Expanding Your Grooming Business: Renting a Table vs. Employing a Team Member

March 28, 2025 4:39 pm

Taking Your Grooming Business to the Next Level

Thinking about expanding your grooming business but unsure whether to rent out a table or hire a team member? It’s a big decision—one that can shape the future of your salon. We all love working with pets, but the business side of things? That can get tricky. Expansion brings exciting opportunities, but it also comes with challenges. Let’s explore the pros, cons, and key considerations to help you make the best choice for your setup.

Renting a Table: A Flexible, Low-Commitment Option

Many salon owners start by renting out a table to an independent groomer. This setup can bring in extra income without the responsibility of managing an employee.

Hannah Hart-Smith, owner of  Müttley Crüe Dog Groomers, shares her experience:

“I decided to rent a table as there’s a lot of cost involved with hiring someone. I don’t think I’d be able to afford to pay them as well as their pensions and then take a wage myself. When you offer a rented table, the new person is self-employed, so they’re in charge of their own business. I just supply the premises and the larger equipment.”

Benefits of Renting a Table

✅ Predictable Income – You earn a set rental fee regardless of how busy the groomer is.
✅ Less Management Responsibility – No payroll, HR, or scheduling hassles.
✅ Flexibility – No long-term commitments, making it ideal if you have extra space to fill.

How Much Should You Charge for Table Rental?

The pricing for renting a grooming table depends on various factors, including the number of dogs groomed, rental costs, utility bills, and whether shampoos or other supplies are included.

• Julian Sandy, owner of Woofterz Dog Grooming, notes that rental fees typically range from £500 to £1,000 per month, depending on location.
• Lucy Baker, owner of Shaggy & Chic, suggests a percentage-based rental model (e.g., 60:40 split of earnings).
• Jo Rumming, owner of Jo’s Dog Shedd In, charges newly qualified groomers 25% of each groom, covering all equipment except scissors and clippers. This discounted rate lasts for six months before increasing to the standard rate.

Challenges of Renting a Table

Quality Control Issues – Since independent groomers operate under their own standards, their work quality and customer interactions may not align with your salon’s reputation.
Client Confusion – Customers may assume renters are part of your business, leading to potential misunderstandings if service levels differ.
Inconsistent Pricing – If renters charge significantly different rates, it can create confusion and affect your salon’s branding.

Key Considerations

To avoid potential issues, a clear contract is essential. Outline expectations, responsibilities, and boundaries from the start. Communication is key to ensuring both parties benefit from the arrangement.

Hiring a Team Member: Building a Strong, Unified Business

If long-term growth and brand consistency are your priorities, hiring an employee might be the better option. Employees allow you to maintain full control over grooming standards, customer interactions, and salon culture.

Benefits of Hiring a Team Member

Brand Consistency – Employees represent your business, ensuring a uniform customer experience.
Stronger Client Loyalty – Customers return for the consistency and familiarity of trained staff.
Greater Business Control – Employees follow your salon’s pricing, schedules, and service standards.
Team Collaboration – A supportive work environment fosters innovation, shared skills, and problem-solving.

Challenges of Hiring a Team Member

Higher Costs – Payroll, benefits, and training require significant financial investment.
More Management Responsibilities – You’ll need to handle scheduling, HR tasks, and ongoing staff development.

While the upfront costs are higher, hiring employees creates a foundation for sustainable growth and a strong brand identity.

How Tuft Makes Expansion Easier

No matter which route you choose, Tuft simplifies salon management, making it easier to scale your business.

• For renters, Tuft allows you to set different access levels—whether full access or limited to viewing bookings only—keeping boundaries clear.
• For employees, Tuft streamlines scheduling, bookings, and payments, reducing admin work and keeping everything organised.
• Automated reminders and notifications help reduce no-shows and keep your business running smoothly.

With online payment options, prioritised medical details, and customer preferences tracked in one place, Tuft helps you spend less time managing and more time growing.

Which Option is Right for You?

Expanding your business is an exciting step, but the right approach depends on your goals, resources, and long-term vision.

 If you want low commitment, steady income, and flexibility, renting a table might be ideal. It allows you to generate revenue from extra space without employment obligations.

If you prioritise full control, brand consistency, and sustainable growth, hiring a team member is the better choice.

Some salon owners combine both approaches—renting tables for short-term income while gradually hiring employees to shape their brand.

Final Thoughts

To stand out in the competitive grooming industry, define your niche. Specialising in specific breeds or premium services can set you apart. Building a professional website and engaging on social media can also help attract more clients.

Expanding your salon is a big step, but with the right approach and a reliable system like Tuft, you can create a thriving business that aligns with your vision.

Ready to take the next step? Whether you choose to rent a table or hire a team, Tuft is here to help you scale your business effortlessly.