Loaf Hairstylists: Use your Loaf

When Channel 4's 'Risking It All' series filmed the development work for the first Loaf Hairstylists salon in Sheffield two years ago, the salon was just at the start-up stage and its founders were almost literally risking it all. But thanks to the media exposure and the salon's vibrant atmosphere, the business was an immediate success. It is now offering franchises around the country.

The television programme has also recently been re-run on the Discovery Channel, which is raising awareness of the business anew.

As the programme showed, Loaf Hairstylists offers a fun and creative franchise opportunity for individuals who want to run their own business in an urban location. The franchise says it is responding to a salon niche of "city centre styling in the suburbs", saving customers a journey into the city.

"As soon as the programme was aired in August 2006, our salon went into overdrive with calls from people all over the area wanting a booking with one of our stylists. We were thrilled and excited for the future," says co-founder Craig Wilson. Another salon was opened soon afterwards which proved that the business was transferable.

Now, the company is looking for its first set of franchisees. The first was actually on board before the official launch and the company says the franchise concept is already proving a big success.

Previous hairdressing experience is not necessary because training in all aspects of the business is provided. However, qualities that are needed include confidence, a flair for fashion and lots of energy since franchisees will be motivating, directing and managing their team. "We are looking for individuals that have an interest in hairdressing and fashion and really appreciate a good service," says Mr Wilson.

A Loaf Hairstylists franchise costs between £60,000 and £70,000. The price covers the initial franchise fee, full training, launch campaign, legal costs, opening stock, shop fitting and set up. This cost varies depending upon the actual trading space of the salon.

Mr Wilson and business partner Richard Darlow have varied backgrounds and their previous experiences show that many types of people will be able to make this business a success.

Franchisees will have direct access to their combined experience and industry knowledge. Before the launch of Loaf Hairstylists, Mr Darlow was the manager of a leading Regis Hair Salon in the north of England, which won many business and hair industry awards. Mr Wilson was a businessman in his own right, owning a large carpet fitting business with contracts with the likes of Allied Carpets, Courts and Carpet Right as well as owning his own carpeting retail unit. "We are really pleased to be offering our business model as a franchise package," says Mr Wilson. "We have found that our proven brand identity and approach to hair styling is in great demand. Our methods have been seamlessly transferred to a detailed operational manual and training programme that if followed correctly with our guidance will result in a successful, long-term business for the right person."

There are many franchise locations available throughout the
UK and Loaf Hairstylists has earmarked particular locations which offer an opportunity for a Loaf Hairstylist franchise. The company is particularly keen on hearing from people in the London and greater London area. For more information, people are asked to contact Mr Wilson at craig@loafhair.com or visit www.loafhair.com. They can also call 01142 684494 to request a prospectus.

Classification: Health, beauty
Investment level: £60,000 - £70,000
Website: www.loafhair.com
Email: Craig@loafhair.com
Phone: 0114 268 4494