be more convenient than separate policies.
• Cyber liability insurance – Provides protection if your salon experiences a data breach, network outage, or if clients’ personal info is compromised.

Check your state’s specific insurance requirements for salons. An insurance broker can also advise on appropriate coverage types and limits based on your operations and risks.

12. Buy or Lease the Right Salon Business Equipment

Here is an overview of some of the basic equipment needed to operate a salon business:

• Salon chairs – Sturdy, adjustable chairs so clients can sit comfortably during services. Often hydraulic or electric.
• Shampoo stations – Specialized sinks and chairs for washing/conditioning hair. Reclining backrests are common.
• Hairstyling stations – Includes mirror, countertop space for tools and products, drawer storage, and chair for client.
• Barbershop stations – Similar to styling stations but may include barber chairs and additional storage for shaving tools.
• Hood dryers – For drying and setting hair. Positioned at individual stations.
• Facial beds – Cushioned tables so clients can lie down for facials, waxing, etc.
• Towel warmers – Heated units keep towels warm for clients throughout the day.
• Salon sinks – Convenient sink areas for stylists to wash tools and hands between clients.
• Point of sale system – Computerized system to accept payments, schedule appointments, and track inventory.
• Disinfection tools – UV sanitizers, barbicide, autoclaves to properly clean and disinfect all implements.
• Hair washing tools – Spray bottles, pitchers, hoses for comfortably washing client’s hair in the sink.
• Storage – Rolling carts, cabinets, shelves to organize products, tools, and supplies.

The specific equipment needs will vary based on services offered, but this covers some of the essentials for operating stations in a professional salon environment.

13. Develop Your Salon Business Marketing Materials

Marketing materials will be required to attract and retain customers to your salon business.

The key marketing materials you will need are as follows:

• Logo: Spend some time developing a good logo for your salon business. Your logo will be printed on company stationery, business cards, marketing materials and so forth. The right logo can increase customer trust and awareness of your brand.
• Website: Likewise, a professional salon business website provides potential customers with information about the services you offer, your company’s history, and contact information. Importantly, remember that the look and feel of your website will affect how customers perceive you.
• Social Media Accounts: Establish social media accounts in your company’s name. Accounts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and/or other social media networks will help customers and others find and interact with your salon business.

14. Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Salon Business

Here are some of the key software solutions that are useful for managing and running a salon business:

• Appointment booking software – Allows clients to book appointments online and lets you manage your staff’s schedules. Popular options include Square Appointments, Booker, SalonRunner.
• Point of Sale (POS) system – Ring up sales, take payments, manage inventory. Some popular salon POS systems are Salon Iris, Rosy, Phorest.
• Accounting software – Track income, expenses, taxes. QuickBooks is a common accounting platform for small businesses like salons.
• Payroll software – Pay employees and handle payroll taxes. Examples include Gusto, Patriot Payroll, SurePayroll.
• CRM software – Manage client contacts, appointment history, marketing. Options like Insightly and SlickPie have salon-focused features.
• Inventory management – Track product usage and reorder supplies. Can integrate with POS system. Examples: BeautyTracks, Simplifi.
• Email marketing – Send promotions, announcements, birthday specials to clients. MailChimp is a popular email platform.
• Social media management – Schedule posts and engage with followers on Instagram, Facebook, etc. Hootsuite, Buffer are useful tools.
• Analytics – Measure website traffic, online bookings, sales data. Google Analytics provides good insight.

The right software can help salon owners maximize efficiency, organization, and productivity in day-to-day operations.

15. Open for Business

You are now ready to open your salon business. If you followed the steps above, you should be in a great position to build a successful business. Below are answers to frequently asked questions that might further help you.

How Big is the Salon Industry?

The business of beauty and wellness is a fast-growing and dynamic sector in the United States, with over 1.2 million total salon businesses and sales of more than $62 billion annually.

What are the Key Segments of the Salon Industry?

Salons are businesses that specialize in the application of cosmetics to both women and men. Hair salons, nail salons, and skincare treatments. Many salons promote themselves as full-service establishments that provide a wide range of services including haircuts, manicures, waxing, skincare, and tanning.

Hair and Nail Salons

Salons that specialize in hair and nail treatments are perhaps the most common type of salon. Many salons now offer a range of different beauty treatments such as waxing, skincare, manicures, pedicures, tanning, facials, and haircuts to name a few.

Skincare Treatments

There has been a growing interest in skin treatments such as Yon-Ka Oxygene and Oxygen facials, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion. These types of salon treatments can revitalize and rejuvenate your skin, leaving it looking fresh and young.

Facials provide an opportunity to relax while receiving pampering treatments.

Tanning Salons

Salon tanning beds are popular with clients who want to lose or maintain their summer tans. The Tan Co’s Salon Tanning Bed is becoming increasingly common throughout salons today.

Waxing and Skincare Treatments

These services are perfect for women who don’t have the time to do their own waxing and skin care treatments.

Salons provide a wide range of beauty treatments that vary from one salon to another. In addition, services can change rapidly due to new products, changing styles, and increasing demand for certain treatments.

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What external factors affect the salon market.

There are a number of factors that affect the salon market. Some of these include:

• New Beauty Technology and Products – Beauty salons need to keep up with new technologies such as the Beauty Light Pro-face and body machine which uses lasers to reduce acne scars, wrinkles, and stretch marks.
• Changing Styles – New hairstyles are constantly being created, and skin care trends change frequently.
• Competitive Pressures – Salon owners need to know how much competition they’re up against when setting salon prices, choosing suppliers, and marketing their salon services.
• Changing Demographics – demographics play an important role in who will use your salon’s beauty treatments. Consider the effect of an aging population on demand for skincare treatments, for example.
• Economics – The state of the economy has a major effect on the industry. When the economy is struggling, people tend to cut back on discretionary spending which includes beauty treatments such as haircuts and manicures; however, when the economy is thriving, business tends to thrive as well.

Who are the Key Competitors in the Salon Industry?

Direct competitors in the salon industry are other beauty salons and spas within your geographical area.

In order to attract clients, you’ll need to offer competitive pricing and a range of services that will help differentiate you from the competition. Some ways that you can do this include being open earlier, staying open later, have longer operating hours, having faster service times, providing gift certificates or coupons for future services, being more flexible on price, and providing a more luxurious experience with better seating arrangements and customer bathrooms.

Key competitors of the industry also include manufacturers who produce chemicals, equipment, and other supplies required to run a salon business. In addition, home-based 1:1 beauty service providers such as skincare experts, make-up artists, and waxers should also be considered as competitors to your salon.

There are also a number of indirect competitors that you need to be aware of as well including:

Traditional hair salon services such as those offered by Sports Clips, barbershops, ethnic hair salons, Supercuts, and more. Barber Shops tend to offer more traditional men’s haircuts, but they also offer services that women are looking for such as straight razor shaves.

Traditional beauty salon services such as those offered by nail spas, meditation salons, karate dojos, and more. Meditation or wellness salons provide a wide range of treatments including skincare treatments, reflexology massage, reiki sessions, and more.

These establishments can be a challenge because they are often not considered a “serious” competitor by the typical owner who focuses only on competing against other salons. However, it is important to recognize the threat that these competitors can pose because they may attract customers who would typically come to your salon.

What are the Key Customer Segments in the Salon Market?

Your salon’s key customer segments are women who want to improve their appearance. However, it’s important not to forget men as well. In fact, some salons target men with specific haircuts and grooming treatments.

Beauty salons typically attract two main customer segments:

• Customers who regularly visit salons (e.g., weekly or monthly) for beauty treatments such as haircuts, manicures, pedicures, facials, and skincare treatments. These customers regularly purchase products to maintain their beauty treatments at home.
• Customers who only visit the salon occasionally – usually for specific events such as weddings or proms. These customers purchase a few beauty products a year to maintain their salon-purchased treatments such as those who buy shampoo from the grocery store but regularly go to the salon for haircuts.

Having a clear understanding of your salon’s key customer segments will help you create an ideal customer persona that can be used in the following sections when developing your marketing strategy.

What are the Typical Startup Costs for a New Salon Business?

The typical salon startup costs include the following:

• Physical location – You will need to initiate a lease agreement or purchase your salon’s physical location. The cost for monthly rent may vary greatly depending on the type of salon, its size, and location. For example, if you are planning to open your own hair salon in Los Angeles, California, expect the monthly rent to be $4,000 or more while the average monthly rent for a hair salon in Salt Lake City, Utah is around $700.
• Physical buildout – Most salons require renovation work to make the space look appealing and functional. You will need to update the lighting, floors, paint, wall coverings (e.g., wallpaper or large prints), counters, furniture (e.g., hair salon chairs, manicure tables), and salon equipment (e.g., hairdryers, shampoo sinks).
• Salon Equipment – These include the physical tools you will need to perform beauty treatments such as hairdryers, curling irons, straighteners, combs, brushes, rollers, styling products (e.g., hair spray), makeup, skincare products (e.g., facial creams or oils). You may also need to purchase beauty supplies such as cotton balls, napkins, tissues, disposable cups for beverages.
• Salon Operating Supplies – These are the items you will use on a daily basis in your beauty business while others are used less frequently such as cleaning supplies (e.g., disinfectants, bleach), paper towels, and plastic bags for rubbish.
• Salon Furniture – You will need salon furniture to seat your customers while they receive their beauty treatments. Consider purchasing salon-specific furniture rather than using generic furniture you already own such as dining or office tables and chairs.
• Cash Register – You will need a cash register to keep track of your salon’s revenue.
• Salon Supplies & Inventory – This category includes items that are paid for when they are purchased e.g., beauty supplies, inventory-items you pay only after selling them-and stored in the salon. Examples include shampoo, hair color, ties, headbands, cotton balls, facial washcloths.
• Business Insurance – You will need to purchase at least two types of insurance: salon insurance and general liability insurance (also called business owner’s policy). Ensure you contact an experienced independent insurance agent who can guide you through the process.
• Salon Accounting Software – There are many good salon accounting software options available on the market, but many salon owners use less expensive software such as QuickBooks instead of purchasing salon-specific accounting software.
• Marketing and Promotional Campaigns – Besides advertising, there are many ways you can promote your business including flyers, postcards, social media campaigns (e.g., Facebook ads or Twitter promotions), business cards, coupons, direct mailings.
• Legal and Licenses – You will need to purchase legal documents (e.g., business contracts) and licenses (e.g., tax registration certificate).

When you are trying to figure out how much money you want to start a salon, your main costs will be related to the physical buildout of your salon.

Your rent is one of the biggest expenses for new salons, especially if you are located in an expensive city such as New York City or Las Vegas.

Location is everything in the industry so it’s important to choose your salon location wisely. You don’t want to be in a bad location that scares people away or makes it difficult for them to get to your salon.

Getting salon fixtures is a must if you are building the space from scratch. You will need to get shampoo stations, stylist workstations, reception areas, waiting spaces, etc.

Music and entertainment systems are also necessary parts of your buildout.

Things like nail bars can be added later but it’s easier to get those installed on day one.

You will need to get a general business license and apply for your salon license as well as any other state or city-level licenses that you think you might need.

Salon insurance is also essential to protecting yourself and your assets from business liability.

Your budget will look very different depending on the scale of your salon type and design. It’s important that you do not underestimate the costs when planning for your salon space, but also don’t kill your budget either.

Is Owning a Salon Profitable?

Yes, salon businesses are profitable. Some salons have a list of clients who visit frequently and return for the same services over time, while others need to constantly acquire new clients. To remain profitable, you must ensure that your business meets three criteria:

• Your salon is within an accessible location
• You have a good handle on salon finances
• You purchase salon supplies and equipment at the best price possible.

What are the Keys to Launching a New Salon Business?

If you’ve made it to the decision of opening a salon business, chances are that you have been planning for a long time already. It’s essential to be as prepared as possible before opening your doors.

Below is a list of essentials that every salon owner should look into:

• Salon management software – You need to keep track and organize all data related to the salon.
• Concierge services – These can help you with getting clients in the door. If you have an excellent service that people want, then they will be willing to pay for it.
• Salon website – Your salon website is one of your biggest marketing tools. It should look professional and convey a sense of your own salon brand.
• Business banking – Get a business account and debit card as soon as possible. While you’re at it, set up an automatic payment option like direct deposit and online bill pay to make your life easier.
• Salon insurance – From the salon’s property to employee compensation, you need good coverage for everything.
• Marketing plan – Create a salon marketing plan that will work best for you.
• Quality hair and beauty products – Invest in the best salon products. If your products are top quality, then all you have to do is get them out there and let results speak for themselves.

Be efficient with your time and resources so that you can focus on growing your business.

If you start building strong business relationships with your clients and getting their word of mouth, then new clientele will come to your salon without even needing a marketing plan. Everything comes full circle so make sure to spend effort on each part of the process.

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How to Start a Salon FAQs

How do i turn my salon into a thriving business.

It's time to take your dream of opening your own salon and make it become a reality. Follow these simple guidelines to turn your startup into a thriving salon business:

Build Trust

Before people will trust any service or product being sold by you, they need to know who it is that they are trusting. This means that before starting any kind of advertisement campaign about the launch of your new salon you should work on building relationships with potential customers first. 

You might do this by hosting demonstrations for how hairstyling works at an event near them which could also act as an advertisement for how qualified staff members are. If people are happy to buy your services then they are more likely to spread word of mouth about how great your salon is.

Promote What You are Selling

Once you have people's attention with the product or service that you are offering, it is time to use this opportunity to sell yourself. 

Try promoting yourself through targeted online adverts which will let people who would most often visit a salon know that there is something new in town with your advertisement appearing on websites including social media accounts and others where people who might be interested in visiting a beauty salon might spend their free time. 

This kind of press can go a long way especially if your stylists already have experience working at other successful salons which could potentially give an incentive for more customers to come to try out your salon.

Take on Contract Work

Some local businesses in your industry might only be interested in working with the most successful salons, but there is no reason why you can't prove that you are just as reputable. Try taking on contract work for major hair care brands at the launch of your new business, offering them a deal where they give you their business and in return, you promote their products to your customers. This could be extremely beneficial when trying to recruit new stylists especially if they have experience working under the same brands already. People trust familiar names so having these kinds of big-name companies involved with the wonders of your own work for credibility.

Keep Up Quality

Keeping high-quality standards across all aspects of running a salon is important to keep your loyal customers happy and could also potentially attract larger salons to work with you. After all, the more successful you are at running a high-quality salon the more people will want to come to you for their hair care needs. Make sure that everything from the salon equipment used to how well trained every member of staff is working is like clockwork if you want even bigger companies interested in having contracts with you.

Be Consistent

Your salon brand should be recognized before long as one which always keeps up its promises; this kind of reputation can help generate word-of-mouth advertising rapidly. The name 'Salon X' might not mean much now, but after three years of offering high-quality services, it might be known throughout your city as being a salon that consistently delivers the highest quality services. This kind of brand awareness can be a great help when trying to get more contracts from big-name brands.

How Much Does it Cost to Start a Salon?

It is subjective how much money you need to open a salon but most salons will spend around $300,000 for their buildout. If you want to make sure that your salon is successful, you should be prepared to invest at least 6 months’ worth of your salary as well as the cost of your buildout.

What are the Financial Requirements to Open a Salon?

The financial requirements for opening a salon will depend on how much you can personally invest in your business. Salons generally start with developers that want to get into the salon industry, but then there are also models where salons are franchised or managed by existing salon owners.

Small Business Administration loans - These are available for small business owners that meet certain requirements, but it does require a decent credit score and a history of on-time payments. Read more about how to get an SBA loan here.

Equity financing - This generally requires setting up some sort of contractual arrangement between yourself and investors. The more capital you can provide yourself with, the better.

Business loans - There are a handful of bank options available for small business owners that meet certain requirements to get a loan from a bank. Read more about how to get a business loan here.

Partnerships and collaborations - Depending on your experience in the salon industry it might be possible to find a partner that will invest in your salon/salon business.

The more capital you can bring yourself, the better off you'll be long-term. Make sure to budget accordingly before opening your doors.

How Can I Get Clients in My Salon?

It's one thing to have a new salon and a solid business plan, but you need to make sure that people actually come in and try out your services.

You'll want to think about:

• How will you get the word out there? Social media campaigns, flyers on community boards, direct mailers, etc. Try not to use too much advertising or you'll burn through your budget quickly.
• What's in it for the client? Obviously, you want to have happy, satisfied clients who want to come back. This will be easier if you offer excellent customer service and quality products.
• How much are you charging? If your services are affordable, then people won't think twice to book an appointment. If you offer higher-end services, then make sure to have a clientele base that is willing and able to pay for them.
• Will you offer specials? Offering a special for a limited time is a great way to attract new clients and let them feel how much they can save by booking an appointment with you.
• What will your salon environment be like? Make sure that it's clean, peaceful, and relaxing to help clients feel at home.

There is no magic wand or quick fix for getting new clients in the door of your salon business. It takes hard work and patience but if you can provide quality products and services, then your clients will come running.

How Do I Improve Salon Business Operations?

You want to make sure that every part of your salon's operations runs smoothly from massive production to everyday tasks. Things should run as seamlessly as possible between making appointments, scheduling employees, tracking inventory, and receiving payments. That way life is simple for the owner and managers so they can focus on improving important things such as revenue or cost-efficiency. In order to keep your business up and running, you should also follow these steps.

Make sure that everyone is on the same page when it comes to salon documentation. For example, what information goes into the client record? How are appointments scheduled? What are different appointment types? Make sure that all employees know this information so that there aren't discrepancies in how tasks are carried out or who is responsible for them.

Be flexible with scheduling time off for employees. It makes sense to have set times off, but make sure to be accommodating if they need to reschedule their appointments due to an emergency or personal reasons.

What will your salon's payroll look like? Will you hire freelancers or permanent employees? Keep track of each person's hours worked and time off.

Lastly, you should always be trying to improve your salon business operations so that your salon can run as efficiently as possible. This will leave the owner more time for important tasks such as growing their clientele or expanding services offered.

How Do I Grow My Salon Business?

Growing a salon business is hard work but there are some things you can do to help boost your success rate. If you want to grow a salon business, make sure to:

• Focus on branding . Make sure that people recognize your name and what it stands for. This way they will know exactly what they're paying for every single time they walk through the doors of your salon.
• Promote your salon business through social media platforms . This is a great way to promote new products or services and let people know what's going on at your salon.
• Attend industry events . Make sure that you attend as many beauty conventions, expos, and salon expos as possible. These events are a great place for networking with other professionals in the industry which can be very beneficial to promote your brand name.
• Make as many connections as you can . The more people that know your name, the more likely they are to return for future services.
• Be consistent with your pricing and products . If clients feel like they can rely on you then there is a higher chance that they will return to your salon business time and time again.

