How to Start a Men’s Grooming Business

A men’s grooming business is a business that provides grooming services and products specifically targeted toward men. This can include a variety of services, such as haircuts, beard trims, shaving, facials, and manicures. Men’s grooming businesses may also sell grooming products, such as hair styling products, shaving cream, aftershave, and cologne.

The concept of men’s grooming has become increasingly popular in recent years, as more men have become interested in looking and feeling their best.

Men’s grooming businesses may cater to a wide range of clients, from those who simply want a quick trim or shave to those who are looking for a full-service grooming experience, complete with massages and other spa treatments. Available data shows that the global men’s grooming products market was valued at USD 202.6 billion in 2022 and is projected to expand at a CAGR of 8.0 percent from 2023 to 2030.

Steps on How to Start a Men’s Grooming Business

1. Conduct Market Research

To conduct market research for a men’s grooming business, it is important to identify the target market and understand its needs and preferences. This can be done through surveys, focus groups, and analyzing industry trends. It is also important to research competitors and their offerings, as well as pricing strategies.

Social media can be a valuable tool for gathering insights into consumer behavior and preferences. Once the research is conducted, it can be used to develop marketing strategies and tailor products and services to the target market.

a. Who is the Target Market for Men’s Grooming Business?

The target market for men’s grooming business is men and boys.

b. Is the Men’s Grooming Business a Profitable Business?

Yes, the men’s grooming business is a profitable business all things being equal. As a matter of fact, available research result shows that the global men’s grooming products market was valued at USD 202.6 billion in 2022 and is projected to expand at a CAGR of 8.0 percent from 2023 to 2030

c. Are There Existing Niches in the Industry?

No, there is no clear-cut niche ideas when it comes to men’s grooming business because men’s grooming business is a niche idea in the grooming industry.

d. Who are the Major Competitors?

• Roosters Men’s Grooming Center
• Boardroom Salon for Men
• Floyd’s 99 Barbershop
• Dollar Shave Club
• The Man Company
• The Art of Shaving
• Copenhagen Grooming
• Manscaped
• Jack Black
• Every Man Jack
• Baxter of California
• Duke Cannon
• Billy Jealousy
• Fulton & Roark
• Oars + Alps
• Scotch Porter
• Brickell Men’s Products
• Grooming Lounge
• Noticias de El Salvador
• Blind Barber.

e. Are There County or State Regulations or Zoning Laws for Men’s Grooming Businesses in the United States?

Yes, there are county and state regulations and zoning laws for men’s grooming businesses in the United States. These regulations can vary depending on the location and type of business.

For example, zoning laws may dictate where a men’s grooming business can be located and what type of signage can be used. Regulations may also cover health and safety standards, licensing requirements, and permits needed to operate the business.

In addition, certain services offered by men’s grooming businesses may require specific certifications or licenses, such as cosmetology or barbering licenses. It is important for business owners to research and comply with all relevant regulations and laws in their specific location to avoid legal issues or penalties.

Business owners can typically find information on regulations and zoning laws from local government agencies, such as city or county planning departments or health departments. They may also consult with legal professionals or industry associations for guidance on compliance with regulations and zoning laws.

f. Is There a Franchise for Men’s Grooming Business?

Yes, there are franchise opportunities for men’s grooming businesses, and here are some of them;

• Sport Clips
• Roosters Men’s Grooming Center
• Boardroom Salon for Men
• Floyd’s 99 Barbershop
• Great Clips

g. What Do You Need to Start a Men’s Grooming Business?

• Business plan
• Legal structure
• Licenses and permits
• Shop Facility
• Equipment and supplies
• Employees
• Marketing and advertising

2. Choose a Memorable Business Name

When looking to start a business, before you can begin to file the necessary documents with the constituted authorities or start your website, it is necessary that you come up with a name that you will be recognized with. It is essential that the name you come up with can easily be pronounced, is unique and easily memorable.

Some of the catchy business name ideas suitable for a men’s grooming business are;

Creative Men’s Grooming Business Name ideas

• Strictly Masculine® Grooming Company
• Moses Malone® Barber’s Shop
• Bine Guys™ Grooming Shop
• Andrew Spencer™ Grooming Company
• Clean Cut® Barber’s Shop
• Top Notch® Grooming Palace
• Fresh Zone® Grooming Shop
• Hair Lab® Barber’s Shop
• Mike® Grooming Shop
• Spiral Curve® Grooming Shop
• Pa Clem® Grooming Company
• Sons of Adam® Grooming Company
• Men’s Connect® Barbers Shop
• Special Cut® Barbers Shop
• Boys 2 Men® Grooming Company
• Daniel Hopper® Grooming Company
• Ralph Lewis® Grooming Company
• Glow Max® Grooming Company
• Male Tribe® Grooming Company
• Luke McNamara® Grooming Company.

