Great Clips is one of North America’s leading hair salon franchises, offering affordable and convenient haircutting and hairstyling services. Founded in 1982 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Great Clips has grown exponentially over the decades and now boasts over 4,400 salons across the United States and Canada. The brand is synonymous with efficiency, affordability, and quality, making it a go-to choice for individuals and families seeking professional haircare services without breaking the bank.
Features of Great Clips
Great Clips stands out in the competitive haircare market due to its unique features and customer-centric approach. Here’s a look at some of its standout characteristics:
1. No Appointments Needed
One of Great Clips’ hallmark features is its walk-in service model. Customers can visit a salon at their convenience without needing to schedule an appointment, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals.
2. Online Check-In
Great Clips’ proprietary Online Check-In feature revolutionizes the customer experience. Through the Great Clips app or website, customers can check in for their haircut from anywhere, reducing their wait time at the salon.
3. Affordable Pricing
Great Clips offers competitive pricing, ensuring accessibility for individuals and families across different income levels. The average cost of a haircut at Great Clips is significantly lower than at many boutique salons, making it a popular option.
4. Skilled Stylists
Great Clips employs licensed and experienced stylists trained to provide a wide range of services. From basic trims to specialized haircuts and styling, the staff ensures every customer leaves satisfied.
5. Wide Range of Services
While Great Clips is best known for its haircuts, the salons also offer services such as:
- Shampooing
- Beard trims
- Bang trims
- Styling for special occasions
- Haircare consultations
6. Great Clips App
The Great Clips app enhances the customer experience by offering features like:
- Online Check-In
- Wait time tracking
- Personalized reminders for future haircuts
- Information on promotions and discounts
7. Great Clips Haircare Products
Great Clips salons carry a range of high-quality haircare products, including shampoos, conditioners, styling gels, and sprays. These products cater to various hair types and are often recommended by stylists to help customers maintain their look at home.
Locations
Great Clips has established a strong presence across the United States and Canada, making it one of the most accessible hair salon chains in North America. With over 4,400 locations, you’re likely to find a Great Clips salon near you, whether in urban areas, suburban neighborhoods, or smaller towns.
Top States for Great Clips Locations:
- Texas – Known for its large population, Texas is home to hundreds of Great Clips salons.
- California – With its diverse clientele, California’s salons offer services tailored to various hair types.
- Florida – A popular state for both residents and tourists, Florida’s salons cater to a mix of styles.
- Minnesota – The brand’s birthplace, Minnesota remains a stronghold with numerous locations.
- Ohio – Offering accessibility across both urban and rural areas.
Finding a Great Clips Near You
Customers can easily locate a nearby salon using:
- The Great Clips website’s store locator tool
- The Great Clips app, which also provides real-time wait times and directions
- Google Maps or other navigation apps
History and Growth
Founding and Early Years
Great Clips was founded in 1982 by Steve Lemmon and David Rubenzer, who envisioned a no-appointment, low-cost salon model. The first salon opened near the University of Minnesota campus, targeting students and budget-conscious customers.
Expansion
The franchise model, introduced in 1983, propelled Great Clips’ rapid growth. By the late 1980s, the brand had over 150 locations. Today, it is one of the largest salon chains in North America.
Innovations and Technology
Great Clips has consistently embraced technology to improve the customer experience. The Online Check-In feature and Great Clips app are prime examples of how the brand stays ahead of the curve.
Why Choose Great Clips?
Great Clips is a top choice for customers seeking convenience, affordability, and quality. Here are some reasons why:
1. Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Great Clips salons are welcoming for all age groups, from children to seniors. Many locations even offer discounted rates for kids and seniors.
2. Consistency Across Locations
With standardized training for stylists and uniform service offerings, customers can expect the same level of quality at any Great Clips location.
3. Community Involvement
Great Clips is known for its commitment to giving back to local communities. Through initiatives like the Great Deeds program, the company supports charitable causes and community events.
4. Customizable Services
Great Clips stylists take the time to understand each customer’s preferences, offering tailored advice and services to achieve the desired look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most Great Clips salons are open seven days a week, with typical hours being 9 AM to 9 PM on weekdays, 9 AM to 6 PM on Saturdays, and 10 AM to 5 PM on Sundays. However, hours may vary by location.
No, Great Clips specializes in haircuts and basic styling services but does not offer hair coloring or chemical treatments.
Yes, customers can request a specific stylist during their visit. However, availability may vary based on the stylist’s schedule.
This depends on your hair type and desired style. For maintaining a short haircut, every 4-6 weeks is recommended, while longer styles may require trims every 8-12 weeks.
While Great Clips does not have a formal loyalty program, many locations offer promotional discounts and coupons to returning customers.
Promotions and Discounts
Great Clips frequently runs promotions to attract and retain customers. These include:
- Seasonal Sales: Discounts during holidays like Back-to-School season or Black Friday.
- Coupons: Available online, in newspapers, or via the Great Clips app.
- Special Rates: Reduced prices for children’s and senior’s haircuts.
Sustainability and Community Initiatives
Great Clips is committed to sustainability and community engagement. Many salons participate in recycling programs for hair clippings, which are repurposed for environmental projects. Additionally, the company’s charitable initiatives, like providing free haircuts to veterans, underscore its dedication to making a positive impact.
Conclusion
Great Clips has established itself as a trusted name in the haircare industry, offering affordable, convenient, and high-quality services to millions of customers. With its innovative technology, skilled stylists, and customer-first approach, Great Clips continues to set the standard for hair salon chains. Whether you’re in need of a quick trim or a fresh new look, Great Clips’ extensive network of salons and commitment to excellence make it an excellent choice for all your haircare needs.
