business plan tattoo studio

Tattoo Shop Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Tattoo Shop Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their tattoo shops. We have the experience, resources, and knowledge to help you create a great business plan.

In this article, you will learn some background information on why business planning is important. Then, you will learn how to write a business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is a Tattoo Shop Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your tattoo shop as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Tattoo Shop

If you’re looking to start a tattoo shop or grow your existing tattoo studio, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your tattoo shop to improve your chances of success. Your business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Tattoo Shops

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a tattoo shop are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for tattoo shops.

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How to write a business plan for a tattoo shop.

If you want to start a tattoo shop or expand your current one, you need a business plan. The guide below details the necessary information for how to write each essential component of business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of tattoo shop you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a tattoo shop that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of tattoo shops?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan.

• Give a brief overv iew of the tattoo shop industry.
• Discuss the type of tattoo shop you are operating.
• Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers.
• Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team.
• Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of tattoo shop you are operating.

For example, your tattoo shop might specialize in one of the following types of tattoo shops:

• Retail location tattoo shop : this type of tattoo shop is located in a busy retail district with lots of visibility and traffic. Tattoos tend to be more expensive than the average tattoo.
• Neighborhood tattoo shop: this type of tattoo shop is located in a neighborhood and may not have as much visibility, but caters to returning customers in the neighborhood.
• Traveling tattoo business: this type of tattoo business is created by a tattoo artist that has gained a following either by tv, a tattoo magazine, or online. He or she travels to various locations to participate in tattoo conventions, do guest tattoo appearances at a local tattoo shop, and only books a certain amount of appointments while he or she is at a particular location.

In addition to explaining the type of tattoo shop you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of clients tattooed, the number of tattoos with positive reviews, reaching X number of clients tattooed, etc.
• Your legal business structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the tattoo shop industry. While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the tattoo shop industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends.

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section:

• How big is the tattoo shop industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your tattoo shop? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals of all ages.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of tattoo shop you operate. Clearly, older adults would respond to different marketing promotions than college students, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are othe r tattoo shops.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t directly competing with your product or service. This includes henna salons, local cannabis stores that have in-house tattoo artists. You need to mention such competition as well.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What type of tattoo shop are they?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide aftercare services for the tattoo?
• Will you offer products or services that your competition doesn’t?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a tattoo shop, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type o f tattoo shop that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you provide piercings, CBD products, henna, or beverages?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of yo ur plan, yo u are presenting the products and/or services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your tattoo shop. Document where your company is situated and mention how the site will impact your success. For example, is your tattoo shop located in a busy retail district, a neighborhood, a standalone location, or is it a traveling business? Discuss how your site might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your tattoo shop marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertise in local papers, radio stations and/or magazines
• Reach out to websites
• Distribute flyers
• Engage in email marketing
• Advertise on social media platforms
• Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) on your website for targeted keywords

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your tattoo shop business, including client scheduling, designing tattoos, tattoo shop equipment inventory, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to book your Xth session, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your tattoo shop to a new city.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your tattoo shop’s potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing tattoo shops. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a tattoo shop or is a successful tattoo artist.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance s heet, and cash flow statements.  

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenue and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you see 5 clients per day, and/or offer piercings or other products ? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.  

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your tattoo shop, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.  

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a tattoo shop:

• Cost of tattoo shop equipment and supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, and equipment

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your tattoo shop location lease or a list of clients you have already booked.  

Writing a business plan for your tattoo shop is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will understand the tattoo shop industry, your competition, and your customers. You will develop a marketing strategy and will understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful tattoo shop.  

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Tattoo Parlor Business Plan

Start your own tattoo parlor business plan

Tablature Tattoo

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">.

Tablature Tattoo will open a small tattoo parlor in suburban Greenwood, NJ, where both tattoo newbies and collectors will be able to work with two established, talented artists. The business will provide small, introductory tattoos from existing designs, basic tattoos that can be executed in one hour, and full half-day sessions with the artists. The artists can offer extended consultations and custom design work with the customers as needed. The business will also sell a wide range of clothing items and posters featuring designs created by the two artists at the business. The founders, husband and wife Jake and Julie Hunt (a tattoo artist and retail administrator), seek a $10,000, three-year loan to launch the business.

The business needs only $22,200 to launch, due to the low capital requirements of the business and the intention to use low-cost marketing techniques and direct selling to find initial customers. This low startup cost and the high margins on tattoo work (around 75%) will lead to positive cash flow within 6 months and the ability to repay this loan easily, as well as provide impressive dividends to the owners and a generous salary to the additional freelance artist contracted by the business. Sales will exceed $300,000 by the third year based on the full-time work of these three individuals.

Tablature Tattoo will meet the following objectives over its first three years of operation:

• Reach annual revenues of approximately $330,000 in year three
• Successfully create 5446 tattoos over three years
• Earn net profits for the owners, for significant total compensation to the two owners including salaries and dividends

Tablature Tattoo will create safe, impressive tattoo art for customers in the Greenwood, NJ area both through tattoos and through other products featuring art by the shop’s tattoo artists. The business seeks to create a full-time livelihood for Jack and Julie Hunt, the owners, while sharing revenue generously with an additional employed artist who will help to build the business.

Keys to Success

Keys to success in the tattoo shop business include:

• Encouraging repeat customers (collectors) who return again and again for full sessions with artists they love
• Making the health and care of customers and tattoos a top priority to ensure the safety of the customers, employees, and business
• Working with talented artists and encouraging their expression and freedom

Company Summary company overview ) is an overview of the most important points about your company—your history, management team, location, mission statement and legal structure.">

Tablature Tattoo, to be located in Greenwood, New Jersey within a centrally-located major route strip mall, will be launched in 2010. The business will be founded and run by Jake Hunt, an experienced tattoo artist, and his wife, Julie Hunt, who has retail administrative experience. A second tattoo artist will be hired to expand the options for customers and to make better use of the company’s resources. The business will provide color tattoos both from original designs by the artists and basic public domain designs. Original designs which are considered the best by the artists and the customers will be printed onto t-shirts, posters, and other resale items and sold through the shop as well with Tablature Tattoo branding and signatures by the artists. Customers will include both those new to tattoos and tattoo collectors, all predominantly between the ages of 20 and 40.

Company Ownership

The business is established as a limited liability partnership between Jake and Julie Hunt with 51% ownership by Jake Hunt and 49% ownership by Julie Hunt.

Start-up Summary

Start-up expenses for Tablature Tattoo are limited. Licenses and permits include a building permit for renovation on the space, business licenses, health department permit, occupancy permit, and signage permit. Business cards and flyers include enough business cards for two years for the two tattoo artists and flyers advertising the grand opening to be distributed and posted in the area. Insurance will be secured from Tribal Ink-surance or another tattoo shop insurance provider. This offers liability of $500,000, property of $10,000, and additional insurance for the landlord. Rent is for one month for renovation of the location prior to opening. The location will be in a strip mall in Greenwood and will feature an open space for reception, waiting room and two tattoo stations, a sterilization room, a small office space, and a single bathroom. The owners will seek a space requiring minimal or no renovation to achieve this layout. 

Computer software includes a basic calendar/scheduling program, inventory program, and accounting software (basic QuickBooks). Website development is for the creation of a basic website and grand opening advertisements include small ads in local papers in the weeks preceding the opening. Tattoo supplies include chemicals (sterilizers, antiseptics, disinfectants, ointments and soap), paper products, linens, towels, gloves, and skin marking supplies (thermofax, stencil paper, pens, skin scribes).

Assets required include the cash needed to reach cash flow break-even. Start-up inventory includes the inks and dyes needed to stock the store for launch. Other current assets includes a security deposit for the shop location.

Long-term assets include signage for the exterior of the shop, reception area items (a reception desk, chair, laptop, credit card reader, cash register, phone), tattoo station equipment (two tattoo chairs, mirrors, lights, tool box, sharps container, covered trash bin), waiting area furniture (loveseat, coffee table, two binders for flash art), a sound system (speakers and iPod dock), a digital camera, office equipment (printer/scanner/copier, phone), and sterilization room equipment (ultrasonic unit, autoclave, sterilization pouches).

Products and Services

Tablature Tattoo will provide the following services to customers:

• Introductory/shop-minimum tattoos
• Basic tattoos (~1 hour session)
• Full sessions (2-6 hour sessions)

Introductory tattoos are for those who are new to tattoos. They are basic, small designs by the artists or standard public-domain designs. Custom designs cannot be provided as an introductory tattoo. These tattoos can generally be finished in 45 minutes and with a minimum amount of consultation with the client. For many customers who get a small tattoo, it may be the only tattoo they ever receive. Some do convert to get more tattoos in the future. Those who are more adventurous and who intend to collect tattoos will often choose the other services. The price for an introductory tattoo will be $60 at launch.

