Trailblazers in Franchising in Canada with Sport Clips
When brothers Andrew and Robert Stalony decided to open one of Canada’s first Sport Clips franchises over 13 years ago, they had a vision of bringing the renowned men’s hair care brand north of the border. As trailblazers introducing Sport Clips to an entirely new market, the Stalony team faced unique challenges, but their passion and belief in the concept has paid off through tremendous growth.
Seeking a Recession-Proof Venture
The Stalonys were drawn to Sport Clips because of the recession-proof nature of the haircare industry and the brand’s proven business model focused specifically on meeting men’s haircut needs. “Sport Clips’ policies, procedures, attention to detail and overall concept in the USA aligned with what we were looking for to start in Canada,” they explained.
Launching an unfamiliar brand in a new country came with its fair share of hurdles. As Andrew Stalony recounted, “There were many challenges as one can imagine. The brand had no business history in Canada, so it was viewed as a totally new concept.”
However, once their first locations opened, the positive client feedback reaffirmed they had made the right choice. Clients raved about “the franchise’s awesome store layout, professional stylists, and the unique Sport Clips MVP hot towel service.”
Team Players
From the start, the Stalonys recognized that their employees are the backbone of their flourishing growth. “Take care of your employees, they are your business’ lifeline,” they advise. “If your employee is excited about their role on the team, that will show in the treatment the paying client receives.”
This people-first mentality is evident in how they hire, train, and motivate their team. When hiring managers, a top priority is finding individuals with the right attitude to foster a positive culture. “Attitude is important to us, because everything else can be taught,” they said.
Once staff is on board, the Stalonys cultivate an environment where team members support each other’s growth. “The joy that comes from helping each other is what creates an incredible growth environment,” they explained. Even small acts of teamwork, like cleaning chairs, reinforce “how as a team we can continue to impress our clients with an untouchable experience level.”
Always Supported
The Stalony team also relies heavily on the outstanding support from Sport Clips’ corporate team. “Our Sport Clips coaches are a blessing. All are experts in their field, but it’s the extra care they add while coaching our team members that sets us up for success,” they praised. “Since our early days, we noticed that the Coaches and their approach to each team member’s individual training needs is commendable.”
Coach Jody receives special recognition: “Our relationship with our Coach Jody is awesome, and that’s very important as we work together to take each store to the next level.”
Growing with Pride
After over a decade as Sport Clips franchisees, the Stalony team’s passion for the brand shows no signs of waning. “The future looks very bright. Definitely looking to have more Sport Clips franchises under our Team Stalony umbrella,” they stated regarding their growth plans.
Most of all, they take pride in being part of a company that enriches people’s lives. As the founders reflected, “We are most proud that we chose a business and a brand that makes a difference in people’s lives. Seeing happy faces of clients after they received a great haircut and our MVP experience…that’s rewarding.”
If you are interested in franchising in Canada with Sport Clips, find more information here.
