In last month’s column I spoke about becoming a “change agent”. Nowadays it seems a day doesn’t go by where some locality or state isn’t proposing an anti-tanning law or at least presenting additional fees and fines aimed at putting the squeeze on your business. As a salon operator you must be in tune to what is going on, not only in your area, but the nation as a whole.
You must act as a change agent and help change the regulatory environment we all face, because regulation in one state can lead to regulation in others. Believe me when I say, “What happens in California doesn’t stay in California,” and this applies to all states with new proposed regulations.
The ITA has been the lead change agent in dealing with unnecessary regulations imposed on our industry for years, but it is up to all of us to fight for our industry. Participate in your local and state regulatory meetings and join the ITA as I have witnessed hundreds doing so at recent distributor expos across the nation. The ITA needs your support through member dues to provide the change in attitude necessary to grow our business.
Recently I attended the American Sun Systems Expo in Winston-Salem, N.C. Chip and Cathy Stroud once again put on an outstanding event providing their attendees with the tools, information and suggestions for change needed for today’s tanning business environment. Salon owners, both experienced and new to the industry, walked away with the resources needed to be successful in 2007. I applaud all of their efforts. This event was a job well done by all.
This month’s final call to “change” is to consider adding light therapy to your business. The national press has picked up on the positive benefits of this exciting service. It’s a natural extension of tanning salon services and, done right, not only can produce added revenue streams but provide year-round customers who will spread the good news about your tanning salon.
Please read the article inside this issue written by Jenifer Hunt on page 74 and learn what successful operators and vendors around the nation are saying about this exciting service. I also urge you to log on to www.lookingfit.com and click the Ancillary Revenue Streams tab on top of the page to learn more.
Make this April issue of LOOKING FIT a must read for yourself and your employees. It’s chock full of regulatory details that affect your business and new ideas to help expand it. I urge you to keep it handy throughout the year for easy reference and as a reminder to always be changing. As my mother always said, “On the other side of change is good”.
Until next time,
Donna Briggs
Publisher
donnab@vpico.com