Basic tattoos offer some consultation with the client, a wider number of colors, and about an hour of work with an artist. These are not generally custom-designed tattoos, but may include some customization of existing designs. The price for this service will be $100 at launch.

Full sessions allow creative freedom for the artist to create customization of a design or an original design for a customer and freedom for the customer to know that there is a ceiling on the price he or she will pay. The price for these sessions will be $300 at launch.

Tablature Tattoo will also sell branded products in the store with designs created by the shop’s tattoo artists. These include t-shirts, hoodies, bags, caps, posters, and potentially other items. The artists will choose their best and most popular designs four times a year and have runs of these items printed. Short runs will be printed, allowing the business to respond to customer preference based on what sells (both the types of items and the types of designs). The items will be sold for an average of $20, which will vary depending on the type of item. Each item will contain the Tablature Tattoo logo and can be signed by the tattoo artist if desired.

Market Analysis Summary how to do a market analysis for your business plan.">

Tattoos are no longer sought out only by fringes of the market. A fall 2006 survey by the Pew Research Center found that 36% of Americans aged 18 to 25, and 40% of those ages 26 to 40, have at least one tattoo. In a working-class town like Greenwood, NJ, these numbers may be higher.

Some other statistics about the market:

• The National Geographic News stated in April 2000 that 15% of all Americans were tattooed (or approximately 40 million people)
• Esquire Magazine estimated in March 2002 that 1 in 8 Americans (12%) was tattooed.
• A 2003 Harris Poll found that 16% of all adults have at least one tattoo.
• The highest incidence of tattoos was found among the gay, lesbian and bisexual population (31%) and among Americans ages 25 to 29 years (36%) and 30 to 39 years (28%). Regionally, people living in the West (20%) are more likely to have tattoos.
• Democrats are more likely to have tattoos (18%) than Republicans (14%) and Independents (12%) while nearly equal percentages of males (16%) and females (15%) have tattoos.

The market is segmented into:

• Tattoo newbies or dabblers (those who get one tattoo)
• Tattoo collectors (those who get numerous tattoos)

Market Segmentation

The market segments in the Greenwood, NJ area include residents of Greenwood and surrounding towns who may travel to Tablature Tattoo. Collectors who like the work of the artists featured at Tablature Tattoo are especially likely to do this, making this number 10,000 individuals.

Tattoo newbies: May seek out a tattoo for the experience of receiving it, to simply say they’ve done it, to commemorate a specific relationship or affiliation, or for the danger associated with it or with those who have tattoos. These individuals may become tattoo collectors, but most simply get one tattoo in their life, especially in their younger years (late teens or twenties). The popularity of tattoos among celebrities also further encourages this group to get tattoos.

Tattoo collectors: This group connects with the lifestyle associated with having tattoos. Many seek to cover large portions of their body with tattoos. This group will appreciate the work of specific artists and seek them out again. This group will seek custom designs, eschew standard, simple designs, and become used to the pain or discomfort involved.

Target Market Segment Strategy

Tablature Tattoo will seek to serve both of these key market segments in order to remain viable. Serving tattoo collectors alone may not yield a large enough market. Furthermore, it is difficult to inspire new tattoo collectors in the area without first serving tattoo newbies with introductory tattoos. The business will seek out both markets by advertising both its introductory designs and the elaborate design work they are capable of. The shop will be appropriate for tattoo collectors, with entertaining music playing and products available for sale.

Service Business Analysis

There are an estimated 20,000+ parlors operating in the United States, according to a U.S. News & World Report article, which said, on the average, an establishment is being added in the country every day. This translates into a tattoo parlor for at least every 10,000 adult Americans. The article ranked tattooing as the sixth fastest growing retail venture of the 1990s, right behind Internet, paging services, bagels, computer and cellular phone service.

Tattoo shops are generally independent ventures run by tattoo artists. Some feature just one artist and some feature a number of them (three or four is common). Generally, tattoo artists do not want to work for owners who are not artists themselves. The artists are generally freelance contractors working on 1099 and controlling their own hours and schedules, which is in keeping with the freedom they desire. However, tattoo studios are under increasing legal pressure from tax authorities to reclassify these artists as employees as most work primarily in one studio. $100 is a standard market rate for one hour with a tattoo artist and the artist generally makes 40-50% of that amount per hour. Customers are attracted through internet advertising and their websites, referrals and word-of-mouth.

In the Greenwood, NJ area, Tablature Tattoo will compete with:

• Target Tattoo: This shop is located in an area mall and focused on introductory tattoos and short sessions. It features a revolving door of artists, as artists generally have higher aspirations than working at a shop like this. However, its price of $50 for a basic tattoo is competitive.
• Rat-a-tat-tat: This shop features three successful artists focusing on tribal styles. This limitation of the store gives it a successful niche, but turns away customers who are interested in a wider range of styles.

Competition and Buying Patterns

In choosing between competitors, those seeking tattoos consider:

• The body of work of the artist – Beginning with the tattoos on the body of the artist (if a customer doesn’t like these designs and the taste of the artist, he or she may have second thoughts) and including the flash art created by the artist
• Comfort talking to the artist – Customers want to know that their wishes are understood and that the artist will work towards the goal they want and not their own ends.
• Price – Customers are often bargain hunters, and it is up to the tattoo artist to explain the safety precautions taken and experience he or she has which explains the price charged. When customers understand that a higher price sometimes means no shortcuts are being taken, they may feel more comfortable and price becomes less of a concern. Of these concerns, price is more of a concern for tattoo newbies than collectors.

Strategy and Implementation Summary

Tablature Tattoo seeks to follow a strategy of appealing to both new tattoo customers and tattoo collectors by creating an environment and products/services desirable to both groups. Through this strategy, the business intends to convert local customers who may only seek one tattoo initially to become repeat customers. The business will do this by:

• Offering competitively-priced introductory tattoos to encourage “tattoo newbies”
• Retaining high-quality artists to retain tattoo collectors
• Offering a wide range of custom designs in different styles to broaden appeal
• Selling additional products with designs by the tattoo artists to build an additional revenue stream

Competitive Edge

Marketing strategy.

The marketing strategy of the business involves marketing to a wide range of potential customers in the Greenwood area. The following tactics will be used prior to launch:

• Print 1,000 flyers advertising the grand opening of the business to post in the area of the shop, at local establishments and hand out at events and on the street in the preceding week.
• Create a basic website with contact information and directions, the prices for services, pages with galleries of art of the two artists, and images of products for sale in the shop and prices
• List the website on search engines, local business databases, tattoo shop databases and the Yellow Pages
• The principals and additional artist handing out business cards and wearing Tablature Tattoo shirts to promote the opening
• Running ads in the local papers about the grand opening
• The artists calling their rolodexes of previous clients (collectors) to tell them about the new business and encourage them to come back

The grand opening, a five-day event, will consist of a promotion giving introductory tattoos at 25% off ($45).

Ongoing marketing work will include:

• Continuing to hand out business cards
• Printing flyers periodically promoting discounts and new products and posting them in the area
• Maintaining the website with new products and art

Sales Strategy

Sales will be encouraged through word-of-mouth. Clients will be given a few business cards to hand out to friends when they talk about their new tattoo and client information will be retained. The artists will also remind customers about products featuring their designs which are being offered and can give these products for discounts or free to collectors who return for a number of tattoos.

Beyond in-store sales efforts, the artists will promote their work at parties, events, and while on the street, by wearing Tablature Tattoo shirts often and handing out business cards to people they meet.

Ensuring health and customer satisfaction will also be a sales strategy. Each customer will be called by the receptionist after a week to check in on how the tattoo is healing and to thank them again.

Sales Forecast

The cost of sales for the services offered is 8% for shop-minimum tattoos, 7% for basic tattoos, and 6% for full sessions, as ink and supplies becomes less of a cost as the longer sessions involve more preliminary design work and less “ink per hour.” Resale items are projected at 40% cost of sales on average. Cost of sales will also include a pamphlet on tattoo care given to each customer. This pamphlet will be purchased from an industry provider.

Resale items are not expected to sell until after tattoo business begins, as buyers will be those who have had tattoos from the artists and appreciate their designs. Full sessions will grow faster than other areas as the artists gain reputation in the community for more elaborate work.

