Q&A with Reema Khan, President of s.h.a.p.e.s Brow Bar

Posted on October 05, 2011 by Ben Baggett

Reema Khan, President of s.h.a.p.e.s Brow Bar sat down with Franchise Gator and told us a little more about their franchise.

How was your franchise originally conceived and started?

With my passion for the beauty specialty in eyebrow threading and seeing how it was quickly becoming a popular trend, I knew this was an opportunity that I could not pass up. I had many years of experience operating a beauty salon in India and then an independent salon in a Chicago suburb, so opening up s.h.a.p.e.s Brow Bar in 2003 in Chicago was a natural extension of my business.    

What was your original vision for s.h.a.p.e.s? How has that changed over time?

My original view for the company was to provide all clients with a quick and easy destination for daily maintenance. After seeing the success of our first s.h.a.p.e.s Brow Bar, we knew this would evolve with rapid growth. Recently, we have expanded our vision by adding additional spa and beauty services. While the vision was once a national threading company, it is now a one-stop beauty destination for many different treatments.

What do you believe is the single most important factor when choosing a franchise?

As this is an investment for the franchisee, I think the most important factor is their passion for the company they are investing in- they need to be able to fully get behind the company they are now becoming a part of.

Why should someone choose s.h.a.p.e.s. over other similar franchises?

With the ongoing demand for beauty services, we offer a new concept of accessible, efficient and affordable services. We are the one stop beauty shop that appeals to a wide variety of people.

What makes the beauty industry attractive?

The beauty industry is a relatively constant need in life, regardless of the economy.  Especially since we offer low cost beauty services, many women still come and get their eyebrows done and will still enjoy the other services that we are offering.

What types of qualities do you look for in potential franchisees?

We want our potential franchisees to be entrepreneurial, driven, passionate, personable and have sales experience.

What do your franchise fees and royalties cover?

Our franchise fees and royalties cover our name, publicity, training and knowledge of the business.

How do territories work for your franchisees?

We do offer the option of exclusive territories, typically franchisees can either do a whole state (based on the potential seen in that region), state by state or region. We encourage our franchisees to buy multiple franchises but we have the option to just purchase one as well

Where do you see your franchise in 5 years and 10 years?

In the next 5-10 years, our goal is to open up 75-100 new locations. Establishing our presence around the United States is pertinent so it is convenient for more people who are intrigued by the idea of our business. One of our ultimate goals is to go international within the next ten years.

What is your favorite advice for new franchisees to help them succeed?

During good times or bad, the two most important ingredients for success are your passion and drive.

What would you tell potential franchisees that may be nervous about the financial burdens of starting a franchise?

One great thing about s.h.a.p.e.s Brow Bar is that we have a few options, each that have different price points. In addition to in-line stores we have kiosks and carts that can be a good starting point for people new to franchising because expenses are lower but you are able to get an idea of our business. Eventually, once they get a feel for the business, we believe they will see the success and want to open bigger locations.

On average, how long does it take to start a new franchise from the franchisees point of view?

Typically from the time of signing to the opening of the location takes anywhere between 60-90 days. As with any other business, this is dependent on permits, licensing and construction. Often times, a kiosk has a faster turnaround time than an in-line store.

What was your background and experience before founding s.h.a.p.e.s?

While living India, I helped run our family owned beauty salon. After working there for several years, I started educating myself on techniques, products and the overall industry. After moving to Chicago, I opened a salon in the suburbs and saw the interest and growing popularity of threading and decided to open the first s.h.a.p.e.s Brow Bar location.