Hair Replacement

As low margins, selection of products, and deteriorating service has pushed many salon owners away from traditional professional salon products, many are turning to private labeling. Having never done it before, the process may seem time-consuming, expensive and complicated, but it isn’t. With the right assistance and resources, developing a private label can be fulfilling and profitable.

The case for private label

Having worked closely with hundreds of salon owners, I can testify one of the primary concerns is consolidation of the industry leaders. Consolidation of hair product brands has lead to non-competitive price increases, reduction in service and increasingly limited alternatives – or the inability to get popular and sought-after shampoos, conditioners or styling aids.

This slide in satisfaction is being increasingly met with salon owners, barbers, and beauticians seeking out and developing their own brand of hair products – tailored for their customer base and needs. If for nothing more than the improved profitability and control over the process, inventory and supply, private label hair products has seen an upsurge even during a very difficult economic time.

As salon owners, its safe to say we are busy enough. The ease of ordering from our favorite rep makes getting products on the shelves not much more than an after-thought. This combined with time needed to set-up your own brand and the presumption private-label is expensive, has kept many would-be folks on the sidelines.

But, let’s take a look at the reality – cost and time. You may be surprised.

• First – there are a number of small-medium size hair care manufacturers who specialize in private labeling. Most have a selection of products from which you can choose; and, many are categorized as to what your needs are. So, let’s say I want to start with a clarifying shampoo, a conditioner, and a moisture shampoo. EASY – Just say the word and you will have samples in your hands in a few days.
• Second – Choose a name and design. The best way to handle this is starting at what you see as the theme of your products. You don’t have to get fancy – no 5th Avenue advertising stuff here. Just decide what your general target-market will be, and build a brand/logo, product names, and visual design around that idea. Keep in mind you can expand, change or modify your line anytime you want – and its not expensive. Additionally, you can find local artists and designers that will create the design you want and give you electronic files for a very low cost. Most manufacturers work with or have references for freelance graphic artist who can work with you.
• Third – Decide on silk-screens or labels. Personally, I like to go with silkscreens until I am sure of the design. A silkscreen can be made for ~$150…and generally the manufacturer will screen your bottles as part of the order. Oh, for their bottles and products, you will generally receive a “template” for creating screens and labels – saves costs, time and hassle, as well as decreasing the potential for potential mistakes.

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