The ironic thing about periods of recession is that they can very often throw up opportunities that can take over from problems that people are experiencing. We came across this recently with a lady in Colchester who wanted to diversify her beauty and hair salon business. She felt that, because of the current climate exacerbating some staffing problems, she needed a change in direction for her business.
We’re often offered a cup of coffee while we’re having our hair done, but Helen Kissonergis has gone one better by offering her customers a complete coffee shop (with cakes as well, obviously) when they come for their appointments. She had the sense to come to Johnson Reed for her salon lease finance and we loaned her nearly £15,000 for her to install the catering equipment. In fact we were able to provide a larger sum than she needed, which gave her more flexibility when specifying the kit she’d set her heart on.
As ever, Helen was able to benefit from all the advantages of dealing with Johnson Reed – no charge on her property, quick turnaround, experienced advisors and fixed payments – all came as a welcome relief from having to approach the banks.
One thing puzzles us though. The salon / coffee shop is called Cinnamon Brown. Now, is that something you sprinkle on your cappuccino, or the latest trend in hair colourings?
