Entrepreneur Archive:
KC Clippers Styling Salon

KC Clippers Styling Salon—Kimberling City, MO
Assisted by:
Tom Keohan, University of Missouri Extension, Taney County

Diane Richardson and Kay Hart were employed as beauty operators in the Kimberling City area several years ago when they decided to go out on their own to offer a wider variety of services to their clients. Equipped with a few thousand dollars from family and friends, they opened KC Clippers Styling Salon on the shores of Table Rock Lake.

As young entrepreneurs, they experienced all the pains of start-ups searching for a high traffic location, business permits, encouraging their present customers to follow them, purchasing equipment and designing their new shop. After a few years, they realized they needed some outside help to ensure they were meeting client demands and doing all they could to market and efficiently manage their young business. They attended a program presented by Tom Keohan, Taney County business and industry specialist, and soon after began working with Tom on various business management issues.

At that time they had a small section of the shop dedicated to various beauty aids and beauty treatments along with a tanning bed. After analyzing and discussing this with the clients, Tom helped them make the decision to remove the tanning bed and expand the space with more profitable beauty aids. Tom suggested a more modern display and features would enhance sales. New freestanding racks, glass shelving and fresh paint were incorporated in the area.

As time moved, the population increased locally by 47 percent, which created the need for additional stylists. The owner of the building agreed to enlarge the shop space, and Diane and Kay were able to add three additional stations. Tom worked with them to develop a monthly advertising plan, which was augmented with press releases each time a new stylist was added.

In the past few years, sales have steadily increased by approximately 7 percent each year. The retail section of the salon has seen a move to more expensive and higher margins of profitability. In the meantime, new signage was attached to the building emphasizing the salon's services. New customers found that KC Clippers offered excellent service and a place to meet new friends. This was especially true because of the relocated retirees settling in the area. As a family salon, a homey, cheerful atmosphere prevailed creating a steady flow of new and old customers.

Kay and Diane are currently considering a salon expansion, but they first want to determine what type of market is available. Demographics in the area continue to change, and fewer retirees are coming to the area. A younger group of families is locating in their place. Assessing this new market requires a different approach than in the past. Tom is currently assisting with recent census data, creative ideas and embarking on a fresh new marketing campaign.

KC Clippers Styling Salon
PO Box 814
Kimberling City, MO 65686
(417) 739-2323

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