Pigtails & Crewcuts

ATLANTA —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=pigtails-crewcuts-q3-growth-chicago-expansion-2730431" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a>, the national children’s hair salon franchise, has&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts/hillery-simmons-pigtails-crewcuts-chicago-franchise-2730200#featured">signed a three-unit agreement in Chicago</a>, a long-targeted market for the brand. The deal with new franchisee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/hillerydsimmons/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=pigtails-crewcuts-q3-growth-chicago-expansion-2730431" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Hillery Simmons</a> marks a key step in the company’s growth strategy and builds on the system’s positive third-quarter results.“Chicago has long been a priority market for us, and we’re thrilled to have partnered with Hillery to bring Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts to the city,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-holliman-2132313/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=pigtails-crewcuts-q3-growth-chicago-expansion-2730431" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Michelle Holliman</a>, Vice President of Franchise Development. “Every family needs haircuts, and parents naturally want the very best for their children — that’s exactly what our brand delivers.”Holliman said Simmons was drawn to the business even without children of her own, pointing to her close family ties and understanding of the city’s needs. “Hillery quickly recognized, like most of our franchisees, that she didn’t need to have children of her own to succeed with this concept,” Holliman said. “With our proven systems and dedicated training and support, what matters most is her understanding of the community and the demand that clearly exists in Chicago.”Support from the existing system helped finalize the agreement. “Peer validation is one of the most powerful aspects of our system,” Holliman said. “In this case, a nearby franchisee in&nbsp;<a href="https://pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/location/glenview/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=pigtails-crewcuts-q3-growth-chicago-expansion-2730431" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Glenview</a> shared their experience and insights, which gave Hillery the confidence to move forward. That kind of support from within the network is invaluable.”&nbsp;The new commitment underscores the strength of multi-unit growth in the system. “The fact that so many of our franchisees choose to expand into multiple units demonstrates the strength and scalability of our business model,” Holliman said. “Multi-unit ownership provides clear advantages, including larger protected territories and reduced initial fees, which make long-term growth even more appealing.”The agreement comes on the heels of a strong third quarter for the brand. “We are up by 6 percent year over year. Any positive increase is fantastic,” Holliman said. “Our systemwide sales were up 6% year-over-year in Q3, which is a strong reflection of the dedication and hard work of our franchisees,” Holliman said. “While our business isn’t strictly seasonal, back-to-school always brings an increase in demand, and our consistent year-over-year growth highlights the strength of our overall recognition.”In addition to financial performance, Holliman emphasized the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting its franchisees. “Our CEO,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/wade-brannon-a1553418/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=pigtails-crewcuts-q3-growth-chicago-expansion-2730431" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Wade Brannon</a>, often reminds us that while we’re in the children’s salon business, we’re equally in the franchise support business,” Holliman said. “From the first phone call through due diligence, site selection, opening, and ongoing operations, our role is to provide the tools and guidance that help franchisees reach their goals.”&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts/info">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts’</a> strong support and reputation are bolstered by its SBA registry status, a tool many franchisees have used to secure financing. “Being on the SBA registry gives both franchisees and lenders confidence in our brand,” Holliman said. “Many of our owners have successfully leveraged SBA financing to launch their first location, repay loans, and then secure additional funding to expand. That track record demonstrates the credibility of our system.”Looking ahead, Holliman said the brand is poised for significant expansion in 2026. “With locations in 25 states, there’s still tremendous opportunity for expansion,” Holliman said. “We’re actively targeting markets such as Indianapolis, Omaha, Florida, and St. Louis, and with the strength of our team and systems, we’re confident that 2026 will be a year of significant growth.”As the company&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts/pigtails-crewcuts-20th-anniversary-a-look-back-through-the-last-20-years-with-ceo-wade-brannon-2728397">celebrates its 20th anniversary this year</a>, franchisees will gather in October for the national convention to reflect on past achievements and chart the future. “As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, it’s rewarding to reflect on how far we’ve come as a brand,” Holliman said. “We’ve weathered challenges like the 2007 recession and the 2020 pandemic, and each experience has only made us stronger. The continued demand for our services makes us excited about the next 20 years of growth.”About Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts:&nbsp;Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts is a kids' hair salon franchise designed with family in mind. Franchising since 2005, it has become a premier destination for children’s hairstyling and a stress-free experience for parents. Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts provides a range of hair care services for boys and girls aged zero to 12, and offers a custom line of child-friendly hair products, hair accessories, toys, and gifts. Each salon is a fun, engaging space where children can feel comfortable and enjoy their haircuts, complete with activities, event areas and a family-friendly atmosphere. With over 80 locations across more than 20 states, Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts is continuously expanding and establishing itself as a leading franchise in the growing niche market of children’s hair care. To learn more about Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts or to find a salon near you, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=pigtails-crewcuts-q3-growth-chicago-expansion-2730431" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.pigtailsandcrewcuts.com</a>. To learn more about franchise opportunities with Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=pigtails-crewcuts-q3-growth-chicago-expansion-2730431" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com</a>.

