Business

How Do I Inform My Clients When I Raise My Prices?

February 1, 1994

Just recently, I increased the price of fills from $22 to $25. I explained to my clients that I raised the price because I was using a superior, more expensive product that would benefit them in the long run. It has been over a month now, and I have not lost any customers.

Susan Moore

Ricard & Company Hair & Nails

Boynton Beach, Fla.

I send out a flier to my clients informing them of price increases at least 30 days in advance. I also post small signs at each station that reflect the increase.

Brenda Lee Bollard

Bren’s Nails

Conroe, Texas

I raised my prices in January, but I had posted the increase the previous November. I explained to my clients that as the cost of living goes up, so must the cost of nail services. In this industry, the only way to get a raise is to increase prices and increase your referral rate.

Stephanie Logue

Artistic Reflections

Decatur, III.

I would send a letter to my clients about the price increase. If I were increasing the price because of higher manufacturer costs, I would explain that. If more and more customers were asking for a particular service, I’d explain that the purpose of the increase is to keep up with the demand in the marketplace. I would also do research in the area to make sure my prices are not too low or too high.

Michelle Jones

Nails By Shann

Southfield, Mich.

I usually have a talk with all my clients at least a month before a price increase, and I remind them about it during their appointments. I never raise prices without informing clients first. I think you should give clients the option of choosing another nail technician if they don’t want to pay the higher price. I don’t like to be surprised about prices when I have my nails done, so out of respect, I don’t surprise my clients.

Jacklyn Mallonee

Nail Biz

Kennewick, Wash.

Our salon usually announces price increases two to three months in advance and I put them on my price list. I set my prices so that they’re competitive with other salons. I make sure my service is excellent so I don’t lose clients who think they can get the same service for less somewhere else.

Denice Matsumoto

Mon Coiffeur

Fresno, Calif.

Topics:raising prices service pricing

More FAQ

Dear Shari: How do I build my nail business in a full-service salon that is made up of booth renters?

I am a booth renter in a full-service salon with no receptionist. We are all responsible for our own appointments. With so many hairstylists renting in the same salon you’d think my book would be full but it’s not. I get very few client recommendations from the stylists and they are usually one-shot deals. I understand they have no obligation to talk up my services with their clients, but you’d think that as part of a team they’d want to do so. The salon owner has brought up the subject at almost every quarterly meeting but it has made no difference. I don’t service the stylists’ nails because they do their own or have acrylics done by techs they’ve been going to for years. Any suggestions? Sincerely, Baffled... read more

Reader to Reader: Should a salon keep its menu basic or include multiple lists of service options?

Should a salon keep its menu basic or include multiple lists of service options?... read more

How do you make your clients feel comfortable after they’ve cheated on you with another tech?

How do you make your clients feel comfortable after they’ve cheated on you with another tech?... read more

Reader to Reader: Has your salon employment ever been terminated against your will (like a firing or salon closing)? How did you handle it?

Has your salon employment ever been terminated against your will (like a firing or salon closing)? How did you handle it?... read more

How can I get clients to buy retail items?

I don’t know if people’s budgets are to blame but they don’t want to buy products for at-home use. They want you to give it away to them for free. I do have promotions and giveaways from time to time, but I can not afford to constantly give away products. How can I get them to pay for these items?... read more

Why won't people buy products for at-home use, but instead seek freebies?

How do I stay within my clients’ budgets while my costs keep going up?

How do I stay within my clients’ budgets while my costs keep going up?... read more

How do I find a manicurist [employee] who cares about building a business?

I’m tired of nail techs who make only a minimal effort and expect me (the salon owner) to do everything for them. How can I find a manicurist who cares about building a business?... read more

Dear Shari: What can we do about those returning clients who tip $1 for a manicure and pedicure service?

What can we do about those returning clients who tip $1 for a manicure and pedicure service? Is there a standard percentage — like at least 15% is a standard gratuity for dining out? Sincerely, Tipped Off... read more

Dear Shari: What can I do when a salon owner randomly charges me for expenses in addition to my booth rent?

I just began work as a booth renter. It’s my understanding I am responsible to pay only the amount I contracted to pay monthly. However, the salon owner is asking for money here and there to pay for things like beverages, clothing, advertising, etc. None of these things were ever discussed or agreed on previously. Shouldn’t the monthly rent cover the things she wants to have at her salon? Sincerely, Disgruntled Booth Renter... read more

Reader to Reader: Is it wise to create a social, stay-and-chat type of environment for clients in the salon?

Is it wise to create a social, stay-and-chat type of environment for clients in the salon?... read more

What Would You Do if Business at Your Salon Slowed Down?

Although it’s not something most nail techs or salons owners ever want to think about, there may come a time when business may slow down. This may be due to a bad economy or other reasons. Have you ever stopped to think what you would do if this ever happened to you? We posed that question to a salon owner, a booth renter, and an employee. Here’s what they had to say.... read more

Prev Next