How to Start a Tanning Business
Starting your own tanning business can be fun and financially rewarding. Plus, you’ll never be pale. So get yourself in the driver’s seat, put your shoulder to the wheel, and enjoy the fruits of your labor as you build your own tanning business.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- License(s)
- Office equipment and supplies
- Tanning equipment
- Physical location
- Business plan
- Marketing materials
- Marketing plan
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1
Form a legal company. Your business entity can take many different forms, including a sole proprietorship, LLC, S-Corp, or C-Corp. Choose the form most suited to your needs. Contact your state for formation guidelines and regulations.
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2
Develop a business plan. This will be your guide and roadmap to success. Put it on paper and refer to it often. A good business plan will include a market study, marketing and sales plans, operational and management plans and detailed financial plans. Update your business plan at least once a year.
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3
Get licensed. Each state has its own licensing requirements. Check with your state's commerce department, health department or similar regulatory agency to find their specific licensing requirements.
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4
Find your space. You’ll want to set up your shop in a high traffic area with easy access and plenty of parking. The commercial real estate market is wide open for negotiation, so make sure you get a great deal on your lease.
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5
Get your equipment. Shop for wholesale tanning equipment the same way you would for any other big purchase. Compare price, warranties and service plans. Read reviews from impartial third parties. Visit other tanning businesses and ask for their opinions of today’s available tanning hardware.
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6
Set up your shop. Get all your office and tanning equipment in place. Test everything to make sure it works well.
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7
Cross sell. Research and implement cross selling opportunities to enhance your revenue. Things like tanning lotions and skin care products can add value for your customers and profits to your bottom line.
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8
Create your marketing materials. At the very least, you’ll need business cards, letterhead and brochures or flyers. A website and branded email will contribute to your professional and competitive image. Make sure you highlight your strengths and professional differentiators throughout all of your marketing materials.
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9
Be persistent and positive. Keep networking and marketing to build up a solid client base.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Marketing is the key to your success. Always be looking for ways to attract new clients.
Reward new customers with incentives for them to come back.
See “Additional Resources” below for more tips on how to successfully start and grow your tanning business.
Before signing a lease, make sure the space can legally fulfill your power requirements.
Do not attempt to operate a tanning business without all appropriate licenses.
Always carry appropriate insurance.