Pigtails and Crewcuts - Q3 Growth - Chicago Expansion - 1851 Franchise

Pigtails & Crewcuts Q3 Growth, Chicago Expansion Deal

1851 Franchise

The kids’ salon franchise expands its Midwest presence with new commitments, strong systemwide sales and continued growth momentum heading into year-end.

This brand page has been paid for by PIGTAILS & CREWCUTS. Content within this page that is paid will showcase a Sponsored icon. This means the brand has engaged 1851 FRANCHISE to write the content. Content without the Sponsored Icon is aggregated media placements the brand earned. Questions can be sent to editorial@1851franchise.com

Pigtails & Crewcuts Signs 3-Unit Deal in Chicago, Builds on Strong Q3 Growth

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Children’s hair salon franchise&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> recently held its National Convention in Scottsdale, Arizona, which featured a “Back to the Future” theme. Franchisees, managers and corporate staff came together to celebrate 20 years in business and discuss the future of the brand.“We wanted to go back and really see where we’ve been, how we’ve evolved as a company and what we’re going to do for the next 20 years,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-holliman-2132313/">Michelle Holliman</a>, Vice President of Franchise Development. “It was about memory lane and momentum at the same time.”The convention kicked off with a “State of the Company” address from CEO&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/wade-brannon-a1553418/">Wade Brannon</a> and a video featuring early franchisees reflecting on how far the brand has come. The sessions highlighted the evolution of&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts/info">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts’</a> marketing and rebranding efforts, including a look back at the original logo, collateral and the growth of the brand’s beloved mascots, Penny and Charlie.<h2>Training, Teamwork and “Pigtails University”</h2>“This year’s event was about more than celebration; it was an opportunity for franchise owners and managers to learn, collaborate, and grow together,” said Holliman. “They exchanged insights, shared strategies, and connected over meals. It’s this kind of relationship-building that makes the Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts network so strong, leaving franchisees with new ideas and lasting connections.”A key moment from the convention was the introduction of Pigtails University, a new training platform with videos and resources for franchisees and their teams. “That is going to be the next step in our training program,” said Holliman. “Pigtails University brings all the tools, resources, and continuing education our franchisees and their teams need into one place. They can take courses, watch videos, and access everything required to grow and succeed.”This year’s convention also included sessions specifically for salon managers — a first for many. Twenty-seven managers joined the event to take part in breakout discussions on customer service, hiring, and social media.<h2>Connection and Culture: The Heart of the Brand</h2>Holliman says that the true power of the convention comes from the in-person connections that form between franchisees. While the corporate team offers extensive support, the networking between franchisees is what keeps them thriving.“It’s invaluable for our franchisees to connect, whether they’re in their first year or their 18th,” said Holliman. “They can learn from each other, put names to faces, and benefit from the peer-to-peer support that strengthens our entire network.”This sense of family has become one of Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts’ strongest assets. Franchise owners frequently meet up outside of formal events, visiting each other’s salons to share advice and celebrate successes. Holliman says that during the convention, several franchisees even discussed visiting each other’s locations to exchange best practices on hiring and retail sales."Some of them are even going on vacations with each other. Not to be cliche, but it's family," Holliman said. "They are really relying on each other because, although we're always here for them, they may be going through the same struggles as one another."&nbsp;<h2>Renewed Motivation and Momentum</h2>The three-day event wrapped up with an 80s-themed anniversary dinner, a DJ-led dance party and an awards ceremony celebrating top performers. The evening underscored both the fun and the fulfillment of being part of the brand. Holliman says that the enthusiasm carried well beyond the final day of the conference.“Our franchisees left the event motivated and energized,” said Holliman. “Several shared that they were inspired to move forward with opening additional locations and that’s the impact these gatherings have.”Attendees also participated in a vendor expo with 17 exhibitors, offering new tools, products and marketing resources for their salons.&nbsp;<h2>Looking Toward the Next Chapter</h2>As Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts looks to 2026 and beyond, Holliman says the corporate team is focused on new initiatives that will further strengthen the franchise system and enhance support for owners nationwide. The convention was a reminder of how far the brand has come — and how much potential lies ahead.“The excitement and motivation that come out of these events is incredible,” said Holliman. “When our franchisees feel seen, supported and celebrated, that’s when the magic really happens.”Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts has always been about more than haircuts. The Scottsdale convention showed how much the brand values family, friendship and helping each other succeed.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://1851franchise.com/pigtailsandcrewcuts">1851franchise.com/pigtailsandcrewcuts</a>.&nbsp;

