Tanning Salon Business
Operating a Tanning Salon
Owning any business that is geared toward providing beauty is a lucrative endeavor. Tanning salons, in particular, can easily earn $100,000.00 a year (even in smaller towns). In major cities, a good tanning salon is a virtual gold mine but it is not an easy or cheap business to start up.
Location and Housing
Depending on the size of the town you are considering for your business, you may or may not be able to operate a tanning salon as a home business. In large cities where foot traffic in and out of the salon is bound to be considerable, it is not a good idea to attempt housing your salon in your home.
Even in a small town where you are more likely to be able to accommodate the traffic zoning restrictions may prohibit such a business from a home. Other concerns would be proper wiring for heavy duty electrical appliances such as one or more tanning beds.
More than likely you will need a shop that is suitable size for keeping several tanning beds each in their own private rooms. The tanning rooms do not need to be large, but should be able to accommodate the bed while allowing reasonable space for the customer to disrobe.
Other Materials
You will need to supply each customer with a pair of tanning goggles to protect their eyes and should have each individual sign a waiver stating that they understand the hazards of tanning. You need to have clearly defined rules regarding length of operation for each visit and what requirements you have for clothing while in the tanning unit.
Cleaning supplies to thoroughly cleanse the bed and sitting areas in each room after every visit should be kept readily available.
You will also need to have general office supplies and figure the expenses of your utilities into your operating costs.
Business Plan
Have a business plan prepared so that you can obtain start up finances. Your bank will look more favorably on your potential business with realistic figures to back up your goals. Tanning beds vary in costs from $750.00 to $10,000.00 depending on the style and function. You should plan on high-end equipment, the tanning bed is your mainstay and cheap ones will not satisfy your customers. Keeping your clients happy will ensure repeat business and word of mouth advertising that will make your business a success.
Rent on an appropriate building will run between $5000.00 a year in a small town to incredibly high in the most popular urban areas and should be figured into your start up costs as it may take months to get regular business flow.
