07 September 2000
 Counting The Costs Of Grooming |
According to a recent survey carried out by the grooming industry publication
Northern Groomers Magazine (northerngroomers.co.uk),
prices for a shampoo and cut vary considerably across the country.
The survey, which took place over the first four months of this year shows a typical price variation of around £20 for similar treatments (bath clip/strip & style), of same breeds across the UK. These price differentials are symptomatic of problems which are part of a wider subject of current debate in this much fragmented sector of the pet industry. The opinion of many amongst full time groomers is that prices are being held down by the fact that the unlicensed industry is allowing part-time groomers to earn what is described as 'pin' money preparing show and other dogs (often to cover the costs of attending shows). There appears to be a general agreement that some form of licensing needs to be set in place and that this would help raise public perceptions of professional groomers and enable them to set prices that reflect their skills. But there is little chance of such a proposal developing into a statutory instrument and thus there is much confusion as to how a guaranteed level of performance might be introduced and enforced. The Pet Care Trust (PCT) carries a directory of approved groomers who can display the PCT logo but whilst membership of PCT suggests that groomers be qualified, they do not effectively enforce any rules providing the groomer pays the membership fee, and to the outrage of many professionals, unqualified groomers are listed alongside those that have passed the examination. Additionally the PCT will not approve 'mobile' grooming businesses which do not have fixed commercial premises, even where they are C & G qualified, (a situation similar to that of the rapidly growing Pet Sitting and Visiting sector). So a number of factors are helping to preserve the highly unstructured state of the UK Grooming industry. Tricia McGuire, editor of Northern Groomers writes: "Many people still see our job as a 'hobby'. When grooming started it was just that. Groomers were usually people who dabbled in showing. For a few extra pennies to pay for their hobby they trimmed other peoples dogs. Most dogs would be sheared once or twice (if they were lucky) a year, unless of course they were Poodles. Many dogs were not even bathed, as 'bathing a dog spoils the coat', so the old wives tale goes. So grooming was a less time consuming and cheaper service in those days. However, times have changed and so should prices." "We now provide a full shampooing, conditioning, drying, nail trimming, ear cleaning, styling, shaping, handstripping, clipping and scissoring service. Most clients expect their dog to look like the breed they paid a lot of money for. There are those who don't bother but ask us to trim their dog to their specifications. However, no matter how an owner wants their dog styled they all expect good quality workmanship and for that, they should be happy to pay a good price." She goes on to implore professional groomers not to underestimate their work, "Charge for the professional service you are providing." Raising standards will raise the stakes and will demonstrate the confidence and professionalism of those who are dedicated to their vocation and it could be one way out for professional groomers. But this will require the development of an internal regulatory system that is well run, consistent and effective. Such a system will also need to be properly recognised by the public as a mark of quality. Paradoxically therefore, it seems that the industry is going to have to bring its own failings to the attention of the wider media in order to create some kind of public outcry and impetus amongst members of the profession. The UK grooming industry appears to be in a state of discontent and is going to require leadership and cooperation if it is to move forward, which seems to be a little lacking at the moment. Survey Results: Poll sent out to 2000 professional establishments with a 12% return (240) Values are "£'s" for a 'bath clip/strip & style'
Related Sites: Northern Groomers Groomers (only) can join the discussion at: Northern Groomers e-group Copyright 2000 Steve O'Malley (UKPets). This article may be reproduced with permission of the author and correct attribution to the source. |