Pigtails & Crewcuts National Convention Spotlights a Business That Builds More Than Just Revenue

Why Franchisees Are All In: Pigtails & Crewcuts National Convention Spotlights a Business That Builds More Than Just Revenue

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Pigtails & Crewcuts, kids haircuts, kids hair salon

 A Year of Expansion, Heart and Momentum: Pigtails & Crewcuts Looks Ahead to an Even Brighter 2026

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Franchise QB Podcast: CEO Wade Brannon Shares How Pigtails & Crewcuts Is Growing

Franchise QB Podcast: CEO Wade Brannon Shares How Pigtails & Crewcuts Is Growing in the Kids’ Salon Market

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<a href="https://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a>, a kids’ hair salon franchise built around a premium, family-friendly experience, now has its eye on St. Louis, Missouri. The brand already operates in other Midwestern markets, but Missouri remains wide open, giving local entrepreneurs a chance to establish and grow the concept in a largely untapped area.“We have a number of hot target markets for brand expansion. And we believe St. Louis is a viable market because of its affluent areas and its untapped potential,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts/info">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> Vice President of Franchise Development&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-holliman-2132313/">Michelle Holliman</a>. “Right now, I believe three to five locations in St. Louis is realistic based on research in competitive markets. Being first to market can be intimidating, but it also allows for multi-unit growth.”&nbsp;<h3>Targeting the Right Neighborhoods</h3>Providing strong support of franchise owners remains a Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts hallmark. The chain works at the local level to properly analyze and understand the market and the dynamics in play prior to launch. A data-driven approach drives site selection, with elements like income and the concentration of kids within about a 15-minute radius helping guide the process.&nbsp;When it comes to St. Louis, that data illustrates a market primed for both opportunity and future growth, ensuring new locations are well-positioned for success.“We collaborate closely with our franchise owners and take their local insight into account,” Holliman said. “Our goal is to place salons in areas that value the full experience we provide and can support a premium brand.”<h3>The Right Franchise Owner</h3>When it comes to potential franchise owners, Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts targets those who are in alignment with the company’s values and who can operate within a proven, dependable system. Support for new franchisees is extensive. And hair care experience isn’t necessarily required to run a Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts franchise.“We look for owners who are coachable, community-minded, and ready to follow a system that works,” Holliman said. “They don’t need prior hair industry experience. Our owners come from a wide range of professional backgrounds, and we focus on leveraging their strengths.Support begins early in the process and continues well beyond opening day, with assistance ranging from demographic research and site selection to lease negotiations and operational training.<h3>Community Engagement = Success</h3>Community involvement has been a Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts cornerstone for over 20 years. While the business can be run in a semi-absentee fashion, dedicated ownership at the local level is important. Franchise owners who are active in local schools, philanthropic efforts or other community projects develop strong bonds at the local level, strengthening brand awareness.&nbsp;“We want owners to give back. Being involved locally generates awareness and supports the brand,” Holliman said. “We provide training on community engagement during initial and ongoing training. Community involvement is crucial.”<h3>Vision for Expansion</h3>While St. Louis presents promising immediate opportunity, Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts is looking ahead to an even bigger 2026.&nbsp;With 86 salons currently in operation in 25 states, the plan is to add even more. By conducting a thorough assessment of each market and working closely with franchise owners, the chain remains poised for continued growth, equipping local franchise owners with a strong system tweaked over the course of more than two decades and unparalleled support.“We emphasize franchise support — which is why we currently have 86 salons. Our goal for next year is 12 to 15 new locations. We grow at a pace that ensures we can support our franchisees,” Holliman said. “We have about a dozen salons in development and are aiming to reach 100 locations. Once we hit that milestone, we validate the brand and concept, moving beyond the emerging brand stage.”To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts">https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts</a>.

