MEDIA RELEASE: John & Anna – 18 Years of Business, Balance and Success with Just Cuts
After spending 40 years in their respective careers, John as a painter and Anna as a nurse, the couple decided it was time for a change. They were searching for a business opportunity that offered more freedom and flexibility, something that would allow them to earn an income without committing to long hours every day. They wanted to work on a business, not in one.
Initially, they explored several franchise options including Gloria Jean’s and Domino’s, but it was a visit to a local shopping centre that pointed them in the right direction. They noticed that nearly every centre had a Just Cuts salon. After getting a haircut themselves, they learned there was a site available at Campbelltown Mall. That moment marked the beginning of their journey with Just Cuts.
In 2007, they opened their first salon at Campbelltown Mall in April. By September, they had opened a second location at Rouse Hill, followed by a third at Narellan in November. Campbelltown and Rouse Hill were brand-new salons in brand-new shopping centres, while Narellan was an existing salon they took over.
Since then, John and Anna have successfully operated their salons for 18 years. One of the things they’re most proud of is the lifestyle they’ve been able to create for themselves. The franchise model has allowed them to step back from the daily grind, while still being active, engaged business owners. They’ve also built strong relationships with their team members, many of whom they now consider part of their extended family.
Winning awards along the way has been a bonus. They were recognised as Small Business Owners of the Year at Campbelltown Mall in 2008, and have twice received the Best Practice Award for running their salons in line with the Just Cuts model. They believe that consistency, following procedures, and maintaining a high standard, even down to how each client is greeted, has played a big role in their long-term success.
John and Anna say the decision to join Just Cuts rather than starting their own salon made all the difference. As neither of them had a background in hairdressing, they knew they wouldn’t have been able to do it without the support and systems that come with being part of a franchise. The Just Cuts Academy provided orientation, business education, marketing support, and regular training opportunities. They’ve also benefitted from roadshows, national conferences, and local area marketing campaigns, including a successful SMS promotion for their salon’s 18th birthday that offered $7 off Style Cuts and reached over 8,000 clients.
Team culture is incredibly important to them. Each salon has a team leader, and John and Anna remain closely involved by attending quarterly Saturday morning meetings where they celebrate achievements and provide performance-based incentives. They also visit the salons two to three times a week, pitching in with small tasks like sweeping the floor or taking out the rubbish, something they say helps strengthen relationships with both staff and clients.
Their management style is grounded in respect and empathy. They don’t believe in micromanaging. Instead, they focus on treating their staff well, understanding that many have children and families, and want to feel appreciated in the workplace. For John and Anna, happy staff equals a strong, successful salon.
Looking to the future, they have clear goals in place. They want both of their salons to reach the Million Dollar Club by the end of the financial year and are aiming to grow their retail sales to 15 percent. They are always open to renovations or updates that help move the business forward and maintain a modern, welcoming salon environment.
They’ve also been loyal users and supporters of JUSTICE Hair Care products. Anna loves the Platinum Shampoo and Conditioner, as well as the Sea Salt Spray, and they’ve both been excited to use and promote the new range designed for thinning hair. For them, when a product is good, it sells itself - no hard sell necessary.
After nearly two decades in business, John and Anna still find inspiration in being part of the Just Cuts community. They enjoy attending conferences and learning from other franchise owners. In fact, they’ve carried forward many valuable lessons from those events, including how to lead teams, handle staff challenges and keep the culture positive and professional.
Their journey began with a simple haircut and a dream for a better lifestyle. Today, they’ve created not only successful salons, but a lasting legacy built on dedication, family values, and a true passion for the Just Cuts brand.