Where Can I Download a Salon Business Plan PDF?

You can download our salon business plan PDF template here. This is a business plan template you can use in PDF format.

Additional Resources

American Salon

Beauty Cast Network

Beauty Launchpad

BeautyMark Marketing  

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

•  Contact Us

• February 27th, 2024
• Business Tips

How to Write a Hair Salon Business Plan

Are you thinking about opening your own hair salon? Or maybe you already have a salon and are thinking about opening another location?  

Well, when it comes to opening a new salon business, knowing how to write a hair salon business plan can make or break your success. The good news is—we’re here to help. 

In this article, we’ll go over the ins and outs of creating a hair salon business plan. This includes everything from market analysis and financial projections to your goals for the future. Having a plan will help you obtain funding and stay on track as you grow. 

Let’s get started. 

Do I Really Need to Write a Business Plan for a Hair Salon?  

You wouldn’t drive from San Francisco to Boston without either a GPS or a map, right? So, you shouldn’t run a business without a plan either. 

A hair salon business plan is a roadmap for your beauty business. Whether you have two chairs or 200, it’s essential for your ongoing success. 

In fact, opening or expanding a business has a lot more at stake than a drive across the country. You may have saved or taken out a loan to start your salon. And you likely have employees or contractors who are dependent on your business sense, too. 

A business plan gets you organized when you’re first starting out or opening a new location. Plus, it keeps you on track as you grow. You can reach or exceed your goals, but you must know what they are first. And you need to have a detailed set of strategies to use along the way. 

Let’s go back to our road trip metaphor.  

Suppose you want to get from California to Massachusetts. First, you figure out how many miles or hours the journey will take. Then, you divide that by how many miles or hours you can comfortably drive in a day. That’s how many days it will take. Finally, you plan overnight stops along the way for each of those days to make the drive doable. 

A salon business plan isn’t much different. You probably have goals for things like: 

• How much gross income you want to bring in 
• How much profit you want after overhead and labor 
• Ideal business model structure (e.g., booth rent vs. commission) 
• Services you would like to offer clients 
• Places where you’d like to open additional salons 

Without a specific business plan for how to make them happen, those are just pie-in-the-sky dreams. You need a more granular approach to turn them into a reality. 

For instance, how much money do you need to make each month to reach your desired net profits? If that’s how much you need to make each month, what do you need to make daily, assuming you’re open five days per week? How many chairs do you need to have? At what capacity do you need to operate? 

Not to mention, you’ll almost certainly need a formal business plan if you want to get financing for your salon. Salon equipment and real estate can be quite expensive. A bank may loan you money to get set up, but only if they see you have done your homework first. 

Lenders don’t want to back a business that is more likely to fail than to succeed. And new hair salons have an average success rate of 50% in the first three years of operation. 

That means half of those businesses will fail. Most fail not because of a lack of talent or ambition but because the owner doesn’t know how to properly run a business. You can be the best hairstylist in the world. But if you consider things like business accounting and marketing, you will likely lose more money than you are bringing in every month. 

Do you want to be in the 50% of new salons that thrive? Keep reading to learn the step-by-step method of developing a business plan for your salon. 

RELATED ARTICLE:  

Owning a Hair Salon: Your Launch Guide  

How to Write a Hair Salon Business Plan: Step by Step  

Below you’ll find information on each section commonly included in a business plan. But first, here’s a tip to help you make the most of these categories. 

Use the SMART method for setting goals. What are SMART goals ? They are: 

• Specific – highly detailed, not vague 
• Measurable – able to be quantified with hard numbers and actionable items mapped out to achieve the goal you’ve set 
• Achievable – doable within the framework of your business model 
• Relevant – related to your salon today, not somewhere else or too far in the future 
• Time-bound – tied to specific dates for end goals and milestones 

Any time you set a long-term or short-term goal, ask, “Is it SMART?” If not, dig deeper to get the details you need to make it work. 

Executive Summary  

Think of the executive summary as the introduction to your salon business plan. It gives brief information about: 

• The purpose of your salon and who it will serve 
• Your business objectives (offer something novel, expansion, etc.) 
• How your salon will be different from your competitors 
• Why you think the business will perform well 

For instance, you could talk about how you plan to open a salon in a busy urban area to cater to downtown employees. Your client demographic is primarily white-collar workers aged 25 to 45. 

Your unique selling proposition , or USP, is what makes the salon special. Say it’s that it will offer 20 and 50-minute appointments to fit into standard lunch breaks. Additionally, you’ll have 10-minute appointments for fast services during coffee breaks. 

Customers can get a quick trim on their fringe or ends. Beard and mustache trims are another rapid service you will offer. Everything can be booked and paid for online to streamline the process and get customers in and out in a jiffy. 

Maybe after work hours, your salon will be open for more traditional appointments. And you’ll have more quickie services available for businesspeople going out at night. They can get an updo, blowout, or style refresh before a date. On Fridays, you’ll offer manicure services too. 

In your business plan, you’d want to outline howyour USP will help your salon be successful. For our example, you might say you believe the salon will do well financially because of three factors: 

• The area is currently underserved by hair salons. 
• You are catering to the needs of businesspeople in your locale. 
• You hired an experienced stylist who’s bringing their clients with them. 

You don’t have to get into a ton of detail yet. This is a proverbial bird’s eye view of your business proposition. You could, however, outline a rough roadmap of how you envision your business will start and where you see it going in one year and five years. 

For instance, perhaps you plan to start with one location and 10 chairs. Five years from now, you want to open two additional locations. At that time, you will add new services like brow waxing and makeup consultations. 

You can mention market analysis in this section, too. Market analysis looks at competition and consumer needs in your niche. However, there will be a place later in your business plan to address this in more detail. 

Remember, your executive summary is an investor or lender’s first impression of your salon business. Therefore, you want to make it shine. 

Company Description  

This section goes into detail about the structure of your company. How long have you been in business? Who are the owners and managers? 

You’ll also want to review how many employees or contractors you plan to have. Will they be employed under W2 status, or will they contract as 1099 workers? 

Will hair stylists pay you a fee for the use of a chair? Will your salon take a cut of their fees? How will tipping be structured? 

For example: 

• Our salon is a startup organization that is not yet in business. 
• It is co-owned by two stylists who participate 50-50 in leadership. 
• There will be 10 chairs in total in the salon. 
• Eight contract stylists will be working as 1099 independent contractors. 
• Contract stylists will pay a monthly chair rental fee and a percentage of their billables to the owners. 
• All tips will go to the employed stylists, with a percentage going to a shampoo assistant. 
• Contract stylists make a commission on products sold in the salon. 
• You will also have two paid receptionists who will be W2 employees. 

You will go into more detail about financials in the Services and Pricing section. But this section should give readers an understanding of the basics of your planned salon operations. 

You can also include funding or investing requests in this section. Again, you will have further opportunity to dive into financials later. But touching on what you need to open or expand gets readers primed as they go through the next four sections. 

Market Analysis  

The market analysis section of your business plan is another area where you can wow readers and make your salon stand out. It answers the question, “Why you, and why now?” 

Remember, you don’t want to fit in with all the other salons in the area. Instead, you want yours to be unique . 

Your hair salon might be unique because of its business model, like the hypothetical one described in the executive summary. Or it could be you have a string of well-known stylists. 

Perhaps you offer extra luxury services and product lines. Maybe you offer great prices. It could be the whole vibe of your salon that’s one of a kind. Maybe it’s a retro nod to the ‘70s or a high-tech glimpse into the future. 

You don’t want to pitch your salon with a kitchen sink-style of features. After all, when you appeal to everyone, you really appeal to no one. But you can list several unique attributes that will give you a competitive market edge. 

In this section, you’ll show what the current market is like in your location. How many other salons are within a mile or two? Who do they cater to? Is there a gap you can fill to capture more market share? 

Be realistic. If everyone who comes through your door is on a tight budget, you can’t offer $300 color jobs. You need to match your services to your demographics. 

If you’ve ever sold a real estate property, you’ve done something similar to a business market analysis. You or your agent prepare “comps” or comparables. The comps show how your property is special, while reviewing what the rest of the area has to offer. 

Whether your salon is brand new or you’re opening a new location for your existing salon business, you may need to conduct market research. You can do this on your own or hire a consultant to do it for you. 

The more populated the area in which you operate, the more complicated market research is likely to be. If you’re in a suburb or rural community, there may only be a few hair salons to compete with. 

Don’t forget to include how your USP and ability to fill a need relates to industry trends. Let’s use the example above. There is a current national trend towards more online conveniences for salon customers. So, offering online payments and booking is going to help you stay at the front of the curve. 

Also, employees are feeling busier than ever these days. They struggle with work-life balance. And many are returning to the office after working remotely for several years. 

Your salon leverages this trend as well by providing stress-free quick appointments that fit into work breaks. Workers can get their hair done over their lunch hour and make better use of their personal time after work. 

If you have an existing business that you’re expanding, you can survey your clientele. Maybe you’re going to a second location because it’s underserved. Or perhaps you’re adding more services because that’s what clients want.  

It’s great to be able to give objective data that says there’s a need for your services. 

Hair Salon Industry Trends for Growing Your Salon Business  

Marketing Strategy  

How do you plan to promote your new salon or additional location? That’s the focus of this section of the plan. 

Some common salon marketing methods include: 

• SEO website 
• Social media accounts 
• Paid advertising 
• Loyalty programs 
• Cross-promotion with other businesses 
• Flyers in area office buildings 
• Bulk mailings with coupons 
• Free makeovers 
• Local news editorial coverage 
• Online review platforms 

An SEO (search engine optimized) website is a great place to start promoting your business. You can add other components later. An optimized website is set up to rank higher on search engines like Google and Bing. 

How do you improve a website’s SEO? 

• Use keywords related to your exact services that clients would search for when looking for a hair salon. 
• Be sure to mention your location multiple times on the website, including your state and local landmarks. 
• Add a blog for value-added content with links to authoritative sources. 
• Get your salon mentioned on other websites and in social media mentions. 

This section overlaps with your market analysis. You’ll be using your unique selling proposition to focus marketing campaigns. Every marketing effort is an opportunity to promote what makes your salon stand out. 

Talk about how you plan to cement the two cornerstones of a healthy salon business: 

• Repeat customers who book appointments regularly 
• New customers who keep things fresh and balance natural attrition 

How to Design and Roll Out a Beauty Salon Rewards Program  

Management and Organization  

Here’s where you can go into more detail about your salon’s company structure and staff payment plan. You can include elements like credentials here, particularly if you or a manager have a business background or education. 

Don’t simply list how you plan to pay workers. Explain why this is best for your salon business’s long-term financial health. 

Are you and any other owners taking a salary? What corporate structure are you using (LLC, S corp, etc.)? Your state may determine how you want to set this up.  

Speaking with an accountant can clarify questions for you, especially about taxes. 

Services and Pricing  

This section of your hair salon business plan outlines the meat and potatoes of what your salon will offer. It is essentially a menu of all the services and treatments you provide. It also includes prices for each. 

You can mention why you chose the pricing model you did. For example, if you’re serving affluent clients in a resort area, you can justify charging a little more. Or you might do group pricing because you serve a lot of bridal parties. 

Don’t forget to add any products you plan to sell. Why is carrying these items beneficial to your business? 

Financial Projections  

Financial projections are the nuts and bolts that lenders want to see. They’ll also keep you on the right path as you grow your salon. 

You’ve already outlined your services and pricing. Now, it’s time to do the math and calculate what that means in terms of income. 

Answer these questions first: 

• What do you expect your salon to gross (total income) in a year? 
• What are your overhead expenses (rent/mortgage, staff, utilities, wholesale supplies, etc.)? 
• What portion of your expenses are due to payroll? 
• Do you have to make capital purchases for equipment? Will these be paid with a lump sum, financing, or rental payments? 
• What is the net profit you expect (gross income minus overhead and expenses)? 
• Where do you predict expenses or income will change over the next few years? 

You want to make your business plan financial projections look truly professional. So, break them down into these categories: 

• Sales forecast – total sales expected over the next several years 
• Expenses budget – all the costs you need to operate 
• Profit and loss (P&L) statement – a 12-month summary of revenue versus expenses 
• Cash flow statement – how cash moves in and out of your business, including monthly payments 
• Projected balance sheet – items that aren’t in your P&L, like interest debt, equity, and other factors that affect the net worth of your business 
• Break-even analysis – what you need to earn (at least) to make your expenses and start turning a profit 

A certified public accountant (CPA) can help you put together this part of your business plan for a reasonable fee. It’s well worth it if it helps you obtain investors or bank funding. 

How You Can Start Writing a Hair Salon Business Plan Right Now  

Ready to get started on your hair salon business plan today? Use these tips right away to make it both convincing to lenders and helpful as an internal roadmap: 

• Write a mission statement. To write a solid executive summary, it’s helpful to first compose a mission statement. This delves into why you want to open your business in the first place. Some people include this in their executive summary. Others keep it private and use it as an inspirational jumping-off point. 
• Include milestones in your financial projections. These are points where you will examine progress and see if you’re on target. Be ready to course correct if you’re not hitting your goals. 
• Compile an appendix. It’s a good idea to include an appendix in your business plan with copies of extra materials. This is an ideal place to include photos of your salon, certifications, licenses, and financial documents. It will keep everything organized for you and make you look more professional to lenders. 
• Enlist help. If you have questions about certain sections of your salon business plan, consider consulting with the appropriate professionals. Paying a one-time fee to an attorney or CPA can save you money and headaches down the line. You could even consider hiring a business manager to deal with office and financial issues. 
• Research your competition. If you’re not sure what services to offer or how you stand out, do some in-person recon. Visit competitor salons and check out influencers on social media. How can you align with service gaps and trends to make the most of your business? 
• Explore salon management software. Salon management software can save you a lot of time and make your job a lot easier. For instance, you can use it to quickly and easily generate reports to keep a pulse on your performance. It’ll also help you with other tasks related to your financial success. The best salon management software can automate appointments, keep track of inventory, and assist with marketing. 

Learn How to Manage a Hair Salon Business with SalonBiz  

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BUSINESS STRATEGIES

How to create a hair salon business plan

• Nirit Braun
• Sep 12, 2023

When setting up your own hair salon, one of the most important initial steps is crafting a well-thought-out and detailed business plan. Consider it your styling guide for success in the hair and beauty industry. This document isn't just about the right cut and color it's your roadmap to achieving your salon's objectives, whether you specialize in trendy haircuts, stunning makeovers or relaxing spa treatments.

Your hair salon business plan will help you navigate the ever-evolving world of starting a beauty business , helping you start a business with confidence.

Ready to kick things off? Begin making a website with Wix .

Benefits of a hair salon business plan

A well-structured business plan is vital for a number of reasons. Below is a breakdown of the top benefits for you to bear in mind.

Getting investors interested: Your well-thought-out business plan isn't just for show; it's what can help you woo investors and raise money for your business . It shows them you've got a plan, clear goals and a vision for profitability. In other words, it makes them more likely to open their wallets and invest in your salon dream.

Figuring out what you need: Writing a business plan forces you to think about everything you'll need to run your salon smoothly—from supplies and equipment to staff. By the end, you'll have a good handle on your startup and operating costs. Don't forget to factor into this the cost of opening a business, starting an LLC for example.

Drawing up your game plan : Think of your business plan as your playbook for success. It lays out the steps to make your salon thrive, helps you set achievable goals and gives you a roadmap for reaching them. Plus, it's got your back when it comes to handling challenges, with strategies to tackle whatever comes your way.

Outshining the competition : While creating your plan, you'll dive deep into your salon's market and competitors. That research helps you understand your customers, spot industry trends and figure out how to stand out from the competition.

Running a smooth ship : Your business plan isn't just about the big picture—it's also about the nitty-gritty details. It helps you plan things like where your salon should be located, how it should look, what equipment to get and how to manage your staff effectively.

Playing it safe: In the financial part of your plan, you'll lay out your salon's expected income, expenses, and profits. This not only helps you see if your business will make money but also prepares you to make smart financial decisions. Plus, it's your insurance against unexpected bumps in the road.

Read more about how to start a service business .

6 steps to creating a hair salon business plan

Let's dissect the key components of a hair salon business plan:

Executive summary

Business and domain names

Market analysis and research

Operations plan

Marketing and advertising plan

Financial plan

01. Executive summary

The executive summary is a concise overview of your entire hair salon business plan. It provides a snapshot of your business concept, strategies, financial projections and objectives. While it appears at the beginning of the plan, it's often written after the rest of the plan is complete to ensure all crucial details are included.

To write a clear executive summary for a hair salon business be sure to introduce your hair salon, detailing the services you offer and the unique value proposition that sets you apart in the industry. Then clearly state your short-term and long-term business goals. These should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound (SMART).

Remember to highlight what differentiates your hair salon from competitors, whether it's your exceptional stylists, innovative services or a specific niche you cater to. Als, provide a brief overview of the target market you're aiming to serve and the market demand for your services.

Offer a glimpse of your projected financials, including expected revenue, expenses and profitability within a specified timeframe. Additionally, include how much investment you're seeking or have secured to launch and grow your hair salon business.

Example of an executive summary for a hair salon business

"EleganceTresses Salon is poised to transform the hair care experience in the city. With a mission to blend style and artistry, we offer a range of premium hairstyling and beauty services that cater to a diverse clientele. Our SMART objectives include becoming the go-to destination for modern hair transformations, increasing customer retention by 20% in the first year and expanding our salon footprint to two additional locations within three years. What sets us apart is our team of master stylists, led by industry veterans with over 15 years of combined experience. We're seeking an initial investment of $250,000 to support salon setup, staff training and salon marketing initiatives . Our projected revenue of $500,000 in the first year, coupled with strategic partnerships, positions EleganceTresses Salon for rapid growth and profitability."

02. Business and domain names

Naming your business is crucial, as it will become an integral part of your brand identity. A memorable and relevant name enhances brand recognition and establishes trust with your customers. A business name generator can provide inspiration for a beauty business name that resonates with your salon's concept and values.

For more inspiration:

Nail business names

Beauty business name ideas

Selecting and registering a suitable domain name is equally important. Ensure your domain name aligns with your salon's name or services as this consistency makes it easier for customers to find you online.

Opt for a domain name that is simple to spell and remember and avoid using complex words or excessive characters. As part of this, if feasible, incorporate relevant keywords in your domain name to improve search engine visibility. Finally, check domain registration platforms to confirm your chosen domain name's availability.

