2 mins
SECRETS TO SUCCESS
Haringtons are celebrating 40 years in business, here are their top tips for longevity
From a single salon with 12 seats to one of the UK's most respected groups, Haringtons has crafted an enduring business model over the last 40 years. Aside from crediting an understanding wife (David) and a good bottle of red wine (Robert), Directors Robert Smith and David Lambert reflect on what it takes to stand the test of time.
Lead with Caution
It wasn't until 1997, twelve years after opening their first salon, that Haringtons began expanding. This approach ensured that every new salon matched the standards of the original. “Then, it was a quick growth because we had the foundations in place,” Robert explains.
Don’t Burn Bridges
A turning point came when David Lambert, Robert’s former boss from PhilipSharon, joined the team and his own successful salons merged with Haringtons. David reminisces about their partnership: “We always stayed in touch and I followed with interest what they were up to with Haringtons.”
Cut Your Losses
As you’d expect, the journey of Haringtons has been marked by highs and lows. The acquisition of a group of salons in South Africa in 2005 was a milestone. Unfortunately, the business proved tricky. The salons were in shopping centres for security, but this meant that they encountered what Robert describes as “unscrupulous landlords”. Although the salons grew, so did the rent. After six years, the company sold up.
Stay True to your Core
Haringtons continued to grow back home, opening salons in Henley, Wokingham, Wendover and London. One constant was the company’s people first culture – best displayed by their COVID response. “We gave staff full pay, including full commission. This was before we knew there would be government assistance and we did that for the whole of the first year,” Robert explains.
Reward Your Staff
“We have staff that started as trainees and have been with us for 10, 20, even 30 years,” Robert notes. Indeed, the annual H Awards celebrates staff achievements. “Since it started 24 years ago, it's grown to be a highlight.”
Adapt to Modern Challenges
Another area of discussion between the pair centres on trainees. “There seems to be fewer trainees entering the industry,” says Robert.
“Minimum wage and the bureaucracy of certain regulations has made it hard. The government are doing a disservice to young people because they're making it harder to get apprenticeships. Plus, businesses can't afford to pay someone £20k a year and them not be productive. We’re still doing it, but we can see why others aren’t.”
Celebrate the Wins
Thankfully, the high points have been plentiful. “British Hairdressing Awards and L’Oréal Colour Trophy wins are just some highlights,” says David. “We were also recognised as one of the Sunday Times Best Small Companies to work for.” This year, led by Creative Director Richard Scorer, the Art Team are back out shooting.
Always Look Ahead
The focus remains on growth, highlighted by the recent acquisition of Gatsby & Miller. Robert notes: “We've got a lot of talent in the salons and head office. The business was never about an individual, it’s about the team.”