The first High Definition Boutiques will open in Notting Hill, London and Manchester in early 2016(1) What’s the story behind the launch of High Definition Boutiques? The visionbehind the High Definitionboutiquefranchise modelwasto create acomplete’salondestinationwith a treatment menu that offered popular and profitable treatments that were proven to work.Ive had the most fantastic 24 years working in the industry, and during that time I have worked with many beauty experts, as well as doctors and medical specialists, whoI have gathered extensive knowledge and expertise from. Allof these specialists have played a part inourfranchise concept. In 2008 I launched High Definition Brows the first tailored brow treatment of its kind. Over the years we gained global recognition, winning a variety of awards, and’still’stand asthe UK’s number-one, market leading brow treatment for high definition eyebrows. The brand expandedin March 2014 to include an 81-product-strong makeup range. Today more than 275 retailers now stock our make up line, with stockists ranging from individual make up artists to large salon chains. (2) What’s unique about the franchise model? High Definition Boutiques will be fully backed and supported by the brand, with everyaspectof the business being true to the High Definition heritage covering everything from marketing to uniforms. We offer the full range of High Definition treatments, rather than offering a variety of beauty services under other branded names. Each boutique is supported by High Definition products and will house staff that have been exclusively educatedat our High Definition institute; many of these treatments and products are unavailable anywhere else on the market andlimitedto franchisees. This fully comprehensive business package allowsactivebusiness owners to be a part of, and profit from, aleadingbeauty business, whileat the sametimebecomingan extensionof thehigh Definitionbrand. (3) What are the legalities and financial factors involved in joining and/or setting up a franchise A franchisee would normally go through an interview process to ensure they are a suitable fit with the brand. This is whereconsiderations such as existing business commitments and funding will be evaluated. In the current financial climate, banks are supporting the franchise initiative as it is seen as safe, which is a great position to be in.It is important to remember that the franchisee has all the legal responsibilities that an independent salon owner has. (4) Is franchising the best model for growing a business in the beauty industry? If so, why? Independent salon owners have to carefully select different brands to enhance their reputation, which can sometimes be conflicting, or a problem if the brand loses credibility or popularity. Under our franchise model, all treatments and products fall under the same brand name, so franchisees already have a superior place on the market. Thetoni&Guy franchise model provides a great example of this: automatic recognition behind the brand’s nameboosts new custom to the franchisee’s business, based on the company’straining, marketing andabove all, reputation. (5) How do you strike a balance between providing enough support for franchisees to succeed and not interfering with the day-to-day running of their business?