Learn more about registering your business , which you’ll want to do once you’ve landed on a business name and a legal structure.

03. Market analysis and research

The market analysis and research section of a business plan is essential for understanding the competitive landscape and consumer preferences in the hair salon industry. This information forms the foundation of your business strategy.

Define your target audience based on demographics, lifestyles and hair care preferences.

Evaluate competing salons' offerings, pricing, location and customer reviews to identify gaps and opportunities.

Research industry trends, emerging styles and customer demands to align your beauty business ideas and services with current market expectations.

04. Operations plan

The operations plan details the practical aspects of running your hair salon. It covers location selection, salon design, equipment procurement and staffing.

Location: Describe how you'll choose a high-traffic, accessible location that caters to your target audience.

Interior design: Highlight your salon's ambiance, decor and layout to create a welcoming and appealing environment.

Equipment: Specify the types of equipment and products you'll use to provide top-notch services.

Staffing: Detail your staffing needs, including hairstylists, receptionists and other support roles and outline their qualifications.

Operation plans example:

"Our salon will be strategically situated in a bustling shopping district, attracting both locals and tourists. The interior design will exude contemporary elegance, featuring comfortable seating, modern decor and ample natural light. We'll invest in premium hairstyling equipment and a range of high-quality products to ensure exceptional services. Our staff will consist of experienced stylists specializing in diverse hair types and styles."

05. Marketing and advertising plan

The marketing and advertising plan outlines how you'll promote your hair salon, attract customers and build brand recognition. This can include marketing campaigns tailored to different customer segments, such as bridal packages, seasonal promotions or loyalty programs. Be sure to highlight how you'll use social media, a business website (be inspired by these salon web design examples ) and online advertising to engage with customers and showcase your services.

Example of a marketing plan

"Our marketing strategy entails a mix of social media engagement and influencer partnerships. We'll leverage platforms like Instagram and Pinterest to showcase before-and-after transformations, share hairstyling tips and engage with our audience. Collaborating with local boutiques for joint promotions will enhance our visibility while offering special packages for bridal parties will establish us as a bridal hair expert."

Need some help building up your brand? Get inspiration from these beauty logo ideas and use Wix’s free logo maker to create your own, plus check out this guide on how to make a barber logo .

06. Financial plan

The financial plan section of your business plan provides insights into the financial aspects of your hair salon business. It will need to include a rundown of your initial expenses such as salon setup, equipment purchase, interior decor and initial marketing efforts.

After this, you'll need to estimate projected revenue based on services offered, pricing and anticipated customer volume. At the same time, document ongoing costs, including rent, utilities, staffing salaries, product replenishment and marketing expenditures.

Then lay out the initial investment you'll need and potential sources of funding, such as personal savings, loans or investors.

It’s also important to project when your hair salon is expected to become profitable based on revenue growth and expense management.

Example of a financial plan

"Startup costs are estimated at $120,000, covering salon setup, equipment and marketing campaigns. We project an annual revenue of $300,000 within the first year, with a steady increase of 15% in subsequent years. Operating expenses, including rent, staff salaries and product inventory, are projected at $180,000 annually. We anticipate becoming profitable by the end of Year 2."

Got another business idea in mind?

Still trying to decide on the best type of business to pursue? Check out the guides below and read about more service business ideas .

How to start a nail business

How to start an online business

How to start a consulting business

How to start a fitness business

How to start a fitness clothing line

How to start a makeup line

How to start a candle business

How to start a clothing business

How to start an online boutique

How to start a T-shirt business

How to start a jewelry business

How to start a subscription box business

How to start a beauty business

How to start a trucking business

How to start a construction business

How to start a landscaping business

How to start a food business

How to start a food prep business

How to start a vending machine business

How to start a contractor business

How to start a virtual assistant business

How to start a homecare business

How to start a coaching business

How to start a handyman business

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• Sample Business Plans
• Beauty Salon & Fitness

How to Write Hair Salon Business Plan

Passionate about hair styling and cutting?

If yes, you might have thought of starting your own hair salon business.

But it takes more than just an artistic talent to give cuts that suit different hair types and styles. It also requires a solid business plan in place to make it thrive, as there are 952,909 hair salons in the US.

Need help getting your plan? Not to worry; we’ll help.

This hair salon business plan will help you get started and guide you every step of the way, from crafting your business idea to evaluating your salon’s financial success.

Ready to begin? Let’s dive right in!

Why you need a business plan for your hair salon

Hair salon business plan is a professional, living document that outlines your business ideas, goals, and strategies to achieve them.

Whether you’re starting a new salon or aiming to expand an existing one, you’ll need a business plan. It serves as a strategic roadmap for your entrepreneurial journey.

Here are several key reasons why having a hair salon business plan is essential:

Clarifies your vision & mission

Once you’ve decided to start or grow your hair salon, writing a business plan helps you think about all the details of your business. It outlines your business concept, vision, mission, and its core values. Also, it enables you and your team to understand your business’s purpose and ensures everyone is aligned.

Attracts investors to raise funding

Investors often request to see your business plan before investing in your business. At that time, a good business plan helps you demonstrate your business strategies, realistic financial forecasts, and potential for success. Also, it shows your idea is viable and convinces them to raise funding.

Helps reach your business goals

A well-thought-out business plan allows you to consider your short-term goals and long-term objectives. It also summarizes the strategies & steps to reach them, as well as how long it will take to achieve those goals. Further, with specific benchmarks and milestones, you can measure progress and keep track of your goals.

Determines your financial needs

A business plan helps you estimate the funding required for your salon. It includes detailed financial projections and clarifies how much money you’ll need to raise and how you’ll use those funds in different areas. This means you can ask for realistic funding needs to grow your business.

Reduces potential risks

While preparing a business plan, you can identify the potential risks and challenges that your salon might face. By knowing these threats earlier, you can develop effective strategies and contingency plans to mitigate them. This ensures your business is safe and improves your chances for success.

Now that you know the importance of having a business plan, let’s explore how to create a successful business plan for your salon.

How to write the perfect hair salon business plan in 8 steps

here is the simple step by step guide on how to write hair salon business plan.

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first and foremost section of a business plan that provides a high-level overview of your hair salon business.

In fact, it might be the only section that potential investors or stakeholders will read and get a better idea of your business, including its concept, core values, objectives, and growth plans.

If your plan summary isn’t interesting or compelling enough, they won’t read it any further. So, ensure you keep this section simple, crisp, yet effective.

While writing an executive summary , consider including the following key elements:

• A quick overview of your salon
• Mission-vision statement

Target market

• Unique product or service offerings
• Marketing strategies
• Financial highlights

Though it is the first section of your salon plan, it’s typically written at the end once all the other sections are drafted. This is so because it summarizes all the most important aspects of your business.

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2. Business description

As you will provide a quick business overview in the executive summary, this section will expand on it and give detailed information about your salon.

So, here, explain your salon concept in detail and give readers a better understanding of your business, including what your hair salon business is all about.

For instance, you may ask yourself a few questions to plan this section:

• Where it’s located & why did you select that place?
• What’s the legal structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation)?
• When and why did you start the hair salon business?
• Who are the owners or partners?
• What type of hair salon do you operate?
• What business milestones have you achieved till now (if any)?

In addition to that, you may highlight your salon’s short-term goals and long-term objectives that every potential investor or lender needs to know.

3. Market analysis

The market analysis section presents your external business environment. Generally, it involves in-depth research of the specific industry or sector in which your business intends to operate.

This means you’ll need to conduct comprehensive market research and analytical work to start a successful salon venture.

It also helps you get valuable insights into the salon industry, market size & growth potential, target customers, market demand, competitors, and opportunities.

Here are a few essential components that you may include in your market analysis:

Here, you may provide details of the target market you serve or expect to serve. This will help you identify your target customers and create a buyer’s persona, along with the psychographic and demographic details.

Competitive analysis

It’s a very important aspect of market research that helps you identify and analyze all other salon businesses nearby. It will cover direct and indirect competitors, including their strengths & weaknesses, and explain your competitive advantages .

Market trends

As a salon owner, you know that the hair salon industry is dynamic and continuously growing. So, you’ll have to explore the current and emerging trends (technological advancements, adoption of sustainable products, etc.) in the indus try and explain how your business will cope with them.

4. Organization and management

The organization and management section introduces the key personnel responsible for running the salon, including the salon owner, managers, hair stylists, and other staff members.

You may start by describing their roles and responsibilities, educational qualifications, industry experience, and expertise that help you grow your salon.

Then, consider discussing the employee benefits, compensation plans, and business operations, as well as outline the organizational structure, including reporting lines and how decisions will be made.

Furthermore, try to highlight advisory board members (if any) and explain how they can contribute to the salon’s overall success.

If your team is lacking and you’re planning to hire, mention whom you’ll hire and clarify how they will manage day-to-day operations, what type of work experience you’ll need, and how you’ll address training practices.

5. Services and products

As the name suggests, this section illustrates all the different types of services or products your salon will offer to its customers.

For instance, you may include a wide range of services, such as haircuts, styling, coloring, hair treatments, manicures, pedicures, etc. Also, describe each service in detail, along with the pricing plans, techniques used, and expected results.

For easy understanding, you may take the below as a reference to craft your offerings:

Platinum Hair’s Services

1. Haircuts: Classic Haircut

Price: [$40] per session

Description: A timeless haircut tailored to your preferences, ensuring a polished and stylish look.

Specifications: 

• Suitable for: All hair types
• Duration: 45 minutes

2. Coloring Services: Highlights

Price: [$110] per session

Description: Partial or full highlights, to add dimension and brightness to your hair, enhancing its natural beauty.

Specifications:

• Duration: 150 minutes
• Styles Available: Partial, Full, Balayage

If you’re running a hair salon that offers a great selection of products, like, hair care products, skincare items, or beauty accessories), mention them as well.

This will help investors better understand how you plan to satisfy all your customer’s needs & preferences and what value your salon brings to the market.

6. Marketing and sales strategy

Your marketing and sales strategy decides how you plan to draw new customers and retain existing ones for your hair salon.

A well-written sales and marketing plan can help you keep track of the marketing budget and maximize ROI while developing online and offline marketing or external promotional campaigns.

Consider including the below information in this section:

Unique Selling Proposition (USPs)

You may define your unique selling points to distinguish your salon business. For example, consider presenting holistic hair care services, sustainable & environmentally friendly products, and highly skilled stylists.

Online advertising

Using online channels such as social media platforms, email marketing, and professional branding can help you target certain audiences and build trust among them. You may also create visual ads and content to showcase all your offerings.

Partnerships or collaborations

You may partner with local businesses to expand your brand’s visibility and reach a wider audience. This will draw new customers and increase your growth opportunities.

Workshops and events

You may organize workshops or events at your salon and invite the local community to explore your space. Ask them to engage in live demonstrations of hairstyles and treatments. Also, don’t forget to collect their feedback and preferences.

Discounts or rewards

Giving special discounts helps you attract new clients and retain existing ones. So, try to offer discounts to the new consumers or introduce a loyalty program to reward regular clients.

7. Financial projections

A financial plan is the most crucial aspect of the hair salon business plan. It offers a comprehensive overview of your financial projections for the first 3-5 years.

However, the startup financial plan includes several critical statements and reports, such as income statements, cash flow statements, and balance sheets.

For your hair salon financial plan, consider providing detailed financial projections, including sales forecasts, revenue projections , initial startup costs, funding requirements, break-even analysis, or even sensitivity analyses for different scenarios.

This will help you demonstrate the long-term growth and profitability of your salon and allow potential investors or financial backers to make informed decisions.

8. Appendix

In the appendix, you may attach any supporting documents that might complement your business plan.

It includes market research data and surveys, licenses & permits, equipment leases, salon layouts, resumes of executive members, and many more.

In short, you can place additional information or attachments that don’t fit into specific sections, but readers might use them for reference.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

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Now that you have a detailed hair salon business plan outline, it’s much easier to kickstart your plan writing process.

However, preparing a comprehensive business plan from scratch can be an intimidating and daunting task. But not to worry; Upmetrics could be a great companion here!

It’s a modern business plan software that enables new entrepreneurs and small business owners to create investment-ready plans quickly and efficiently.

From easy-to-follow guides and 400+ business plan examples to financial forecasting software, Upmetrics offers valuable resources to streamline the entire business planning process.

So, wait no longer; start preparing your plan!

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Frequently asked questions, what financial projections are most important for a new salon.

The following are the most important financial projections for a new salon:

• Sales and revenue forecasts
• Profit and loss statement
• Cash flow projections
• Balance sheet
• Initial funding needs
• Break-even analysis
• Loan repayment plan

How often should a hair salon business plan be updated?

It’s necessary to review and update your hair salon business plan regularly, at least once a year, or more often whenever there are significant changes in the business environment or market.

What are the essential elements of a salon business plan?

While writing a comprehensive business plan for your salon, consider including the following essential elements:

• Executive summary
• Business overview
• Market analysis
• Products and service offerings
• Marketing and sales strategy
• Management team
• Operations plan
• Financial projections

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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Creating a Successful Salon Business Plan: A Step-by-Step Guide

• January 23, 2024
• For Salon Owners

If you plan to open a salon, besides setting the objectives, you’ll need to know how you’re going to achieve them. Or, in other words, you need a sound salon business plan.

Creating a salon business plan can help you identify specific goals and strategies, as well as provide guidance on how you can reach them and see your business thrive. Knowing how to craft your plan is vital, as it can easily make or break your salon business.

This article will walk you through how to create a salon business plan step-by-step.

Why is a Salon Business Plan so Important?

What is a salon business plan.

A salon business plan is a formal, written statement of the goals you want to set for your business. It explains why you want to set those goals and what your plan is for reaching them. A salon business plan might also include information about the individuals or teams working toward those goals with you.

A good salon business plan gives an overview of where your business is at now and explains where you want to be in the future. It also includes marketing information and research that impact your business plan in general. In fact, think of your salon business plan as a road map where you show where you are now and explain where you’re headed and what it will take to get there.

As you build your salon business plan, it’s important to include information about the process of opening your salon. This information is important because, right from the get-go, you lay the groundwork for success. This groundwork then helps you run and grow your salon business .

Why is a business plan essential for the success of your salon?

A salon business plan is an essential tool for the growth and success of any salon. It is important as it helps you to jot down your ideas and thoughts, arrange them in an organized manner, and develop an overall plan to implement them.

Writing a salon business plan also enables you to identify potential difficulties and challenges that may arise in the future. Once you’ve identified them, you can create a strategy to address them.

Having a business plan is just one of the essential steps to opening your very own salon – to see what other boxes need to be checked, download our Opening a Salon checklist PDF :

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Benefits of having a sound salon business plan

A well-crafted salon business plan comes with many benefits:

• A Greater Success Rate : A good business plan allows you to mitigate risks, make better-informed decisions, and improve your chances of running a successful salon.
• Better Financial Management : A well-written salon business plan includes your budget, financial projections, and expense management. This helps you keep tabs on your salon’s financial health, which leads to financially sound decisions.
• Improved Marketing Strategies : A sound business plan requires you to conduct market research and develop marketing strategies. Then you can identify your target market, predict customer preferences, and adjust your marketing efforts to be more effective.
• Increased Operational Efficiency : A salon business plan ensures that you implement efficient operational processes. This allows your salon to keep running smoothly and leads to increased customer satisfaction.

How to Write a Salon Business Plan in Just 12 Steps

• Write an executive summary
• Create effective mission and vision statements
• Include a salon business description
• Analyze the market and identify your target audience
• Check what your competitors are up to
• Identify products and services you wish to offer
• Craft a sound financial plan
• Tackle management and organization
• Plan your everyday operations
• Think about your marketing strategy
• Think about sales
• Don’t forget to include risks

1. Write an Executive Summary

An executive summary explains what your salon is like and why it is successful. In most cases, a potential investor would go straight to this section to get an idea of what the business is like. If the executive summary isn’t interesting or compelling, they won’t read any further. That makes it an essential section and the first step when writing your salon business plan.

The executive summary should include information that is relevant to stockholders or investors. Include details about your target market, business objectives, and financial projections. Don’t forget to add information about your products and service menu, as well as your vision and mission. The main idea is to let the reader know what’s up, grab their attention, and make them want to keep reading.

Key components

An executive summary of every salon business plan should include the following information:

Business overview : Introduce the reader to your salon. Include information like the name and location, and a brief description of your core values, vision, and mission.

Market analysis : Provide a summary of your research on your target market. Include details about the target market’s trends and demographics. Then highlight gaps or opportunities in the market that you plan to capitalize on.

Your business objectives : Clearly identify your business goals and state what you want your salon to achieve. This might include details like expansion plans, revenue targets, or customer acquisition goals. In this section, you can include any goals that will affect your salon’s growth and success .

Products and Service menu : Give a brief overview of what your salon offers. Make sure your unique features and competitive advantages stand out. Explain what your salon is doing to meet the needs of the target market.

Marketing strategies : Explain your marketing strategy. This includes information about advertising, branding, social media, and so on. If you have any original ideas for how to make your salon stand out from the competition, make sure to highlight them.

Your financial projections : Provide a detailed financial plan overview. Include any information about profit targets, expenses budget, and revenue forecasts. Highlight any achievements or milestones you have reached that prove the financial viability of your salon.

Any funding requirements : Clearly explain the funding requirements for your salon. Explain how much funding you need, how you will use the funds and any other potential sources of funds you have.

2. Create Effective Mission and Vision Statements

Image by pch.vector on Freepik

A mission statement is a short explanation of why you created your salon, what your goal is, and how you want to achieve it. Your mission statement is an important part of your salon business plan, so it should be the first thing you see on the page. It’s a good idea to put it at the top of the page where you and others can see it and be reminded of your purpose.

The mission statement gives you the chance to express your purpose and intention. It not only explains why you started the salon, but it also explains what you have to offer. It shows what sets you apart from the competitor salons and captures the spirit with which you run your salon.

In just a few words, your mission statement can determine what drives your business.

Defining your purpose and aspirations

Part of the purpose of a mission statement is to define your purpose and what you offer. Your purpose is the reason you exist and what you have to offer potential customers. To get an idea of what your mission statement should include, ask yourself “Why does my salon exist?”

A vision statement serves a similar purpose. It explains where you want to take your business and what you hope to achieve. It defines your goals and the future impact you want to have. To identify the key points that will go into your vision statement, ask yourself “Where do I see my salon in the future?”

