Barber Pole

Getting Your First Barber Club Started

Guidance and Advice for a Successful Launch

A subscription-based service can be a game-changer for your barbershop, offering steady revenue and promoting customer loyalty. However, implementing an effective subscription model requires planning and strategic thinking. Based on our experience with our business partners, here are some suggestions to help you set up a successful subscription service for your clients.

Understand Your Customer Base

It's essential to understand your target audience before creating membership packages. Is your clientele mostly made up of young people who prefer modern haircuts with skin fades, or made of adults who prefer scissors haircut and hot towel shave? In either case, ensure that all your customers' needs are taken into consideration. This will ensure that you capture a wide range of customers, from budget-conscious clients to those who want a more luxurious experience.

Offer Tiered Memberships

One of the most effective ways to meet different client needs is by offering tiered membership options.

  • Basic Plan: Includes unlimited standard haircuts every month
  • Premium Plan: Offers additional services like beard trims, skin fades, or other grooming perks
  • VIP Plan: Includes exclusive benefits like hot towel shaves, scalp massages, discounts on products, and extra services

Remember, with The Barbers Club you will be able to offer up to 10 membership packages. This will allow you to create the perfect package for all of your customers.

Set the Right Price

Pricing is crucial when setting up a subscription model. Start by analysing your costs, the average price of services in your area, and what your customers are willing to pay. Offering a discount for members, such as 20 to 30% off compared to regular pricing for single visits. Ensure that your pricing is competitive but still sustainable for your business.

Provide Flexibility

An online booking system, available for members and non-members with unlimited calendars and slots on The Barbers Club allows your clients to easily schedule their appointments at their convenience, 24/7, without the need for direct interaction. This adds convenience for your customers, especially those who have a recurring subscription, ensuring they can always book their included services effortlessly. With unlimited calendars and slots, you can manage multiple barbers/chairs and service types, accommodating the varying needs of your members. Whether clients are booking standard haircuts, beard trims, or premium services included in higher-tier memberships, the system ensures availability and prevents double-booking. Moreover, the system's automated reminders and confirmations help reduce no-shows and ensure that your members, as well as non-members never miss an appointment, making it easier to manage your Club Membership.

Hassle-free Automatic Billing

To make your Barber Club membership service seamless for both you and your clients, The Barbers Club offers automatic billing. Clients will appreciate the convenience of not having to manually pay each month, and you'll benefit from steady, predictable income. We ensure the billing system is transparent, with clear communication about renewal dates and charges.

Exclusive Perks and Add-ons

A successful subscription service should offer value beyond just the basic services. Consider offering exclusive perks such as:

  • Discounts on additional products (shaving cream, hair products, etc.)
  • Complementary hot or cold beverages
  • Special promotions (I.e., Free haircut for your dad on Father's Day!)

Promote Your Memberships Effectively

Marketing is essential to the success of your Club membership. Use your existing client base as a starting point and promote memberships through:

  • In-store signage (free via The Barbers Club dashboard)
  • Social media campaigns
  • Email marketing
  • Referral incentives for current members

Clearly highlight the benefits of subscribing with no commitments or cancellation fees, such as cost savings, convenience, and exclusive perks.

Monitor and Adjust

Once your subscription service is live, continuously monitor its performance via The Barbers Club reports page. Track metrics such as customer retention rates, churn, and revenue growth. Solicit feedback from your clients to identify areas for improvement and ensure your offerings are meeting their needs. If something isn't working, be prepared to adjust your pricing, services, or marketing strategy. Additional support can be provided to The Barbers Club affiliates, feel free to contact us and one of our experts will be able to assist and advise.

Customer Support and Engagement

Club memberships thrive when customers feel valued and supported. Provide excellent customer service to address any issues or concerns promptly. Engage with your members regularly, whether through email newsletters, exclusive events, or just asking for feedback. The more connected your customers feel to your barbershop, the more likely they are to stay members.

Conclusion

A successful subscription-based service can transform your barbershop by ensuring stable cash flow, increasing customer retention, and enhancing the overall client experience. By offering tiered memberships, setting competitive prices, providing flexible options, and creating exclusive perks, you can build a loyal customer base that continues to return month after month.

Published: 6 March 2025

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