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How to Tell Grooming Clients About a Price Increase
Raising prices is part of keeping a grooming business healthy. How you tell clients matters almost as much as the new number.
Costs for supplies, rent, insurance and equipment tend to rise over time, and grooming prices have to follow if the business and the people in it are going to be paid fairly. Many groomers dread the conversation more than the increase itself. Done well, most regular clients accept a reasonable change. This post is mainly for independent groomers and owners who set their own prices, but salon groomers who field client questions may find it useful too.
Know your reason and your number first
Before you tell anyone, be clear on why you are raising prices and by how much. Look at what each type of groom takes in time and what it pays. The guide to what each groom really pays you shows how to work out an hourly figure per dog, and the post on how grooming prices are set covers the costs that go into a price. A specific reason, such as higher costs or more time on certain coats, is easier to explain than a vague one.
Give notice
Clients appreciate time to adjust. Tell them ahead of the change rather than at the counter on the day. Many groomers announce an increase a few weeks or more in advance and start it at a natural point, such as the start of a new year or a new season. Give the exact date the new prices begin.
Say it simply
A short, friendly message works better than a long apology. Thank clients for their business, state the new price or the size of the change, give the start date and a brief reason. For example: "Thank you for trusting us with Max. Starting on the first of next month, our full groom price for his size will be a little higher, to keep up with rising costs for supplies and equipment. We look forward to seeing you both soon." Avoid sounding defensive. You are not asking permission; you are keeping clients informed.
Choose how to tell them
Use the channels clients already use with you: a text or email to regulars, a notice at the front desk, an updated price list online, and a mention at checkout before the change. Telling regulars personally, even briefly, shows respect for the relationship.
Decide on any exceptions in advance
Some groomers phase increases in for long time regulars, or keep a price for clients on a standing schedule for a set period. Others apply the same change to everyone. Either can work. What matters is deciding before you announce, and applying the policy consistently, so you are not negotiating dog by dog at the counter.
Handle pushback calmly
A few clients may question the increase. Listen, restate the reason briefly and, if it fits, offer options such as a shorter, simpler style or a more frequent schedule that keeps the coat easier to groom. Some clients may leave. That is part of pricing for the time the work really takes. The post on building a loyal client book covers why regulars who value your work tend to stay.
Watch the results
After the change, track your bookings and gross pay, before taxes, over the next few months. The commission calculator shows what the new prices mean for a typical day if you are paid on commission. If you lose more clients than expected, look at whether the increase, the timing or the message needs adjusting next time.