Just Cuts multi-unit franchisees Noel and Jenny Gregory have just sold their three salon to fellow franchisees as the couple prepare to retire.
The couple met through Just Cuts, when Jenny was working in the Port Macquarie salon.
“We were talking one night and decided why work for them when you can own them?” says Noel. “We bought our first three salons together in one hit after being in a relationship for six months.”
He believes Just Cuts’ universal appeal is a fundamental contributor to the brand’s longevity.
“We’re successful because we don’t just cater for one market or style, our brand strength is we serve Style Cuts for everybody. So we can adapt to any short term changes in client styles.”
Noel’s number one tip for franchise success is to look after your people.
“If you look after your people they will look after your customers,” he points out. “That’s the core challenge for any franchise owner.
“Secondly I would say follow your franchise system and operations manual, and thirdly use your network support to build a strong working relationship with landlords.”
Noel was an elected member of the Just Cuts Franchise Advisory Council for 12 years.
“I feel it’s crucial for us as owners to combine our ideas because no one person has all the answers. That’s why the Just Cuts Academy and owners collaborate so we come up with the best solutions. Working together as a network is critical to our mutual survival, we’re like a family,” adds Noel.
“I was able to sell my three salons in three weeks to three current owners. It speaks volumes for the success of our brand that current owners are eager to expand their portfolios. I leave Just Cuts proud knowing they’ll continue the successful salons Jenny and I built.”
The couple have owned the business for 13 years but now need to step back for health reasons.
“Leaving our franchise family has definitely left a hole in our hearts,” said Noel.
“Jenny and I were hands on owners who took an active role, even though we weren’t physically in the salons. It’s the relationships we built over 13 years in Just Cuts salons that I will miss the most.”
He believes his business ownership background complemented Jenny’s hair stylist skills and made the pair the perfect business partners.
“We always believed we had the magic formula,” he says.
Looking back at his years with the hair salon chain, Noel says he is most proud of helping staff step up into their businesses.
“I sold one of my salons to my team leader at Grafton, Laura and her husband Wes bought it. She showed interest for two years and saved and I was happy to help her dream come true,” Noel reveals.