Back in 2004, Wade Brannon found himself in a new role as Mr. Mom, taking care of his young children while his wife pursued her career. Previously, he had built up and sold Heavenly Ham, a successful franchise. But now, he was focused on his family.
Parenting presented its challenges, especially with his son’s sensory issues. Simple tasks like a trip to the barber shop could be overwhelming. That’s when a chance meeting with Nanette Adair, a fellow T-ball mom, changed everything. She had opened a kids salon called Pigtails & Crewcuts, and Brannon’s son loved it. This encounter led Brannon to dive into the world of franchising.
After acquiring Pigtails & Crewcuts in late 2004, Brannon set out to expand the business. Today, the company boasts over 80 franchise locations and aims to reach 100 units by the end of the year. Here, Brannon shares insights on building a local business into a successful franchise.
How much of the Pigtails & Crewcuts model was in place when you bought it?
It was a single salon in Atlanta with a trademark and a distinct look. With the help of his former colleagues from the ham business, Brannon spent over a year developing and implementing systems.
Why did you think a kids salon franchise could work?
Brannon saw a need for such a service, validated by his son’s positive experience. He also believed in the replicability of the concept by individuals with business acumen.
How did you replicate the service for franchising?
Creating a design package for widespread use, developing operations manuals, and crafting franchise agreements were crucial steps. Brannon consulted experts in the hair industry to adapt the business model for a national audience.
What kinds of franchisees do well with your brand?
Entrepreneurs like women with young children seeking to re-enter the workforce and husband-and-wife teams have found success with Pigtails & Crewcuts. The focus is on individuals with strong interpersonal skills and a passion for working with children and parents.
What advice do you have for aspiring franchisors?
Flexibility is key in adapting to changing markets and unforeseen challenges. Brannon emphasizes the importance of having a resilient product or service that can withstand economic downturns and unforeseen circumstances.
By staying nimble and responsive, Pigtails & Crewcuts has grown into a flourishing franchise, offering a fun and welcoming experience for kids and parents alike.
Related: The Real Cost of Franchising Your Business