7 retail tips for mobile nail techs

Scratch Stars Mobile Nailist of the Year 2022 & 2023, Clare Woodcock of The Nail Club, shares her seven top tips for retailing as a nail pro on the move…

As mobile techs, we bring the convenience of professional nail treatments directly to clients’ doorsteps. However, providing an excellent service isn’t the only way to enhance your business. Incorporating retail strategies not only boosts your profits, but provides clients with an added level of convenience and care.

So, how should you implement these into your business? Here’s my advice…

1. Choose the right products

Select a few high-quality aftercare products that will help clients to maintain the health and appearance of their nails and skin. Cuticle oil is an essential item for this. If you choose products that are aligned with the nail system you use, it will make sense for clients to buy from you.

2. Educate clients

Well-informed clients are more likely to invest in retail products. Use their appointment time to educate them about proper nailcare and the benefits of using specific products. Explain how these items will help enhance the longevity of their gel mani or pedi and maintain the health of their natural nails between appointments. If you use your retail products during services, clients will experience how beneficial they are first-hand.

3. Utilise e-commerce

It is a good idea to link an online shop to your website, so that clients can purchase from you at any time. Shopify and Square are examples of shops that link to your social media accounts, booking platform and payment system. I personally find Shopify the easiest to integrate into other platforms. It syncs with my booking system, Timely, allowing stock to be managed across physical and online outlets.

4. Stay up-to-date with trends

Keep an eye on seasonal nail and skincare trends. Carry foot creams around during pedicure season, SPF products in summer, and hard-working hand creams during the winter months. Consider when is timely to offer gift packages, too, such as Mother’s Day or during the festive season.

5. Collect feedback

Regularly seek feedback from clients regarding the retail products you offer. Ask about their experiences, preferences and any suggestions they might have. This information will help you to refine your product selection and tailor it to clients’ needs.

6. Determine how you will carry stock

I keep one or two items of each product I sell in my kit bag and during peak buying times, I carry stock in a box in my car. You could also market products online or directly through WhatsApp, reminding clients to purchase in advance so you can bring stock with you to their next appointment.

7. Sell without stocking product

A useful retailing route is to become a brand ambassador, or to set up referral codes with stockists. There are many beauty brands that now operate in this way, and this allows you to earn without having to stock product. By referring clients with a unique discount code, you reap rewards when they buy.

If you start refining your retail offerings now, you will be prepared to boost your earnings at peak purchasing time: Christmas!

Clare Woodcock is a 2023 columnist for Scratch. Purchase the magazine here.