Christmas remains a peak trading period for salons, spas, and clinics, demanding careful management of both client appointments and retail sales. Phorest's People Program Manager, Larissa Hodgins, advises starting rebooking strategies in October, noting that 40% of clients are amenable to booking their next appointment on the spot. Automated reminders and deposits are also crucial tools for mitigating December's notorious no-show rates.
Making online booking seamless is essential, especially as consumers begin searching for gifts as early as July. Salons should ensure their online stores are updated with festive bundles and gift sets, leveraging integrated software for stock and delivery management. Rather than resorting to discounts, focus on creating value through bundled products or complimentary mini-treatments.
Hodgins also stresses the importance of team morale. Encouraging festive decorations and celebrating successes can foster a positive environment, directly impacting client experience. By prioritising early planning, technology, and thoughtful retail offerings, businesses can transform the holiday season from a source of stress into a period of significant success.
