Client Chronicles

Rhon Friend

Friends The Salon, York County
Three loans totaling $113,700

Friends The SalonPROVIDING AN ATMOSPHERE OF SOPHISTICATION AND ULTIMATE RELAXATION, RHON AND HIS TEAM excel in meeting clients’ wishes, equipping each customer with all the latest looks, from conservative to avant garde.

Rhon opened his salon in October 2002.  After taking a nine-week business course in York, Rhon met with Fred Engle of Community First Fund.  His first loan in 2004 was used to purchase the three-story building where Friends The Salon was located.  Subsequent loans were used to acquire new salon furniture and stations, fresh paint, new flooring, etc.  Most of the cosmetic work was done by Rhon and is quickly becoming his new hobby.  The building also serves as ‘home’ to three other tenants.

Rhon is rolling out a new apprenticeship program for up and coming stylists.  Stylists who study under Rhon’s direction can gain certification after 2000 hours.  His reputation as an excellent teacher and business owner draws in applicants from all over York County.

Project Profile

Business type :
Hair Salon

 

Amount : $113,700

 

Purpose of loan :
Working capital, real estate

acquisition & renovations

“We work well as a team.  The stylists of Friends are compensated on a ‘percentage of sales’ incentive, so they all work hard.  And it pays off; our sales tripled last year!”

Rhon Friend, Owner,
Friends The Salon