The sales forecast represents an amount of work that is reasonable for two full-time artists, while allowing time for them to work on flash art, create designs for other resale items, and manage and market the business.

The milestones table details the marketing activities described in the marketing strategy summary. These activities are undertaken with a high focus on using low-cost or free marketing methods to promote the launch of the business. Julie Hunt will manage all marketing activities and Jake Hunt will promote the business directly by contacting clients, networking, and posting/handing out flyers and business cards.

Management Summary management summary will include information about who's on your team and why they're the right people for the job, as well as your future hiring plans.">

Jake Hunt will be CEO of Tablature Tattoo. He will be responsible for strategy, direct sales efforts, contracting and working with the employed second tattoo artist, and half of the tattoo services provided. He will be the final say on choosing designs for additional products.

Julie Hunt will be operations manager. She will be responsible for managing reception, purchasing supplies and managing inventory, answering phone and email inquiries, marketing efforts, bookkeeping and accounting, payroll, insurance, and other administrative requirements. She will order resale products from suppliers. She will work at the reception desk and in the office of the business as needed. Jake Hunt will fill in at reception when business is slow and Julie needs to work in the office, where the printer/copier is located.

Personnel Plan

Jake and Julie Hunt will both be compensated as employees for their work (Jake as tattoo artist and manager of products and Julie as administrator, financial officer, and head of marketing). Salaries shown for the principals include benefits.

The second tattoo artist brought into the company will start work at part-time hours and move quickly to full-time hours, but will have his or her pay tied directly to services rendered and received 40% commission on tattoos provided and designed products sold. Wages listed below for the second artist are based on an assumption of splitting the tattoo and design work equally between Jake and the second artist.

Jake Hunt will manage this artist and will seek an established artist with a body of work and clientele who values the ability to not have to deal with the overhead and business concerns which the Hunts will handle.

Financial Plan investor-ready personnel plan .">

The financial plan for Tablature Tattoo is to raise $27,000 from a combination of personal savings, a long-term loan, and short-term borrowing to launch the business. The business will achieve cash flow and profit break-even in the seventh month of operation and net profit will be achieved in the first year, allowing for dividends to be paid to the owners beyond their salaries starting in year two.

Start-up Funding

The start-up funding will be primarily from investment by the co-owners and founders, Julie and Jake Hunt, who will each contribute $7,500. They will borrow $2,000 on credit cards and seek a three-year loan of $10,000 for the remaining cash, with their home equity as collateral. This will cover the required $27,000 in funding needed to launch.

Important Assumptions

The table below presents assumptions used in the financial calculations of the business plan.

Break-even Analysis

The monthly break-even is shown below. The units break-even represents an average between the different business services and products and is not as helpful as a target.

Projected Profit and Loss

Gross margins will improve slightly as sales of full sessions increase relative to other services.

The marketing budget includes $150 per month to cover website hosting and maintenance and periodic runs of flyers or new business cards. Depreciation is for the long-term assets of the business over three years. Rent is $1,500 per month and utilities $150 per month (electricity, phone and internet). Insurance is not expected to rise significantly as the business will stay within its insurance bracket during this period. Payroll taxes of 15% and employee benefits of 10% (health insurance) are applied to payroll for the Hunts and the second artist’s wages. Tattoo supplies of $100 per month are anticipated to replenish items purchased before the launch. Inflationary increases are applied to most items and to prices charged to customers.

Projected Cash Flow

The business will reach cash flow break-even mid-year, and be able to pay dividends in year two while keeping a cash balance of around $20,000 for unexpected needs. The short-term debt will be paid off in the first year and the long-term loan will be paid off over the first three years of operation. Some additional long-term assets (replacements of equipment and additional tools) will be purchased over these years as well.

Projected Balance Sheet

The business will create a healthier position as it pays off its long-term and short-term debt, even while accounts payable will increase due to a greater volume of sales.

Business Ratios

The business ratios here are compared against “other personal care services,” NAICS 812199, which includes tattoo parlors.

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Tattoo Parlor Business Plan Template & PDF Example

• July 23, 2024
• Business Plan

Creating a comprehensive business plan is crucial for launching and running a successful tattoo parlor. This plan serves as your roadmap, detailing your vision, operational strategies, and financial plan. It helps establish your tattoo parlor’s identity, navigate the competitive market, and secure funding for growth.

This article not only breaks down the critical components of a tattoo parlor business plan, but also provides an example of a business plan to help you craft your own.

Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or new to the beauty industry, this guide, complete with a business plan example, lays the groundwork for turning your tattoo parlor concept into reality. Let’s dive in!

Our tattoo parlor business plan is structured to cover all essential aspects needed for a comprehensive strategy. It outlines the parlor’s operations, marketing strategy, market environment, competitors, management team, and financial forecasts.

• Executive Summary : Offers an overview of your tattoo parlor’s concept, market analysis , management, and financial strategy.
• Tattoo Parlor & Location: Describes the parlor’s design, atmosphere, and strategic location within a creative community, emphasizing its appeal to a diverse clientele.
• Services & Prices: Lists the variety of tattoo services offered, from custom designs to traditional, black and gray, and color tattoos, along with a clear pricing structure.
• Key Stats: Shares industry size , growth trends, and relevant statistics for the tattoo market.
• Key Trends : Highlights recent trends in the tattoo industry, such as the increase in custom, personalized tattoos and the importance of health and safety standards.
• Key Competitors: Analyzes main competitors in the area and differentiates your parlor in terms of artistic talent, service quality, and safety practices.
• SWOT: Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis tailored to your tattoo parlor.
• Marketing Plan : Details strategies for promoting the parlor, including digital marketing, social media engagement, and local community involvement.
• Timeline : Key milestones and objectives from the initial setup to the first year of operations.
• Management: Information on the management team, highlighting their expertise in tattoo artistry, studio management, business operations, and customer experience.
• Financial Plan: Projects the financial performance of the tattoo parlor, including revenue targets, profit and loss statements, fundraising needs, cash flow projections, and balance sheet forecasts.

Tattoo Parlor Business Plan

Fully editable 30+ slides Powerpoint presentation business plan template.

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Executive Summary

The Executive Summary introduces your tattoo parlor’s business plan, offering a concise overview of your parlor and its services. It should detail your market positioning, the range of tattoo and body art services you offer, its location, size, and an outline of day-to-day operations. 

This section should also explore how your tattoo parlor will integrate into the local market, including the number of direct competitors within the area, identifying who they are, along with your parlor’s unique selling points that differentiate it from these competitors.

Furthermore, you should include information about the management and co-founding team, detailing their roles and contributions to the parlor’s success. The expertise, artistic skills, and experience of your tattoo artists should also be highlighted, showcasing the talent that will attract customers. Additionally, a summary of your financial projections, including revenue and profits over the next five years, should be presented here to provide a clear picture of your parlor’s financial plan.

Tattoo Parlor Business Plan Executive Summary Example

Business Overview

The  business overview  segment in your executive summary is pivotal for introducing the fundamental facets of your tattoo parlor. It should encompass the establishment’s name, location, and an overview of its day-to-day operations.

Presenting a  unique selling proposition  ( USP ) delineates your tattoo parlor’s distinction amidst  competitors . Whether it’s a focus on personalized designs, a specialization in specific tattoo styles, or a commitment to hygiene and safety standards, your USP is the essence of your executive summary.

Example: “At ‘InkVerse Tattoos,’ nestled in the heart of the vibrant [City/Neighborhood], our 2,000-square-foot studio is a hub for creative expression. We offer bespoke tattoo services ranging from intricate custom designs to vivid color work. Our distinctiveness lies in our fusion of artistry and stringent hygiene protocols, ensuring an unparalleled client experience.”

Market Overview

Understanding and portraying the market landscape, encompassing size, growth trends, and industry dynamics, is crucial. This section should illuminate the scope of the tattoo industry, supported by pertinent data concerning market valuation, growth rates, and  prevailing trends . It’s an opportunity to showcase your studio’s niche in this landscape.

Example: “The US tattoo industry, valued at $1.6 billion with a consistent 2.4% CAGR from 2017 to 2022, comprises approximately 26,000 tattoo parlors nationwide. ‘InkVerse Tattoos’ identifies itself among 6  key competitors  within a [x]-mile radius, capitalizing on the rising trend of personalized tattoos and prioritizing stringent health and safety measures.”

Management Team

Highlighting the expertise and backgrounds of the management team solidifies credibility. Presenting their qualifications, experiences, and contributions to the tattoo parlor’s success is paramount. This section will showcase the team’s capabilities and how their collective skills drive the business forward.

