Adding wellness equipment isn’t just a matter of buying what’s trendy—it’s about making a smart, strategic investment that will pay off for years to come. Before you commit to a purchase, take the time to evaluate your options with the same care you’d use for any major business decision.

1. Take Stock of What You Already Have

Before you start shopping for new equipment, take an honest look at your current lineup. Ask yourself:

• Which services are top performers and consistently in demand?
• Which pieces of equipment are underused, and why? (Is it a marketing issue, pricing problem, or lack of client understanding?)
• Are there services that are redundant or no longer align with your target audience?

By identifying what’s working and what’s not, you can make informed decisions about what to add—or what to phase out. Sometimes, the smartest move is to replace an outdated or underperforming piece with something fresh, rather than simply adding more options to an already crowded menu.

2. Understand Your Market and Client Base

The right equipment for a high-end urban salon may be completely different from what works in a small-town business. Ask yourself:

• Who are your primary clients—tanning-focused, wellness-focused, or a mix?
• What’s the average age and spending habits of your client base?
• Are there wellness services in your area you don’t currently offer?

If you’re unsure, run a simple client survey—either in person or via email—to gauge interest in potential new services.

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