Putting your purpose and your long-term goals in writing plays an important role in having a successful business plan.

How to craft mission and vision statements

Here are a few examples of things you can consider when you are writing your mission statement and your vision statement. This will help you come up with ideas that reflect your identity and direction as a salon.

• Have a brainstorming session with your team. Ask them “What do you think makes this salon unique? What do you love about working here? What do you personally want to achieve?”
• Identify core values. What specific values do you want to uphold in everything you do? Some examples of core values are: creativity, integrity, excellence, diversity, and
• Put your mission statement in writing. Use your core values as a starting point. Then write a short, simple sentence that sums up your salon’s purpose and what you offer to clients.
• Write your vision statement. Write a short, inspiring sentence that describes your long-term goals for the salon and what you want to achieve.
• To make this process easier, consider using AI writing tools to help craft clear and compelling statements.
• Review and refine. Once you have your mission and vision statements written down, take some time to review them. Make sure your statements are both clear and concise, as well as compelling.

In case you need a bit of help, take a look at some brilliant salon mission statement examples sure to inspire you.

Also, writing an effective slogan will only underline the message you wish to send, so make sure you have one ready.

3. Include a Salon Business Description

Company description.

A company description is a quick overview of your business that explains the core values of your company. This part of your salon business plan is all about giving a quick and simple rundown to the readers. It’s meant to give them a general idea of what your business is all about.

Outlining the details

Your salon business description provides all the basic details about your salon. You should include the name of your salon, the location, and your contact information. Also, include the details about the legal structure of your salon. This information is the foundation of the rest of your business description. Thus, it’s important that the information is accurate and up to date.

Company history and brand story

In this section, you should provide some information about the background and history of your salon. When was your business founded? What led to you starting your business? Whatever your story is, this section is your chance to tell it.

Describe what you offer and your USP

This section details what your clients can expect to find at your salon. You can use this section to provide details about new beauty products or services you are offering. If you are working on your own line of products, this is also a good place to mention it and provide an estimated timeline for when it will be available.

Your salon’s USP (unique selling proposition) is what makes your salon stand out from the rest of the market. It is very important to highlight your USP in your business description.

4. Analyze the Market and Identify Your Target Audience

The market analysis shows that you’ve put some serious thought into your target audience. You’ve also done some research to find out what the competitors are missing out on. What’s more, it shows that you really know your area and have made some changes to your approach to fit in.

When you identify and analyze your potential clients, you are better able to adjust your marketing strategy to catch their eye.

Conducting market research

Market research means collecting data about the needs, preferences, and behavior of potential clients. Then you analyze this data. Market research helps you identify who your target market is and what their expectations and needs are. Based on these findings, you can create a marketing strategy that is appealing to that audience in particular.

Conducting market research also helps you identify who your competition is. Knowing this helps you get a good idea of reasonable pricing and ideal locations. Factoring this information in helps you gain and retain clients.

Here are some ideas on how you can make the entire process more interactive and fun (both for you and the participants):

Salon pop-up surveys

Set up a pop-up booth or station near popular local spots and events. Engage with passersby, offering quick surveys with a fun incentive like discount coupons for your salon. This allows you to gather diverse opinions and attract potential customers .

Instagram polls and stories

Leverage the interactive features of social media. Use Instagram polls and stories to ask your followers about their favorite salon experiences, desired services, or beauty trends. Encourage them to share their thoughts and tag friends for a chance to win a free service.

Salon open house events

Host an open house event at your salon. Invite the local community to explore your space, meet your staff, and participate in live demonstrations or mini-makeovers. Use the opportunity to collect feedback and preferences directly from attendees.

Collaborative mood boards

Create collaborative mood boards or Pinterest boards where clients and potential clients can contribute their favorite hairstyles, colors, and beauty inspirations. This not only gathers valuable insights but also fosters a sense of community and involvement.

Beauty trend workshops

Organize workshops on the latest beauty trends. Invite participants to share their thoughts on emerging styles and treatments. This not only serves as a research platform but also positions your salon as a trendsetter in the community.

Community surveys with prizes

Distribute physical or digital surveys within the local community, emphasizing the importance of their opinions. Include a prize draw or a special discount for survey participants, encouraging more people to contribute.

Interactive social media challenges

Create engaging challenges on social media platforms, encouraging followers to share their favorite salon experiences or dream makeover ideas. Use a unique hashtag to track responses and offer prizes for the most creative entries.

Beauty polls and quizzes

Develop entertaining online polls or quizzes related to beauty and salon preferences. Share these on your website and social media to capture audience insights while providing a fun and interactive experience.

By infusing creativity and engagement into your market research efforts, you not only gather valuable information but also strengthen the connection between your salon and the community. The more interactive and enjoyable the process, the more likely you are to receive enthusiastic and authentic responses from your audience.

Identifying behaviors, demographics, and preferences

Once you have information on your target market you can use it to better understand them. Here are a few things to look at:

The behavior of your target market. This refers to the way clients make purchasing decisions, their brand loyalties, and other similar behaviors. In general, behaviors can include anything that affects a client’s decision-making process.

Demographics refer to the characteristics of your potential clients.

Geographic location, educational background, and income can all impact the way clients respond to your marketing strategy.

Even the age and gender of the people you want to draw in can affect which strategies you use. Understanding this will help you create a marketing plan that resonates with the clientele you want to attract.

Then you have to factor in the preferences of your target market. What do they like and dislike? What kinds of ambiance are they drawn to? Which salon services are most popular with this group? What are their thoughts on pricing? What do they look for in customer service? All these factors play their part in whether or not a potential customer chooses your salon.

Client analysis

This part of your salon business plan is all about who your potential clients are. Depending on where your salon is, you might get certain types of people coming in. Or, it might be a mix of different types. You need to include details about who your market is made up of and what they’re like.

Here are a few things involved in conducting a client analysis for your salon:

• Define the scope and the objective of the analysis. Include information about the services and products, the time frame, and the area your customers are coming from.
• Collect data from a variety of sources and analyze. You can use surveys, online reviews, industry reports, interviews, and social media, as well as other sources.
• Identify specific customer groups. This includes demographics, needs, and behaviors.
• Create a profile for each customer group. Include descriptions of preferences, characteristics, expectations, and motivations.
• Evaluate the salon’s current performance. How are you doing with customer retention, satisfaction, and loyalty? How much is your salon profiting?
• Identify specific areas where you can improve customer relationships.

5. Check What Your Competitors Are Up To

A competitive analysis explains your plan for your salon to dominate the market. It is important for your competitive analysis to give a brief explanation of the existing competitors. This can include direct competition, like another salon, or indirect competition. The indirect competition includes any other option for clients to receive the products or services you offer. In this section of your salon business plan, you can bring out the strengths and weaknesses of your competition and explain how your target market views them.

Knowing your competition will help you determine what your own advantages are. Then you can capitalize on those advantages to attract and keep more customers. Once you can pinpoint your unique strengths, you are better equipped to carve out your own place in the market. It will give you a starting point to work from to identify a new way to attract customers. It may also help you find something unique to offer that no one else in the area is offering.

Conducting a SWOT analysis

To be able to succeed and stand out from the competition, it is helpful to carry out a SWOT analysis . SWOT is an acronym for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This analysis will help you diagnose the factors that play a role in the potential and performance of your competition.

What are the strengths of your competitors? Maybe a competing salon has a good reputation and a strong brand. Perhaps they offer a wide range of services or have a skillful team. They might have a good relationship with their suppliers, offer a clean and welcoming atmosphere, or have an optimal location.

What are their weaknesses? Perhaps they offer a limited number of services or have staff that lacks experience. They might be struggling with high overhead costs or have a difficult location. Or they may be on the losing end of high competition and/or struggle to maintain customer loyalty.

Opportunities for a salon include expansion opportunities or new services and products. Other opportunities include increased online presence, partnering opportunities, or new technology and trends.

What is a threat to a salon? Economic recessions, loss of customers to the competition, and negative reviews all threaten the success of a salon. Other threats include supply chain disruptions, legal problems, and environmental and health risks.

6. Identify Products and Services You Wish to Offer

This part of your salon business plan lays out all the different services that your salon will offer its customers. You can expect a wide range of services, from haircuts, styling, coloring, treatments, manicures, pedicures, facials, and many more. Each service is described in detail, including the techniques used, expected results, and pricing structure. We’ve also got a great selection of salon products that you can buy, like hair care items, skincare products, and beauty accessories.

By providing a comprehensive overview of the salon’s products and services, we’re showing that we’re committed to meeting all our customers’ needs and preferences. We want to make sure everyone feels welcome and satisfied with their experience at our salon. This sets the stage for a successful and thriving salon business.

7. Craft a Sound Financial Plan

Image by vectorjuice on Freepik

Here is where you provide details about the financial history, budget, and projections for your salon. Any potential investors or lenders will be especially interested in this section of your salon business plan.

When writing this section, you should include your financial plan for your salon for the next 3-5 years, as well as your financial history going back 3-5 years. If the salon has income, include financial statements. You should also include potential funding sources and your plan for keeping your salon running.

A good budget is the foundation for any effective financial plan. A budget allows you to distribute resources like time and funds effectively. A good budget also allows you to make better decisions about saving and spending and set goals for your finances.

Start by identifying all the sources of income for your salon. This includes product sales, service fees, and so on. Then identify all the expenses your salon has, like rent, salaries, supplies, and other operational costs. You could make a category for expenses that are always the same, like rent, and another for expenses that vary from month to month, like supplies. This might help you to see patterns and identify areas where you could cut back on some costs.

Once you have identified all your income and expenses, then you can set goals. From time to time, check your progress against your budget to see how you are doing and if you can make any further adjustments.

Income streams

Adding income streams is a good way to increase revenue. The following are a few options you could explore:

• Subscriptions : Charge fees for a set period of time instead of per transaction.
• Advertising : Promote certain brands in-store and online.
• Freemium plans : Certain services are free and “premium” services cost extra.
• Third-party licensing : Give third parties the right to use or sell your patented products.
• Renting or Leasing : Rent out assets (for example, real estate or products) for a price.

As you create your financial projections, factor in the demand in the market and the volume of customers. You should also include your pricing strategy for the products and services you offer. It would be helpful to go back and review your sales history. Then you can isolate specific trends. This will help you make more sound financial decisions moving forward. It would also be helpful to you to do some research on the current market.

Alternative funding options

There are a variety of options when it comes to alternative funding sources for your salon. Each option has pros and cons. Some options include loans, grants, crowdfunding, or partnerships.

Loans may offer somewhat low interest rates. However, it’s important to find out what they require for collateral or how strict the repayment terms are.

Grants can offer funds that you don’t have to repay, but they might have strict eligibility requirements and limits on how you can use the funds.

Crowdfunding can get you funds from a pool of investors, but it might mean sharing control or ownership of your salon.

Partnerships can get you access to extra capital and more expertise. On the downside, partnerships can mean profit-sharing. You may also have to consult with your partners before you make decisions.

Expense management

If you want your salon business plan to have success, it is vital that you manage your expenses carefully. To maximize your earnings, you have to optimize your expenses and control the costs your salon faces. This is the only way to make sure that your salon remains financially stable.

Regularly review your expenses and identify ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality. Be on the lookout for chances to negotiate better deals on supplies and cut out unnecessary expenses. For example, could you choose equipment that is more energy efficient? Is there a way you could maximize the lifespan of the products you use and cut back on supply costs?

Hiring freelancers or contractors

Hiring a contractor or freelancer can have a lot of benefits. These independent professionals can provide you with the expertise you need to do a specific project or task. Some of the benefits they offer include:

• Saving on Costs: Hiring contractors and freelancers can save you money on payroll taxes, training, benefits, and more. You pay for the work they do and depending on your needs you can adjust your budget.
• Greater flexibility: You hire contractors and freelancers only as you need them and for as long as you need. You can adjust the scale of your team depending on the demand of the project and their availability.
• Expertise: Freelancers and contractors bring in fresh ideas and perspectives. Their knowledge of the industry is also an asset to your salon business. They can also carry out tasks that are beyond your skill set or that require special equipment and tools.

8. Tackle Management and Organization

The management and organization plan is the backbone of your salon business plan. It shows how your salon will operate and reach its goals. This section gives an in-depth look at the salon’s management team, including their qualifications, experience, and roles inside the salon. It also explains how the salon will be structured, how decisions will be made, and how different teams will work together.

By sharing a clear management and organization plan, your business plan shows that the salon has capable people and a well-structured system to make it in the competitive beauty industry.

9. Plan Your Everyday Operations

The salon’s operational plan outlines the day-to-day procedures and practices that drive the smooth functioning of the salon. It covers all the essential operational aspects, from staff scheduling and client management to inventory control and quality assurance.

The plan sets out who’s responsible for what, so everyone works together like a team to give customers the best service. It includes strategies for optimizing appointment bookings , managing walk-ins , and handling peak hours efficiently .

Moreover, the operational plan addresses health and safety protocols, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a clean and hygienic environment for both clients and staff. By adhering to the operational plan, the salon can enhance productivity, elevate the overall customer experience, and create a thriving and well-organized salon environment.

Implementing booking software into your salon’s everyday operations

As a forward-thinking salon owner, integrating booking software into your daily operations isn’t just a tech-savvy move – it’s a strategic investment that brings a myriad of benefits to your business.

Booking software simplifies the appointment process, allowing clients to schedule services seamlessly. With real-time updates, your staff can manage and optimize appointments, reducing the risk of scheduling conficts and ensuring a smooth workflow.

Also, booking software enables you to create and manage staff schedules effortlessly. With automated notifications and reminders, your team stays informed, reducing scheduling conflicts and enhancing overall productivity.

Not to mention that clients appreciate the convenience of booking online, as it allows them to be in charge of everything – they can choose services, select preferred staff members, and book appointments at their convenience.

Revolutionize Your Salon Management with Trafft: A Solution Tailored for Salon Owners

As a salon owner, you’re no stranger to the challenges that come with managing a bustling beauty business.

Managing appointments, handling last-minute rescheduling, dealing with overbooking, creating and managing staff schedules, and struggling to be there for your clients in the middle of the night – these are just some of the common pain points you face as a salon owner.

Enter Trafft ! Tailored with your specific challenges in mind, Trafft is designed to transform your daily chaos into an efficient salon experience.

What do you get from Trafft?

• Say Goodbye to Daily Organizational Chaos : Bring order to the chaos with real-time updates and efficient scheduling. Trafft makes organizing your calendar, keeping track of appointments, and managing staff schedules a breeze.
• Minimize No-Shows : With Trafft’s automated reminders, you can reduce no-shows and make sure that each appointment slot is valuable. You’ll receive timely notifications via email or SMS which will help you cultivate a reliable and engaged customer base.
• Reschedule with Ease : When your clients choose a new time, Trafft will send notifications to both of you. Plus, it’ll confirm the booking and update all your calendars. No need to worry about canceling an appointment – Trafft will do it for you!
• Be Available 24/7: Allow clients to schedule appointments at their convenience. Transform your salon into a 24/7 beauty oasis, breaking free from traditional booking hour constraints.

So, are you ready for a salon management revolution? Embrace Trafft and start your transformation now!

10. Think about your marketing strategy

This is your game plan for your salon to bring in new clients and promote your services. A thorough marketing plan , with plenty of marketing ideas and marketing tools you plan to use, is essential. It allows you to stand out from the competition and reach your target market. It also allows you to create connections with your customers and achieve your marketing goals.

This is the most flexible section of your salon business plan . As your business grows and the market changes, your marketing plan will adapt to it.

Marketing strategies that attract and retain clients

It’s important for salon owners and managers to create strategies for advertising and marketing. This helps to attract new customers and retain existing clients , as well as improve the reputation and visibility of the salon. Here are a few strategies you might try:

• Create a salon website or social media account . There customers can get information about your prices, services, location, and hours. Websites and social media accounts are great ways to showcase your work or advertise special events and promotions.
• Try offering discounts, coupons, referrals, loyalty programs, or gift cards . This will encourage customers to visit the salon more frequently and make them more likely to spread the word to friends and family.
• Participate in local events . Are there any festivals, fairs, charity drives, or fashion shows coming up? These events are a great opportunity for the salon to showcase its skills and services. It also gives you the chance to network with potential customers and partners and generate publicity.
• Look for opportunities to partner with other local businesses like spas, hotels, gyms, or restaurants. You can cross-promote services and offer deals or packages to shared customers.
• Send emails or newsletters to customers about your latest news, tips, beauty trends, and offers.
• Ask for feedback from customers . Then use their responses to improve customer satisfaction and quality of service.

11. Think About Sales

In this section of your salon business plan, you should outline the strategies and tactics that will be employed to drive revenue and achieve your salon’s financial objectives.

This section delves into the target market and defines the salon’s unique selling proposition, emphasizing what sets it apart from competitors. It details the pricing strategy for various services and products, taking into consideration factors such as market demand, competition, and the perceived value of offerings.

The sales plan also identifies promotional activities and marketing campaigns that will be executed to attract new clients and retain existing ones. It includes a timeline for these initiatives, along with a budget allocation for marketing expenses. Furthermore, the section discusses techniques for upselling and cross-selling to maximize the average transaction value per customer.

By laying out a comprehensive sales plan, the business plan showcases the salon’s dedication to achieving financial success and growth through a well-structured and effective sales approach.

12. Don’t Forget to Include Risks

The risk management section of the salon business plan addresses the potential challenges and uncertainties that the salon may encounter during its operations.

This section identifies and assesses various risks, including financial, operational, legal, and industry-specific risks. It outlines the proactive measures that will be implemented to mitigate these risks and ensure business continuity.

Strategies such as obtaining insurance coverage, adhering to strict health and safety protocols, implementing sound financial practices, and conducting regular staff training are discussed to minimize potential liabilities. Additionally, contingency plans are detailed to handle unexpected situations, such as economic downturns or natural disasters.

By carefully analyzing and addressing potential risks, the risk management section demonstrates the salon’s commitment to safeguarding its interests and building resilience, providing potential investors and stakeholders with confidence in the salon’s ability to navigate challenges and succeed in the long run.

So, What’s the Secret to Creating a Successful Salon Business Plan?

Running a successful salon requires more than just a flair for aesthetics; a robust salon business plan is equally essential. This plan is not a one-time document but a dynamic tool that evolves alongside your business. It serves as a roadmap, guiding your financial decisions, attracting funding, and steering your salon toward lasting success.

When writing your salon business plan, don’t forget to include a detailed market analysis, your financial projections, operational plan, services and pricing strategy, marketing, and branding.

