EXPANDING from home-based therapies to a bustling salon with more than 18,000 clients, the past 20 years have certainly been successful for one Saddleworth businesswoman.
Valerie Simpson started running her beauty treatments business from home in 1989 but after flourishing rapidly, she opened a salon in 1997.
The Face and Body Shop in Grotton was founded, with two part-time therapists and two receptionists offering a high-quality range of services.
Popularity and success has seen them blossom into an award-winning salon with 24 staff working in eight treatment rooms to provide a full range of beauty and holistic treatments.
Further expansion saw the shop rebranded to FAB Salon two years ago, along with the launch of the FAB Clinic which delivers a range of non-surgical cosmetic treatments.
Valerie said: “It all started out at my home but I just grew too big so I opened the salon.
“Two of my first staff are actually still working with me today – Pamela Norcross as head therapist and Karen Schofield as manager.
“They have just been awarded a paid, week-long holiday to Portugal in recognition of their 20 years of service.
“Two years ago we launched the FAB Clinic due to increasing clientele and demand for aesthetic treatments.
“We were seeing a lot of bad work being done by others and so wanted to get involved to combat that, and the Clinic is going from strength to strength.”
FAB also runs a large training programme for its junior therapists, and works closely with Tameside College and other partners.
Valerie added: “I am thrilled with the success of the salon and clinic. The past 20 years have been hard work but every day we see that pay off as everybody enjoys what they do.
“A highlight has been winning many prestigious awards. We were named Guinot Best Salon in the UK and Ireland for a decade, and also have many individual therapists and receptionists who have won awards.
“We strive to make sure every client feels special on every visit, because they are.”
Join FAB as they celebrate their 20th anniversary with an special ‘Ladies Afternoon Tea’ on Sunday, September 17 at The White Hart, Lydgate.
Open 12noon to late, including games, a raffle, auction, music and lots of fun.
Tickets cost £28.50 per head and are available by calling: 0161 627 1114 or email lisam@thefabgroup.co.uk
One lucky reader can win a FAB Pamper Day, worth up to £250.
The prize is for two people to enjoy the Pamper Day at the FAB Salon in Grotton, including lunch and wine and treatments. The prize must be booked with Holly or Emily in Oct or Nov 2017.
To enter the competition, simply answer this question: How long has FAB been running?
Email your answer to aimee@saddind.co.uk or write to: FAB competition,Saddleworth Independent, Units 3-4, 45 High Street, Uppermill, Saddleworth, OL3 6HS, and make sure to include your name, address and telephone number.
The first correct entry drawn after the closing date of Friday, September 29 wins the Pamper Day. By entering the competition, you also agree to be added to the FAB newsletter to receive updates and offers.
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