Despite the tumultuous times, salons all over the country are expanding and opening up due to customer demand. Trying to decide how to outfit your new space or revamp the old is a key part of success as more and more salons open up. Here are some of our tips that will help you choose the best salon equipment for your needs, but keep in mind that not all needs are alike.
Starting out a new business can be tricky, since the first part of your journey has everything to do with your finances. You need to begin with deciding what you can afford or what you should budget. The rest comes from considering some basic purchasing concepts. What are they, you ask? Here’s our top 6 guidelines we recommend following.
1. KNOW YOUR TARGET CUSTOMER
In any business, you need to always consider your target customers. Do you see a pattern in your customers? Defining your target customers will help you figure out which equipment to invest in for your salon space. Will your target customer be teenagers or young adults, men or women, middle-aged or older? Defining who these people are will determine your direction in selecting most equipment for your salon.
2. SALON DESIGN AND IMAGE
Image is everything — that’s not new news. In choosing the best salon equipment, you need to consider if these will suit your salon’s design and image.
Everything should coordinate with each another for there to be harmony in your space. If you have a theme in mind, make sure that everything in the salon will work together for optimal salon appeal.
Matching your equipment and furniture with the rest of the salon’s interiors can enhance its aesthetic value. Many customers consider the facade of a certain business and base their expectations on it. And remember, your customers are picking from dozens and dozens of salons. Make sure you let them realize your salon is the best among them.
3. CONSIDER BUYING NEW EQUIPMENT INSTEAD OF USED
Remember, all your devices, furnishings, supplies, and tools should allow you to give your customers the beautifying and pampering they deserve. But it’s crucial to ensure you can use them to deliver quality services for a long time.
That said, durability should be the first factor for consideration when choosing your salon equipment. Yes, you might spend more on purchasing brand new equipment. But if this means it serves your valued clients for a longer time, then it’s an expense worth spending.
It’s easy to fall into the temptation of buying second-hand equipment. After all, it looks okay and it’s cheaper, but before you buy used, make sure you consider how many more years you can get out of it. And how sure are you that the used equipment is in top condition?
No one can answer the question for you whether you should buy new or used, but evaluating cost, quality, and purpose should all be considered, and maybe, just maybe, you might find that buying new is the better choice. There are many ways to cut costs, and equipment doesn’t have to be one of them. And don’t forget that when you do your homework, you might find that buying quality equipment at reasonable prices is possible.
4. BUY BEAUTY SALON EQUIPMENT DIRECTLY FROM DISTRIBUTORS
Did you know that you’ll save substantially when you buy salon equipment directly from distributors?
The distributors often offer discounts and packages, especially if you buy in bulk. Buying a generous number of products and equipment can save you more money than buying each one individually.
You just need to make sure you buy them from reliable and reputable wholesale suppliers. This way, you’re certain you get the best quality products for your customers.
5. CONSIDER WARRANTIES AND GUARANTEES
When buying your equipment, don’t just look at the price as the only consideration. Always look for warranties and guarantees.
With economic uncertainties still looming, many businesses are becoming wary of large investments. You can’t afford to lose on unexpected expenses, like when a machine malfunctions and you need immediate repairs. The warranty of a piece of equipment can make a huge difference in repair and maintenance expenditures.
Make sure if you buy new or used, you keep up with the warranty on your products. File paperwork and keep good records in your files and on your calendar to make sure you know when your warranties and guarantees expire.
6. DON’T BASE DECISIONS ON ADVERTISEMENTS YOU SEEÂ
Advertisements are helpful tools for all of us, but many advertisers use manipulative tactics to influence buyers in ways they do not realize. Don’t simply buy a product just because you saw it in an ad.
It’s good to check the ads, but you shouldn’t rely on them alone. Rather, focus more on the reviews former customers left on the manufacturer’s or supplier’s website or social media account. This way, you can learn more about the company and from there, determine if they’re the right choice.
You can also ask for input from experts in cosmetology. In the industry, they are the ones who have the most experience and knowledge on the best equipment.
Be wise and don’t just base your purchase on something that an ad talked about and gave you the impression that it would improve your salon space. Yes, you’ll never know until you try it, but it’s way better to know a little more about the product before spending a lot on it.