INSIDER NAILS

PEACOCKS

March brought a mixed bag for nail businesses, but many are holding steady and taking proactive steps to grow. Treatment figures show 22% of businesses experienced year-on-year growth, and a further 33% maintained the same levels as March 2024 – demonstrating solid client retention.

Retail was tougher, with 65% reporting a drop in sales. However, this highlights an opportunity for businesses to diversify their approach – especially as only 36% are currently using marketing emails or newsletters.

When it comes to gel manicures, the biggest challenge is sourcing high-quality products at a sustainable cost (35%).

82% of nail techs plan to raise their prices this year – primarily to reflect increased running costs, but also their own growing skill and expertise. This shift suggests a confident, value-driven approach to pricing.

On the spot

What is the biggest challenge when offering gel manicures?

1. Product cost and sourcing quality gels (35%)

2. Competition from at-home gel kits (32%)

3. Client expectations regarding longevity (18%)

4. Managing appointment times (12%)

5. Safe removal and nail health concerns (3%)

Do you plan to increase your nail service prices in 2025?

1. Yes I do, due to higher costs (73%)

2. No, I want to remain affordable for clients (13%)

3. Yes, to reflect my skills and expertise (9%)

4. I’m not sure yet (5%)

36% send nail-related marketing emails or newsletters to their clients

Month in numbers

32 nail treatments performed on average per week in March

METHODOLOGY Insider is compiled from a monthly survey of spas and beauty salons. The people who participated represent a cross-section of the industry and were polled by email and social media from April 1 to April 15, 2025, regarding business for the month to March 31, 2025. Nail business for the Insider Nails page was calculated from data provided by salons that offer nail services among other treatments. The figures given represent the average score for each answer. Brands are ranked when mentioned by several respondents.