Meet the Fareham businesswoman who has launched ‘Checkatrade for the hair and beauty industry’

A BUSINESSWOMAN who made her name with her two successful salons has turned her attention to a new business venture – inspired by tradesperson review site Checkatrade.

Kerrie Humphrys has set up a website called Locate Your Look, which will independently rate and review hair and beauty salons, like Checkatrade does for tradespeople.

Kerrie, from Funtley, said: ‘I have been in the industry for the past 35 years, and the industry seems to be getting worse.

‘People can do courses online or take short courses to get so-called qualifications, then they charge customers the same price as very experienced and qualified stylists.

‘There was nothing out there that gives people the information on how good stylists actually are, or what qualifications or experience they have. So many people were coming in my salon, and coming to me with bad experiences that I decided to do something about it.’

Kerrie, who used to run two salons in Park Gate and Locks Heath, is now focusing solely on her new venture.

She has set up website locateyourlook.co.uk and operates from offices in Locks Heath.

She already has 12 salons registered and is now looking to grow her database.

Kerrie said: ‘The response has been amazing so far but now we need to get the word out there and let people know why we are doing it. It is great for businesses as they can tell people about their qualifications and it’s great for customers as they can find quality businesses that have been recommended by other customers.’

Kerrie said that there are around 12 new salons opening across the UK every week, in an industry worth an estimated £7bn that employs around 300,000 people. She said this means it can be hard for customers to weed out inexperienced individuals.

Salons pay £50 per month to be registered on the site and they must supply monthly customer reviews and continuously provide a great level of service to all their customers to remain a member.

The site is free for customers to use, and even includes special offers.

One of the salons to sign up to the scheme is The Glamour Hut in Botley Road, Park Gate.

Debbie Bone, salon owner, said: ‘It represents exactly what this industry needs. You can find a reputable salon with qualified and insured therapists and technicians. Many other industries have similar registries, and now hair and beauty has one of its own.’

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