Pembroke start up sitting pretty after successful first year

Despite setting up in the midst of a recession, a Pembroke beauty salon has recorded a strong set of results in its first year of trading and is now expanding with the backing of Lloyds TSB Commercial.

Located on Castle Terrace, Westend Beauty Salon offers manicures, pedicures, waxing, spray tans, massages, ear piercing and professional make up packages.

The business was set up at the end of 2008 by local beauticians Emma Goodacre, Claire Owen and Jill Powell after their previous employer ceased trading.

With a loyal client base already established, the trio spotted a gap in the market to launch a new high quality salon in Pembroke and secured an £18,000 loan from Lloyds TSB Commercial to open up Westend Beauty.

Now, after trading for just over one year, the business is opening up two new treatment rooms, which will increase the range of specialist beauty techniques - such as laser hair removal and permanent make up – available at the salon.

Emma Goodacre of West End Beauty said: “We’d never considered opening up our own business before but when our previous employer closed down we realised we had the skills, experience and client base to start trading on our own.

“At first it was a daunting experience but with the financial backing and guidance provided by Lloyds TSB Commercial we were able to invest in the tools and equipment we required, as well as refurbish the salon premises to a high standard.

“We’ve worked hard over the past year to establish an excellent reputation and we’re now focused on growing our customer base and investing in new, specialist treatments.

“It just goes to show that if you have the skills and the motivation then it is possible to take the plunge and set up on your own.”

Neil Thomas, relationship manager for Lloyds TSB Commercial, said: “Emma, Claire and Jill are proof that it is possible to set up a successful company at any point during the economic cycle – as long as you have a solid business plan and the right support.

“At Lloyds TSB Commercial, we’re committed to supporting SMEs, start ups and entrepreneurs. One of the main aims of our SME Charter is to encourage enterprise and we’re taking steps to help 300,000 new start-ups – such as Westend Beauty - across the UK by 2012.”