Be sure to check in on your plan regularly and see how you’re doing compared to your goals.

Remember, a well-thought-out salon business plan is not just a formality; it’s a dynamic tool that empowers you to make informed decisions, navigate challenges, and seize opportunities for growth. Invest time and effort in crafting a plan that aligns with your vision, and watch your salon flourish.

Looking for More Salon-Related Resources?

If you enjoyed this article about creating a successful salon business plan, you should check out these as well:

• The Best Salon Appointment Booking App On the Market
• How To Manage A Salon Successfully (Salon Manager Tips)
• How To Run A Successful Salon (The Salon Owner Guide)
• How To Get More Clients In A Salon (The Ultimate Guide)
• How Much Do Salon Owners Make? Tips for You to Earn More
• Salon Cancellation Policy Examples and Templates To Use
• The Best Salon Slogans and Mottos to Use for Your Own
• Salon Mission Statement Examples and Tips To Create One
• The Types of Salon Insurance You’ll Need for Your Business
• Salon Social Media Marketing 101
• How to Make a Salon Price Increase Notice without Losing Clients
• The Most Efficient Salon Marketing Ideas You Need To Try
• The Best Salon POS System to Pick From
• Salon Booth Rental Tips and Best Practices to Know

FAQ on Salon Business Plan Essentials

Why do i need a salon business plan.

A salon business plan is essential because it serves as a roadmap, guiding you through the process of starting and growing your business.

It outlines your goals, target market, services, pricing, and marketing strategies, helping you stay on track and make informed decisions.

A well-prepared business plan can also be valuable when seeking financing, as it demonstrates your commitment and expertise to potential investors or lenders.

What should I include in the company description?

In the company description, provide an overview of your salon, including the name, location, and ownership structure.

Explain your salon’s mission, vision, and core values, as well as the unique selling points that set you apart from competitors. This section should also highlight the salon’s atmosphere, target clientele, and the specific services you plan to offer.

What is an example of a salon mission statement?

An example of a salon mission statement could be: “At [Your Salon Name], we are dedicated to delivering exceptional beauty experiences that empower our clients to look and feel their best. Our mission is to create an inviting, inclusive environment where creativity thrives, and our team is committed to providing personalized, high-quality services that enhance natural beauty and boost confidence.”

What is the best business structure for a salon?

The most common business structures for salons are Sole Proprietorship, LLC (Limited Liability Company), or Corporation. Each has its own advantages. Sole Proprietorship is simpler but offers less liability protection. LLC combines liability protection with flexibility. A Corporation provides strong liability protection but involves more complex formalities. Consult with a business advisor to determine the best fit for your salon.

How do I choose the right services for my salon?

Choosing the right services for your salon starts with understanding your target market and their needs.

Research your local area and identify gaps in the market or underserved segments. Consider your own skills and expertise, as well as those of your team, and focus on services that align with your strengths.

Offering a mix of essential and specialized services, such as haircuts, coloring, and unique treatments, can help you stand out and attract a loyal clientele.

How do I set salon pricing?

Setting salon pricing requires balancing the cost of providing services with what customers are willing to pay.

Research competitor pricing in your area and consider factors such as your target market, the quality of your services, and your salon’s atmosphere. You can opt for tiered pricing based on the experience of the stylist or offer service bundles to encourage customers to try additional services.

Be prepared to adjust your pricing as your business grows and evolves.

What’s the best way to market my salon?

Marketing your salon requires a combination of traditional and digital strategies.

Word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients can be powerful, so encourage customers to share their experiences with friends and family. Utilize social media to showcase your work, engage with potential clients, and share promotions.

Collaborate with local businesses or participate in community events to raise brand awareness. Don’t forget about email marketing, loyalty programs, marketing tools , and targeted advertising to attract new customers and retain existing ones.

How can I ensure a top-notch customer experience?

Providing an exceptional customer experience is crucial for salon success. Start by hiring skilled, friendly staff who share your vision and commitment to customer satisfaction. Offer ongoing training to ensure your team stays up-to-date on industry trends and techniques.

Also, handle bookings professionally, with the help of salon scheduling software and booking apps .

Create a welcoming, clean, and comfortable salon environment, and be responsive to customer feedback. Consistently delivering high-quality services and personalized attention will help you build a loyal client base.

How do I manage salon inventory and supplies?

Effective inventory management is essential for a successful salon. Implement a system to track product usage and sales, ensuring that you always have adequate supplies on hand without overstocking. Regularly review your inventory levels and adjust your ordering frequency or quantities as needed.

Negotiate with suppliers for the best prices and consider implementing inventory management software to streamline the process.

What legal requirements should I be aware of?

Before opening your salon, familiarize yourself with any legal requirements, such as licenses, permits, and zoning regulations.

You may need a cosmetology license, business license, or specific permits for your location. Additionally, ensure your salon meets local health and safety guidelines and complies with employment laws. Consult with a legal professional if you’re unsure of your obligations.

How do I create financial projections for my salon?

Creating financial projections for your salon involves estimating future revenue, expenses, and cash flow. Start by estimating your income from services and product sales, taking into account factors like pricing, target market, and more.

Outline your anticipated expenses, such as rent, utilities, salaries, marketing, and inventory costs. Create a cash flow statement to ensure you have enough working capital to cover your expenses and support your salon’s growth.

Use your financial projections to set realistic goals and adjust your business plan as needed. Regularly review your financial performance and compare it to your projections, making necessary changes to stay on track and achieve your objectives.

How do I measure the success of my salon business?

Measuring the success of your salon business involves tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) that align with your goals.

Common KPIs for salons include revenue growth, client retention, client acquisition, average ticket value, and employee productivity.

Track these metrics regularly to assess your salon’s performance and identify areas for improvement. Additionally, use customer feedback, online reviews , and testimonials to gauge the overall satisfaction of your clients and the quality of your services.

This information can help you refine your business strategies and ensure your salon’s ongoing success.

• Jovana Smoljanovic Tucakov

Jovana Smoljanovic Tucakov is a Content Marketing and SEO Specialist who uses both words and data to communicate a message and deliver value. With more than 5 years of experience in digital marketing and content production in the IT industry, she loves identifying and solving the readers’ pain points and creating targeted content.

Curious about the human mind and emotions, especially those that drive consumer behavior. Likes fitness, food preparation, board games, reading (both for pleasure and learning), and binge-watching Netflix.

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How To Create a Successful Salon Business Plan in 10 Steps [+ Template]

Looking to open your own salon? Despite a looming recession, it’s a great time to do so — beauty industry statistics show the salon industry grew about 17 percent in 2022 , and the majority of Americans claim they’re not planning to cut back on beauty spending anytime soon. 

But before you start rounding up clients, you will need a thorough salon business plan to align your goals. While it may be tempting to jump in on the action as soon as possible, taking the time to plan your business properly will set you up for success in the long run. From market analyses to advertising campaigns, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create a winning salon business strategy.

1. Create your mission and vision statement

First things first — what are you planning to do with your new salon business? To answer this question, you’ll need to put some serious thought into your mission and vision statements. These statements articulate the purpose and goals of your salon and will guide the rest of your business plan.

Mission vs. vision statements

While mission and vision statements are often used interchangeably, there are differences between the two. It’s recommended that a new business have both statements before laying out its business plan.

A mission statement describes the short-term goals of the company — essentially defining the core purpose of the company and how it plans to achieve that purpose. Let’s break down this example of a salon’s mission statement:

Mission Statement

“We strive to offer our clients the highest-quality cuts at affordable prices because every woman deserves to look and feel her best.”

In this example, the business plans to offer high-quality cuts at affordable prices — the “what” and “how” —  because they believe “every woman deserves to look and feel her best” — the “why,” or core purpose.

The mission statement serves as a roadmap to achieving your business’s vision statement.  A vision statement defines your salon’s big-picture aspirations — the driving force behind your short-term actions and goals. Here’s a vision statement the example salon above might write:

Vision Statement

“We strive to expand our services nationwide as the premier choice for affordable, high-quality cuts.”

This example clearly states the business’s future goals to help define the path toward future success.

2. Know your market

Before you open your doors, you need to know who you’re opening for (your target audience) and what salons you’re up against (your competitors). Both will provide valuable information to help you determine what your clients value most .

Recognize your target audience

Your target audience is a particular group of people who may be interested in your services. A target audience profile can be broken down into four main characteristics:

• Demographic: The main characteristics of your target market, including age, income level, gender, occupation, and education level
• Geographic: Where your audience lives, works, or travels 
• Psychographic: Your target audience’s lifestyle, attitude, interests, and values
• Behavioral:  What your ideal clients want, why they want it, and how they go about achieving their needs

Let’s face the facts — everyone and their mom could use a cut and color. It’s up to you to determine who to market your business to. Are you most interested in serving the most high-end clientele, or would you rather cater to college students looking to experiment with fun, trendy styles? Will the area of town you’re located in affect how you position and price your services? 

Knowing your target audience will influence every stage of your business plan, so it’s essential you recognize what their needs and motivations are from the start.

Conduct a market analysis

Analyzing your salon’s target audience is just the first step in breaking down your target market. To truly get a comprehensive view of your business landscape, you’ll want to conduct a market analysis. 

A market analysis is a thorough assessment of your specific market within the salon industry. In addition to defining your target market, a market analysis should include:

• Potential clients’ buying habits
• The size of your target market
• The state of the industry and industry projections
• How much your potential clients are willing to pay for your services
• Who your main competitors are
• Your competitors’ strengths and weaknesses

A thorough market analysis is essential for reducing risks, identifying emerging trends and opportunities, and projecting revenue. It’s good practice to reevaluate your findings annually and adjust your salon’s business plan accordingly. Plus, you’ll be able to factor in actual customer feedback once your doors are open.

Take advantage of free market research tools like Google Trends, SurveyMonkey, and data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and U.S. Census to aid in your market research strategy.

3. Identify your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats

With a better understanding of how you plan to position your salon within your target market, you’re ready to dive into your first SWOT analysis. A SWOT analysis is a compilation of internal and external factors that will impact your business.

Internal factors are resources and experience readily available to you — they’re categorized as either strengths or weaknesses. Examples of internal factors to include in your SWOT analysis are:

• Financial resources
• Physical resources
• Human resources
• Natural resources
• Trademarks, patents, and copyrights 

Your opportunities and threats are defined by external factors, such as:

• Market trends
• Economic trends
• Demographics
• Suppliers and partners
• Political, environmental, and economic regulations

Once you’ve completed the SWOT framework, create an innovative business strategy that will leverage your strengths and opportunities to overcome your weaknesses and threats. The SWOT analysis compels you to take a methodical and objective look at where you stand now and what you need to do to succeed.

4. Draft your salon’s executive summary

With your target market and new industry knowledge in mind, it’s time to create the most important part of your salon business plan: the executive summary. 

An executive summary is a short synopsis of your overall business plan and intentions for your new salon. Don’t let its size fool you — your executive summary is the first impression business partners and investors will have of your business. While it may be brief,  your executive summary must make an impact.

Business strategy experts agree that an executive summary should be between 5 and 10 percent of the length of your entire business plan.

What to include in your executive summary

A solid salon executive summary will provide a ton of useful information condensed into a short, sweet, and easy-to-understand package. Try your best to tie in the following when drafting your summary: 

• Strong introduction: If you want to capture your reader’s attention immediately, you’ll want to put together an introductory paragraph that not only pulls them in, but explains who you are, what you offer, and what problems you intend to solve. Keep your intro short and concise.
• Market view: Based on your market research analysis, briefly summarize the state of your target market, the needs of your target audience, and how you plan to position your salon amongst your competitors. 
• Unique selling points: What will your salon bring to the table that’ll set it apart from competitors? List any unique selling points that customers and stakeholders will find valuable. 

Financial expectations and forecasts: If you plan on sharing your business plan with potential investors or stakeholders, list the projected expenses and costs it’ll take to open and operate your salon, as well as what profits you expect to generate within the first six months. Explain why your salon needs financing and why investing in your business is a smart move.

5. Write your salon’s unique business description

Congratulations on completing the research portion of your salon business plan — it’s finally time to start bringing your dream salon to life! 

First and foremost, you’ll need to figure out how to brand your salon. There are almost a million registered hair salons in the U.S., so how can you make yours stand out?

Start by drafting your salon’s business description — this should set the scene for what customers can expect when walking into your salon. Are you hoping to give off a funky, casual vibe? Or maybe a more elegant ambiance, champagne included? The tone of your business description should convey this, as well as:

• Services you specialize in
• Packages or perks you offer
• Unique selling points that distinguish you from other salons

With a business description in place, you can now create a company logo and tagline to complete your new brand!

6. List your products, services, and prices

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty — what are you offering, and how much will it cost? While you may be able to do it all, some services will pay off better than others. You may be doing yourself a disservice if you purchase all the supplies for perms when your clients want blowouts. 

To determine which services and products will benefit your business the most, ask yourself the following questions:

• What is my target audience interested in?
• What do I have experience in?
• What is trending?
• What are my competitors offering (or more importantly, what are they not)?

Once you have your service list set, you’ll need to calculate pricing . Striking a balance between making a stellar profit and attracting and retaining clients is one of the most difficult parts of running any business. Consider these factors when determining a fair price for your salon services:

• Similar rates in your area
• Cost and use of supplies
• Time spent on the service
• Your experience level

Review and reevaluate your services and pricing at least once a year to ensure you’re charging your worth. Cost of living, supply costs, and any additional training you may have undergone warrant a price change — just be sure to notify your loyal regulars before new pricing goes into effect.

7. Lay out your salon’s operation and logistics plan

While the earlier sections of your salon’s business plan defined your goals, your operation and logistics plan will detail how you plan to meet them. Your operations plan will have two sections:

• Short-term processes: List all the tasks, employees, vendors, software, and supplies you’ll need to run your salon on a day-to-day basis.
• Long-term milestones: Describe what you hope to achieve in the future. For new businesses, this could include the date you plan to finalize your lease, your grand opening date, or the date you hope to reach your first $100,000 in sales. 

Putting together your operations and logistics plan may make you realize just how much work goes into running a salon. Scheduling appointments, promoting your new business, managing payment processes, and tracking down no-shows on top of actually performing your services can get really overwhelming, really fast. Learn how StyleSeat can help you manage and grow your business so you can focus on what you do best.

8. Define your marketing and outreach strategy

No matter how much effort you put into designing your salon, acquiring top-of-the-line tools, or hiring the best stylists in your area, no one’s going to schedule an appointment at your salon if they don’t know you exist. That’s where your salon marketing and advertising strategy comes into play.

While there are literally thousands of way to bring attention to your salon, these marketing and outreach tactics are tried and true:

Build a website

Whether you’re targeting tech-savvy Gen Zers or old-school baby boomers, you’ll need to ensure your business is Google-able. Building your website should be the first step in creating your online presence. For the best customer experience, make sure to include your salon’s:

• Contact information and address 
• Services and pricing
• Unique selling points and mission statement
• Customer reviews and testimonials
• Links to social media profiles

Invest in social media marketing

Harness the power of Instagram , Facebook, TikTok, Pinterest, and more with a dedicated social media marketing and influencer strategy. Sharing behind-the-scenes content, before and after photos, and happy customer reactions can make your business appear more personable and reputable. It’s also a great way to boost engagement, interact with your client base, and cultivate brand awareness.

Studies Show

44 percent of beauty salons were focused on growing their social media profiles in 2022, and 35 percent of stylists claim their growing social following was their biggest opportunity for business growth.

Establish rapport and build customer loyalty

Convincing a potential customer to give a new hairstylist a try is a lot more difficult than it seems. One way to sweeten the deal is to offer first-service discounts or lower prices the first few months to get interested clients through the door . If they’re happy with your service, they’ll likely stay — especially if you have a loyalty program in place that offers discounts and perks for regular customers!

8. Get your finances in check

If you’ve already set your prices, take a bow — the hardest part of your salon’s financing strategy is already done. However, you’ll need to take your money a step further to get a rough idea of how your business will progress on a monthly and annual basis. This is especially important if you plan on applying for a loan or seeking investors. 

It may be best to put together your full financial statement three to six months after opening your salon. It should include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement so you and your stakeholders can get a better understanding of your salon’s financial health. 

Income statement

Your income statement lists both your revenue sources, expenses, and net income over a given period of time. This should include:

• Cost of sales
• Administrative expenses
• Operating expenses
• Non-operating income and expenses
• Gains and losses
• Non-recurring items

If you haven’t opened your salon yet, you can project future milestones with the same information.

Balance sheet

Your balance sheet provides a look at how much equity you have in your business. It consists of two parts:

• Business assets: What you own, such as cash, accounts receivable, inventory, prepaid expenses, or salon supplies  
• Liabilities: What you owe, including loans, credit card balances, payroll taxes, accounts payable, and your lease 

Once you’ve listed your salon’s business assets and liabilities, you can calculate your shareholder equity by subtracting the total value of your liabilities from your assets.

Cash flow statement 

Your cash flow statement will help you see when cash is low, when you have a surplus, and when you might need to access funding to keep your business afloat. Your cash flow statement lists revenue and expenses similar to your income statement, but it also takes into account when revenue is collected and when expenses are paid. 

Your cash flow is positive when you have more cash coming in than you have going out, and negative when the opposite is true.

Using graphs to visualize your cash flow can help you forecast when you may need to adjust operations to account for negative cash flow.

10. Plan for the future

With a well-structured business plan in hand, you’re ready to take on whatever the market has in store for you — at least for the first six months. But if you want to stay on top of industry fluctuations, the newest marketing trends, or competitor announcements, consistently review your salon business plan and company goals.

Salon business plan template

Opening a new salon requires a lot of moving parts — from remodeling your space to hiring your A-team, putting together your actual business strategy can get lost in your to-dos. Download this free helpful template to streamline your business plan and keep your goals top of mind.

The average profit margin for salons is 8.2 percent — 0.5 percent higher than the general business average of 7.7 percent. Salon owners in the U.S. can expect to make between $14,441 and $385,332, with an average salary of $74,699.

The startup cost for your salon will depend on a number of factors, including the type of salon, location, size, number of employees, and type of clientele you’re hoping to attract. Expect to spend anywhere from $10,000 to $200,000 before your grand opening.

Salons can make more money by implementing an effective marketing and advertising strategy, running promotions and contests, and reevaluating their pricing structure. Research your industry, emerging trends, and your competitors’ strategies for inspiration.

A thorough salon business plan can help you determine your short- and long-term goals, resources required, and effective strategies to drive business to your salon. Ready to hit the ground running? StyleSeat can help you manage and grow your new salon — no monthly fee required.

