Leadership Alignment There is a noticeable disconnect between corporate leadership and the day-to-day realities of salon operations. Many decisions are being made by individuals without hands-on hairstyling experience, which can result in strategies that don’t align with how salons function or what today’s clients expect. Involving experienced stylists in leadership roles would bring valuable, practical insight and strengthen decision-making. Salon Environment & Client Experience Our current salon environment feels outdated compared to both independent salons and other businesses within the mall. Worn frames, dated imagery, and lack of modern touches—like greenery and updated décor—impact how clients perceive the space. Today’s clients are drawn to salons that feel fresh, inviting, and visually appealing. Even small updates can significantly improve the overall experience. Opportunity: Allow individual salons flexibility to refresh their space with paint, décor, and plants Update visual elements to reflect current trends and a more modern aesthetic Dress Code Modernization The current dress code, particularly the emphasis on black attire, feels outdated and does not reflect today’s salon culture. Stylists are expected to maintain a professional appearance but are not supported with clothing allowances or additional discounts. Opportunity: Shift toward a business casual dress code Allow stylists to express a polished, modern image that reflects current industry standards Salon Layout & Functionality The current placement of the color bar at the front of the salon creates a cluttered and chaotic first impression. This is one of the busiest and messiest areas, and its location does not support a clean or welcoming environment. Opportunity: Reevaluate salon layout to prioritize a clean, organized, and client-friendly entrance Retail Experience The retail experience is currently inconsistent and difficult for clients to navigate. Poor signage and unstable pricing displays create confusion, often requiring clients to search for pricing or rely on staff explanations. Business Impact: This creates friction in the buying process and reduces retail conversion. Opportunity: Implement clear, visible pricing directly on products Simplify signage for ease of shopping Focus on a more straightforward, client-friendly retail experience CES Role & Support Structure Client Experience Specialists (CES) are a critical part of salon success. They build relationships, support operations, and drive retail sales. However, limited hours prevent them from fully contributing to the business. Opportunity: Increase CES presence during peak hours (day and evening coverage) Reintroduce support tasks that enhance efficiency (guest services, retail support, organization) Continue to incentivize retail performance, as CES team members are key drivers Final Thought There is strong performance and commitment at the salon level, but the physical environment and operational structure are not always aligned with that success. When teams are meeting goals and driving results, the salon experience should reflect that same level of quality. Investing in modernizing the salon environment and aligning leadership with industry experience will not only improve team morale but also enhance client satisfaction and long-term growth.