Crowned the UK’s ‘Best New Franchise’ in 2020 by the Approved Franchise Association (AFA), rapidly growing Australian brand Just Cuts makes a habit of celebrating the success of its Franchise Owners.
This International Women’s Day is another opportunity to spotlight their significant achievements, especially given UK Franchise Owners are ramping up for reopening in April.
Currently, all 9 UK salons are owned by women, who value the career path opportunity and close support built into the Just Cuts model.
“Authenticity is an intrinsic part of our culture,” says Just Cuts CEO, Amber Manning.
“Just Cuts strives to be an employer of choice and a collaborative partner. We help our Clients look and feel great, we encourage people to be themselves, and help our Owners be their very best.”
Holly Feltham, Franchise Owner at Lakeside Essex, was crowned Young Franchisee of the year by the AFA during 2020, and says collaboration remains a key to her small business success, and the success of the just Cuts model in the UK.
“My number one piece of advice to other women considering franchising would be to get to know the team you will be working with, because franchising is a collaboration,” says Holly. “It’s being in business for yourself but not by yourself.”
“Coming from a Stylist background the business side of things was a whole new world to me. It’s been a huge relief, especially during COVID, to know there is a friendly voice from the Just Cuts Academy on the other end of the phone or online when I am feeling unsure.”
Joanne Clotworthy, Franchise Owner of Just Cuts Romford, agrees the support network is an attraction for women considering franchising, or careers in hairdressing, with 85% of UK Stylists being female.
“To succeed in franchising you need to be open to change and understand there is always something new to learn, it’s like being part of a community,” said Joanne. “If you follow the systems not only does your business grow, but you also have the opportunity to grow personally and professionally.”
According to the British Franchise Association, the rate of female business ownership in franchising is ahead of the wider small business sector, with the most recent data showing 30% of UK Franchise Owners are women, and almost 2 in 5 new Franchise Owners are women.
“After working as a Just Cuts Stylist for 2 years I built on the support I’d always been given to take my next step into small business ownership,” adds Jo. “I’ve always drawn on and trusted the expertise of the women in the Just Cuts Academy for advice on running and enhancing my business, especially during the last 12 months.”
“The Support from Just Cuts has allowed me to reach my potential in a business I love, and now I support, inspire and mentor the women in my team of Stylists.”
“I’m passionate about this industry because it’s all about lifting people’s moods through making them look and feel beautiful with their hair. I believe in my job, my business and the Just Cuts brand and I enjoy the success that comes with following the model. It gives me a sense of purpose.”