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Small Business Trends

How to create a salon business plan.

What is a Salon Business Plan?

Once you enter the growth phase, the plan helps you showcase the value of your business to potential investors and new partners.

Why Do I Need a Salon Business Plan?

A good business plan is not just essential in the early stages of your business. It is relevant in the future as well. For example, if you want to expand your business and start a franchise you may need investment. Potential investors or business partners will be interested in understanding your vision and where you think your business will be in the next couple of years. This is where your business plan will be a key document to attract funds.

Getting Started

Writing a salon business plan.

The cover page is useful when you’re trying to provide key information about your business. But you may also choose to skip this since you will share the information in the salon description section.

Table of Contents

Executive summary.

Brevity is key when creating an executive summary. Include high-level growth plans and financial information to hook your reader. If they find the section compelling, they will continue reading for more information.

Mission Statement

Describe your salon.

The company description provides a quick overview of your business. It describes what your company all about and its core values. This section should be brief and straightforward so the readers quickly get some background information.

Research shows relaxed customers are willing to pay 10-15% more than tense clients. Salon environment plays an important part in helping clients feel relaxed. And this makes it important for you to focus on creating the right ambiance.

Services and Product Lines

The services and products you offer to your clientele play a huge part in differentiating your salon from competition. That’s why, it’s important to describe the benefits your products and services provide to customers.

Hair Salon Services

Beauty salon services, what problem does the salon solve, how does your salon provide a solution to the problem.

Identifying a problem to be solved is just the first step. Once you have found the problem, you must figure out how your salon will help solve it for your customers. Otherwise, you will not be able to take advantage of a customer need to offer products and services your clients truly value.

The Salon Business

The hair salon business.

In this specific section, you can describe the hair salon business in detail. How long have you been running this business? How many people do you employ? What’s the unique selling point? These are just some of the questions you must attempt to answer to provide a clear description of your business.

The Beauty Salon Business

Business organization and management model.

The business organization and management model should include the number of employees, their roles, salon partnerships and management structure. It should be transparent in explaining how each employee, partner and vendor play a part in providing customer service and retaining clients for the salon.

Hair Salon Organization Example

Beauty salon organization example, multiple income stream revenue model.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been especially hard on service-based businesses such as salons. Many salon owners suffered huge losses leading to an eventual shutdown of their business. The crisis has highlighted the need for multiple income sources to stay afloat. That’s why many salon owners are adding multiple income streams to their business.

Hair Salon Income Streams

Beauty salon income streams, funding for hair and beauty salons.

Running a successful salon, of course, comes for a price. And as a small business owner, you may not always have the means to execute your growth plans. This is where funding can support your business goals.

Target Market and Customer Analysis

The next step is to understand the market dynamics that will impact your business. Here, you need to do your research well. For example, what are the local area laws and regulations that you must comply with while running your beauty salon? Are there any special permits that you must procure before you open the shop? A comprehensive market analysis will help you find answers and avoid hassles later.

Competition Analysis

Marketing analysis and activities plan.

The products you offer and the prices of your services are important elements of your marketing analysis. You could have the most exciting products that still won’t sell because their prices are exponentially higher than what your competitors offer. Or you could be selling products that customers don’t want to buy. Your marketing plan will help you find the sweet spot where your products and price points make the most sense for your business — and your customers.

Major Targets, Expectations and Milestones to Achieve

If you have additional documents to share more information about your products, services or marketing plan, you may choose to include an appendix. This is an optional section that you may also choose to skip if you feel you have covered everything in the salon business plan.

Tips for Creating a Salon Business Plan

Don’t delay, keep the plan up to date, make sure your business plan is focused.

You may have ten brilliant ideas to take your business to the next level, but it’s easy to get distracted. Make sure your salon business plan is focused so you know where your priorities lie.

What is the difference between a hair salon and a beauty salon?

How do i start a salon business plan, how much does it cost to start a salon business, how much does it cost to run a salon monthly.

While the costs differ based on the area, you should set aside approximately $6,000 a month to run your salon. Some of your monthly expenses would include insurance ($50-$1,000 a month), marketing expenses ($100-$500 a month), products ($100-$600 a month) and cleaning ($50-$200 a month) among others. With a business plan, you will have a clearer idea about how much you need to spend every month.

Is owning a salon profitable?

What is the best business structure for a hair salon.

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• May 27, 2024

How to Write a Winning Beauty Salon Business Plan

In today’s competitive beauty industry , starting or expanding a salon without a solid plan is like navigating a maze blindfolded. You might make some progress, but you’ll likely face numerous obstacles, detours, and frustrations along the way.

Without a clear roadmap, you’ll miss crucial opportunities or make costly mistakes that can jeopardize your salon’s success.

Fortunately, there’s a solution: crafting a comprehensive beauty salon business plan. This strategic document not only clarifies your vision and goals but also serves as a powerful tool for executing your strategies effectively and staying on track toward sustainable growth.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of creating a winning beauty salon business plan that can set you apart from the competition and position your salon for long-term success.

What is a Beauty Salon Business Plan?

A beauty salon business plan is a strategic roadmap that outlines your vision, goals, and actionable steps for starting and growing a successful beauty salon business. This comprehensive document serves as a blueprint for executing your strategies effectively, making informed decisions, and navigating the challenges and opportunities that arise along your entrepreneurial journey.

Why You Need a Beauty Salon Business Plan

A well-crafted business plan is more than just a document; it’s a strategic tool that can guide your beauty salon toward long-term success. Having a solid plan is crucial for several reasons:

– Defines Your Vision, Goals, and Unique Selling Proposition:

The process of creating a business plan forces you to crystallize your vision for your salon, articulate your long-term goals, and clearly identify what sets your salon apart from competitors. This clarity helps you define your ideal target market, including client demographics, psychographics, and buying behaviors.

Having a well-defined vision, goals, and unique selling proposition is essential for crafting an effective marketing strategy, delivering a tailored experience that resonates with your target audience, and staying focused on your objectives.

– Analyzes the Competition and Identifies Opportunities:

Conducting a thorough competitor analysis is a key component of your business plan . This process involves researching and analyzing direct and indirect competitors, their strengths, weaknesses, and market positioning. By understanding the competitive landscape, you can uncover opportunities to differentiate your salon and gain a competitive edge.

– Outlines Operations, Financials, and Facilitates Funding:

Your business plan should include detailed operational plans, such as your service delivery processes, staffing strategies, and legal/ regulatory compliance measures. Additionally, it should feature comprehensive financial projections, including start-up costs, ongoing expenses, revenue forecasts, and break-even analyses.

These operational and financial details are not only essential for making informed decisions and ensuring the viability of your salon but also demonstrate your professionalism, market understanding, and potential viability to potential investors or lenders. A well-crafted business plan can increase your chances of securing the necessary capital or funding to launch or grow your beauty salon.

– Guides Growth and Expansion:

As your salon grows and evolves, your beauty salon business plan serves as a roadmap for navigating challenges, seizing opportunities, and implementing strategies for sustainable growth and expansion.

– Measures Progress and Enables Course Correction:

By establishing clear benchmarks and metrics within your business plan, you can effectively track your salon’s progress and make informed decisions about pivoting or adjusting your strategies as needed.

A well-crafted beauty salon or medical spa business plan helps you stay focused, make data-driven decisions, and increase your chances of achieving your goals.

Key Components of a Beauty Salon Business Plan

Creating a comprehensive business plan is no small feat, but breaking it down into key components can make the process more manageable. A well-rounded and effective beauty salon business plan should encompass the following essential elements:

1. Executive Summary

The executive summary is the opening section of your business plan, designed to capture the reader’s attention and provide an enticing overview of your entire concept. Think of it as your elevator pitch – a concise yet compelling snapshot that summarizes the key highlights of your plan.

While this section will be the first component you present, it’s often written last, after you’ve fleshed out the other sections. This allows you to distill the most important and persuasive elements into a punchy, engaging summary.

Key Elements of an Effective Executive Summary:

• Business Overview: Introduce your salon’s name, location, and a high-level description of the services you’ll offer.
• Mission and Vision: Clearly state your salon’s mission – the driving purpose behind your business – and your vision for its future growth and impact.
• Competitive Advantages: What key competitive advantages will help you stand out in the market? This could include your team’s expertise, eco-friendly focus, membership model, specific amenities, or other differentiators.
• Growth and Revenue Potential: Include a teaser of your projected growth trajectory, revenue forecasts, and the overall market opportunity you aim to capture.
• Leadership Team: If you have a strong management team or industry veterans on board, mention their experience and expertise as a competitive advantage.

Remember, the executive summary should be concise, typically no more than one page. Its purpose is to pique the reader’s interest and provide a compelling overview that motivates them to delve deeper into your comprehensive beauty salon business plan.

2. Company Description

This section provides an in-depth overview of your beauty salon, allowing readers to fully understand your business concept, goals, structure, and what makes you unique in the market.

Key Elements of a Company Description:

• Business Structure & Ownership: State whether your salon will operate as a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), corporation, or other structure. Outline the ownership details accordingly.
• Company History (if applicable): If you are an existing salon, provide a brief history covering when and why the business was started, key milestones, and any previous ownership.
• Salon Concept & Branding: Clearly describe the overall concept, theme, and branding for your salon. What type of experience and ambiance will clients enjoy? Use descriptive details to paint a vivid picture.
• Services & Product Offerings: Outline the full range of services and product lines you plan to offer. Consider categorizing them into hair care, skin care, nail care, makeup, etc. Highlight any specialties or niche offerings.
• Target Market & Positioning: Reiterate your intended target market segment(s) and how your salon will be positioned to attract those ideal clients. This could relate to factors like price point, service quality, location, etc.
• Legal Structure & Licensing: Note any specific licenses, permits, certifications, or other legal requirements to legally operate your salon.
• Mission, Vision & Values: Share your company’s mission describing its purpose, your vision for its future growth, and core values that shape the business culture.

By the end of this section, readers should have a clear picture of your salon’s identity, market positioning, and exactly what makes it unique and poised for success.

3. Market Analysis

A thorough market analysis is essential for gaining valuable insights into your industry, target customers, and competitors. This research-intensive section explores the landscape you’ll be operating in and identifies both opportunities and potential threats.

Target Market Analysis:

• Define your ideal client demographics (age, gender, income level, location, etc.)
• Describe the psychographic profile (values, interests, lifestyles, behavior patterns)
• Evaluate the market size and growth potential for your target segment
• Identify key drivers and motivations that influence buying decisions
• Uncover any underserved niches or opportunities within your target market

Competitive Analysis:

• Identify your direct and indirect competitors in the area
• Conduct a SWOT analysis of major competitors (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats)
• Analyze competitors’ market positioning, pricing strategies, and unique selling points
• Estimate market share and outline how you plan to capture a portion

Here’s an example of a SWOT analysis table for a beauty salon business:

Industry Analysis:

• Assess the current size and growth projections for the beauty/ personal care industry
• Identify key industry trends and drivers (sustainability, clean beauty, technology, etc.)
• Examine seasonality factors that impact demand for beauty services
• Understand the regulatory landscape and legal requirements to operate compliantly
• Analyze economic factors that could influence the industry positively or negatively
• Identify potential threats from disruptive new technologies or service models

To gather data for your analysis, use a combination of primary research (customer surveys, focus groups, etc.) and secondary research (trade publications, market reports, government data, etc.). Consider including charts, graphs, or other visuals to effectively present your findings.

By thoroughly analyzing your market, competition, and overall industry, you demonstrate a solid understanding of the space you’ll operate in and the viability of your salon concept.

4. Marketing and Sales Strategy

Having a comprehensive marketing and sales strategy is crucial for attracting and retaining clients for your beauty salon. This section outlines your plans for building brand awareness, generating leads, converting prospects into customers, and fostering long-term loyalty. It should include:

Branding and Positioning:

• Brand identity (name, logo, tagline, brand personality)
• Unique value proposition and key differentiators
• Positioning strategy to stand out in the market
• Messaging and visual identity guidelines

Marketing Channels and Tactics:

• Digital marketing plan (website, SEO, social media, influencer marketing, email, etc.)
• Traditional advertising (print, radio, direct mail, etc.)
• Local marketing initiatives (events, partnerships, community outreach)
• Referral and loyalty programs to incentivize word-of-mouth
• Launch marketing activities to build initial awareness

Pricing Strategy:

• Pricing model (e.g., à la carte, packages, memberships)
• Pricing analysis of competitors and perceived value
• How pricing aligns with your target market and positioning
• Opportunities for upselling, cross-selling, or value-added services

Sales and Promotions:

• Lead generation and conversion funnel process
• Special promotions, discounts, or free trial offers
• Client retention strategies (superior service, rewards, education)
• Up-selling and cross-selling opportunities at the point of sale
• Retail merchandising and product promotion tactics

In this section, be sure to include specific metrics you’ll use to measure success, such as website traffic goals, lead generation targets, conversion rates, average ticket size, and client retention rates. With a detailed, multi-pronged approach, you demonstrate how you’ll acquire and keep a loyal client base, helping you craft a winning beauty salon business plan.

5. Operations Plan

An effective operation plan details the systems, processes, and logistics essential for running your beauty salon’s daily activities while ensuring a consistently exceptional client experience. It usually covers:

Physical Location and Facilities:

• Salon address and description of the area demographics
• Square footage and layout design (reception, styling stations, treatment rooms, etc.)
• Any unique amenities or design elements to enhance the client experience
• Compliance with zoning, accessibility, and other regulations

Equipment, Supplies, and Inventory:

• List of essential equipment (chairs, stations, dryers, hot towel cabinets, etc.)
• Beauty products and retail inventory (haircare, skincare, makeup, etc.)
• Suppliers and vendors for managing inventory levels cost-effectively
• Equipment maintenance and replacement plan

Service Delivery Process:

• Appointment booking systems and procedures (You can use a beauty salon software like Yocale )
• Client intake, consultation, and check-in/ out process
• Protocols for different service workflows (hair, nails, facial, etc.)
• Strategies for efficient staff utilization and client throughput
• Systems for ensuring consistent service quality and excellent experiences

Staffing and Training:

• Roles and responsibilities for staff positions
• Recruitment and hiring criteria for new talent
• Comprehensive training programs on technical skills and customer service
• Continuing education opportunities to sharpen skills
• Employee compensation, benefits, and incentives structure

Legal and Regulatory Compliance:

• Required licenses and permits (cosmetology, business operations, etc.)
• Health, safety, and sanitation protocols per industry regulations
• Insurance requirements (liability, etc.)
• Customer privacy and data policies
• Continuing education for staff to maintain licensing

By detailing your operational strategies, you demonstrate a well-thought-out plan for delivering your services seamlessly while prioritizing the client experience.

6. Management and Organization

The management team and organizational structure are critical for executing your salon’s operational strategies and cultivating a positive, productive workplace culture. This section of your beauty salon business plan outlines:

Ownership and Management Team:

• Owner(s) background, relevant experience, and roles
• Bios of other partners, directors, or executive management (if applicable)
• Internal salon management / leadership structure and responsibilities
• Board of advisors or external professionals providing guidance

Staffing Plan:

• Projected staffing needs based on salon size and services
• Job descriptions and responsibilities for each role
• Recruitment and hiring strategy to attract top talent
• Comprehensive training programs for technical and customer service skills
• Employee compensation, benefits, and incentive structure
• Strategies for promoting from within and succession planning

Corporate Culture and Values:

• Core values and principles that shape the company culture
• Vision for cultivating a positive, productive work environment
• Policies and programs that reinforce desired culture (open communication, work-life balance, continuing education, etc.)
• Performance management and employee review processes
• Approaches for resolving conflicts and promoting accountability

Investors and lenders will closely evaluate this section to gauge whether you have a strong, unified leadership team with relevant experience and the ability to build a skilled, motivated team aligned with your company’s values and vision.

By providing thorough details on your management team, staffing strategy, and approach to corporate culture, you demonstrate your salon’s potential for long-term success driven by its people.

7. Financial Projections

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, 80% of small businesses survive their first year, but only about 50% make it to the five-year mark. A solid financial plan can increase your chances of long-term success. This plan should include a detailed analysis of your current financial situation, clear long-term monetary goals, and specific strategies to achieve these goals. Key components of a financial plan typically involve:

Start-up Costs and Capital Requirements:

• Estimated leasehold improvements, equipment, furniture, and technology
• Legal and professional fees for licenses, permits, business formation
• Initial marketing and advertising expenses for launch
• Starting inventory and supplies
• Initial hire and training costs
• Working capital buffer for operating expenses before profits

Operating Expense Projections:

• Rent or mortgage payments
• Payroll and employment taxes
• Utilities, insurance, security, and facility maintenance
• Supplies and disposables for service delivery
• Marketing, advertising, and promotional costs
• Professional services (legal, accounting, etc.)
• Loan repayments and interest
• Other overhead expenses

Revenue and Income Projections:

• Service pricing and anticipated demand forecasts
• Client visit estimates and average spend projections
• Retail product sales forecasts
• Projected income statements for 3-5 years
• Cash flow projections showing funds from operations
• Break-even analysis identifying when profits are expected

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds:

• Total funding needed for start-up and initial growth phases
• Existing capital or financing commitments already secured
• Additional equity or debt financing still required
• Detailed breakdown of how funds will be utilized

This section should include concise narrative explanations of your forecasts and assumptions, as well as charts, graphs, and financial statements that clearly depict the numbers. Be sure your projections are well-researched and as accurate as possible, as unrealistic figures could undermine your credibility.

Robust financial projections in your beauty salon business plan instill confidence in potential investors by demonstrating your thorough understanding of costs and your salon’s path to profitability.

8. Appendices

The Appendices contain additional information and materials that further validate and reinforce the key details outlined throughout your business plan.

Potential Appendices to Include:

• Professional Resumes/ CVs/ Bios : For all key members of the leadership and management team showcasing relevant experience.
• Licenses, Permits, and Certifications : Copies of any required operational licenses, professional certifications for staff, building permits, etc.
• Market Research Data : Any proprietary market research, consumer surveys, focus group findings, or third-party industry reports referenced.
• Product/ Service Details : Brochures, menus, sample marketing materials, or other marketing collateral detailing your offerings.
• Site Plan and Photos : Architectural renderings, layout designs, and photographs of the proposed salon location.
• Franchise Documentation : For franchised salons, include Franchise Disclosure Documents and agreements.
• Letters of Intent or Partnerships : Formal letters or documentation of any strategic partnerships.
• Leases and Contracts : Copy of property leases, equipment leases, vendor agreements, etc.

