Sola Salons

Sola Salons is a suite rental business. Instead of employing stylists or technicians, it leases a private, lockable suite to each professional, who runs their own business from it. The Turkey Creek location sits off Parkside Drive, behind Calhoun's, in the Turkey Creek area on the west side of Knoxville, which the company describes as a retail and dining district.

Each suite has a glass door with its own lock and key and comes with full-spectrum lighting, a shampoo bowl, a styling chair, and bathroom facilities. Renters can decorate the space and choose their own artwork, music, and furniture. Shared building amenities include 24/7 security, janitorial service, on-site laundry, and a breakroom. Suite access hours vary by location.

Renters pay one weekly fee that covers utilities and Wi-Fi. The company says there are no surprise charges. Renters choose the brands and products they sell and keep all of the profit from them. Liability insurance and disability insurance are available, with disability cover offered in certain areas only.

Support for new renters includes a start-up manual that covers the forms and steps for obtaining a salon license and other permits. Start-up help also covers studio setup details such as insurance, equipment, and paint, along with credit card processing tips and retail and distributor contacts. Renters also get access to retail discounts, online scheduling promotions, continuing education programs, and industry events.

The company states that it has partnered with professionals for more than 20 years, has more than 750 locations across the U.S. and Canada, more than 20,000 independent business owners, and more than 21,000 independent beauty and wellness professionals in its community. It also hosts community gatherings for local studio owners, such as cocktail parties and family picnics. Each Sola location and each business within it is independently owned and operated.

Sola works as a landlord to independent professionals, so each renter runs an independent business with its own brands, pricing, and clients. The company handles the building, utilities, and support services.