labellalisamari

I am planning to open a salon north of Tampa. I have done a lot of research but know that there are plenty of things that will happen that I don't expect. So what I am asking for here, is for some of your mistakes, tips, or ideas. Anything. Also, if anyone near the area has any good distributors they use, that would be very helpful to me.
Thanks

bronze gal

What are some of your concerns?

When opening up a new tanning business make sure you have a great location.
Make sure you have ample parking, proper visibility and available electrical service. Of course, you get forget where your targeted demographic population lives.

Once you find your incrediable location, negotiating a favorable lease is key. Remember, everything in life is negotiable. Things to consider, electrical, A/C, space, leasehold improvements. Make sure you find out the costs before you sign on the dotted line.

Selecting the right equipment is a very important factor when getting into a business like tanning. Have different levels of tanning, to increase revenue. Shop around and make sure you try before you buy.

Retail and merchandise like lotions, t-shirts, swimwear, sunglasses, jewelery etc. You get the idea, retail sales should account for at least 20% to 30% of your total revenue.

I hope this helps!

labellalisamari

Thank you, that helps a lot. My location is right off a main road in my city, right near a highschool. It is a newer building and will be right next to a spa that has massage, nails, and facials. The size is about 850 sq. feet, not exactly as big as I would like. However the rent there is about 1000 less a month than all the other places I have been looking at (plus it is definately negotiable). I plan to sell Designer Skin products. I am not sure on the beds yet, still shopping around.
My concerns are, even though I pretty much have this planned out, I am afraid there will be problems that arise unexpectedly. I just want to know what to look out for.
Thank you again.

COCONUT

I would also look into Private Label Lotion too...best thing I ever did!

COCONUT

This business is not the easiest business , there are lots of fustrations along the way.But if your determined you will be fine.Good Luck to you.!

labellalisamari

Thank you very much Coconut. If you don't mind, what company did you use for Private labeling? That is something that I will definately look into.

Steve Underhill

Get help from a professional. The early stages of this process is where you will eliminate costly mistakes. Starting now will give you the time you need to open at the appropriate time without making rushed decisions. Make sure you have a complete proven plan for success in all areas. It takes a great deal more than buying equipment and opening your doors.

BigLeo

i totally agree with steve. you haven't even scratched the surface. hire a tanning salon consultant who can hold your hand and guide you through the entire proces. 850 sq feet is not a lot of space. you're not even on the radar. personally tanning is too seasonal, so you will need other sources of income that will yield revenues year-round. but with 850 sq feet, man that is tight. i suppose you could go with standups, but people really to laydown on a bed.

Hank van

yes consult a pro thay are right. so dont pay some one just ask a lot of questions and read these boards alot and save your money on a consultant. thay are good at telling you what to do ask them if they own their own salon and find out he doesn't. so don't wast money but I WILL tell you 850 feet you failed before you started. its to small to compete in todays market. IF You need help pm me I will consult for free.

DiamondDi

Why has labella failed already with 850 sq ft.? She can fit 7 units in there and be profitable if she is in the right location. Two salons in my area have 6 and 7 beds and they do pretty well. One of the salons net 55K after all expenses. A smaller salon doesn't always mean failure.