U.K. Salon/Spa Chain Launches India; Brings Global Brands Along

One of the U.K.’s leading salon/spa chains, Saks Hair & Beauty, has partnered with Livewell Group to open Saks salons across India, with the first locations already open in Mumbai. The company plans to be operating six locations by the end of 2011, targeting, after Mumbai, Bangalore and Delhi. According to spokespersons from Livewell Group, which owns franchisee rights for the India region, the company plans are that 50 locations will open in the next five years.

Though new in India, Livewell has extensive experience in running a chain of spas in the Middle East. Spokespersons noted that Livewell is drawing from its experience in the Middle Eastern market to run the Saks premium salon chain in India.

The fast-growing spa and salon market in India is quickly maturing, and boasts premium salon brands, including Jean Claude Biguine, Tony & Guy and indigenous Lakme Studio. The mid-end market also features known service providers such as Affinity and Looks in Delhi, Limelight and Naturals in Bangalore, and Juice in Mumbai.

The growth of premium and mid-end salons opens opportunities for brand owners. Saks, for example, plans to make its mark in India by offering premium professional hair products from L’Oréal Professionnel and Kerastase, and featuring British skin care brand Elemis for beauty therapies.

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