Should You Open a Physical Hair Extension Storefront?

Hair extensions have taken over the hair industry! There was a time where people could only purchase hair from a hair store between certain hours. Now, people sell hair online and, even from their car trunks! The evolution of hair has come a long way. People are stepping out of their comfort zones and taking something they love

and turning it into money. Even though extensions have come this far, it's still changing! Now, we’re starting to see people turn their online business into a storefront. That’s right! There are hair extension stores throughout the world where you can now purchase hair. Have you ever thought about opening a hair extension store? Are you unsure of how things may or may not play out? Well, continue reading below on some of the pros and cons of opening a hair extension shop.

The greatest downfall of an online platform is its lack of customer experience. Having a store location for your hair extensions will allow you to interact with your customers more and build relationships. Customers will be able to share their feedback with you in person instead of running to a review section first. I’m sure companies would have loved to get a chance to speak with customers before they post their reviews. In the public view, it sometimes can appear as if the company didn’t want to help. However, the hair extension store platform will eliminate that issue. Companies will have second chances to make things right.

I don’t know about you, but there have been several times where I’ve been shopping online and said: “I sure wish I could see this product in person first!” That is the main reason why I don’t like shopping online now because I can’t see or touch the product. However, selling hair extensions in person will give customers the chance to see what they are about to purchase. As sad as it is, there are many hair dealers online that are scams. They still people money and also provide bad hair. Having a store will allow customers to see what they want and even test the hair out. If customers need advice on what to get, they will have a chance to be assisted.

When it comes creating online stores, you must have your customers in mind. Sometimes you may have people who don’t want to scroll all through your website; they may only want to see what you have from the home page. So a great thing about having a store is you get the chance to expand your brand. You can fill your walls with all different types of hair products and hair accessories. It gives you the chance to bring your online hair extension store, to reality.

As I mentioned earlier, having a store will draw more clientele. Although the Internet has come a long way, there are still people who don’t like it. They don’t want their payment information to float around, so they play it safe, which is fine. Depending on your location, you will have the chance to become close to locals and market yourself as well. Online marketing is one thing, but in-person marketing is different. There’s something about people seeing your face that will give them an instant sense of trust. When people trust you, they will also trust whatever products you plan on selling or business you start. Hair extension storefronts will allow you the chance to hold pop-up shops and even do giveaways. You could pass flyers around to the local shops and stores and do many other things to bring attention to your location.

Now, I will say, to run a store, you must be a people person! Society just can’t take another person in customer service that has a bad attitude! This mindset could be why many people opt for online stores because they won’t have to handle issues in person or over the phone. When there’s an issue, they could send an email to address it. Handling the public requires one to have a strong backbone. A business owner can’t be rude to a customer in person. Anything can happen, plus you face more of a risk. If you don’t believe you’re the person for this role, you could always hire a store manager to handle the big things. Although, sometimes a customer may ask to speak to the owner, so you would have to step in.

Having a storefront hair extension store means it must be run just like any other store. When you have an online store, you only need to check on orders and questions here and there. But with a store, you would have to be there for at least eight hours, or you could hire a team of people to work with you. Running a store requires a lot of work though. You have to make sure you’re bringing in sales because you will have rent to pay (unless you purchased property). The store would need to have a bathroom, designing needs to happen, and of course, you’ll have to stay on top of the maintenance. A lot goes into a running a store. It’s going to be important to do all the research you can when running a hair extension store. You will need special licenses, look for a spot in a good location and so much more. Running a store isn’t a bad idea at all, it requires a lot so make sure you cover your basis. It’s different than running a website. You’ll have to pay for more than just a domain name each month.

Now, this section isn’t a complete ‘con,’ but it’s more like a tip. It’s nothing worse than walking into a hair extension store, and all the shelves are empty! I don’t know about you, but I can’t stand when that happens. It doesn’t look like it’s professional. To try your best to prevent this, you could make sure to order a new product once a product begins to get low. That way, in a day or so the product, will arrive to restock. When you’re running an online store, it’s easy to get away with running out of a product. You can still accept purchases while you’re ordering product and tell the customer the shipping may be late. However, when running a hair extension store, you may face customers who don’t want to wait or don’t have patience. They may also feel like they cant depend on your company if you’re the product is always out of stock. Make sure to keep this in mind if you decide to go this route.

A business is nothing without a plan attached to it. It’s best to start with a foundation, so you know where you’re going. Also, if you’re going to rent property from someone, they may even ask you for a plan because they want to see if you’re serious or not.

Opening a storefront won’t be cheap unless you’re sitting on a lot of money, then it’s going to be wise to save, budget and create a financial plan.

When you’re opening a business to this magnitude, you will need to make sure everything is correct. A lot of paperwork is involved and honestly, you may not understand it all and will need help. A store requires you to comply with state and counties guidelines, and a lawyer would help with that. Also, make sure you find a trustworthy lawyer!

Starting a big business doesn’t have to be stressful. Yes, it may take some work a lot of research, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. Be excited about the fact you’re on a new journey that is going to lead you to great things. Going from an online store to a retail store are two different levels, but with a strong foundation, you will be able to make it out on top.

So, are you still considering if opening a hair extension store is worth it or not? There are some good pros and some cons that you will need to review. Opening up a hair extension store is compared to reaching a new level in your business. It’s a big responsibility, but in the end, it will be worth it. Opening a hair store takes a lot of patience and dedication. But if you stay focus on why you’re starting, then I’m sure you will be fine. Are you currently selling hair extensions online and thinking about opening a hair extension store? If so, tell me in the comment section what may be your biggest challenge? Good luck!