What began as a simple way to encourage client loyalty has evolved into a refined, revenue-driving model at the heart of the most successful salons. While early EFT programs focused on offering maximum access for minimal cost, top-performing salons have since reimagined their structures—prioritizing value, psychology, diverse service options, and strategically tiered pricing to increase both average spend and long-term retention. The result? Businesses that are not only more stable year-round but are also significantly more profitable overall.

Memberships are consistent. They’re scalable. They’re profitable. And when structured strategically, they’re almost like magic: You build the right system, and—POOF!—more money appears in your bank account month after month. Before long, your monthly EFT draw could exceed anything you ever thought possible.

Today, several operators of successful regional salon chains around the country claim that surpassing $1 million in annual revenue per location is not a lofty goal but has become their standard benchmark. That number was almost unimaginable not so many years ago. What’s changed? It’s certainly not that people are tanning more now. And while high-end equipment and diversified play a major role, that alone isn’t the answer. The real differentiator is a laser-focused approach to membership structuring, pricing, and sales execution.

While approaches vary widely around the industry, many of today’s most successful salons prioritize the simplicity of their membership structures. When your structure is easy to understand, your team is well-trained on how to present it, and you continually fine-tune based on results, you create a system that doesn’t just sell—it scales.

The truth is, refining your membership structure could be the most profitable move you make, and it doesn’t cost you a dime. No capital investment. Just smart strategy and consistent effort.

Click here to read the entire article in the latest issue of Smart Tan Magazine online.