Salons with fringe benefits
environment we’ve created is vital, but even more so are the skills of our staff. They drive our productivity,” says O’Neal who has 30 full and parttime employees. He launched his first salon in Milton Keynes, the kitting-out made possible after securing a £15,000 Government-backed Start Up Loan. He has now expanded across England, helped by concessions in Mothercare. “Some families travel for an hour to get to us. That makes centres ideal for us because the parking is easier.” The majority of customers are boys, but O’Neal is broadening the appeal by introducing pamper packages for girls. He has also noticed more adults with special needs becoming customers, perhaps encouraged by the jolly, noncompetitive atmosphere. Plans are advancing too for ShortCuts to sell its own organic product line.
Now expert in managing both parents’ and children’s expectations, two other challenges are harder for him to overcome: recruitment and business rates. “I’m always looking for hairdressers with the right children skills. I try to be the best employer possible, don’t micromanage and offer the most flexible working times I can.”
Rising rates, though, are curbing ShortCuts’ expansion. “That is why further investment and franchising are the most viable option going forward,” he adds. “There’s certainly a market there and we know how to make it succeed.” shortcutssalon.com startuploans.co.uk. THE British Library’s Business and IP Centre national network holds its annual start-up day on Thursday, offering free help for budding entrepreneurs, aimed at turning brilliant ideas into business. More than 150 free workshops, talks and events are being held at 17 city libraries. www.bl.uk HSBC launches a £12billion UK-wide fund for SMEs today. It includes £1billion for UK businesses to expand overseas, a £300million pot for agricultural firms and a £100 arrangement fee for loans up to £25,000.