The appendices provide an opportunity to expand on information concisely summarized in the main plan, giving readers a deeper level of detail if desired. Be sure to clearly label each appended document for easy reference.

Having a comprehensive set of appendices further validates the legitimacy of your beauty salon business plan and the depth of research and preparation behind it.

Writing Your Beauty Salon Business Plan

Here’s a suggested step-by-step approach to help you craft an effective and detailed beauty salon business plan:

• Research and Gather Information: Conduct thorough market research, analyze your competition, and collect data on your target audience, industry trends, and financial projections.
• Outline Your Plan: Create a detailed outline that covers all the key components mentioned above. This will help you organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow.
• Write and Refine: Flesh out each section of your plan, using clear and concise language. Don’t hesitate to seek feedback from mentors, industry experts, or professionals who can provide valuable insights.
• Finalize and Implement: Once you’ve refined your plan, finalize it and use it as a living document to guide your decision-making and track your progress.

Remember, your business plan is not set in stone – it should evolve as your salon grows and adapts to changing market conditions or new opportunities.

Creating a comprehensive beauty salon business plan requires time, effort, and dedication, but it’s an investment that can pay dividends in the long run. By clearly defining your goals, strategies, and financial projections, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the challenges of running a successful salon.

With a solid business plan and the right tools in place, you’ll be well on your way to building a thriving beauty salon that stands out in a competitive market.

1. How do I write a salon business plan?

To write a salon business plan, start with an executive summary of your mission, services, and goals. Include a company description, market analysis, and details about your management team. Describe your services and pricing, and outline your marketing and sales strategy. If seeking funding, specify your financial needs and projections for the next 3-5 years. Conclude with an appendix for additional documents like resumes and permits. Tailor each section to reflect your salon’s unique vision and objectives.

2. How can I succeed in beauty salon business?

To succeed in the beauty salon business, focus on providing excellent customer service, offering high-quality services, keeping up with industry trends, and implementing effective marketing strategies. Additionally, manage finances wisely and continuously train your staff to maintain a competitive edge.

3. Is a beauty salon a good investment?

A beauty salon can be a good investment if it’s well-managed, located in a high-demand area, and offers quality services. Success depends on factors such as effective marketing, excellent customer service, and keeping up with industry trends.

4. Is it hard to start a beauty business?

Starting a beauty business can be challenging due to factors like securing funding, finding a suitable location, and attracting clients. Success requires thorough planning, industry knowledge, effective marketing, and excellent customer service. However, with dedication and the right strategies, these challenges can be overcome.

5. How to create a salon budget?

To create a salon budget, start by estimating initial costs such as rent, equipment, licenses, and renovations. Calculate ongoing operating expenses, including utilities, salaries, inventory, marketing, and insurance. Project your revenue based on service prices and expected client volume. Plan for contingencies by setting aside funds for unexpected expenses. Regularly review and adjust your budget to stay on track and ensure financial stability.

• How to Write a Sales and Marketing Plan, BPlans, https://www.bplans.com/business-planning/how-to-write/marketing-sales/
• How To Run A Successful Salon (The Salon Owner Guide), Trafft, https://trafft.com/how-to-run-a-successful-salon/
• 6 Basic Financial Ratios and What They Reveal, Investopedia, https://www.investopedia.com/financial-edge/0910/6-basic-financial-ratios-and-what-they-tell-you.aspx
• 7 Ultimate Ways to Grow Your Salon Business in 2023, The Salon, business, https://thesalonbusiness.com/how-to-grow-your-salon-business/
• The SWOT of a beauty salon (with examples), Dojobusiness, https://dojobusiness.com/blogs/news/beauty-salon-swot
• How to Write a Market Analysis: a Comprehensive Guide, Sharp Sheets, https://sharpsheets.io/blog/how-to-write-market-analysis/

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3 step guide to creating the ultimate salon business plan

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Your guide to a salon business plan

Being a successful salon owner requires a variety of skills – from customer service, to marketing, financial planning, operations. And don’t forget the salon services themselves, which involve staying up-to-date on the latest trends, plus getting to know your clients and their preferences. 

Get a little help getting started with this three-step guide for developing your salon business plan. With a cohesive business plan at the start, you’ll have a strategic framework for the challenges that come with being a business owner. And your salon will be on its way to becoming a neighborhood favorite in no time.

Step 1: Brainstorm your salon goals and vision

Your salon business plan will cover everything from your goals, salon operations, and your strategy. Setting goals will help you get started and plan for the future. Start researching and gathering ideas for the following:

• What the inside of the salon will look and feel like
• Your goals for the customer service and experience
• Your goals for the employee experience
• What your business culture will be
• What space you’d like to fill in the local community
• What niches you can fill in the beauty industry
• The local market
• Your target demographic

Your business plan will help you turn your ideas into actionable strategy and goals. 

Step 2: Build your salon business plan

At this stage, think of your business plan as a living document with sections you may want to revisit or update as you think through your ideas and goals more. 

With your vision in mind, include these essential elements in your salon business plan:

Executive summary

The executive summary details your overall business idea, and can include the value you’ll offer, mission statement, services, and target clients. This section can also include background information such as who the founders are, the salon’s location, and why you decided to open a salon. 

Even with those details, your executive summary should be a quick read, effectively sharing the most important information to prospective partners and collaborators. San Diego-based nail salon Kalì Zoì combines their passion for nail art with their love of plants as the nail salon doubles as a plant shop. That’s something you’d want to include in your executive summary. 

Company description

This section is like an extended version of your executive summary. It provides detailed information about the key parts of your business, such as:

• The history of your salon and its goals
• What specific beauty services and products you plan to offer
• Your salon’s financial history and growth
• An extended description of your salon’s goals and objectives

Share any niches your salon plans to fill in your local area. For example, if you plan to be a hair salon business that caters to LGBTQIA+ neighbors like Austin’s Birds Barbershop , expand on that in this part of your business plan.

Market analysis

A market analysis demonstrates that you’ve done your research about what your competitors are offering and shares your unique advantage in your local area.

Any gaps you notice in competitors’ services are opportunities for you to fill at your salon. Make note of existing salons’ strengths and weaknesses, plus any other information you can source regarding your local target market, such as:

• Statistics on the local industry outlook
• Client demographics
• An analysis of your competitors’ products and services
• What your salon can offer that others don’t

Structure and organization

In this section, you’ll include your salon’s legal structure, whether you’ll be running your business as a sole proprietor or forming a limited liability company (LLC).

This will depend on other factors of your salon plan, like financial projections, whether you’ll be paying other employees or collaborating with other businesses. No matter what, you’ll want to research which legal situation makes the most sense for your salon, or work with a lawyer or accountant to guide you. Bonus points if they’ve worked with other local businesses in your area.

Management plan

Are you planning to run the salon yourself, or will you work with partners? What will the management structure look like? How many employees will you have? These questions are key as you begin hiring, but are also a major part of planning how your business will operate.

As you plan your salon’s management structure, think about who you’ll hire, what kind of employment experience you’ll be creating, and how they can contribute to the salon’s overall success, long-term and in day-to-day operations. 

Products and services

Whether your salon will maximize profit with a full retail operation, or your unique service offerings will set you apart, this is the section to share it all. 

Include the products and services you’ll offer, listing your service menu and pricing, plus what percentage of your revenue these different income streams will generate.

Marketing strategy

Here, you’ll lay out how you plan to promote your services and bring in clients. This section of your salon business plan will be flexible, with your strategy evolving as your business grows and service offerings change.

To get you started, research marketing options and fill in this section with the essentials, including:

• How you’ll attract new clients
• How you’ll retain clients and build loyalty
• How you’ll become a local favorite in your community
• Where and how your beauty salon will advertise
• Any associated marketing expense and funding sources

As a salon, it’s especially important to have a plan to reach your local community. Invest time and marketing efforts on a platform that makes it easy for local clients to find you, like setting up a free Nextdoor Business Page . Once you sign up, you unlock an instant following of everyone who lives within two miles of your business’s neighborhood.

Financial plan

This section is where you list your salon’s financial history, projections, budget, and outlook . This data will be crucial to any potential lenders or investors. 

Include financial plans for the next three to five years, and the salon’s financial history going back three to five years, if you have it. If the salon is already earning income, include statements. List any potential sources of funding and plans for how you’ll sustain your business as you get started.

Supporting documentation, resumes for existing staff, recommendation letters, and any other relevant documents that show your preparedness can be included in your appendix. These details could set you apart from other salon owners and make your salon business plan more attractive to future partners, investors, and collaborators.

Step 3: Add salon-specific business plans

The salon industry comes with its own rewards, but also with unique situations that require special strategies. Below are two salon business plan example sections you may want to consider.

Salon policies

According to stylist Hunter Donia of Sola Salon Studios , establishing clear guidelines and policies for customers can help your business run smoothly. 

Speaking to Modern Salon about salon policies, Donia said:

"When you’re first starting out you have all these creative and exciting ideas—you’re thinking about what the wall color is going to be, what the decorations are going to be—but you forget about some of the really important fundamentals you need as a business to protect you and guarantee your success.”

As you start out, plan for surprises with salon-specific business policies, including:

• Cancellation 
• Refunds 
• Returns (for any products)
• General salon etiquette

Including these policies in your business plan will help you prepare for turning stressful situations into exceptional customer service.

Seasonal strategies

Many businesses experience ups and downs as the seasons change. How you deal with these fluctuations and slow periods can make a big difference in your salon’s long-term success. Going into each season with a plan can help you avoid unexpected financial losses.

Ronit Enos, owner of Boston-based salon Maxime and founder of Salon Cadence , notes that your business plan can be a perfect place to set out these seasonal strategies.

“If you instill just a couple things into your business plan to account for seasonal slumps and vacations, you can level out your earnings throughout the year and be more financially sound.”

Enos’ strategies include ideas to keep customers coming in during the slow seasons, such as:

• Seasonal gift cards
• Vacation plans
• Promotional offers
• Smart scheduling

Find your salon’s people and purpose with Nextdoor

One last thing to include in your salon’s business plan is a strategy to help you reach your local community where they, and your salon, are. 

As a salon owner, connecting with your local community will be an integral part of getting your business off the ground. Make a free Nextdoor Business Page part of your salon business plan to source your first and forever clients, your salon’s neighbors.

Build awareness for your salon’s opening, and keep clients coming back for more with Nextdoor’s easy-to-use hyperlocal advertising tools. Engage your community and grow word-of-mouth business on your way to becoming a local go-to. With Nextdoor, your neighborhood is more than just part of your salon’s business plan. It’s part of your purpose.

Sources: 

U.S. Small Business Administration. Write your business plan. https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/plan-your-business/write-your-business-plan  

Modern Salon. Salon Policies for Independents to Decide on Before Opening. https://www.modernsalon.com/1079250/salon-policies-for-independents-to-decide-on-before-opening

Modern Salon. How to Create Financial Security and Consistency in a Salon. https://www.modernsalon.com/616849/how-to-create-financial-security-and-consistency-in-a-salon

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Starting a Hair Salon Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you a trendsetter with an eye for style and a passion for beauty? If so, starting your own hair salon business might be the perfect venture for you. Turning your love for hair into an effective business is an exciting endeavor that requires careful planning, dedication, and a flair for creativity.

From crafting your salon’s unique identity to attracting a loyal clientele, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you kickstart your journey in the world of hairdressing.

Table of Contents

Dreams and Visions

Close your eyes and imagine the hair salon you’ve always dreamed of. What kind of atmosphere do you want to bring to life? What services will make it stand out? Begin by clearly defining your vision. This vision will be your guiding light as you navigate the steps of launching your hair salon. Whether you’re aiming for a sophisticated and upscale ambiance or a friendly and cozy vibe, the environment you create will shape the lasting impressions your clients take away.

Start by envisioning the emotions you want your clients to experience when they walk through your doors. This sense of direction will be your compass as you tackle the practical aspects of getting your hair salon up and running. Regardless of whether you’re striving for an elegant and refined setting or a relaxed and approachable atmosphere, the backdrop you establish will play a pivotal role in the memories your clients form.

Market Research

Before you take the plunge, it’s important to do some homework on your local market. Get to know the people who might be interested in your salon. What do they like and what do they need? Take a close look at the other salons around – what are they doing that seems to be working, and how can you set yourself apart? This information will help you fine-tune your services and make sure you catch people’s attention.

Craft a Business Plan

Think of a business plan as your navigation guide. It’s like having a map that shows you how to get where you want to go. Lay out the structure of your salon, the services you’ll offer, how much you’ll charge, who you’re trying to reach, and how you’ll let them know about your salon. It’s also important to estimate how much money you’ll need to start and run your salon, including things like equipment and bills.

Beauty Salon Place

Picking the right spot for your salon is really important. Think about how many people walk by, how easy it is for them to get there, and how close it is to the people you want to visit. Being in a busy spot near stores or where people live might be just right. Your salon’s spot should show what it’s like and be convenient for the people who might come.

Read more about: Symphony of Space: Harmony in Beauty Salon Floor Plan Composition

Legalities and Licensing

Steer through the legal stuff. Get your business officially registered and gather the licenses you need. Stick to the rules about health and safety that are set. Depending on where you are, you might also need special papers to offer services like coloring hair or using chemicals.

Dealing with the legal aspects is important. Go through the process of getting your business registered officially and acquiring the necessary licenses. Make sure to adhere to the health and safety regulations that are in place. Depending on where you’re located, you might need specific certifications to offer certain services like hair coloring or treatments involving chemicals.

Stylish Interiors

Create a space that’s attractive and matches your salon’s style. Think about how it looks – the decorations, colors, and arrangement should make people feel comfortable. Spend on good furniture, chairs that are cozy for styling, and mirrors that show well. Keep in mind, the surroundings you make add to the entire experience.

Craft an environment that’s appealing and in line with your salon’s theme. Think about how the space will look – the decorations you choose, the colors you use, and how you arrange everything should make people feel at ease. Spend on getting good-quality furniture, chairs that are comfortable for clients, and mirrors that provide good lighting. Keep in mind, the setting you create plays a part in shaping the overall experience.

Equipment and Products

Get all the important things you need for your salon – like really good scissors, hairdryers, and stuff for styling hair. Team up with suppliers that are well-known to make sure your salon gives great services. Think about using products that are good for the environment or don’t harm animals, so you can attract more types of customers.

Equip yourself with the necessary tools for your salon – high-quality scissors, hairdryers, and products used for styling. Collaborate with reliable suppliers to ensure your salon delivers top-level services. Consider incorporating eco-friendly or products that don’t involve animal testing, as this can make your offerings appealing to a broader range of clients.

Building Your Team

Putting together the best team is crucial. Search for hair stylists who are licensed and really good at their job. It’s important that they also believe in the same things your salon stands for and looks like. Being really good at treating customers well is also a big deal. The way your team interacts with customers shapes the whole experience in a big way.

Creating your team is a big deal. Find licensed hair stylists who are skilled and enthusiastic. They should match the values and the look of your salon. Remember, the way your team members treat customers plays a huge role in how the whole experience comes together.

Grand Opening Spectacle

Kick off your salon with a big splash. Arrange a grand opening event to showcase your services to the local community. Provide special offers or free consultations to catch the attention of potential customers. Social media platforms can play a significant role in spreading the news and generating anticipation for the big day.

Marketing Magic

Read more about: Style Reimagined: Fresh Hair Salon Grand Opening Concepts

Client Loyalty Programs

Client Loyalty Programs are designed to show appreciation to customers who consistently choose a particular business for their needs. These programs offer various benefits to valued clients, encouraging them to stick with the brand. One common approach is through membership discounts, where loyal customers receive special reduced prices on products or services. Businesses might also employ referral incentives, where existing customers are rewarded for bringing in new clients.

By implementing these loyalty programs, companies aim to cultivate a steady and enduring customer base. This is crucial for the sustained growth of the business over time. When customers feel valued and enjoy special privileges, they are more likely to remain loyal. This consistency in customer patronage provides a stable foundation for the business, fostering trust and ongoing positive relationships.

Continual Education

By attending these educational opportunities, your team gains insights into fresh methods and approaches, which can be applied to the services your salon offers. This ongoing learning process ensures that your salon remains relevant and attractive to clients. People are drawn to innovative and modern services, which can set your salon apart from competitors.

Continuous education not only benefits your team but also contributes to the overall growth of your salon’s reputation. It showcases your commitment to excellence and dedication to providing the best possible experience to clients. This investment in learning leads to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty, which ultimately strengthens your salon’s position in the industry.

Feedback and Adaptation

Creating an open dialogue with your clients is essential. Encourage them to share their thoughts openly, whether positive or constructive. This dialogue helps build trust and a stronger relationship between your salon and its clients. It also gives you a chance to learn from any mistakes or shortcomings and implement changes to prevent them from happening again.

Financial Management

Effective Financial Management is essential for the stable growth and health of your business. It involves carefully overseeing your financial situation, including how much money comes in (revenue), how much goes out (expenses), and the difference between them (profit margins).

Budgeting is a key aspect of financial management. It means planning how you’ll use your money in the most efficient way. Allocating your resources wisely ensures that you’re not overspending in certain areas, which can lead to financial troubles.

By managing your finances well, you’re setting up a strong foundation for growth. Sustainable growth means your business can expand without risking financial instability. This involves making sure that the money you’re earning is greater than what you’re spending and that you have a financial buffer for unexpected situations.

Passion and Perseverance

The path of starting a salon isn’t always smooth; you’ll encounter obstacles that might test your resolve. However, your unwavering passion will help you overcome these challenges. Passion is like the fuel that keeps your determination burning bright, inspiring you to find solutions and keep moving ahead.

Starting a hair salon is not just about cutting and styling hair – it’s about creating an experience that transforms the way people feel about themselves. By combining your creative vision with business acumen, you can build a salon that becomes a hub of beauty, self-expression, and connection in your community. So, grab those scissors and start shaping your dream into reality – the world of hair awaits your magic touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: how do i go about selecting the right location for my hair salon business.

A: Choosing the ideal location involves assessing foot traffic, accessibility, and your target demographic. A bustling area near shopping centers or residential neighborhoods often proves advantageous. Your salon’s setting should align with its atmosphere and cater to your intended clientele.

Q: What licenses and certifications are necessary to start a hair salon business?

Q: what are effective marketing strategies for attracting customers to a hair salon business.

A: Creating a strong online presence through a professional website and active social media profiles is essential. Share high-quality visuals of your work, engage with your audience, and offer promotions to entice potential clients. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews and leverage word-of-mouth referrals to build your reputation.