Pigtails & Crewcuts kids salon, St. Louis, Missouri expansion

Pigtails & Crewcuts Targets St. Louis for Growth, Seeking Family-Focused Entrepreneurs To Lead Expansion

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When people talk about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a>, the children’s hair salon franchise, they usually start with the colorful environment or the kid-friendly experience. But behind the brand is something deeper — a culture built on kindness, service and genuine connection. For franchise owners like North Carolina-based&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/angel-putnam-4521342b/">Angel Putnam</a>, that culture isn’t an add-on. It’s the heart of the business."I donate close to 10 percent of my sales back into our community, with a special focus on supporting foster children and families," Putnam said. "Having grown up in foster care myself, I understand firsthand the challenges these children face, and giving back to them is deeply personal to me. My goal is to make their lives a little easier through school supply donations, clothing and food drives, toy collections, and other efforts that provide comfort, dignity and joy."<h2>Turning Personal Story Into Purpose</h2>Putnam says the salon gave her a platform to channel her own childhood experiences into something powerful and uplifting. "It’s my way of turning my story into purpose and using my business as a bridge for kindness and community support," she said.The results of that purpose show up in dozens of small but meaningful moments — the handwritten letters from families, the hugs at community events, the gratitude expressed by foster parents who feel seen and supported."Each one reminds me that what we do goes far beyond haircuts. It’s about the ripple of kindness and connection we get to be a part of," she said.&nbsp;<h2>A Culture Strengthened by Community</h2>For&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-holliman-2132313/">Michelle Holliman</a>, Vice President of Franchise Development, franchisees like Putnam represent the very best of what&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts/info">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> is meant to be."Being a part of and giving back to your community is one of our core values," she said. "We believe that owning a business isn't just about providing a service for your community. It's really being a part of your community. And that’s what we want our franchisees to embrace."Holliman says the brand tends to draw owners who want to do more than run a business. They see their salons as safe, welcoming spaces for every child, including those with sensory challenges or special needs. In her view, Putnam’s story is a clear example of that mindset in action."She gives back to her community because she understands what foster care children have to go through and the importance of feeling wanted and needed and finding a safe space," Holliman said.Holliman says that Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts encourages community involvement but doesn’t prescribe how franchisees should serve. As a result, owners often go above and beyond in creative and heartfelt ways. She pointed to examples like franchisee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/adelaide-aiken-msw-lcsw-bb90a466/">Adelaide Aiken</a> in Asheville, North Carolina, who turned her salon into a drop-off center after a hurricane left the city struggling for clean water.“They weren’t trying to provide haircuts,” Holliman said. “They were trying to provide supplies and comfort in their community. And because of that, the community supported them right back.”<h2>Purpose First, Profit Follows</h2>Putnam believes that weaving purpose into her business isn’t just meaningful — it’s smart, sustainable entrepreneurship."When I opened Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts, profit wasn’t my motivation — purpose was," she said. "Of course, understanding your numbers and budgeting wisely are essential parts of running a business, but true success goes far deeper than profit margins. When you pour into your community, your community pours back into you."&nbsp;That philosophy mirrors Holliman’s perspective on long-term success across the brand."It's something bigger than making money," Holliman said. "It's being a part of something. People want to leave a little bit of legacy whether it is showing kindness to the community or showing kindness to a specific family. Being compassionate about that family that has a child with special needs, being compassionate about somebody that can't afford a haircut, just understanding the needs and giving back."&nbsp;<h2>Leading With Love — One Child at a Time</h2>Putnam hopes her approach shows future franchisees that Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts is more than a business model. It’s an opportunity to make a lasting, meaningful impact."I know I can’t change the entire world, but within my three feet of space, I can create a ripple of love, kindness and inclusion that reaches far beyond me. Using my business as a platform for good allows me to lead by example — for my children, my team, and my community — and to always love the way we’d want to be loved," she said.&nbsp;For Putnam — and for many Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts owners — the work goes far beyond haircuts. Their businesses have become a natural place to show up for their neighbors and care for the families who walk through the door.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://1851franchise.com/pigtailsandcrewcuts">1851franchise.com/pigtailsandcrewcuts</a>.&nbsp;

