Rush’s 66th Hair Salon was opened by franchisee Debra Freeman-Thorpe in Weybridge. Debra shares with us her decisions for franchising with Rush, why she chose her location and what she’s looking forward to with her new Rush Hair salon.
What attracted you to franchise with Rush?
Rush provides an extremely well supported franchise opportunity for those who are dedicated and committed to customer-service and excellent skills in hair. Rush is a large and ever-growing forward-thinking company looking for like-minded individuals who want to both succeed in running their own business and providing the chosen community with the best the hairdressing industry has to offer.
Tell us about yourself: What had you done before deciding to become a Rush franchisee?
I’ve been in publishing most of my life, training as a journalist and working my way up to becoming Managing Editor of 2 trade journals both in the hair and beauty industry. I lived and worked in Dubai for 3 years for 12 high-end tourism magazines and helping to build an interactive website for 5-star travellers to Dubai. Since returning to the UK last year, I have been searching for the right franchise opportunity and naturally gravitated towards the hair industry, having loved it so much previously!
How did you choose your location? – Was Weybridge always somewhere you had in mind?
Weybridge is a lovely town that still retains a ‘village’ feel. I’ve recently visited just about every retailer in the high street to introduce myself and the brand and I’ve had the most friendly and encouraging response. Literally everyone I spoke to welcomed me to Weybridge! The town itself has a long history of traditional trading that concentrates on top customer service and includes many independent retailers as well as high-end supermarkets, fashion outlets, coffee shops, bars and restaurants. I love it so much, I’m moving to Weybridge very soon!
How would you describe your new salon team ?
My team have been selected for their skills, experience and attention to detail. There’s been a lot of work behind the scenes to gather together a cohesive and motivated group of stylists which I am very proud of. I wanted to make sure each and every one of us puts the customer first.
What are you most looking forward to with your Rush salon?
I’m looking forward to both running my own business, striving for the best service and showing clients what we can do for them. I’m also looking forward to bringing together a fabulous team with both the experience and the drive to succeed with me.