Small nail salon shopfront

Local residents, shoppers and workers who want regular nail services and are happy to book or drop in.

Per-service prices across several stations, plus add-ons and retail items like polish and nail care. More technicians mean more appointments, but also wages and rent to cover.

• Nail technology and pedicure skills
• Managing staff and rosters
• Budgeting and pricing
• Marketing and customer service

• Lease terms, rent reviews and fit-out costs, so get advice before signing
• Council registration and hygiene requirements for beauty premises, which vary by state and council
• Workers compensation insurance, award wages and superannuation once you hire staff
• Ventilation and chemical handling rules for staff safety
• Public liability and contents insurance
• Quiet periods, as rent is due whether or not the diary is full

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on the lease, fit-out, equipment and how many stations you set up. Get advice on lease terms, rent reviews and fit-out costs before you sign anything.

Monthly revenue is typically around $6,000 to $25,000, depending on the number of stations, staff, your prices and how full the diary is. Rent is due even in quiet periods, so plan for slower months.

Check council registration and hygiene requirements for beauty premises, which vary by state and council. Also check workers compensation, award wages and superannuation once you hire staff, ventilation and chemical handling rules, and public liability and contents insurance.