How to Start a Successful Nail Parlour Business in Kenya

If you're thinking of starting your own nail parlour just like I started Senje Nail Parlour, you're in the right place. By the end of this article, you will learn practical tips and strategies for launching a successful Nail Parlour Business. From the necessary requirements to the capital needed to start the venture, how to find the best locations, the equipment needed, and even exploring financing options if you're low on funds – I’ve got you covered.

N/B When you are ready to set up your business and you are in need of a banner such as the one above, whatsapp me on the number displayed on the image and I will help you out. The cost for designing the banner is Ksh. 700. 

Requirements for Starting a Nail Parlour in Kenya

There are several requirements that you will need to have in order to start operating a nail parlour in Kenya. The first necessity that you should have is a single business permit from your county government. Usually, it costs Ksh. 5000 for a small nail salon and for big salons, the license fee costs a maximum of 15,000. However, the costs vary depending on the size and location of the business. 

Besides obtaining a license, it is important that you have a well-trained nail technician. However, if you are just starting out, my advice is that you learn the job yourself and operate it yourself for the first 6 months. In my experience, the biggest challenge in this industry is finding reliable employees. By handling the operations yourself in the beginning, you’ll avoid a lot of inconveniences that come with the business. When the business has picked up, that is when you can consider bringing in additional help. 

Cost of Setting Up a Nail Parlour in Kenya

The amount of money required for starting a nail parlour business in Kenya ranges from as low as Ksh. 40,000 to around Ksh. 500,000. However, this cost varies depending on the size, type, location and the quality of service that you will like to offer in your new nail parlour. Let us now breakdown how the capital is going to be used when you want to open your nail spa.

• Rent: Depending on the location that you want to operate your business, renting a shop could cost between Ksh 5,000 and Ksh 50,000 per month.
• Equipment: This includes nail stations, chairs, sterilizers, and nail products. Your budget for equipment should range from Ksh. 30,000 to around 250,000 depending on the type of nail parlour that you are interested in opening.
• Decoration: The majority of clients for nail parlours are women, and let’s be real – ladies love stylish spaces! That’s why it’s very important that you decorate your new nail parlour in a way that makes it look attractive and welcoming. The cost of decorating can vary widely, from around Ksh.7,000 to Ksh.150,000, depending on the type of nail parlour you want to open and the vibe you’re going for.
• Licensing: A business permit in Kenya will cost you from Ksh.5000-15,000.
• Marketing: (Optional) You might opt to advertise and market your new nail parlour. If you chose to make the business, it might cost you from as low as Ksh. 1000 for facebook and Google Ads or even paying Tiktok influencers to around Ksh. 100,000 if your are opening a large scale nail spa. 

Best Locations for Starting a Nail Parlour in Nairobi

If you want to start a successful nail parlour, the secret is finding a good location with lots of traffic. A high traffic area such as beside a road within an urban set up will guarantee you walk-in clients which usually make up a large percentage of customers for new nail parlour compared to returning clients. 

When I was starting my nail parlour in Kasarani, the location was not good since it was not visible from the main road—Kasarani Mwiki Rd. However, after a year I moved the nail parlour to Zimmerman near base road, the foot traffic here was incredible and so were the profits. Therefore, after securing your capital, the next thing that you should do is start hunting for a prime location. 

On the other hand, if your goal is targeting high-end clients, opening a nail parlour in areas like Kilimani, Westlands, or along Ngong Road will give you access to middle-class and upper-class customers. These location is good for high end nail spas as it has the right target customers who are willing to spend more on premium services. 

If your goal is targeting younger clients who are interested in trendy nail styles at affordable prices, then shop hunt in places near universities or commercial centers such as the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD). 

Equipment Needed for Starting a Nail Parlour

Setting up a professional nail parlour requires the right equipment to offer high-quality services. Below is a list of the essential items you will need:

• Nail Stations and Chairs: Comfortable seating for both your technicians and clients is a must.
• Sterilizers: Hygiene is crucial in a nail salon, so invest in quality sterilizers for all your tools.
• Nail Tools: Files, buffers, clippers, cuticle pushers, and nail drills are essential.
• UV Lamps: For curing gel polish and nail extensions.
• Nail Products: These include high-quality nail polishes, gels, acrylics, and nail art materials.

You can source these items from local suppliers or import high-end products for a more luxurious service offering.

Marketing Strategies for Nail Salons

Marketing your nail parlour effectively will ensure you attract and retain clients. Here are some strategies to consider:

• Social Media Marketing: Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are perfect for showcasing your work. Post before-and-after photos of clients’ nails, share customer reviews, and run promotions to gain visibility.
• Google My Business: Ensure your salon is listed on Google to help people in your area find you easily.
• Referral Programs: Offer discounts to customers who refer friends and family to your salon.
• Partner with Influencers: Beauty influencers can help boost your brand’s credibility and attract a wider audience.

How to Attract Customers to a New Nail Parlour

Attracting and keeping clients in the competitive nail salon industry requires more than just great nails. Customer service is king. Train your staff to be friendly, punctual, and attentive. Offering complimentary services like a hand or foot massage with every manicure or pedicure can also set you apart from your competitors.

Special offers like discounts for first-time clients or loyalty programs can also keep clients coming back. Consider collaborating with local influencers to promote your salon on social media and build a loyal following.

Available Financing Options for Starting a Nail Parlour

There are moments when you can have an amazing business idea but the challenge is lack of enough capital. The lack of funds should not prevent you from reaching your dreams or atleast giving them a shot. Fortunately, in Kenya, there are several programs  aspiring entrepreneurs can use to get get funds. If you're looking to secure financing for starting a nail parlour, I recommend exploring the options outlined below.

• Bank Loans: Many banks offer loans to small business owners, and you can apply for one to cover start-up costs.
• SACCOs: Savings and credit cooperative societies (SACCOs) are a popular option in Kenya for obtaining loans at lower interest rates.
• Personal Savings: If you have savings, this can be the quickest way to fund your business without taking on debt.
• Government Grants: Explore government programs that support small businesses, especially those aimed at youth and women entrepreneurs.

How to Create A Winning Business Plan for a Nail Parlour in Kenya

Having a solid business plan is essential for success. When you are creating a winning business plan should outline key details such as your target market, start-up costs, pricing strategy, and marketing efforts. 

Make sure to include financial projections that outline how you plan to grow the business and become profitable within a reasonable time frame.