Female Franchise Owners lead the way for Just Cuts this International Women’s Day

Crowned the UK’s ‘Best New Franchise’ in 2020 by the Approved Franchise Association (AFA), rapidly growing Australian brand Just Cuts is celebrating the success of its UK Franchise Owners.

This International Women’s Day is another opportunity to spotlight their significant achievements, especially given UK Franchise Owners are right now 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 opened her new salon at Lakeside Essex during COVID, and was also crowned Young Franchisee of the year by the AFA during 2020. Holly says collaboration remains a key to her success.

“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.

“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 having a support network is an attraction for women considering franchising, or careers in hairdressing.

“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 Joanne. “The support from Just Cuts has allowed me to reach my potential in the industry I love, and now I inspire and mentor the women in my team.”

Both women are staying positive as they prepare to reopen their salons from April 12.

“I’ve kept telling myself that this isn’t forever and we’ll get back to enjoying the good times in my new salon soon,” said Holly. “I’m celebrating my business having opened in 2020 and where I’m heading.”

Both Holly and Joanne agree their 2021 business goal is to resume normal salon operations.

“With the Just Cuts brand behind me I have the technology, personal support and mentoring available to set my business up for success, even in the face of a pandemic,” adds Joanne.