A SOLID FOOTING

Since forming a pedicure business catering for people in their homes, Melissa Harrison has expanded along the east coast, taken on a new business partner and rebranded - and has hopes of stepping up franchise numbers.

One mobile business has found its feet with the pedicure market.

Toenail cutting may be regarded as a little left of centre, but it can really be an invaluable service, according to The Pedi People cofounder Melissa Harrison. “It helps people stay mobile longer, relieves discomfort, and helps them maintain independence in their own homes.

“Clients also enjoy and benefit from the social side of visits. Our 30-minute visit every six weeks can positively change an isolated, housebound person for the better.”

Together with her former husband, Harrison launched The Pedi People in 2000 as The Toenail People, building the model to nearly 20 units along the Australian eastern seaboard.

Today she runs the business in partnership with Karen Farquhar, who is also one of seven franchisees in the rebranded, re-modelled system, with four territories in Sydney and one each in Canberra and

Queanbeyan over the past

15 months.

“We already had existing franchises in Brisbane and Gold Coast, and next year we have our sights set on an extra 15 franchises across Australia,” says Harrison.

TECHNICAL TRAINING

The business has partnered with training organisations to provide technical training so a franchisee’s business can be up and running within six to eight weeks. The program comprises a nationally recognised qualification, intensive on-the-job training, one-on-one education, training in dealing with older and disabled clients, and a Small Business Success course by the Business School for Mums.

After the rebrand last year, The Pedi People introduced new services such as medi pedicures and manicures. This move expanded its client base by 50 per cent.

“Now we offer more relaxing and luxurious treatments for anyone who loves to keep their feet and hands looking beautiful. We are finding that pre- and post-partum mums who are housebound are loving our service, along with time-poor ladies who

run their businesses from home,” says Harrison.

Each Pedi People franchise costs $49,950, plus training and equipment. Franchisees can expect a return on their investment within 12 to 18 months, and the business offers the potential to achieve turnover of more than $100,000.

“We keep the cost of buying into a franchises low so as to be accessible to those on a budget or those with families,” says Farquhar.

“When our franchisees are motivated and confident running their own business, it’s a win win for all of us.”