“Our entry into the UK market has been a long time coming,” says Fuhr, “We understand from our suppliers currently active in the UK, that the beauty market is highly fragmented and the opportunity exists to build a salon brand that offers customer convenience, service excellence and a consistent brand promise.”

The first salon will be company owned, and Sorbet plans to open a further two company owned salons over the next year. After that, the business model will be assessed before franchising options will be made available.

Dermalogica & Environ will be the flagship products used and sold in the salon, and as soon as the Sorbet Salon range has been tested and approved by the UK regulatory board, it too will be introduced into the salon. The salon will initially be supported by staff from South Africa – and same as in every new Sorbet Salon that opens in South Africa, Fuhr will personally do the induction training for the UK Salon staff.

With its longstanding reputation for trendy beauty therapy treatments for both women and men, at attractive prices, Fuhr and his team trust that Sorbet will be a welcome addition to the bustling streets of Muswell Hill.

Established in 2005, Sorbet has served the South African market as a leading beauty salon franchise that delivers on quality service and heart. The chain now boasts 126 mainly franchised outlets across South Africa. In recent years, the brand has taken on the role of pioneering community upliftment initiatives through education – a salon-first in South Africa. Coupled with this, was Sorbet’s first-to-market launch of its beauty loyalty programme in 2006 that today sees 200 000 members enjoying rewards and benefits from their regular Sorbet visits.

“Our Loyalty programme remains popular amongst our guests because of its consistency and fulfillment benefits, and our Sorbet UK rewards programme will be no different,” says Jade Kirkel, marketing manager of Sorbet Group South Africa.

Together with its endearing menu of manicures, pedicures, nail extensions, body waxes, massages and facials, Sorbet will also implement a keen focus on its retail offering.

Spearheading its way beyond African borders, the bubbly beauty brand remains optimistic about the new venture that lies ahead. “We aim to do for the UK as we have done for South Africa; to continue delivering a feeling of self-confidence and delight amongst our guests. We are also investigating potential local partnerships and investors for the next international step, which is likely to be in Dubai,” concludes Kirkel.

For more details on Sorbet and/or franchising opportunities visit www.sorbet.co.za.