3. Register Your Business

a. What Type of Business Structure is Best for Men’s Grooming Business?

The best type of business structure for a men’s grooming business depends on several factors, including the size of the business, the number of owners, and the level of personal liability exposure the owners are willing to accept. However, we usually recommend a Limited liability company (LLC) for men’s grooming business.

An LLC is a popular choice for small businesses because it offers personal liability protection for the owners while allowing them to be taxed as a pass-through entity. This means that the profits and losses of the business are passed through to the owners’ personal tax returns, avoiding double taxation.

b. Steps to Form an LLC

• Choose a Name for Your LLC.
• File Articles of Organization.
• Choose a registered agent.
• Decide on member vs. manager management.
• Create an LLC operating agreement.
• Comply with other tax and regulatory requirements.
• File annual reports.

c. What Type of License is Needed to Open a Men’s Grooming Business?

• Business License
• Grooming license
• Resale license or sales tax permit
• Healthcare-related permits
• Zonal permit.

d. What Type of Certification is Needed to Open a Men’s Grooming Business?

You don’t need any certification to open a men’s grooming business in the United States and of course in all the countries of the world.

e. What Documents are Needed to Open a Men’s Grooming Business?

• Business plan
• Business License
• Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• State-specific licenses and permits
• Grooming license
• Resale license or sales tax permit
• Healthcare-related permits
• Zonal permit
• Insurance policies

f. Do You Need a Trademark, Copyright, or Patent?

Whether you need a trademark, copyright, or patent for your men’s grooming business will depend on the specific intellectual property you want to protect. If you want to protect your business name, logo, or other branding materials, you may want to consider registering a trademark with the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

If you create original content for your men’s grooming business, such as marketing materials or software, you may want to consider registering a copyright with the US Copyright Office. If your men’s grooming business invents a new technology or product, you may want to consider obtaining a patent from the US Patent and Trademark Office.

4. Cost Analysis and Budgeting

a. How Much Does It Cost to Start a Men’s Grooming Business?

When it comes to starting a men’s grooming business, the startup costs vary and could range from as low as $5,000 to over $100,000.

b. What are the Costs Involved in Starting a Men’s Grooming Business

• Business Registration Fees – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $3,300.
• Marketing, Branding, and Promotions – $2,000.
• Business Consultant Fee – $2,500.
• Insurance – $2,400.
• Rent/Lease – $30,000.
• Other start-up expenses include commercial satellite TV subscriptions, stationery ($500), and phone and utility deposits ($1,800).
• Operational Cost (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $20,000
• Store Equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $1,750
• Equipment and supplies – $10,000
• Website: $600
• Opening party: $3,000
• Miscellaneous: $2,000

c. What Factors Determine the Cost of Opening a Men’s Grooming Business?

• The size of men’s grooming business
• The choice of location
• The required licenses and permits
• The cost of hiring and paying a business consultant and attorney
• The cost of branding, promotion, and marketing of the men’s grooming business
• The cost of furnishing and equipping the men’s grooming business
• The cost of the insurance policy covers
• The cost of registering the business
• Cost of recruiting and training your staff
• The cost for the purchase and customizing of uniforms
• The cost for the grand opening of the men’s grooming business.

d. Do You Need to Build a Facility? If YES, How Much Will It Cost?

In general, you do not need to build a facility for a men’s grooming business as it is a service-based business that can operate from a rented shop or facility.

e. What are the Ongoing Expenses of a Men’s Grooming Business?

• Supplies and inventory (hair care products, razors, shaving creams, towels, and more).
• Rent and lease payment
• Utilities and other office expenses, including phone and internet service, office supplies, and equipment maintenance.
• Insurance
• Marketing cost
• Legal and accounting services
• Salaries of employees

f. What is the Average Salary of your Staff?

• Manager – $38,000 per year
• Marketing and Sales Staff – $33,000 per year
• Maintenance Staff – $33,000 per year
• Barbers/Stylists – $30,000 per year
• Receptionist – $28,000 per year

g. How Do You Get Funding to Start a Men’s Grooming Business?