Example: “At ‘InkVerse Tattoos,’ our founder, [Name], boasts over 15 years of professional tattoo artistry, revered for his innovation and mastery of diverse design approaches. Complementing this, our business manager, [Name], leverages years of experience in creative arts business management, focusing on client engagement and operational excellence.”

Financial Plan

Summarizing your financial objectives and projections, encompassing revenue targets and growth strategies provides a roadmap illustrating your tattoo parlor’s financial trajectory.

Example: With a robust financial strategy, “Artful Ink Studios” sets its sights on sustainable growth and financial stability, outlining a clear revenue target of $1.0 million by 2028. Bolstered by a projected 30% profit margin ( EBITDA  margin), our financial projections exemplify a commitment to operational efficiency and profitability.

For a Tattoo Parlor, the Business Overview section can be effectively divided into 2 main slides:

Tattoo Parlor & Location

Describe the parlor’s physical environment, focusing on its unique design, artistic atmosphere, and the comfortable setting that welcomes clients. Mention the parlor’s location, emphasizing its accessibility and the convenience it offers to clients, such as proximity to cultural areas or ease of parking.

Next, discuss why this location is strategically chosen to attract your target clientele, whether it’s because of high foot traffic, nearby entertainment venues, or a culturally vibrant area that appreciates body art.

Services & Prices

Detail the range of tattoo services offered, from custom tattoo designs and traditional tattoos to contemporary styles and body piercings. Include any unique services like tattoo restoration, cover-ups, or cosmetic tattoos. Then, outline your pricing strategy , ensuring it reflects the artistry and skill involved in the services provided and aligns with the market you’re targeting.

Highlight any special offers, consultation services, aftercare packages, or loyalty programs that add value for your clients, promoting repeat business and fostering a loyal customer base.

Industry size & growth

In the Market Overview of your tattoo parlor business plan, begin by analyzing the size of the tattoo industry and its potential for growth, highlighting the expanding market opportunities.

Key market trends

Discuss key trends such as the rise in custom tattoo artistry, societal acceptance of tattoos, and advancements in tattoo technologies, underscoring the shift towards personalized and meaningful tattoo experiences.

Competitive Landscape

A  competitive analysis  is not just a tool for gauging the position of your tattoo parlor in the market and its key competitors; it’s also a fundamental component of your business plan. This analysis helps in identifying your tattoo parlor’s unique selling points, essential for differentiating your business in a  competitive  market.

In addition, competitive analysis is integral in laying a solid foundation for your business plan. By examining various operational aspects of your competitors, you gain valuable information that ensures your business plan is robust, informed, and tailored to succeed in the current market environment.

Identifying Your Competitors in the Tattoo Industry

Begin by mapping out local tattoo parlors and studios in your area. Direct competitors might include established tattoo studios known for their specialization in particular styles such as realism, traditional, or neo-traditional tattoos. Additionally, consider other establishments offering related services, such as body piercing or permanent makeup, as indirect competitors.

Utilize online resources like Google Maps and social media platforms to understand the geographical distribution of your competitors. Platforms like Yelp and specialized tattoo review websites provide valuable insights into customer opinions, praising aspects like artistic skill, cleanliness, and customer service at rival tattoo studios.

Tattoo Parlor Competitors’ Strategies

Analyzing your competitors involves scrutinizing various elements of their businesses:

• Artistic Offerings:  Investigate the range of tattoo styles and specialties offered by rival studios. If “InkMasters” is gaining attention for their detailed black and grey realism tattoos, it signifies a demand for this style in the market.
• Artistic Techniques:  Consider the tattooing techniques and styles used. A studio like “Traditional Tats” that focuses on classic tattoo styles might cater to a different clientele than one like “Futuristic Ink,” known for cutting-edge and abstract designs.
• Pricing Strategies:  Compare pricing structures with your competitors. Are your rates more aligned with budget-friendly studios like “Affordable Ink” or do they resemble premium pricing akin to the services offered at “Elite Tattoos”?
• Marketing Tactics:  Examine how competitors market their services. Do they leverage social media effectively, or do they rely more on partnerships with local events and influencers?
• Customer Experience:  Evaluate the overall experience at rival tattoo parlors. For instance, “Serene Skin Artistry” might be known for its welcoming ambiance and personalized consultations, enhancing the customer experience.
• Operational Efficiency:  Observe if competitors implement technology or innovative processes. Studios like “TechTattoo” might offer online booking systems or utilize state-of-the-art tattooing equipment, streamlining the client experience.

What’s Your Tattoo Parlor’s Value Proposition?

Reflect on your tattoo parlor’s unique offerings. Perhaps your studio is renowned for its intricate sleeve designs or specializes in a specific cultural tattoo style rarely found in your area.

Identify market gaps through client feedback and industry trends. For instance, the growing demand for eco-friendly and vegan ink might be an opportunity if competitors do not address this niche.

Consider your location: A tattoo parlor in a vibrant urban area might focus on larger, statement pieces, whereas one in a quieter neighborhood might emphasize a more intimate and personalized approach to tattooing.

First, conduct a SWOT analysis for the tattoo parlor, highlighting Strengths (such as highly skilled tattoo artists and a unique range of artistic styles), Weaknesses (including potential high overhead costs or intense competition in the area), Opportunities (for example, a growing acceptance and interest in tattoos as a mainstream form of self-expression), and Threats (such as shifts in social norms or regulatory changes affecting the industry).

Marketing Plan

Next, develop a marketing strategy that outlines how to attract and retain clients through targeted advertising, special introductory offers, a strong and engaging social media presence showcasing artist portfolios, and involvement in local art and cultural events. Consider partnerships with local businesses or influencers to expand your reach.

Marketing Channels

Choosing the right marketing channels to reach your audience is crucial for successful engagement.

Digital Marketing

• Social Media:  Leveraging social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to showcase not just your artwork but also the artistic process behind it can be powerful. Engage actively with your audience, inviting them into your world of creativity.
• Email Marketing:  Building an email list can be a goldmine. Regularly sending newsletters featuring tattoo care tips, exclusive promotions, and updates about new tattoo styles or artists at your parlor can keep clients engaged and informed.
• Website and SEO:  Create a professional website showcasing portfolios, client testimonials, and blogs about tattoo care and trends. 

Local Advertising

• Print Media : Distribute well-designed flyers and brochures strategically in local hotspots, promoting your parlor’s unique offerings. Participate in local art events, offering consultations or sponsoring art programs to connect with potential clients.
• Community Engagement:  Participate in local art fairs or exhibitions, offer free tattoo consultations, or support local events to enhance your brand’s visibility.
• Artist Collaborations : Partner with other tattoo artists or art galleries for joint art exhibitions or collaborations.
• Cross-Promotions : Collaborate with clothing brands or lifestyle stores for mutual promotions.

Promotional Activities

Attracting clients through enticing offers and loyalty programs is a proven strategy.

• Seasonal Offers : Seasonal promotions or introductory offers can encourage potential clients to take the plunge and get inked. Introduce seasonal promotions such as ‘New Year Tattoo Resolutions’ or ‘Birthday Ink Discounts’.
• Loyalty Programs:  Establish a system rewarding frequent clients with discounts or additional tattoo time.
• Referral Programs:   Word-of-mouth is potent in the tattoo industry. Incentivizing referrals can tap into your clients’ social circles, extending your parlor’s reach through recommendations.

Sales Channels

Effective  sales strategies  are crucial for revenue growth and client satisfaction:

In-Studio Upselling

• Additional Services:  Suggest complementary tattoo styles or enhancements during consultations.
• Merchandise Sales:  Display tattoo care products or art-related items at your studio.
• Service Bundles:   Offering additional services or bundled tattoo sessions can maximize revenue per client visit. Recommending aftercare products or extended sessions can enhance the overall experience.

Online Booking and Sales

• User-Friendly Booking:  Implement an intuitive online booking system offering ease and convenience to clients.
• E-commerce Integration:  Sell tattoo merchandise or prints online to reach a broader audience.

Membership and Loyalty Programs

Encourage repeat business and foster long-term relationships with your clients.

• Membership Offers:  Offer subscription-based memberships, including exclusive access to limited designs or discounts on multiple sessions.
• Rewards Program:  Develop a digital rewards program allowing clients to collect points redeemable for discounted tattoos or art-related products.

Strategy Timeline

Finally, create a detailed timeline that outlines critical milestones for the tattoo parlor’s opening, marketing initiatives, client base growth, and potential expansion plans, ensuring the business progresses with clear direction and purpose. Additionally, include specific goals such as hosting opening events, participating in tattoo conventions, launching promotional campaigns, and evaluating customer feedback for continuous improvement.