How Pigtails & Crewcuts Franchisees Like Angel Putnam Are Making a Difference Beyond the Salon

The Heart of the Brand: How Pigtails & Crewcuts Franchisees Like Angel Putnam Are Making a Difference Beyond the Salon

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When the government shutdown began and it became clear that many families’ income and benefits would be impacted, kids salon franchise&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> launched a community effort to offer support. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pigtailsandcrewcutswillowlawn/posts/pfbid0UKRPKSrc1S7L2LkCJtaTt2zZ32zTRfxdM1kL5PafmdouwjaHWrXhc4iHCTz4a7Axl">Open Chair Project</a>, led by&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts/info">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> in&nbsp;<a href="https://book.pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/200907/home">Newport News</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://book.pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/200906/home">Richmond</a>, Virginia, allowed members of the community to purchase vouchers that other families can claim and use to receive a haircut at no cost to them.“The concept is simple but powerful,”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-lugaro-406270283">Amy Lugaro</a> — who owns both salons —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wric.com/news/local-news/richmond/community-donates-haircuts-through-pigtails-crewcuts-during-government-shutdown/">said in a press release</a>. “Our team, customers and fellow community members donate the cost of a child’s haircut in advance, creating ‘open chairs’ in our salon for families in need. When a parent calls to book or checks out for their appointment, they can simply let us know they’d like to use a donated haircut voucher if one is available. We hang available donated vouchers in our storefront window for anyone to see and use. No questions, no paperwork, no judgment. Just kindness and care.”As small business owners, Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts franchisees become key members of their communities. Through their businesses, franchisees have greater reach and exposure, and they’re positioned to rally their communities around causes that matter to them, exemplifying what it means to be a truly locally owned business.“For me personally, this project represents the best of what community looks like,” Lugaro said.Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wric.com/news/local-news/richmond/community-donates-haircuts-through-pigtails-crewcuts-during-government-shutdown/">here</a>.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts">https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts</a>.

Photo of Pigtails & Crewcuts window with Open Chair Project vouchers hanging up

Pigtails & Crewcuts Signs 3-Unit Deal in Chicago, Builds on Strong Q3 Growth

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