Selling Non-Hair Items At The Salon: Do Or Don’t?

Most of you know that retailing professional products is a great way to make more money…but what about retailing items that AREN’T hair-related? Clothing, cosmetics…fake handbags? Is this a do or a don’t? More than 1,500 of you weighed in on the topic, so scroll to see what your fellow stylists have to say!

I’ve worked in salon for 7 years. I’m pretty booked and I like most of the people I work with…BUT, we are having a heated discussion about retail in the salon. NOT retailing hairproducts, but instead selling clothes, fake designer handbags and ‘tchotchkes.’ About half of us think it’s tacky and the other half think it would be a great way for the salon to make more money. Should we do it? How many other salons out there offer this type of merchandise? Does it make sense to offer retail unrelated to hair, or is it just kind of tacky?

Just Say NO To Fake Designer Handbags

It’s illegal to sell counterfeit designer purses. So don’t do this. 😊

It Makes Your Salon Look Unprofessional

“I personally think it’s tacky. Also, what does it say about our sense of professionalism/artistry when we extol the virtues of professional products and services (vs. drugstore knock-offs and cheap ‘dos by uneducated hairstylists) and then sell knock-off fashion?!” – @veryhairymary

“You lose the vibe of a salon if it starts to look too tacky. Focus on the goods—literally! Don’t let your guest get distracted by inanimate objects that don’t relate to the salon/spa. You don’t go to the grocery store to buy shoes; why go to the hair salon to buy a knockoff bag?”  -@lash_and_ink

“I don’t trust a salon to do my hair who sells bags and other knickknacks unrelated to hair. When a salon strays from hair business, I take my hair business elsewhere.” – @xinordie

“I think whenever there is unrelated retail of any kind in a salon it’s a bad look. Isn’t your salon and product retail bringing in enough revenue? If not, something other than handbags needs to change.” – @jesshibbb

“By selling that kind of ‘product’ you’re making your entire salon look tacky, desperate and low-grade. Your clients need to see that you have focus, integrity and standards. This stuff like fake bags will give clients the wrong image, you’re a PROFESSIONAL SALON not some market ‘knock off’ stall. Keep up your standards and focus and your clients will see you are serious!” – @elena_hairdresser_melbourne

“We call that shop Wal-Mart where I come from. Hair, shampoo, cheap accessories and even an eye exam.” – @karlirock

“I think it could be distracting to clients. You’d could potentially lose an upsell in the chair so they can save money and buy something they saw in the retail section. The money should come from the services, not the fluff. Re-evaluate prices and talk to staff about upselling opportunities. Don’t lose focus.” – @tm_whitten

“Don’t do it!! My old salon sold fake fur vest and coats, in addition to jewelry and scarves and such at one point. It was so embarrassing, and rarely, if ever did I hear anything positive said about it by guest.” – @allilaw0204

If The Products Are Nice, It’s A Good Idea!

“We have some beautiful jewelry by a local designer, but fake hand bags? Nope. Tacky.” – @sam.c.hair

“I offer bouquet lotions soaps and bubble bath along with my lines I sell. No other items.” – @tracygramps

“We have a boutique area and our clients love it. But nothing fake or knockoff. All super classy, under $100 but good quality for the price. Grab and go items. Tops, unique jewelry. Must be current and merchandised well.” – @bluemistsalon

“Fake designer bags, no! Clothes, yes. We are an image business. The company that owns Louis Vuitton also sells hair products, watches, shoes, etc. Armani sells clothes, makeup, fragrances etc. Retail is not only hair product. Some of the most craft hair companies sell clothes, scarves, candles, music, coffee, jewelry. I’m not into fake anything, but if it’s image oriented and fits your market, go for it.” – @vthestyleroom

It Depends On Your Market And Your Clients

“We are in a town of 1,000 people. Yes, we have clothing, jewelry, and local goat milk products. Our clients love it! They don’t have to drive 20+ miles to the next big town.” – @above_cut

“I think that depends on your client base and their needs. Every salon is different and obviously has their own unique style. I say if it goes with the style and people and buying things, why not? if it’s very upscale and would make it look tacky, then no.” – @dinadallasstylist

“I worked at a salon that sold handbags (no knockoffs just no namers) and other things like scented candles, scarves, jewelry and summer hats. It was in a section separate from the actual salon portion, towards the front entrance. Let me tell you, during the holiday season it was so busy! People came in and bought most their gifts from the little boutique. I think if you can do it in a classy way and be successful with it, why not?” – @babeasaurus_rex84

“Customers enjoy it. Purses and jewelry along with tanks and dresses have been a great money maker…however only if you have proper space for it. It’s nowhere near the work stations.” – @mrjasonstreet

“We have a boutique in our salon and still do fantastically in product retail. It depends on how talented your stylists are in retail. Our clients have always prioritized their hair services and products over the boutique items, but they’re perfect for those special occasion clients and those who love to spend money/buy gifts!” – @moorehairdfw

“We started selling retail at our salon and our clients absolutely love it! Some clients who never spend money on products buy a piece of clothing every time. We only sell clothing though. And the occasional tote!” – @lakinceleste

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