Welcome Aire, the newest venture from technology brand Shortcuts, building on 30 years of brand experience to present a game-changing solution tailored for independent hairdressers and small salons. The technology looks to transform the world of solo hairdressing by streamlining the backend of the business, setting up the business side so hairdressers can focus more on their creative pursuits and client relationships.
“With Shortcuts Aire, we’re launching a significant breakthrough for solo hairdressers across Australia. Aire is crafted to simplify the lives of solo stylists, allowing them to focus more on their craft and less on administrative tasks. This launch marks a strategic step in our ongoing commitment to innovation and to enhancing the professional lives of stylists,” shared John Benders, Group CEO of Shortcuts.
“Building on Shortcuts’ leadership in salon technology, it underscores our dedication to elevating customer experiences with meaningful solutions. The hard work and passion of our team have been crucial in developing Shortcuts Aire, ensuring it not only meets but exceeds the demands of today’s independent stylists.”
“From our early days in Brisbane to becoming an international player, our journey has always been driven by a desire to innovate ahead of the curve. Shortcuts Aire epitomises our commitment to the hair and beauty industry, designed to anticipate and shape future market trends,” added Jo Burgess, Shortcuts Co-founder and VP of Evolution.
Shortcuts Aire speaks to the data around an increasing necessity for software tools that specifically address the unique challenges and opportunities in independent hairdressing. Surveys from industry bodies such as the Australian Hairdressing Council (AHC) showcase the rising trend in home, freelance and rent-a-chair businesses, compared to traditional salon roles, and the longevity of these pursuits.
Shortcuts Aire caters to these needs in a platform developed to help independent hairdressers meet and exceed the expectations of their clients. Features have been specifically designed with this in mind and cover tailored booking integrations, client management tools and marketing opportunities made to help solo and small hair businesses streamline workflows and enhance customer engagement. Initial feedback shares that the platform saves time, lessens administrative burdens and offers real-time insights into earnings, automated upsell opportunities, and 24/7 booking capabilities.
“As a solo operator who’s always on the go, Shortcuts Aire has been a game-changer for me. It allows me to manage all my bookings directly from my phone, making it super easy for clients to book their appointments,” said Sara Teixeira, a solo stylist and owner of Senso Hair and beta user of Shortcuts Aire. “I can quickly check my schedule anytime, anywhere, without being tied up in calls all day. Aire really understands what we solo stylists need – it’s like having a pocket-sized assistant!”
The platform has been officially soft-launched and the brand is inviting all solo operators and small salons to explore its features with a free 30-day trial of the Pro plan. The platform offers a free version, which includes industry-specific booking tools such as online booking for hair and beauty appointments, while the Grow plan offers further SMS capabilities and the Pro plan delivers enhanced business and marketing features.
“Shortcuts Aire represents an amazing collaboration across the Shortcuts team, bringing together deep domain knowledge and decades of experience. I believe the outcome will resonate powerfully with the industry, empowering stylists and transforming their businesses,” said Justin O’Sullivan, CTO of Shortcuts.
For more information visit aire.shortcuts.com.au
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