In China, ultra-low-cost barbershops offering haircuts for around 2000 won (10 yuan) are gaining popularity. As traditional salons face financial difficulties, these budget-friendly haircut shops are emerging as a new consumer alternative.
According to local reports from Haibo News and Jiemian News, 'Kuaijian' (快剪, quick cut) shops are spreading across the country, providing haircuts for just 10 yuan.
These establishments focus solely on haircuts, omitting additional services like shampooing, perming, and dyeing. They also do not encourage membership sign-ups or upselling of extra products.
For instance, a barbershop in Jinan, Shandong Province, charges 10 yuan for haircuts for all customers, regardless of age. A sign in the shop states, 'No membership, no promotions, no overcharging.' The owner explained that it takes about 10 minutes to cut one customer's hair, and they charge an additional 5 yuan for those who request shampooing.
In contrast, the situation for traditional salons is stark. Industry research cited by Chinese media indicates that in the first quarter of this year, 213,000 salons closed, ceased operations, or were transferred, while only 127,000 new salons opened. The difference of 86,000 includes transferred businesses, making it difficult to interpret as a true measure of closures.
Meanwhile, the number of newly registered quick cut businesses continues to rise. According to the Chinese business information platform Qichacha, as of October 30, there are 7,227 related companies, with 1,310 registered this year alone.
Consumers are opting for low-cost haircut shops partly due to dissatisfaction with traditional salons' business practices. A survey conducted by China Youth Daily in 2024 found that 62.9% of respondents identified aggressive product sales and membership promotions as issues in the beauty industry. Other major complaints included inadequate service reflecting customer needs (53.8%) and high prices or unfair charges (50.4%). A significant 77.5% of respondents agreed with the sentiment that 'you can't leave a salon smiling.'
Jiemian News also reported that consumers burdened by excessive upselling and unclear pricing are choosing the straightforward haircut services offered by these budget shops.
However, there are indications that low-cost haircut shops may not completely replace traditional salons. Demand for specialized services like dyeing and perming remains strong, but as more consumers seek to reduce unnecessary expenses and utilize only essential services, a new consumer trend is emerging in the beauty industry.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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