Susan Routledge interviews David Alpert from IIAA and Environ, celebrating the remarkable 30-year journey of their family-owned business. David shares insights into the company's humble beginnings, the challenges faced while establishing Environ Skincare, and the innovative strategies that propelled their success, particularly during the 2008 recession. The conversation delves into the importance of training, the evolving landscape of the skincare industry, and the vital role of skincare professionals in delivering results-driven care. KEY TAKEAWAYS Entrepreneurial Journey: The company started over 30 years ago with founders Tracy and David arriving in the UK with no connections or money. Community and Family Business: Despite being perceived as a large corporate entity, the company remains privately owned and operates as a family business. Value of Training and Expertise: Continuous training and education are crucial for skincare professionals. Impact of Economic Conditions: The 2008 recession was a turning point for the company, as they chose to invest in growth while competitors were cutting back. BEST MOMENTS "We often joke that we've been a 30-year overnight success. It took a lot of hard work, sweat, and tears, but we could see that we were making progress." - David "It's just so lovely to know the story behind it. All those like, you know, jumping in a car and just like having some products in a car." - Susan "During a downturn, what you need to do is show value for money. And value for money has absolutely nothing to do with price." - David "What we're starting to understand is that actually the importance of the work that you guys are doing is vastly underestimated in terms of the impact." - David HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. USEFUL LINKS https://susanroutledge.com https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/

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