Beauty: interview with Nitin Kalwani

Skin care and hair care are on the edge of an explosion, in terms of services and retail products, says Nitin Kalwani, Managing Director, Juice Salons.

What is the international scope of this industry?

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Worldwide hairdressing is looked upon as a very respectable profession and commands fantastic salaries. You need a licence to work in America and Canada and have to sit for a state level exam. Hairdressing is awarded the highest immigration points in Australia.

Is there significant career growth in this industry?
The scope to grow is tremendous. You start out as a Vaderer or assistant, then you become a junior stylist, a senior stylist, art director finally a salon director. A few salons also offer employees a franchisee option.

What is the future of the beauty industry in Mumbai?
The future is salon spas where people come to look good but also relax and rejuvenate.

Is there skill shortage in the industry at the moment?
There is a definite skill shortage of trained professionals and to combat that several local salons have started their own knowledge centers and training academies.

Which are the specific areas within the beauty industry that are poised to get even bigger?
Skin care and hair care are on the edge of an explosion in terms of services and retail products with more and more foreign brands coming into the foray to get a piece of the Indian market share.