The management section focuses on the tattoo parlor’s management and their direct roles in daily operations and strategic direction. This part is crucial for understanding who is responsible for making key decisions and driving the tattoo parlor toward its financial and operational goals.

For your tattoo parlor business plan, list the core team members, their specific responsibilities, and how their expertise supports the business.

The Financial Plan section is a comprehensive analysis of your financial projections for revenue, expenses, and profitability. It lays out your tattoo parlor’s approach to securing funding, managing cash flow, and achieving breakeven.

This section typically includes detailed forecasts for the first 5 years of operation, highlighting expected revenue, operating costs and capital expenditures.

For your tattoo parlor business plan, provide a snapshot of your financial statement (profit and loss, balance sheet, cash flow statement), as well as your key assumptions (e.g. number of customers and prices, expenses, etc.).

Make sure to cover here _ Profit and Loss _ Cash Flow Statement _ Balance Sheet _ Use of Funds

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Tattoo Shop Business Plan

Enjoy sharing your love of art through tattoos? Then starting your own tattoo studio could be a worthwhile career choice.

Your industry expertise and artistic skills may help you get started with a new tattoo business, but you need a detailed business plan to succeed.

Need help writing a business plan for your tattoo shop? You’re at the right place. Our tattoo shop business plan template will help you get started.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free tattoo shop business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How to Write a Tattoo Shop Business Plan?

Writing a tattoo shop business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section planned to offer an overview of the entire business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Here are a few key components to include in your executive summary:

• Introduce your business: Start your executive summary section by briefly introducing your business to your readers.
• This section may include the name of your tattoo shop, its location, when it was founded, the type of tattoo business (E.g., custom tattoo shop, cosmetic tattooing, private studio.), etc.
• Market opportunity: Summarize your market research, including market size, growth potential, and marketing trends. Highlight the opportunities in the market and how your business will fit in to fill the gap.
• Product and services: Highlight the products and services you offer your clients. Include any special or custom tattooing services you provide.
• For instance, a custom tattoo shop owner may provide customers with personalized tattoo designs. Marketing & sales strategies: Outline your sales and marketing strategies—what marketing platforms you use, how you plan on acquiring customers, etc.
• Financial highlights: Briefly summarize your financial projections for the initial years of business operations. Include any capital or investment requirements, associated startup costs, projected revenues, and profit forecasts.
• Call to action: Summarize your executive summary section with a clear CTA, for example, inviting angel investors to discuss the potential business investment.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your tattoo studio. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

• Custom tattoo shop—known for its personalized and custom tattoo designs.
• Cosmetic tattooing shop—known for its permanent makeup and microblading services.
• Hybrid shop—provides a combination of services, such as piercing, tattooing, etc.
• Private studio—best known for providing one-on-one services in a private setting.
• Describe the legal structure of your tattoo parlor, whether it is a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or others.
• Explain where your business is located and why you selected the place.
• Owners: List the founders or owners of your tattoo shop. Describe what shares they own and their responsibilities for efficiently managing the business.
• Mission statement: Summarize your business’ objective, core principles, and values in your mission statement. This statement needs to be memorable, clear, and brief.
• Business history: It’s crucial to convey your aspirations and vision. Mention your short-term and long-term goals; they can be specific targets for revenue, market share, or expanding your services.
• Future goal: It’s crucial to convey your aspirations and vision. Mention your short-term and long-term goals; they can be specific targets for revenue, market share, or expanding your services.

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its future plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

• Target market: Start this section by describing your target market. Define your ideal customer and explain what types of services they prefer. Creating a buyer persona will help you easily define your target market to your readers.
• For instance, you may target young adults between 18 and 35 interested in tattoos and body art.
• Market size and growth potential: Describe your market size and growth potential and whether you will target a niche or a much broader market.
• Competitive analysis: Identify and analyze your direct and indirect competitors. Identify their strengths and weaknesses, and describe what differentiates your tattooing services from them. Point out how you have a competitive edge in the market.
• Market trends: Analyse emerging trends in the industry, such as technology disruptions, changes in customer behavior or preferences, etc. Explain how your business will cope with all the trends.
• For instance, custom tattoo designs are gaining popularity in the market, so you might mention if you offer them or plan to. Regulatory environment: List regulations and licensing requirements that may affect your tattoo salons, such as licensing, health and safety regulations, compliance with zoning laws, training and certification, etc.

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your tattoo salon business plan:

• Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
• Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
• Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
• Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

• Custom tattoo designs
• Traditional styles
• Cover-up tattoos
• Flash tattoos, etc.
• Aftercare products: if you provide any aftercare products you provide, such as lotions, antibacterial soaps, ointments, etc.
• Quality measures: This section should explain how you follow hygiene and sanitation protocols and prevent infections.
• This may include using disposable needles, maintaining a clean environment, properly sterilizing equipment, etc.
• Additional products or services: Mention if your tattoo studio offers any additional products or services. For example, some tattoo studios may also sell clothes and jewelry, as well as provide additional services like body piercing and tattoo removal.

In short, this section of your tattoo shop plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

• Unique selling proposition (USP): Define your business’s USPs depending on the market you serve, the equipment you use, and the custom tattooing services you provide. Identifying USPs will help you plan your marketing strategies.
• For example, advanced and safe equipment, creative and talented artists, and personalized experience could be great USPs for a professional tattoo studio.
• Pricing strategy: Describe your pricing strategy—how you plan to price your tattooing services and stay competitive in the local market. Mention your pricing for each tattoo type in this section.
• Marketing strategies: Discuss your marketing strategies to market your services. You may include some of these marketing strategies in your business plan—social media marketing, Google ads, brochures, email marketing, content marketing, and print marketing.
• Sales strategies: Outline the strategies you’ll implement to maximize your sales. Your sales strategies may include partnering with other businesses (E.g., piercing shops.), offering referral programs, etc.
• Customer retention: Describe your customer retention strategies and how you plan to execute them. For instance, introducing loyalty programs, personalized service, providing excellent aftercare services, etc.

Overall, this section of your tattoo parlor business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your tattoo shop, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

• Staffing & training: Mention your business’s staffing requirements, including the number of employees or carers need. Include their qualifications, the training required, and the duties they will perform.
• Operational process: Outline the processes and procedures you will use to run your tattoo shop business. Your operational processes may include appointment scheduling, consultations, designing tattoos, sterilization and safety protocols, tattooing, aftercare, bookkeeping, etc.
• Equipment & machinery: Include the list of equipment and machinery required for a tattoo shop, such as tattoo guns, tattoo needles, gloves, protection equipment, tattoo ink, ultrasonic cleaners, etc.
• Explain how these equipment and machinery help you maintain quality standards and improve the efficiency of your business operations.

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your tattoo shop business’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

• Founder/CEO: Mention the founders and CEO of your tattoo parlor, and describe their roles and responsibilities in successfully running the business.
• Key managers: Introduce your management and key team members, and explain their roles and responsibilities.
• Advisors/consultants: Mentioning advisors or consultants in your business plans adds credibility to your business idea.
• So, if you have any advisors or consultants, include them with their names and brief information consisting of roles and years of experience.

This section should describe the key personnel for your tattooing services, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should provide a summary of your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

• Profit & loss statement: Describe details such as projected revenue, operational costs, and service costs in your projected profit and loss statement. Make sure to include your business’s expected net profit or loss.
• Cash flow statement: The cash flow for the first few years of your operation should be estimated and described in this section. This may include billing invoices, payment receipts, loan payments, and any other cash flow statements.
• Balance sheet: Create a projected balance sheet documenting your tattoo business’s assets, liabilities, and equity.
• Break-even point: Determine and mention your business’s break-even point—the point at which your business costs and revenue will be equal.
• This exercise will help you understand how much revenue you need to generate to sustain or be profitable.
• Financing needs: Calculate costs associated with starting a tattoo shop, and estimate your financing needs and how much capital you need to raise to operate your business. Be specific about your short-term and long-term financing requirements, such as investment capital or loans.

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

• Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
• In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more. These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
• Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the industry, user demographics, and industry trends.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your tattoo studio business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

This sample tattoo shop business plan will provide an idea for writing a successful tattoo shop plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our tattoo shop business plan pdf .

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Essential Business Plan Components

Frequently asked questions, why do you need a tattoo shop business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful tattoo shop. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your tattoo shop.

How to get funding for your tattoo shop?

