For some, owning their own business is a dream goal. For Phil Edwards, this was the natural next step in his career. After working as part of the Ella Baché Head Office team, and discovering a common philosophy he shared with the brand – to inspire others to feel confident in their skin – Phil went on to set up Ella Baché Collins Square, and the rest was history.
What attracted you to franchise Ella Baché Collins Square?
One of the best times of my working career was at Ella Baché Head Office, where I had the privilege of working with some of the most passionate and caring people in our industry. I love the genuine care, love and support that everyone including Pippa (CEO) and Michael (Sales Director) share through the entire network. The direction we're moving in is incredibly exciting – not only through education, but new technologies and innovation. When the opportunity arose to invest in and be part of this company, it was a no-brainer.
What does owning Ella Baché Collins Square mean to you?
It's an opportunity to be part of a dynamic and exciting company. I am learning every single day which is something I love. It’s good to operate out of your comfort zone. It pushes you to achieve more.
What was the franchise setup process like?
A business set up, whist exciting, can also be a trying and stressful time. However, it all comes together on the opening day. The model is set up where there is a step-by-step process the Ella Baché Head Office team guide you through, including everyone from Franchising, Marketing, Sales, Business Support and Design. Many of the preferred suppliers are absolutely wonderful too, and know exactly what you need for the setup of a new salon. Best advice I have here is to stick to your pre-opening list of tasks that you are assigned, tick all tasks off in order. If you have any issues, just ask.
How does the Ella Baché brand support your business to continue to grow?
Firstly, the support we have from all at Head Office is amazing. Every single person from Pippa (CEO) and Michael (Sales Director) down have absolutely bent over backwards to ensure that the salon has all the support it requires to succeed. Many of the processes and systems that are now in place including our new marketing portal, tool kits, point of sale and CRM systems, along with our new website have all made our job as business owners that bit easier.
What goals have you achieved since opening the franchise?
The two biggest goals achieved have been to break even within 12-14 months of our opening, and to have been able to get the business to the level where we could promote a Salon Manager from within to assist in taking us to the next stage of the salon’s life. Exciting times!
You own a separate gym business. How has owning a salon helped?
It has worked synergistically with our fitness club that is next door which is great. A lot of members utilise our salon and vice versa, a lot of our clients have joined the gym too.
Favourite memory of being within the Ella Baché network?
Oh wow – too many! As much as I adore now working for myself, one of the best working times in my life has been in the Ella Baché Head Office team as Franchise Support Manager. Not only did I have the privilege of working and building lasting relationships with some of the most amazing people I have ever met, it also gave me an incredible insight into what Ella Baché represents as a brand. I think the future is very exciting.
Best advice for someone looking to buy a franchise?
It’s a great way to become a business owner as you are buying a tried and tested business model. There are people that may assume buying a franchise will somehow be an easy way out. This is definitely not the case. Any form of success is only achieved through extreme hard work, no matter the business model. Best advice I have is to thoroughly research what you are looking to invest in, and ensure that the business model you are interested in is right for you – it needs to align with your values just as much as you align with it.
“Any form of success is only achieved through extreme hard work, no matter the business model.
Your current go-to Ella Baché product and treatment?
My current go-to treatment is Reveal My Good Side with Microdermabrasion. Adore the way my skin feels after this facial and a good scrub! And my go-to product is definitely the Spirulines range.
Looking to open your own salon?
We're expanding our franchise network to include more prime metro and regional locations throughout Australia. So if like Phil you are looking to buy an existing Ella Baché business, or looking to open in a new area, we would love to hear from you. Simply complete the Express Your Interest form to receive a Franchise Starter Pack, or you can call (02) 9432 5016.