Since founding L.A. Bikini in 2012 and franchising the concept in 2014, Clay Haley has grown the hair removal and sugaring studio exponentially. Originally established in Birmingham, Alabama, the business quickly spread to 12 franchised locations in seven states within its first few years of operation and even maintained growth during COVID – a fact in which Haley takes great pride. By Jessica Petrucelli
Since founding L.A. Bikini in 2012 and franchising the concept in 2014, Clay Haley has grown the hair removal and sugaring studio exponentially. Originally established in Birmingham, Alabama, the business quickly spread to 12 franchised locations in seven states within its first few years of operation and even maintained growth during COVID – a fact in which Haley takes great pride.
“After emerging from COVID, being able to see continued growth just gives us the confidence that we have a great product and a strong brand,” Haley said. “I believe people who are interested in franchising now more than ever really want to be involved with a company that is in it for the long haul – a company that has a strong foundation and a model that will stand the test of time – and we believe we have that.”
L.A. Bikini specializes in sugaring, a unique hair removal process that goes on cool, comes off easily and leaves hair follicles lubricated. The company’s proprietary sugar paste is formulated to eliminate and prevent ingrown hair, treat skin problems ranging from keratosis and eczema to psoriasis, and improve skin tone and texture. Plus, the company says sugaring is not as painful and traumatic as waxing.
“Because it’s natural and gentle, sugar paste hair removal works without burning your skin, damaging cells, scarring or promoting cross-contamination,” L.A. Bikini’s website notes.
The once-ancient technique has been modernized by the franchise to permanently and comfortably reduce hair growth, leaving skin extremely smooth in the process. A range of hair removal services are offered at every L.A. Bikini location, with lip, leg, bikini and brow being the most requested.
The concept has proven popular with a growing customer base, as have the perks and privileges of L.A. Bikini’s various membership options. After six months of continued service, clients have the option of becoming a lifetime member, which affords the opportunity of pay-as-you-need services, saving customers up to 50% over non-members.
Such customer-focused initiatives have undoubtedly contributed to L.A. Bikini’s growth. Recently expanding to Jacksonville, Florida, the company has plans to open three to four more franchises before the end of the year.
“These things can take time, but I believe what we’ve done in the last six months or so in this economic climate is truly impressive,” Haley said. “We had tremendous growth early on when the business was first founded, and then there was a slight pause related to the pandemic. But we’re back to marketing again and are looking at territories in New Jersey and Florida. It’s a very exciting time.”
L.A. Bikini’s business model provides extensive training and offers franchisees a plan for strategic marketing before and after opening. The company also is focused on maintaining strict standards and consistency, which are big parts of L.A. Bikini’s success.
The company’s ideal candidate? Someone who Is dedicated to superior customer service, is fun, energetic and passionate about helping people look and feel their best while being willing to put in hard work to succeed. Those who embrace entrepreneurialism and desire to be a multi-unit owner are also attractive to the company.
Jessica Petrucelli