• Raising money from personal savings and sale of personal stocks and properties
• Raising money from investors and business partners
• Sell shares to interested investors
• Applying for a loan from your bank/banks
• Pitching your business idea and applying for business grants and seed funding from the government, donor organizations, and angel investors
• Source for soft loans from your family members and your friends.

5. Write a Business Plan

a. Executive Summary

Strictly Masculine® Grooming Company is a men’s grooming business located in Sacramento, California. We specialize in providing high-quality grooming services to men, including haircuts, shaves, beard trims, and skincare treatments. Our target market is men who value personal grooming and are willing to pay for quality services.

We offer a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere where our clients can unwind and enjoy a unique grooming experience. Our business is founded on the principles of exceptional customer service, attention to detail, and commitment to quality.

Our team consists of skilled and experienced barbers and stylists who are passionate about their craft and dedicated to delivering the best possible service to our clients.

b. Products and Service

• Haircuts
• Shaves
• Beard trims
• Skincare treatments
• Hair coloring
• Grooming products
• Special packages
• Event services
• Personal consultations.

c. Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide high-quality grooming services that help our clients look and feel their best. We are committed to delivering exceptional customer service, using the best products and tools available, and providing a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere that allows our clients to unwind and rejuvenate.

Vision Statement

Our vision is to be the leading men’s grooming business in our community, known for our commitment to quality, exceptional customer service, and innovative approach to grooming.

d. Goals and Objectives

The goals and objectives of a men’s grooming business are to help men look and feel their best, and to provide them with the tools and services they need to maintain their appearance and confidence.

e. Organizational Structure

• Manager
• Marketing and Sales Staff
• Maintenance Staff
• Barbers/Stylists
• Receptionist

Marketing Plan

a. SWOT Analysis

Strength:

• The business has a team of experienced and talented barbers and stylists who are passionate about their craft and dedicated to delivering high-quality services.
• The business is located in a busy area with high foot traffic, making it easily accessible to potential clients.
• The business has built a strong reputation in the local community and has a loyal customer base.
• The business offers competitive pricing for its services, making it an attractive option for clients.
• The business offers a range of grooming products for sale, providing additional revenue streams.

Weakness:

• The business may have limited-service offerings compared to larger competitors, potentially limiting its appeal to certain customers.
• The business may have a limited online presence, making it difficult for potential clients to find information about the business or make appointments.
• The business may have limited operating hours, which may be inconvenient for some clients.

Opportunities:

• The business may have an opportunity to expand by opening additional locations in other neighborhoods or cities.
• The business may benefit from developing a stronger online presence, including a website and social media accounts, to attract new clients and make it easier for existing clients to make appointments.
• The business may offer grooming services for special events, such as weddings or corporate events, to generate additional revenue streams.

Threat:

• The business may face competition from other men’s grooming businesses in the area, as well as larger chain stores that offer similar services.
• The business may be affected by changes in economic conditions, such as a recession or downturn, which may lead to decreased demand for its services.
• The business may be impacted by changes in consumer preferences or trends, such as a shift towards more natural grooming products or styles.

b. How Do Men’s Grooming Businesses Make Money?

Men’s grooming businesses typically make money by offering grooming services and selling grooming products.

c. Payment Options

• Credit or Debit Card
• Cash
• Electronic Payment Systems such as PayPal or Venmo
• Checks
• Bank Transfers.

d. Sales & Advertising Strategies

• Offer a referral program to encourage current clients to refer new clients to the business.
• Use social media platforms, such as Instagram and Facebook, to showcase the business and its services.
• Share photos of happy clients, promote special offers and events, and engage with followers to build a loyal following.
• Offer special promotions, such as discounted services or product bundles, to attract new clients and encourage repeat business.
• Partner with other businesses, such as local boutiques or men’s clothing stores, to offer joint promotions and reach new audiences.
• Use email marketing to keep clients informed about special offers, new products or services, and upcoming events.
• Display promotional materials in the store, such as posters or flyers, to inform clients about special offers or events.
• Use targeted online advertising, such as Google Ads or Facebook Ads, to reach potential clients and drive traffic to the website or store.
• Host events, such as grooming workshops or product launch parties, to provide clients with a unique experience and promote the business.

