Bengaluru’s Play Salon celebrates its 25th
The Journey
After pursuing a hotel management degree, the obvious choice for Neeru Radhakrishnan was to become a chef. But as destiny would have it, her paths took another route to the role of a successful salon owner.
With an inborn gift to make people look beautiful, Neeru made the ultimate decision, following her gut feeling. And so began the journey of the Play salon. “Even though it was a very different field, I guess my hotel experience which is all about guest service and satisfaction made all the difference. I stood out from the rest in the industry back then.”
Influential Learnings
Like any other industry, the salon industry too has its ups and downs. Neeru, now a part of this industry, was not left behind.
Recession was a tough period of struggle for many and Neeru wasn’t spared from this either. She reiterates, “Like many businesses, I faced tough times during economic downturns, such as the financial crisis in 2008 and the COVID-19 pandemic. These periods tested my ability to adapt – with client numbers dropping, new safety regulations in place, and financial pressures mounting. The uncertainty was difficult, but it also highlighted the importance of being flexible, adjusting business strategies, and prioritizing the well-being of both clients and staff.”
“Being recognized within the industry through awards and accolades has been incredibly affirming. It felt like a public acknowledgment of the hard work and dedication my team and I put into every client and service. These moments have also motivated me to continue striving for excellence in everything we do.”
The Success Story
Reaching the milestone of 25 glorious years wasn’t easy.
Reflecting on her earlier days that shaped her career, to the way she approached beauty, Neeru says, “From my early days in training to becoming a skilled stylist and salon owner, the evolution has been nothing short of rewarding.”
She trained with internationally recognised names like L’Oreal, Vidal Sassoon UK, Toni & Guy London & Singapore, Saks London, Guy Kremer UK, Mark Reed UK, Royston & Blythe UK. Theknowledge she accumulated helped her make a significant difference in the world of beauty and hair care.
Neeru worked with talented professionals over the years and had a great connect with her amazing clients. Her passion for hairdressing went beyond just creating amazing hairstyles. For her, it was all about making people confident, empowered and look their best. “Whether it’s a dramatic transformation, a subtle refresh, or simply a moment to unwind and be pampered, my mission has always been to deliver exceptional service with every visit.”
In addition to the Play Salon, Neeru also established the Play Academy for hair and beauty care. This academy trains upcoming hairstylists, offers technical skills and imparts training on how to service clients and keep them happy.
The Roadmap Ahead
Neeru shares her excitement about continuing to grow and innovate, embracing new techniques, trends, and technology. The salon industry is ever-changing, and staying ahead of the curve is essential to providing the best possible experience.For the coming 10 years, Neeru’s goal is to keep adapting to changes; to stay connected with clients and foster a salon environment that stays true to her values and her work ethic. “As we look towards the future, one exciting opportunity on the horizon is the potential for franchising. Over the next decade, I envision expanding our brand and expertise through a carefully crafted franchise model that allows other passionate, like-minded professionals to open their own locations under our established name and values.”
As of now, there are 8 branches of Play Salon and 6 more are expected to open in the next 5 months.
Message to Aspiring Salon Owners
The road will be challenging, but with dedication, passion, and the right mindset, it can also be incredibly rewarding. “Own your journey, trust in your abilities, and never stop learning and growing. Here’s to the future of our beautiful industry.”
“Thank you to all my clients, colleagues, and mentors who have been a part of this incredible journey. Here’s to many more years of creativity, passion, and making people beautiful.”
