Excited for the future

Just Cuts’ newest recruit is capitalising on the growing demand for affordable hair and beauty services

Just Cuts, the largest hairdresser in the southern hemisphere, has been celebrating success after success in the UK market.

Having launched its company owned salon in the Lakeside shopping centre in 2018 and two franchisee operated salons in 2019, the race was on for the next budding entrepreneur to join the international network. With the new location due to open in Stevenage - a town that’s attracted a £1 billion regeneration investment in its retail district - the Australian brand is capitalising on continued demand for hair and beauty services in the UK.

Thriving sector

According to the latest GB Retail and Leisure Market Analysis, Just Cuts couldn’t have timed its UK launch any better.

In spite of an apparent economic downturn, which has seen the closure of a number of British restaurant and retail chains, the health and beauty sector continues to thrive. In fact, of the top 10 growing high street categories listed, six were occupied by businesses operating in the health clubs, barbers, beauty salons, nail salons, alternative and complementary medicines and hair and beauty salons sectors.

Roshida Khanom, category director of UK beauty for market research specialist Mintel, expects this rate of growth to continue throughout Q4 of 2019: “We are expecting to see the in-salon hair services category to show a three per cent rise in value in 2019 to reach £7.8 million, as added value services in salons and barbers drive up spend.

“We’re also seeing salons offering services catering for convenience, such as speedy treatments or earlier/later opening hours, making it easier to book treatments.”

Convenient concept

Just Cuts’ convenient, ‘no appointments necessary’ concept makes the salon experience seamless.

Using the company’s app, clients are alerted when they’re next in the queue, allowing them to go about their day until it’s their time in the chair. This hassle free way of managing appointments appeals to customers who prioritise convenience - a focus for consumers in 2019, according to the Mintel report.

Amazing opportunity

One entrepreneur looking to benefit from the booming hair and beauty industry is mum of two Barbara Burnett, franchise owner of the soon to open Just Cuts Stevenage salon.

“I was instantly drawn to the Just Cuts franchise model,” she says. “What you get in terms of support is second to none and the brand is so innovative. The concept of walk-in appointments, fixed pricing and a professional quality, affordable haircare range stands out in what can be a crowded marketplace.

“I’m excited for the future of my business and see this as an amazing opportunity for me and my family. There is immense potential for the concept in Stevenage and the surrounding areas, so I’m looking to invest in my second salon as soon as possible.”

At a glance Just Cuts

Established:

1989 in Australia. 2018 in UK

Number of franchised outlets:

4 in UK

Location of units

UK-wide

Investment range:

£90,000-£160,000

Minimum required capital:

£40,000

Contact:

07577 700397 davidm@justcuts.com justcuts.co.uk