To learn more on how to start you own salon checkout my startup documents here.

Hi! I am Shawn and I am a happy individual who happens to be an entrepreneur. I have owned several types of businesses in my life from a coffee shop to an import and export business to an online review business plus a few more and now I create online salon business resources for those interested in starting new ventures. It’s demanding work but I love it. I do it for those passionate about their business and their goals. That’s why when I meet a salon business owner, I see myself. I know how hard the struggle is to retain clients, find good employees and keep the business growing all while trying to stay competitive.

Kazan is one of the largest cities in Russia, and more than a million people call it home. Kazan is considered one of the cultural and economic centers of the Volga region. Kazan was founded more than 1000 years ago by the ancient Bulgars at the intersection of trade routes between Europe and Asia.

In the 16th century, Ivan the Terrible captured Kazan and annexed it to the territory of Russia. Today, Kazan positions itself as the third capital of Russia. Kazan is a student city with many universities and research institutes. The city is home to the third oldest University in Russia, built in 1804. Recently, many sports facilities have been built in the city, as Kazan received the right to host the 2013 summer Universiade, the 2015-world aquatics championship and the 2018 world football championship. Every year the city attracts more and more tourists who come to admire the architecture, visit the Opera and ballet festivals at the Kazan state theater, relax in one of the largest water parks in the Volga region, and try the national cuisine.

Republic of Tatarstan

55°47′47″N 49°06′32″E

425.3 square km

Mount Chatyr Tau (334 m)

Kul Sharif Mosque

Humid continental

Tatar, Russian

KAZAN KREMLIN

Built under the order of the grand prince of Moscow Ivan IV the Terrible, today the Kazan Kremlin is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Kazan Kremlin is the only remaining Tatar fortress in Russia. The complex encompasses the office of Tatarstan’s President and his administration, the magnificent Kul Sharif Mosque (the main mosque of the Republic of Tatarstan), the falling Syuyumbike tower, the Presidential Palace, the buildings of Government Offices and the Consistory, the Cannon Courtyard, and other highlights that make it the most visited attraction of the city.

BAUMAN STREET

This pedestrian street is immensely popular among both travellers and locals, somewhat resembling the iconic Old Arbat street in Moscow. It stretches from the Kremlin and passes through the city center. Previously, it was a Nogai road leading to the walls of the city. It was dangerous to approach since it was from the side of the city that the enemy would attack Kazan. Starting from the sixteenth century, that area became more peaceful, and the street was gradually built up. If you’re not sure where to start your sightseeing tour of Kazan, we highly recommend Bauman Street.

KUL SHARIF MOSQUE

This magnificent mosque was built on the territory of the Kazan Kremlin and is truly the symbol of the city. Nonetheless, the contemporary building is a product of modern architecture, since the original mosque was completely destroyed by the troops of Ivan IV the Terrible in 1552. Unfortunately, the original project was lost, and there were no other documents confirming what the old mosque looked like. So, in 1996, the best architects of the country created the new image of the temple. A great number of talented masters worked on its appearance and interior. The building is a complex featuring a large prayer hall for men, and a smaller one for women, a room for ablutions, a dressing room, a museum of Islam, observation decks, and a library. Although anyone can enter the mosque, most tourists only visit observation decks that offer views over the inside of the mosque and the surrounding panorama.

SYUYUMBIKE TOWER

Russia has its own leaning tower, the Suyumbike watchtower. Its spire deviates from the vertical by 1.98 m, while the total height of the tower is 58 m. It was erected between 1645 and 1650 inside the Kazan Kremlin. In the entire history of the Kazan Khanate, the regent queen Syuyuk, was the only woman who headed the state as she was forced to rule for her young son after the husband’s death. The people praised Syuyuk for abolishing a number of taxes for merchants, peasants, and artisans. In gratitude for alleviating the tax burden, she was called Syuyumbike, translated from Tatar as “beloved mistress”, and this tower as well as many streets in other towns and villages were named after her.

KAZAN FAMILY CENTER

The Kazan Family Center, which is also a registry office, is situated on the other side on the River Kazanka. According to legend, the name of the city comes from the word “kazan”, which means a “cauldron,” and the building really does resemble a big cooking pot, symbolizing abundance and fertility. Along its perimeter one can see winged leopards and Zilant dragons guarding the Kazan Center. Thirty-two meters up on the eighth floor, there is a platform that offers a panoramic view of the city’s historical part. The view is particularly beautiful after sunset: all of the Kremlin buildings and the embankment are magnificently illuminated, and the lights are reflect in the river.

ASSUMPTION MONASTERY OF SVIYAZHSK

Sviyazhsk is located in the area of three rivers, the Volga, the Sviyaga and the Schuka, and is based as a powerful fortress. The city has preserved numerous monuments of Ancient Russia’s architecture, the Orthodox history and culture. The Assumption Cathedral is a male monastery, included in UNESCO World Heritage list. It was built in 1555, at the same time as Diocese of Kazan was established, and was the main educational center of the region during the XVI—XVIII centuries, being part of the agenda of the Russian tzar Ivan IV the Terrible to colonize Volga region. In particular, it had one of the first printing presses in Russia, along with the Moscow Print Yard. The frescoes of the monastery are among the best ones in Russia.

The capital of Tatarstan republic which had 1000 years anniversary in 2005 is one the most extraordinary cities of the country. Kazan has unique ability of blending two different sides of its life: antiquity and modernity, Asia and Europe, islam and orthodoxy. Russian and Tatar cultures do not confront but merge in this beautiful city. Kazan city tour is an entertaining trip with sightseeing of such famous places of Kazan as Kazan Kremlin with its beautiful Kol Sharif mosque, the magnificent Blagoveshenskiy Cathedral (the Cathedral of Annunciation) and Soyembika tower, which has many legends and tales. After Kazan Kremlin pay a visit to National Cultural center “Kazan”, the Marcani mosque, Kazan university complex and the Church of the Elevation of the Holy Cross, the place where the Kazan Icon of God’s Mother was found.

TEMPLE OF ALL RELIGIONS

The Temple of All Religions or the Universal Temple is a unique architectural complex in the Staroye Arakchino Microdistrict of Kazan. It consists of several types of religious architecture including an Orthodox church, a mosque, a synagogue and many more. Eventually the structure should have 16 cupolas, corresponding to the 16 major world religions, including past religions that are no longer practiced. The complex is not an active temple of any religion, but rather, a “temple of culture and truth”. It has become a popular landmark in the city of Kazan, which takes pride in the peaceful combination of different cultures , often visited by locals and overseas tourists.

KAZAN PALACE BY TASIGO

Number of rooms: 66 Distance to the city centre: 3 km Distance to the airport: 24 km Address: 3B Kalinin street, Kazan, Tatarstan Republic, Russia, 420043

An award-winning designer hotel built in 2018 by an internationally-renowned Polimeks construction company. In the 2019 edition of European Property Awards, Kazan Palace by TASIGO won the prestigious “Best New Hotel Construction & Design” and “Best New Hotel Construction & Design, Five Stars” awards. This traditional on the outside, state-of-the-art on the inside hotel is located in the historic building of the former Shamovskaya hospital, and hosts the Kazan Palace Museum that pays homage to the city’s proud and multi-cultural history. On display in the one-room gallery guests will find snapshots of Kazan everyday life, history of benevolent Shamov family and the hospital they helped to built, which, in its reincarnation, became home to Kazan Palace Hotel. The hotel offers free Wi-fi, 24-hour room service, daily cleaning, wheelchair access, 24-hour reception, two restaurants, a lounge and a bar, SPA with a hammam, a fitness centre, meeting rooms and a congress hall.

MIRAGE HOTEL

Number of rooms: 109 Distance to the city center: 1 km Distance to the airport: 26 km Address: 5 Moskovskaya street, Kazan City, Tatarstan Republic, Russia, 420202

The hotel is conveniently located within a short distance to major Kazan’s attractions (the Petropavlovsk Cathedral, Museum of the Republic of Tatarstan, the Blagoveshchen Cathedral, Kul-Sharif Mosque and the State Academy Theatre) and right opposite the Kazan Kremlin. The airport is within 45 mins drive. The hotel has 109 rooms, a restaurant, a brewery bar, a fitness centre with a swimming pool, Finnish and Turkish sauna, a beauty salon, a business centre and a karaoke club.

KORSTON ROYAL HOTEL

Number of rooms: 202 Distance to the city center: 5 km Distance to the airport: 28 km Address: 1A Yershova str., Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, 420045

Korston Royal business hotel is located in the business area of the city, close to state and business structures, as well as scientific, educational and exhibition centres. The hotel is an easy access from any part of the city. Each room includes is comfortably furnished, has satellite and cable TV, IP-telephone, central climate control system, Wi-Fi Internet access, a safe box, a mini bar, a bathroom with hair-dryer and full set of necessary toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers.

Some of the rooms meet accessibility standards. The hotel has multiple dining options: an Italian restaurant EVOO with a panoramic view, a Viennese café, several bars, a pizzeria, a food-court and a sushi bar. It boasts of an extensive scope of services and facilities: a swimming pool, sauna, gym, cinema, a playroom for kids, billiards and bowling club, a night club, boutiques and shops, pharmacy and optics, a car wash, a mini market, and more.

BILYAR PALACE HOTEL

Number of rooms: 124 Distance to the city center: 2 km Distance to the airport: 24 km Address: 61 Ostrovsky str., Kazan, Tatarstan, Russia, 420107

Bilyar Palace Hotel is a modern business conveniently located in the downtown of Kazan and also in the zone of tourist and business activity in the surroundings of famous history and culture attractions such as the Kazan Kremlin, Musa Dzhalil Academic Opera and the Ballet Theatre, 1000 years of Kazan Park. Bilyar Palace Hotel is a 10-storey high-tech complex with interiors designed in Tatar national style. Its amenities include a restaurant, a conference room, a beauty salon, a fitness centre, a bar/lounge, dry cleaning services, and other features of a modern 4-star hotel.

GRAND HOTEL KAZAN

Number of rooms: 215 Distance to the city center: 2 km Distance to the airport: 25 km Hotel Address: 1 Peterburgskaya str., Kazan, Tatarstan, Russia, 420111

The Grand Hotel Kazan occupies a modern 17-storeyed building and has a well-developed infrastructure. The hotel is located in the very centre of the city. It has 215 spacious rooms of various categories with a magnificent panoramic view over the city. There is a shopping and entertainment center adjacent to the hotel, with its entrance leading directly into the hotel hall. Also, here the guests will find the only observation deck in Kazan. The Grand Hotel is well-equipped for hosting business and social gatherings. The meeting areas include a big hall for 350 seats, a smaller hall for 100 seats, and a meeting room for 25 persons. All rooms feature a screen or a flip chart, mineral water, stationery, and office supplies. List of available equipment includes a PC, a printer, a fax machine, a TV-set, audio and video equipment, a copying machine, sound amplifying systems, microphones, etc.

KORONA CLUB HOTEL

Number of rooms: 38 Distance to the city center: 3 km Distance to the airport: 25 km Address: 35 Ovrazhnaya str., Kazan, Tatarstan, Russia, 420012

Korona Club Hotel is located in the city centre of Kazan, just a few minutes away from the railway station. Here, tourists that wish to explore local attractions and people who come on business feel equally comfortable. This stylish hotel building catches the eye with its unique architecture. It offers accommodation in 38 rooms of various categories. Each room is fitted for the most pleasant stay, and includes convenient furniture, a TV, household appliances, and a bathroom with all the necessary accessories, slippers and bathrobes. The hotel features the following services and facilities: a bar, a restaurant, a conference hall, transfers, a safe box at the reception, laundry and dry-cleaning services, wireless Internet connection, booking air and railway tickets and guided tours, car parking.

AMAKS SAFAR HOTEL

Number of rooms: 233 Distance to the city centre: 2 km Distance to the airport: 33 km Address: 1 Odnostoronka Grivki str., Kazan, Tatarstan, Russia, 420066

One of the main reasons AMAKS Safar Hotel stands out among the rest of Kazan’s hotels of the same class is the combination of its central location in a park area with a fine view of the Kazan Kremlin and the Kazanka river, international standard of the services it provides, and its complex infrastructure. The centre of Kazan’s business activity, a modern waterpark and the largest in the country ice stadium “Tatneft-Arena” are within a 10-minutes’ drive. Its restaurant offers European, Russian, Oriental and Tatar cuisine, a wide choice you will not find in any other hotel in Kazan, and at such an affordable price. The hotel has a business centre and four conference halls fitted with the most modern equipment. Among its other amenities are banquet halls with 350 seat capacity, a gym with a pool and a sauna, free WiFi, its 24h OUT Hall entertainment centre with table tennis, billiards, and a night club. In the lobby bar you can treat yourself with local home-made traditional Tatar sweets chak-chak, kaleve, peremiachi, eleshi that are so popular with the guests that they take them as edible souvenirs.

CRYSTAL HOTEL

Number of rooms: 165 Distance to the city centre: 1 km Distance to the airport: 27 km Address: 8 Rustem Yakhin str., Kazan, Tatarstan, Russia, 420202

CRYSTAL Hotel is located within a short walking distance from all major historical highlights of the city, only 100 meters from Kazan railway station and a 20-minutes’ drive to Kazan airport. Each room has a comfortable bed, air conditioning, satellite TV, a wardrobe, a fridge, a desk, a safe box, highspeed Internet access. Bathrooms are fitted with shower, a hair-dryer and slippers. The hotel’s amenities include a restaurant, a bar, a mini-market, a sauna, a conference room, as well as bicycle rental, car parking, ATMs and electronic funds transfer terminals.

IMERETI HOTEL

Number of rooms: 34 Distance to the city centre: 1 km Distance to the airport: 27 km Address: 35 Moskovskaya str., Kazan City, Tatarstan, Russia, 420111

The convenient location in the center of Kazan allows guests of IMERETI Hotel to easily reach various historical monuments and other highlights of the city. Various business, shopping, sports and entertainment centres are in the immediate vicinity of the hotel. All rooms have room service, climate control, satellite TV, wireless Internet access, a safety deposit box, a mini-bar, a spacious bathroom with hairdryer and slippers. Superior rooms offer extra amenities and services. The hotel’s facilities include a restaurant, a banquet hall, a business centre, a conference room, a sauna, a gym, bicycle rental, cooking master classes of Georgian cuisine. Various activities, including hiking and cycling, are available on site.

CHAK-CHAK MUSEUM

The Chak-chak Museum is a place where you will plunge into the atmosphere of Tatar life and feel like guests of an old Tatar family. Here you will learn the secrets of cooking chak-chak, and introduced to the utensils that were used in the past. It is said that a Tatar may not eat, but cannot lie without drinking tea. Here you will be offered fragrant tea from a samovar, chak-chak, baursak, and Tatar pastila.

Kazan is unlike anywhere else in Russia, so be sure to pick up a traditional souvenir or three in order to remind you of what we can only hope is a glorious time in the Tatar capital. Traditional clothing is always a winner, but the old male headdress in these parts deserves extra attention. Men absolutely should purchase a tubetey, but be ready to shell out a bit of money for a genuine one unless you want to go home with a cheap knock-off. If headwear isn’t your type of thing, get yourself a pair of fantastic Tatar boots. Unique Muslim Tatar designs are a fantastic choice of souvenir in that case, whether it is special versions of the Koran or something a little less intense. If all else fails, Kazan cats are famous souvenirs from the region. For a modern and up-to-date entertainment one can visit “Mega”, “GUM” and “TSUM” shopping centres.

Restaurants

Hemingway restaurant is an island of the Mediterranean in the historical center of Kazan. The culinary philosophy is based on recipes and combinations that emphasize and reveal the taste of seafood. There are a lot of it on the menu: a salad with scallops and avocado, risotto with seafood and cuttlefish, lobster, Kamchatka crabs, different types of oysters, anadaru, vongole, mussels. Alternative options for those who are indifferent to seafood — pumpkin pie, bara-mundi, lamb on a spit and original sauces from local chefs. The wine list has more than 60 items, and the children’s menu for little guests was developed by the chef himself.

TERRA GUSTO

The loft-style interior with elements of pop-art and colonial decor is perfect for photos, and the menu will please with a variety: Caucasian and European cuisines are combined with Pan-Asian and Eastern ones. Here you can order khachapuri, pasta, fish soup or steaks, and watch exciting show programs during the weekends.

Tours in Kazan

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Moscow • Kazan

Moscow — Kazan

Moscow — St. Petersburg — Kazan

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For sale - Cod. 26242

• Tipology: Villa
• Area: 500 m²
• Rooms No.: 17
• Publication date announcement: 20/07/2015

This fully decorated luxurious country residence in geographically unique location of republic of Tatarstan, in the prestigious area of Kazan city. The villa is located in the heart of forest by the Volga river with the access to the beach. Guarded gated relaxing area with only few more houses with respectable neighbors. There are 2 houses both in brick with professionally decorated natural stone land shaft design, open-garage, large additional big territory with professional designed land. The Main house with 3 floors(including basement floor) and a ceiling. A second house of a further 50 square meters can be used as a guest house with Banya with sauna or used/sold as a separate house. The house is beautifully decorated and furnished with expensive Italian furniture throughout and is ready for immediate occupancy. Features include built-in light fixtures, built-in wardrobes and cabinets, bedrooms and fully equipped kitchen, high spaced ceilings with over 3.5 m, fireplace. Ground floor : - Classic kitchen with the bar fridge, - Dining room with sofa and Large dining table - Large living room (twice the size of other rooms) with Fireplace, library, large sofas and expensive silk carpets and expensive paintings - Master bedroom, - Bathroom, - Separate wardrobe room, hall. - Large terrace with opportunity to dine on fresh air Second floor comprises: - 2 bedrooms fully decorated with Italian furniture in classic style - Bathroom - Office - Another Large bedroom with ensute separate garderobe (wardrobe room) - Ensuite large bathroom - Two balconies Basement floor: - wine cellar, - utility room, - workshop - laundry room - boiler room. - large room – can be used for gym/activities area or even separate bedroom The second house is 2 floor : - Kitchen with living room - Russian Banya on woods with sauna - Bathroom - Living room – can be used for the gym - Another living room For your further convenience infrastructure: - Large outside opened garage for 4 cars - Apple, cherry, apricot trees on your territory - Different berry trees raspberry, blueberry, - Virgin Forest - Magnificent views from the windows of the cottage, an outdoor terrace and clean air - Direct Access to the beach on Volga river - Nearby Children’s playground - Nearby football pitch - 24 hour security guarded For further information, please contact via email or phone.

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