Pigtails & Crewcuts franchisee Michelle Penczak, CEO and military spouse, is bringing the kids salon services to new markets, with a focus on serving fellow military families.
Parents are increasingly prioritizing specialized, high-quality services for their children, and, as a result, the children’s salon industry is thriving. Pigtails & Crewcuts, a franchise that has uniquely positioned itself in this growing market, is leading the charge with its kid-friendly approach. At the forefront of this expansion is Michelle Penczak, a dynamic CEO, military spouse and entrepreneur. Penczak’s involvement in Pigtails & Crewcuts is not only a personal investment but a strategic move that underscores the brand’s commitment to providing a safe, enjoyable environment for children within a lucrative market.
The Growing Children’s Salon Industry
More parents are seeking out environments that are tailored to their children’s needs — places where they feel comfortable, safe and entertained. The market for kids salons is no longer a niche but a booming sector, with businesses like Pigtails & Crewcuts at the forefront.
Pigtails & Crewcuts stands out by offering a variety of services that go beyond the typical haircut. From first haircut packages that include keepsakes to styling services like braids and up-dos, the brand ensures that each visit is a memorable experience for both children and their parents. The salons also offer additional services such as shampooing, nail polish applications and even ear piercing, all within a kid-friendly environment. Moreover, by offering haircuts for parents too, Pigtails & Crewcuts maximizes convenience, making it easier for families to manage their time effectively.
A Leader in the Industry
Penczak is actively driving the brand’s growth by introducing its popular child-centric approach to new markets. As a franchisee, she has been instrumental in contributing to the brand’s expansion strategy, backed by her business acumen and experience.
As a military spouse, Penczak faced unique challenges in maintaining a stable career due to frequent relocations. Despite her professional background as an assistant to a lobbyist in Washington, D.C., she found it difficult to secure long-term employment. However, Penczak turned these challenges into opportunities by launching Squared Away, a remote executive assistant firm that predominantly employs military spouses. Today, Squared Away boasts over 450 employees across the globe and ranks No. 297 on the 2023 Inc. 5000 list.
With Squared Away running smoothly, Penczak sought a new venture that would allow her to spend more time with her family. This search led her to Pigtails & Crewcuts, a brand she had personally experienced with her son. Recognizing a gap in the market in Eastern North Carolina, where the family had recently relocated, Penczak decided to bring the franchise to Wilmington and Jacksonville.
Expanding the Pigtails & Crewcuts Legacy
Pigtails & Crewcuts’ expansion into new markets like North Carolina is a strategic move that aligns with the brand’s long-term goals. Penczak’s personal experience as a military spouse gives her a unique perspective on the needs and desires of this demographic, making her an ideal franchisee for areas close to military bases. The franchise is not just expanding geographically but also deepening its connection with local communities, particularly among military families.
“We are very close to several military bases, so we really want to take care of the military community here,” Penczak said. “I am very excited to keep giving back to the community that has my heart.”
The brand’s focus on creating a family-friendly, supportive environment is reflected in its business model, which emphasizes flexibility and work-life balance. This approach is particularly appealing to entrepreneurs like Penczak, who value both professional success and family time.
“I loved the fact that there was a playbook, but a freedom to make it your own,” Penczak said. “It’s a family place. The support structures in place are absolutely incredible.”
A Culture of Care and Community
Penczak was not only attracted to Pigtails & Crewcuts for its business potential but also for its values. The company’s culture of care and community resonates deeply with her own philosophy.
“The culture is amazing,” she said. “I’ve always been a proponent of having an amazing culture and taking care of people. If I was going to branch out, it was going to be with a company that had the same type of culture I had built at my own company.”
The Road Ahead for Pigtails & Crewcuts
The future looks bright for Pigtails & Crewcuts as the brand continues to expand its presence across the United States. With plans to grow in states like Florida, Indiana and West Virginia, the franchise is poised to capitalize on the rising demand for child-centric services. Pigtails & Crewcuts offers not just a business opportunity but a chance to make a lasting impact on families and communities.
As the children’s salon industry continues to grow, Pigtails & Crewcuts is well-positioned to lead the way, offering parents and children alike an experience that is both enjoyable and meaningful.