There are several ways to get funding for your tattoo shop, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

Small Business Administration (SBA) loan

Crowdfunding, angel investors.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your tattoo shop business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and ideas better than you, so we recommend you write your tattoo shop business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your tattoo shop business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any tattoo shop business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software.

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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How to write a business plan for your tattoo shop business.

Starting a tattoo shop business is a great idea because it is a profitable industry and provides customers with a unique and personal service.

Additionally, it is a creative and artistic outlet for entrepreneurs to express themselves and build a successful career.

However, prior to that, you must have a business plan.

A business plan is an important tool for any new project, and it is essential to take the time to write one before starting a tattoo shop business. It will help to map out the goals, strategies, and resources needed to make the business a success.

In short, a thorough business plan will help make sure your tattoo shop business is profitable .

What should you include in the business plan for a tattoo shop business? How can it be effectively planned? Which metrics should be part of the financial analysis? How to build a solid business plan without spending too much time?

Look no further! This article will cover all these questions and give you the answers you need.

Moreover, bear in mind that it is up to you whether you choose to start your business plan from scratch.

You can download our customizable business plan for a tattoo shop business and modify it to meet your specifications.

How to craft an elaborate business plan for a tattoo shop business

Is it necessary to create a business plan for your tattoo shop business.

Yes, you should create a business plan for your tattoo shop business.

Drafting a viable business plan will help to:

• get familiar with the tattoo shop market
• understand what are the new trends on this industry
• find what makes a tattoo shop business competitive
• understand clients' tattoo ideas and design preferences to create unique and meaningful tattoo art
• come up with a great value proposition for your tattoo studio
• examine competitor market share
• find relevant competitive advantages for your tattoo shop business
• find a business model that maximizes revenue and minimizes costs
• define a bulletproof strategy to make the business grow
• identify and manage risks specific to a tattoo shop business, including hygiene protocols, customer satisfaction, and legal compliance

Our team has drafted a business plan for a tattoo shop business that is designed to make it easier for you to achieve all the elements listed.

How to organize a business plan for a tattoo shop business?

A carefully constructed business plan provides a complete package of content, metrics, and financial information. There should be a clear structure, to make easy to read and digest.

When we designed our business plan for a tattoo shop business , we made sure to outline it properly.

There are 5 main sections (Opportunity, Project, Market Research, Strategy and Finances).

1. Market Opportunity

The primary section is titled "Market Opportunity."

This section presents a comprehensive report on the tattoo shop business, including key data and metrics to guide your decision-making process in the tattoo industry.

We regularly update this section for fresh data.

2. Project Presentation

Within the "Project" section, outline your tattoo shop business, describing the tattoo styles offered, talented artists, studio atmosphere, and emphasize the unique value proposition for customers seeking tattoos.

Remember to introduce yourself at the end of this section.

Discuss your artistic skills, your commitment to safety and hygiene, and how you plan to provide exceptional tattoo services to clients. Highlight your portfolio of designs, your customized consultations, and your dedication to creating meaningful and beautiful tattoos that meet the unique preferences and stories of clients through your tattoo shop business.

Our business plan contains text for you. Customize it to fit your concept perfectly.

3. Market Research

Then, we have the "Market Research" section.

This section provides a description of the market segments for your tattoo shop business.

It includes an analysis of other tattoo shops in the area. Your shop's unique tattoo designs and competitive advantages are also highlighted. A customized SWOT analysis is included.

4. Strategy

The "Strategy" section presents a comprehensive 3-year action plan, outlining the initiatives and actions required to make your tattoo shop business a highly profitable venture.

Additionally, there is a marketing strategy for a tattoo shop business, a way to manage risks, and a completed Business Model Canvas included in this section.

5. Finances

Lastly, the section labeled "Finances" is where you can outline the financial plan and data for your project.

How to elaborate the Executive Summary for a tattoo shop business?

The Executive Summary is a brief and condensed overview of the business plan for your tattoo shop business.

Keep it brief, with a maximum of 2 pages, focusing on the important details.

When you show your business plan to an investor, this is the first part they will see. It needs to grab their attention and make them want to read the rest of the plan.

In the Executive Summary of your tattoo shop business, provide answers to these questions: what services does your tattoo shop offer? who is your target audience? are there other tattoo shops in the area? what makes your shop unique? what funding do you require?

How to do the market analysis for a tattoo shop business?

The market study of your tattoo shop business helps you understand external factors such as customer demands for tattoo artistry, competition within the tattoo industry, and emerging trends in body art and tattoo culture.

By conducting a comprehensive market study, a tattoo shop business can understand customer preferences, offer professional tattoo services, optimize pricing strategies, and execute targeted marketing campaigns, ultimately leading to a loyal customer base, increased appointments, and a prominent position in the local tattoo industry.

Here is what you can expect to find in the "Market Research" section of our business plan for a tattoo shop business :

• interesting data points and market insights about tattoo shops, including tattoo design trends, customer demographics, and industry regulations
• a compilation of potential audiences for a tattoo shop business
• the competitor analysis
• the potential competitive advantages for a tattoo shop business

The key points of the business plan for a tattoo shop business

What's the business model of a tattoo shop business, business model of a tattoo shop business.

A tattoo shop business's model revolves around providing professional tattoo services to clients. Revenue is generated through tattoo session fees, potentially offering additional services such as tattoo aftercare products or merchandise.

The business model focuses on employing skilled tattoo artists, maintaining a clean and safe environment, providing personalized consultations, building a portfolio of artistic work, and effective marketing to target tattoo enthusiasts.

Success depends on artist reputation, maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations, fostering positive customer reviews and recommendations, and creating a welcoming and creative tattoo experience for clients.

Business model ≠ Business plan

Keep in mind the difference between "business plan" and "business model."

A business model is a blueprint for how a company operates and makes money.

In a business plan, you outline your business model employing a framework referred to as the Business Model Canvas.

Rest assured, there is a Business Model Canvas (already completed) in our business plan for a tattoo shop business .

How do you identify the market segments of a tattoo shop business?

Market segmentation for your tapas bar establishment involves dividing your potential customers into different groups based on their dining preferences, culinary interests, and demographics.

These categories may include factors such as Spanish cuisine, small plates, wine enthusiasts, or customers seeking specific tapas flavors or regional specialties.

By segmenting your market, you can offer a dining experience and menu that caters to each segment's specific requirements. For example, you might focus on Spanish cuisine and provide a tapas bar experience with a variety of small plates showcasing the flavors and culinary traditions of Spain, offer an extensive wine list and provide wine pairings and recommendations for customers interested in wine and food pairings, specialize in catering to tapas enthusiasts and offer a wide selection of tapas flavors and combinations, or focus on specific tapas flavors or regional specialties such as paella, croquettes, or jamón ibérico to cater to customers' preferences and introduce them to the diverse world of tapas.

Market segmentation allows you to effectively target your marketing efforts, create an inviting tapas bar ambiance, and provide a delightful and enjoyable dining experience that meets the unique needs and preferences of each customer segment.

In the business plan for a tattoo shop business , you will find a detailed market segmentation that gives you insights into your potential customers.

How to conduct a competitor analysis for a tattoo shop business?

Without surprise, you won't be the only tattoo shop business in your city. There will be other artists offering their expertise in creating unique and personalized tattoos.

Include a thorough evaluation of your competitors' strengths and weaknesses in your business plan to gain an edge.

Address their weaknesses (such as inexperienced tattoo artists, inadequate tattoo hygiene practices, or poor customer satisfaction).

Why is it important to address these concerns? Because these weaknesses can impact the client experience at tattoo shops.

By focusing on these areas, you can offer skilled and talented tattoo artists, provide a clean and safe tattooing environment, and deliver personalized and creative tattoo designs, establishing your tattoo shop business as a preferred choice for individuals seeking professional and meaningful tattoos.

It's what we call competitive advantages—strengthening them helps your business stand out from the rest.

Here are some examples of competitive advantages for a tattoo studio: skilled and experienced tattoo artists, adherence to strict safety and hygiene standards, unique tattoo designs.

How to draft a SWOT analysis for a tattoo studio?

A SWOT analysis can help identify potential strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to ensure the success of a tattoo shop business.

As you can guess, there is indeed a completed and editable SWOT matrix in our business plan for a tattoo shop business

The strengths for a tattoo shop business

The "S" in SWOT represents Strengths, which are the project's internal factors that contribute to its success.

For a tattoo shop business, strengths could include having a talented team of artists, a wide selection of designs, a safe and sterile environment, and excellent customer service.

The weaknesses for a tattoo shop business

The "W" stands for Weaknesses, referring to the areas or aspects of the project that need to be addressed.