Financial Projection

a. How Much Should You Charge for Your Product/Service?

Here are some approximate average prices for common grooming services in our men’s grooming shop:

• Haircut: $20 to $50
• Shave: $20 to $50
• Beard Trim: $10 to $30
• Facial: $50 to $100
• Massage: $50 to $100 per hour.

b. How Much Profit Do Men’s Grooming Business Owners Make a Year?

It depends, but according to industry reports and surveys, a well-managed men’s grooming business can expect to have a profit margin of anywhere from 10% to 20% of total revenue. For example, if a men’s grooming business generates $500,000 in annual revenue, it could expect to make a profit of $50,000 to $100,000.

c. What Factors Determine the Amount of Profit to Be Made?

• The capacity of the men’s grooming business
• The location of the men’s grooming business is covering
• The management style of the men’s grooming business
• The business approach of the men’s grooming business
• The advertising and marketing strategies adopted by the men’s grooming business.
• The number of years the men’s grooming business is in business

d. What is the Profit Margin of a Men’s Grooming Business Product/Service?

On average, the profit margin for men’s grooming products ranges from 10% to 50%, depending on the product and the market in which it operates.

e. What is the Sales Forecast?

Below is the sales forecast for a men’s grooming business. It is based on the location of the business and other factors as it relates to such startups in the United States;

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): $150,000
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): $220,000
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): $280,000

6. Set Up your Shop/Office

a. How Do You Choose a Perfect Location for Men’s Grooming Business?

• The demography of the location as it relates to the number of men and boys
• The demand for men’s grooming services in the location
• The purchasing power of businesses and residents of the location
• Accessibility of the location
• The number of men’s grooming businesses in the location
• The local laws and regulations in the community/state
• Traffic, parking, and security et al

b. What State and City is Best to Open a Men’s Grooming Business?

• New York, NY
• Los Angeles, CA
• Chicago, IL
• San Francisco, CA
• Miami, FL
• Austin, TX
• Seattle, WA
• Denver, CO
• Boston, MA
• Washington D.C.

c. What Equipment is Needed to Operate a Men’s Grooming Business?

• Clippers and Trimmers
• Scissors and Shears
• Straight Razors
• Towels
• Hair Products: Such as gels, pomades, and waxes.
• Styling Tools such as hair dryers and flat irons.
• Barber Chairs
• Sanitation Supplies
• Reception Desk and Waiting Area Furniture
• POS System.

7. Hire Employees

Whether to hire employees for a new men’s grooming business depends on the size and scope of the business, as well as the owner’s goals and resources. If the business is small and only provides services to a few clients, the owner may be able to handle all the tasks without hiring additional staff.

If the men’s grooming business provides services to a large number of clients, it may be necessary to hire employees with specific skills and experience to handle the diverse needs of clients.

8. Launch the Business Proper

Organizing an opening party for a new men’s grooming business can be a good way to introduce your business to the community and create awareness about your services. However, whether or not to have an opening party is ultimately a decision that depends on your individual business and goals.

If you want to go ahead to organize a proper launch for your men’s grooming business, then you must make sure to invite potential clients and other members of the community who may be interested in your services.

a. What Makes a Men’s Grooming Business Successful?

• Being consistently reliable
• Excellent customer service
• Efficient operations
• Compliance with regulations
• Hiring skilled and knowledgeable employees and providing ongoing training

b. What Happens During a Typical Day at a Men’s Grooming Business?

• Before the shop opens, the employees would need to prepare the space, which may include cleaning, stocking supplies, and setting up workstations.
• When the shop opens, the employees would need to greet customers, answer questions, and schedule appointments.
• The main focus of the day would be providing grooming services to customers. This may include haircuts, shaves, beard trims, facials, and massages.
• During services, the employees may need to consult with customers to ensure they are getting the desired look or treatment.
• Product sales
• Administrative tasks, such as bookkeeping, scheduling appointments, and responding to emails or phone calls, may be done throughout the day.
• At the end of the day, the employees would need to clean up the shop, restock supplies, and prepare for the next day.

c. What Skills and Experience Do You Need to Build a Men’s Grooming Business?

• Customer services skills
• Technical Skills
• Passion and Creativity
• Interpersonal skill
• Accounting and bookkeeping skills
• Business management skills
• Bargaining and bidding skill
• Work experience in a men’s grooming business environment
• Experience in managing people
• Experience in business administration.