Interview With An Entrepreneur

Published: 27 June 2006

Interview With An Entrepreneur - Denis McFadden - Just Cuts

Denis McFadden

Since opening the first salon in suburban Sydney in 1990, Just Cuts has grown to a network of 150 salons - that's an average of a new salon opening every 6 weeks, employing over 1500 hairdressers, presence in every state of Australia and both islands in New Zeland, and doing more than 60 thousand style cuts a week.

Denis McFadden - Just Cuts

Briefly tell us about your business and how you got started.

In 1983, my salon 123 Hairdressing joined a Hurstville Chamber of Commerce initiative. To do our bit, we placed a sign in the window that became the catalyst which launched Just Cuts. The sign read:

If youre paying more to have your haircut during Hurstville Advances Australia week, youre getting clipped - $6.00 a hair cut!

We had over 100 extra people come in due to that offer and an idea was born. Just Cuts provides an easy, convenient, affordable style cuts for everybody with a No Appointment Necessary system.

What have been your major achievements?

Just Cuts was the hairdresser to the Australian 2000 Olympic Games, giving athletes and coaches Free Style Cuts. Over 100 stylists from Just Cuts Salons across Australia and New Zealand participated. We were basically on tap to cater for the needs of the thousands of athletes, sports officials and media representatives over the 54 days of the Games.
Assisting young people to become business owners; some are independently wealthy due to Just Cuts.
Being able to give back to the community due to our success through various charities and activities.

What have been your major challenges?

The one thing that could have made all my challenges less of an obstacle would be to communicate in writing. I am dyslexic and even to answer these questions or fill in a form has made all my personal and business challenges at times frustrating and angst ridden.

Who has been your greatest mentor?

Phil, my stepfather, because of his absolute honesty and integrity.
All of the authors of many self-help books and inspirational writings (ie Michael Gerber E-Myth) plus many entrepreneurial franchisors I have met.
Gurumayi Chidvilasananda for the teachings of Siddha Yoga.

How do you stand out from your competitors?

Using a franchise model of business, Just Cuts has been able to dominate with a 2.5% market share. This has made it difficult for other salons to compete. We have the biggest marketing spend and most extensive expertise and business systems. Salon owners dont need to be stylists and just need the technicians to run the systems.

Where would you like to see your business in five years from now?

With 200 units [outlets] in Australia and to continue our growth overseas. Management expertise and advice to continue to grow and improve the business.

What are your Top Five Strategies for Success?

We have a ''strategic plan - it''s called doing things - Herb Kelleher, Southwest Airlines.
Have a vision of how your business looks when it''s finally done.
From your completed vision work backwards on how you are going to achieve that goal.
Take everyone seriously but never take yourself too seriously.
Self discipline by not losing your temper, thereby always leaving the lines of communication open.

For more information about Denis and Just Cuts go to www.justcuts.com.au or email denis@justcuts.com

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