Editor's letter: reinventing salon franchise models

Franchise salon concepts have had a notoriously tough time getting off the ground in the UK and many launch with ambitious growth plans before quickly scaling back. But in the April issue we take a look at two concepts that are confident about bucking that trend by expounding on the success of overseas concepts to bring new models to our market.

The Massage Company, which is being launched by well-known industry players Charlie Thomson and Elliot Walker, has developed the concept of massage on demand, which is so popular now in the US, and combined it with aspects of the low-cost gym model that have already proven successful here.

Meanwhile major South African franchise salon chain model Sorbet, which opened its first UK site in July, has also outlined plans for rapid expansion on our shores. Founder Ian Fuhr is confident that building on the strong training that South African therapists are renowned for will allow him to carve a niche in the UK. Find out how in our interview.

This month we also celebrate some salons and spas who have already made it big on our shores and beyond with the announcement of the winners of the Professional Beauty and World Spa & Wellness Awards. These businesses and individuals really are among the best in the world so we hope that our profiles, exploring what made them stand out to the judges, provide some inspiration.

This year we want to give more businesses a chance to be recognised, especially those who may not feel ready to compete for a national or international title but are confident they are the best in their local area. The first ever Professional Beauty Regional Awards are now open for entries so make sure you take the opportunity to gain recognition for your business by entering at professionalbeauty.co.uk/regionalawards