Tip number 1: plan ahead! This tip is especially important for new salons that need to buy sunbeds for the first time. It is vital that you know how many sunbeds you have room for, and how much you expect to spend on running them. This, of course, depends on which models you will be purchasing, and on how the unique layout of your establishment works. One thing is for sure; you don’t want your reception or waiting area to be littered with tanning booths so that customers have to sidestep tanners upon entering your salon! Of course, though, you do need to make good use of all of the space you have available, so as to avoid making the salon look desolate and under-furnished with equipment. Make sure you know your clientèle and understand what they expect from your service. This will enable you to get your sunbed requirements right.

Tip number 2: choose your sunbeds carefully! There are so many different sunbeds out there, and it is important that you pick the right ones for your salon. Remember; the costs of running sunbeds also vary greatly, so your choice will have a significant impact on your electricity bills, as well as your profits. Some people prefer lay-down sunbeds, while others have a penchant for vertical tanning booths. Do your customers generally want functional, reliable equipment for results, or do they demand the very best, latest sunbed technology and all of the mod-cons, extras and luxury features that go with it?

Tip number 3: try before you buy! If you are undecided, use one of the many different leasing options that are available from sunbed suppliers. You don’t want to run the risk of spending thousands of pounds per sunbed on equipment that could turn out to flop in your salon. You can lease sunbeds on a profit sharing arrangement, where you pay a proportion of a sunbed’s profits in the place of lease payments, or use longer term leasing contracts in order to try out the equipment over a longer period of time. Some suppliers also offer an option to lease equipment for a short introduction period, and if you then decide to buy sunbeds, the lease is refunded. This is a way to combine your new installments with a bit of market research, and keep a safety net up for your outgoings.

Tip number 4: consider all of the cost-saving options! It is definitely worth giving very serious consideration as to whether you need to buy sunbeds that are brand new. In many cases this will be desirable, depending on the kind of salon you operate. But there are alternatives available. A professionally reconditioned sunbed, for example, can cost significantly less than a new one, even when fitted with new tubes and including installation and a guarantee. Shop around for the right supplier.

Tip number 5: make sure your staff has sufficient training! Any new equipment you install must be used in accordance with the proper guidelines for responsible tanning. Naturally, you and your staff must be aware of the tanning salons Code of Practice, which you may find on the Sunbed Association website. Some sunbed models have specific, particular training requirements for their proper usage, so it is imperative that you make sure that your supplier can provide all of the necessary information before you buy sunbeds from them. In many cases, suppliers can themselves provide training for one or more of your members of staff as part of the installation deal. In fact this can often be one of the benefits of buying sunbeds new instead of reconditioned or second hand