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The nail industry is truly global, but its roots are deeply American, At the foundation of what is considered today’s professional nail industry are products and companies that originated in the United States. It’s not news that the French Manicure started in Hollywood of all places (Orly claims credit for coming up with this technique) or that, a company named European Touch Ltd. II makes fine pedicure equipment right in America’s heartland.
Although the U.S. has the largest number of practicing nail techs and the most nail salons, the international market is expanding at a rate faster than the U.S. market. We are assembling new statistics on the international scene, including how many nail techs practice worldwide, licensing and educational requirements around the globe, and how average prices compare from country to country. Look for that information in a few months.
A lot is happening in the Japanese nail business. Read more about it in Hannah Lee’s report on her recent trip to Japan for a Nail Olympics competition to see how, in one decade, Japanese nailists (as they’re called in Japan) have eclipsed even the American technicians who brought the techniques there originally. You’ll note several Japanese names in the finalists and entrants for our 4th Annual Cover Contest, including this year’s winner, Ami Seki.
And we introduce a new column this month called Four Cities. It’s a look at business trends in four different U S cities. We’ll occasionally even take this column to a global level. We asked nail techs from four corners of the United States what their current best-selling retailing item is. You might find it as interesting as we did that toe rings are hot sellers even in early fall in the Northeast even when few people are wearing sandals. That bodes well for your retail opportunities.
I’m intrigued by international differences, as well as regional differences in the U.S. We found, in putting together the statistics for our Big Book, that Oregon is the most crowded state, with 17,806 nail tech licensees in just 614 nail salons (that’s an average of 29 in the salon, although many of those likely practice in full-service salons) South Dakota is the least dense, with 38 nail techs in 55 salons. Who’s getting the highest service prices? Hawaii, for one. Perhaps tourists are willing to pay premium rates (Hannah also goes On the Road to Hawaii) and likely the expense of getting products and the fact that there are only 190 nail techs in the Aloha State account for that. We’re looking forward to discovering more about regional preferences with this new department, and welcome your input on topics you’re interested in.
For me, I love to look at the differences, but more interesting is what is the same: a $6.53 billion business that, provides jobs that promote self-esteem and allow many women (and a growing number of men) the flexibility to earn a decent living and raise a family.
Square data shows that regular customers tip 11% higher and are shared across 32% of businesses in the same ZIP code, driving thousands of dollars in additional revenue per connection.
When Bowie Lau and Jeffrey Ching opened JBW Jeffrey Ching Salon in 2011, they weren’t just launching another luxury hair destination—they were building a business rooted in passion, artistry, and thoughtful growth.
Sponsored by Amex
Inside the Systems That Power an Elevated Salon Experience From seamless online booking to a team-first culture, J Gold Salon in Atlanta offers more than great hair—it delivers consistent, high-touch service with the help of partners like Boulevard and American Express.
Sponsored by Amex
Want to grow your career as a beauty professional? K18 Sales Manager Sabrina Sanborn shares advice on networking, mentorship, and self-advocacy—from attending hair shows to finding the right guidance to reach your goals.
A combination of clear policies, effective communication, and strong client relationships has helped me create a more reliable and efficient booking system.
Founded by Cleveland serial entrepreneur Shaura Rodgers, Nailtorious has grown to include a nail supply megastore, training facilities, and retail line for nail techs.
This period after the holidays can bring on a huge lull for hairstylists. We asked Cosmo Prof's team of professionals to offer their best advice on how to deal with the January-February slow period.
Key highlights include a push toward inclusive spaces for all abilities, an emphasis on maximizing livable square footage, and a continued love for modern farmhouse exteriors.
The busy holiday season is here, and with it comes jam-packed days, last-minute client requests and booming retail sales. For many salon owners, the highlight of the season is Small Business Saturday® (SBS). This year on Saturday, November 30, consumers can take their shopping into the small businesses in their communities.
Sponsored by Amex
Want to become savvy about your personal finances, but don't quite know where to start? Anna Manukyan identifies six important concepts for building a strong financial foundation.
Salon owner Nuri Yurt had a dream of owning a salon on New York City’s Madison Avenue. "Through perseverance, hard work and stellar customer service, he and partner John Kaygisiz founded Toka Salon in 2007.
Sponsored by Amex
This guide is your one-stop shop for a plethora of technology tools, software and services created to keep your salon or spa thriving.
Anna Manukyan shares a breakdown of what different types of financial accounts should be used for.
Vagaro has consistently been at the forefront of salon software technology, helping businesses be more efficient, create more effective communication, and even improve company culture. Now, Connect by Vagaro, the platform’s two-way communication capability, and Vagaro’s new generative AI tools are giving owners new opportunities to grow and expand.
Sponsored by Vagaro
Young Nails' Greg, Habib, and Tracey discuss whether getting too close to clients can damage your business.
This list of watch-outs from @jodydoesjels prompted us to reach out to her and learn more. We had already fallen for her hand-painted designs and now we wanted to know more about this list she created to help clients decide if she was the nail tech for them.
Education is necessary for beauty professionals to maintain their cosmetology licenses, and paying for that education can be burdensome, but it doesn't have to be. Understand which education tax credits can help you offset those costs.
