EXPERIENCING LUXURY

Sneha Koticha, Director, Jean-Claude Biguine Salon and Spa Group, shares her journey of adding luxury savoir-faire to India’s salon industry with Priyanka Parshurami.

Established in 2015, Jean-Claude Biguine Salon and Spa Group (JCB Salons) began its journey with a flagship salon in Bandra, Mumbai, and has since expanded to seven cities with over 50 salons, operating under the names Jean Claude Biguine, Bounce Spalon, Oryza and Kanya. Each location exemplifies a commitment to delivering exceptional services that elevate the salon experience to the epitome of luxury and French elegance.

Recently, JCB Salons received significant funding from BlackSoil, an alternative credit platform. Speaking about this move, which will further drive the brand’s growth and expansion, Sneha Koticha, Director, JCB Salons, shared, “We have successfully brought together some of the most esteemed names in the beauty industry under one umbrella. The merger between our different salon brands represents a harmonious blend of shared vision and values. This strategic amalgamation leverages each brand’s strengths and expertise, creating a unified and robust platform to deliver exceptional hair and beauty services while reaching new markets and innovating offerings.”

SYNERGISE TO ENERGISE

The joint venture between JCB Salons and Bounce Salons is a crucial move for the industry as both are leaders in their respective markets, recognised for their commitment to quality service and luxurious client experiences. “By investing in quality training, products, services, and ambience, we ensure that we remain leaders in the luxury industry,” affirms Koticha. The collaboration aims to harness the synergies of both brands, driving growth and enhancing their market presence through shared ethos and values.

“My background in finance and investment gave me a foundation to understand business sustainability and value creation,” she adds. This foundation, combined with a commitment to excellence has driven the brand’s organic growth. Even in challenging times, JCB Salons has upheld its ideals, resulting in a brand value and image fueled by genuine customer appreciation.

NAVIGATING CHALLENGES

The beauty and wellness industry is undergoing rapid transformation, growing at a rate of 15-20 percent year on year, particularly in the luxury brands within the organised sector. One of the key challenges is the lack of relevant educational avenues. “At JCB and Bounce, we thrive on rigorous education and skill development,” Koticha emphasises. The brand invests heavily in global training programmes to stay aligned with international trends and techniques. By establishing their own education institutions, JCB Salons aims to create the best talent for the beauty industry in India.

“We believe that no technology can replace the personal touch that is central to our customer experience,” Koticha asserts. The brand invests heavily in training to help their team understand company goals and address customer needs effectively.

SUSTAINABILITY AND INNOVATION

Innovation in sustainability is a critical element of JCB Salons’ operations. The brand focuses on understanding customer needs, global demand and trends to develop solutions that cater to diverse requirements. Believing in the tent ‘every drop counts in making the ocean,’ Koticha is committed to sustainability without compromising on quality or hygiene.

Looking ahead, JCB Salons aims to double its footprint over the next three years, driven by its continued dedication to enhancing education, innovation and profitability. The brand remains steadfast in its strategy to lead the luxury segment while leveraging market research, feedback and expertise to identify and address unmet needs.