Diane
Richardson and Kay Hart were employed as beauty operators in the Kimberling
City area several years ago when they decided to go out on their own
to offer a wider variety of services to their clients. Equipped with
a few thousand dollars from family and friends, they opened KC Clippers
Styling Salon on the shores of Table Rock Lake.
As young entrepreneurs, they experienced all the pains of start-ups
searching for a high traffic location, business permits, encouraging
their present customers to follow them, purchasing equipment and designing
their new shop. After a few years, they realized they needed some
outside help to ensure they were meeting client demands and doing
all they could to market and efficiently manage their young business.
They attended a program presented by Tom Keohan, Taney County business
and industry specialist, and soon after began working with Tom on
various business management issues.
At that time they had a small section of the shop dedicated to various
beauty aids and beauty treatments along with a tanning bed. After
analyzing and discussing this with the clients, Tom helped them make
the decision to remove the tanning bed and expand the space with more
profitable beauty aids. Tom suggested a more modern display and features
would enhance sales. New freestanding racks, glass shelving and fresh
paint were incorporated in the area.
As time moved, the population increased locally by 47 percent, which
created the need for additional stylists. The owner of the building
agreed to enlarge the shop space, and Diane and Kay were able to add
three additional stations. Tom worked with them to develop a monthly
advertising plan, which was augmented with press releases each time
a new stylist was added.
In
the past few years, sales have steadily increased by approximately
7 percent each year. The retail section of the salon has seen a move
to more expensive and higher margins of profitability. In the meantime,
new signage was attached to the building emphasizing the salon's services.
New customers found that KC Clippers offered excellent service and
a place to meet new friends. This was especially true because of the
relocated retirees settling in the area. As a family salon, a homey,
cheerful atmosphere prevailed creating a steady flow of new and old
customers.
Kay and Diane are currently considering a salon expansion, but they
first want to determine what type of market is available. Demographics
in the area continue to change, and fewer retirees are coming to the
area. A younger group of families is locating in their place. Assessing
this new market requires a different approach than in the past. Tom
is currently assisting with recent census data, creative ideas and
embarking on a fresh new marketing campaign.
KC Clippers Styling Salon
PO Box 814
Kimberling City, MO 65686
(417) 739-2323
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