For a tattoo shop business, potential weaknesses include inadequate training of staff, insufficient marketing, limited customer service, and a lack of industry knowledge.

The opportunities for a tattoo shop business

When we use the "O" in SWOT, we're talking about Opportunities, which are the external prospects or beneficial situations that can enhance the project's outcomes.

In the case of a tattoo shop business, potential opportunities could include offering online consultations, providing tattoo aftercare services, introducing tattoo removal services, and offering body piercing services.

The threats for a tattoo shop business

The "T" in SWOT symbolizes Threats, highlighting the potential negative factors or challenges that the project needs to address.

How to craft a marketing strategy for a tattoo studio?

A marketing strategy is a plan that businesses create to promote their products or services to potential customers.

Implementing a targeted marketing plan will attract individuals seeking professional and artistic tattoo services to your shop.

Art enthusiasts won't visit your tattoo shop business without effective promotion; showcasing the artistic skill, cleanliness, and unique designs of your artists is necessary.

Are you implementing effective marketing strategies for your tattoo shop business? Consider creating a portfolio of unique tattoo designs, collaborating with local tattoo artists for guest spots or joint promotions, and utilizing social media platforms to showcase your artistic skills.

It's okay if you don't have many ideas for your project's marketing strategy – don't panic.

How to build a solid financial plan for a tattoo studio?

A solid business plan must include financial data to provide an accurate assessment of the business's potential success.

As you outline your business plan, you should include revenue projections for your tattoo shop business.

When investors read your business plan, a relevant and credible revenue forecast will contribute to its overall solidity.

Our financial plan for a tattoo shop business is user-friendly, providing automated validations that allow you to rectify any assumptions swiftly. This guarantees the creation of credible projections with ease and assurance.

Naturally, you'll have to prepare an initial budget for your tattoo shop business. Don't forget any expense (we have listed them all in our financial plan !).

The break-even analysis is an essential component of your financial plan, as it provides an indication of whether your tattoo shop business will be profitable or not.

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Tattoo Shop Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Tattoo Shop Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Tattoo Shop business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Tattoo Shops.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Tattoo Shop business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Wild Ink is a startup tattoo shop business located in Sturgis, North Dakota. The business was founded by Damien Harness, a tattoo artist who learned his craft over twenty years ago and has been employed as a tattoo artist by tattoo shop owners since his apprenticeship. During last year, he recognized that the way to build a sustainable business in the manner in which he believed would best benefit both the customer and a business would be to start a tattoo business himself. He spent the past six months recruiting others to join his staff after the launch of the business.

Wild Ink will provide a comprehensive and highly-detailed array of premier tattoo designs and styles from which to choose and the artists will assist customers in designing their own tattoos, if requested. The business utilizes premier inks and conforms to all hygiene requirements in order to provide customers with a stellar tattoo each time, all the time.

Product Offering

The following are the services that Wild Ink will provide:

• 100% guarantee of clean and safe environment, tools and all inking products used
• Customer satisfaction is a primary driver of the company; an unhappy customer receives a refund without any questions asked.
• Unique tattooing experience that includes amenities such as lotions, tattoo balm, wipes and other “care items.”
• Self-expression and personal transformation are encouraged and affirmed
• Exceptional artistry by our highly-experienced tattoo artists guarantees the “look” you want from your tattoo experience
• Serious tattoo enthusiasts may choose from specialty inks and styles
• Cover-ups, black and gray, color tattoos, traditional, and contemporary styles.
• Discount packages for couples and groups who choose to be tattooed at the same appointment

Customer Focus

Wild Ink will focus on all residents-of-age of Sturgis, North Dakota. They will also focus on visitors, particularly those during the yearly Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, where over 500,000 motorcycle riders spent weeks at the Sturgis location. This event creates the largest tattoo audience and customer base for the tattoo artists in Sturgis and the surrounding areas. Wild Ink will also target couples who are celebrating an event, such as a wedding or anniversary. Wild Ink will target event planners and party coordinators to include tattooing services at their next large event. Wild Ink will create tattoos as part of a business “team-building” activity, if called upon for that service, as well.

Management Team

Wild Ink Tattoo Shop will be owned and operated by Damien Harness. He recruited four of his associate tattoo artists to join him in this new venture and he recruited two administrative assistants to join the startup business, as well.

The business was founded by Damien Harness, a tattoo artist who learned his craft over twenty years ago and has been employed as a tattoo artist by tattoo shop owners since his apprenticeship. During last year, he recognized that the way to build a sustainable business in the manner in which he believed would best benefit both the customer and a business would be to start a tattoo business himself. He spent the past six months recruiting others to join his staff after the launch of the business.

Tomas Klinkhofer has been a tattoo artist associate of Damien’s for over ten years. During their years of working side-by-side, they’ve both improved their artistry because of the encouragement and solid advice of the other. Tomas will take on the role of Senior Tattoo Artist in the shop.

Three former tattoo artist associates, John Eisen, Tommy Parisi, and Duane Hofer, will join the Wild Ink Tattoo Shop team. Each has extensive experience working as tattoo artists for a variety of business owners, and each has cultivated a carefully curated cadre of styles and designs they prefer. The collective artistry group will be Tattoo Artists, overseen by Jill Arden, the Administrative Manager for the business.

Success Factors

Wild Ink will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Friendly, knowledgeable, and highly qualified team at Wild Ink Tattoo Shop
• Comprehensive menu of products and services to suit every taste
• Multiple ink platforms, none of which have metal or other chemical or foreign substances embedded in the ink.
• Custom-designed and personal design choices are premium prices; however, these designs consistently receive premium attention at the same time.
• The pricing structure of Wild Ink is the most effective and a handy monthly payment plan places tattoos into the lives of many potential customers as a result.

Financial Highlights

Wild Ink is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its custom tattoo shop. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the print ads and marketing costs. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Office space build-out: $20,000
• Office equipment, supplies, and materials: $10,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $150,000
• Marketing costs: $10,000
• Working capital: $10,000

The following graph outlines the financial projections for Wild Ink.

Company Overview

Who is wild ink.

Wild Ink is a newly established, full-service tattoo shop in Sturgis, North Dakota. Wild Ink will be the most reliable, cost-effective, and totally hygienic tattoo shop for residents in Sturgis and the surrounding communities. Wild Ink will provide a comprehensive menu of tattoo products and services for any customer to utilize. Their full-service approach includes a comprehensive array of tattoo designs, styles and color palettes of ink choices.

  Wild Ink Tattoo Shop will be able to serve residents and visitors during the yearly Sturgis Motorcycle Rally by providing additional tattoo artists and expanding the shop into several pop-up stores throughout Sturgis. The team of professionals are highly qualified and experienced in custom tattoos, designs, styles and ink selections. Wild Ink removes all fears, headaches and concerns of the tattoo customer and ensures all questions are answered while delivering the best customer service.

Wild Ink History

Wild Ink is owned and operated by Damien Harness, a tattoo artist who learned his craft over twenty years ago and has been employed as a tattoo artist by tattoo shop owners since his apprenticeship. During last year, he recognized that the way to build a sustainable business in the manner in which he believed would best benefit both the customer and a business would be to start a tattoo business himself. He spent the past six months recruiting others to join his staff after the launch of the business.

Since incorporation, Wild Ink has achieved the following milestones:

• Registered Wild Ink, LLC to transact business in the state of North Dakota.
• Has a contract in place for a 10,000 tattoo shop and office at one of the buildings directly on the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally parade route.
• Reached out to numerous contacts and clients to move their business to Wild Ink.
• Began recruiting a staff of four tattoo artists and two office personnel to work at Wild Ink.

Wild Ink Services

The following will be the services Wild Ink will provide:

• Discount packages for couples and groups who choose to be tattooed during the same appointment.

Industry Analysis

The tattoo artistry industry is expected to grow over the next five years to over $69,582 million. The growth will be driven by individuals aged 18-40 who are looking for unique, personalized tattoos. The growth will also be driven by a niche market of tattoo enthusiasts seeking specific styles or themes. The growth will be driven by an increase in the size of the tattoo participants and the new varieties of tattoos that will become known through AI or other technological adaptations in the future. The growth will also be driven by an increase in custom designs, cover-ups, black and grey, color tattoos, traditional, and contemporary styles. The growth will also be driven by a steady increase in trends, techniques, and safety protocols for tattoos. Costs will likely be reduced as materials and natural resources for inks become more plentiful as a result of demand.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

Customer Segmentation

Wild Ink will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Of-age residents within the Sturgis regional areas
• Visitors to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally (once yearly)
• Couples who are celebrating special events
• Party planners and event coordinators
• Business-related team building activities

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Wild Ink will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

Ink My Bod 4 Less

Ink My Bod 4 Less is a business concept built by Jim Ness and Turkey Jackson, two young tattoo artists from Beauregard, Georgia and put into business with the concept that tattoos can be “quickly and expertly applied” without long tattoo sessions or inconvenience. Ink My Bod 4 Less is a company that offers quick tattoos in sessions of 30 minutes or less. While customized tattoo designs, styles and special inks are unavailable, the reasonable time spent and the budget prices involved have captured the attention of the 16-25 aged demographic.

