Business Talk

Formal training A salon is a sensitive venture. Lucy Wanjiku, a hairstylist and the proprietor of Super Style Salon in Nairobi’s Kahawa West, says anybody who wishes to invest in a salon must seek some formal training first. This is because you will be dealing with products made from chemicals whose reactions you need to understand. Capital For a basic salon, Sh.150,000 can be enough to purchase basic equipment, such as a blowdryer, curling iron, dryer and combs, as well as styling products and cover a month’s rent for a small outlet. Operating licenses You need business permits as well as fire safety certificates from your county, which can set you back around Sh.9,400. Given the heat treatments a salon offers, you must have equipment to deal with any fire mishaps that could destroy your establishment. Good location Fredrick Ombachi, a director at Steal That Look salon, says you need an outlet in a place that is safe and convenient for the calibre of clients you are target