Jim Ness and Turkey Jackson believe they have the grounding to expand their business with their unique concept; within five years they now plan to franchise the tattoo business and concept throughout the U.S. and are currently offering the franchise opportunity to select associates. The costs for the franchise are as yet unknown and other details, such as the training of the tattoo artists and the hygienic establishment regulations, have not yet been revealed.

Indian Henna & Tattoo Boutique

Indian Mehndi, or “Henna” tattoo application is an ancient expression of certain rituals and events in a woman’s life. The Indian Henna & Tattoo Boutique located in Sturgis, North Dakota, caters to younger women between the ages of 18 and 35, with exceptions being large ceremonial events, where all women will receive henna tattoos. The art of henna is luxurious, complicated and meaningful in the lore of Indian culture, therefore the henna itself must be pure and applied with the oversight of a religious person.

The Indian Henna & Tattoo boutique was launched in 2020 by Tim and Diane White, two entrepreneurs who believed this ancient art would soon make its way into the mainstream market. Due to the meaning behind the henna application and the very small demographic target audience of Indian residents, the Indican Henna & Tattoo Boutique has not grown since the launch of the business. However, most young women have visited at least once to enjoy the soothing music and artful application of henna to one’s hands.

Striker’s Tattoo World

Striker’s Tattoo World was started in 2021 by Jake Robertson. Jake believed the best way to express oneself was through highly-stylized tattoos and he currently has over 70% of his body covered with secular and religious tattoos. Jake expressed his love for others in the community by offering free tattoo sessions and extended-time appointments, however, Jake’s interest in the company has waned since he began servicing and selling computers to area businesses, and the business has not grown since its inception some months ago. There are two buyers considering the purchase of Striker’s Tattoo World; however, Jake Robertson is holding firm for a better offer down the road. His largest demographic is the women, ages 18-40, who want cute designs, animals and icons that represent themselves.

Competitive Advantage

Wild Ink will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Wild Ink will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Highly-qualified team of skilled employees who are able to provide a comprehensive array of products and service for tattoo clients.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Wild Ink is as follows:

Word of Mouth/Referrals

Wild Ink has built up an extensive list of former clients and contacts over the years by providing exceptional service and premium inks for his clients. Customers will follow him to his new company and help spread the word of Wild Ink.

Social Media Marketing

Social media channels will be extensively used to display the custom tattoos of Wild Ink and to encourage customers who may be hesitant to give it a try with a money-back guarantee. Several designs and styles will be highlighted on social media channels and models will demonstrate in short reels the beauty and configurations that enhance body performance.

Website/SEO Marketing

Wild Ink will fully utilize their website. The website will be well organized, informative, and list all the products and services that Wild Ink provides. The website will also list their contact information and available reservation times so customers do not need to walk in and wait for service. Wild Ink’s website presence will utilize SEO marketing tactics so that anytime someone types in the Google or Bing search engine “Tattoo company” or “Tattoo near me”, Wild Ink will be listed at the top of the search results.

The pricing of Wild Ink will be moderate and on par with competitors so customers feel they receive excellent value when purchasing their services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Wild Ink. Operation Functions:

• Damien Harness will be the Owner and President of the company. He will provide the vision for the company and encourage new client buyers. Damien has spent the past 6 months recruiting the following staff:
• Tomas Klinkhofer will be the Senior Tattoo Artist in the shop and will assist in management of the scheduling.
• John Eisen will join the Wild Ink team as a Tattoo Artist. He will concentrate on specilized inks
• Tommy Parisi will also take on the role of Tattoo Artist, and his focus will be on serving women with unique artwork
• Duane Hofer will be a Tattoo Artist and will focus on standard designs and styles for a more generic look and price point.
• Jill Arden, a former tattoo shop manager, will take on the role of Administrative Manager for the business.

Milestones:

Wild Ink will have the following milestones completed in the next six months.

• 5/1/202X – Finalize contract to lease shop and office space
• 5/15/202X – Finalize personnel contracts for the Wild Ink
• 6/1/202X – Finalize contracts for Wild Ink suppliers
• 6/15/202X – Begin networking at industry events
• 6/22/202X – Begin moving into Wild Ink shop and office
• 7/1/202X – Wild Ink opens its shop and office for business

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Wild Ink are the fees they will charge to customers for their tattoo products and services.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to staff Wild Ink. The expenses will be the payroll cost, rent, utilities, office supplies, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Wild Ink is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its tattoo shop business. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the shop and office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the marketing and association memberships. The breakout of the funding is below:

Key Assumptions

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

• Number of Customers Per Month: 89
• Average Revenue per Month: $66,750
• Office Lease per Year: $100,000

Financial Projections

Income statement.

Balance Sheet

Cash Flow Statement

Tattoo Shop Business Plan FAQs

What is a tattoo shop business plan.

A tattoo shop business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your tattoo shop business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your Tattoo Shop business plan using our Tattoo Shop Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Tattoo Shop Businesses? 

There are a number of different kinds of tattoo shop businesses , some examples include: Retail location tattoo shop, Neighborhood tattoo shop, and Traveling tattoo business.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Tattoo Shop Business Plan?

Tattoo Shop businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start a Tattoo Shop Business?

Starting a tattoo shop business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Tattoo Shop Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed tattoo shop business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast. 

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your tattoo shop business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your tattoo shop business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Tattoo Shop Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your tattoo shop business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your tattoo shop business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations.

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events.

7. Acquire Necessary Tattoo Shop Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your tattoo shop business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation.

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your tattoo shop business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful tattoo shop business:

• How to Start a Tattoo Shop

Tattoo Shop Business Plan Sample

You want to open a tattoo shop, but where do you start?  From finding a location, to hiring artists, to the day to day finances – there’s a lot to cover!  This sample business plan should provide you with insight on what a business plan for a tattoo company should look like.  Take a skim through, and as you’re reading begin generating ideas for your tattoo company.  If you need any help you can reach out for a business plan review or for our professional business plan writing services .

The art of tattooing has evolved from simple body adornment to a powerful form of self-expression. Intention tattoos, in particular, have become increasingly popular as people seek to convey their beliefs or values through their body art. This growing trend has created a high demand for skilled tattoo artists, resulting in a significant increase in tattoo artist pay. With tattoo designs ranging from simple to intricate, tattoo proposal ideas are limited only by one’s imagination. As tattoos continue to gain acceptance in various industries, more talented tattoo artists are taking the leap and starting their own businesses. If you’re a skilled tattoo artist looking to make your mark in the industry, now is the perfect time to do so.

Are you a talented tattoo artist looking to start your own business? The booming tattoo industry presents a golden opportunity to turn your passion into a lucrative career. However, starting a tattoo shop requires careful planning and preparation, just like any other business. Fortunately, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to successfully establish and manage your own tattoo parlor, from creating a solid business plan to navigating legal requirements. Don’t miss out on this chance to turn your dreams into reality!

In the world of retail businesses, tattoo shops are a unique and fascinating addition. These establishments specialize in providing personalized tattoo services that deliver high-quality results. Whether you’re looking for a small independent studio or a larger, well-established tattoo design shop, tattoo shop ideas can come in many different sizes and styles. The possibilities for studio decoration ideas are endless, with some shops choosing a minimalist and industrial aesthetic while others opt for a more colorful and vibrant atmosphere. And with the rise of project tattoo studios, where artists collaborate on complex, multi-session pieces, there’s never been a more exciting time to be a part of this industry. Plus, for clients who can’t make it to a traditional shop, mobile tattoo businesses and parlor studios offer convenience and flexibility.

If you want to learn how to open a private tattoo studio, there are several factors to consider:

Research the industry: Before you create a tattoo studio, it’s important to research the industry thoroughly. You should learn about the different types of tattoos, the equipment needed,  and the tattoo shop set up. You should also research other tattoo shops in your area to see what they offer and how they operate.

Develop a business plan: A business plan is essential for any business, including a tattoo shop. Your business plan should include details such as your target market, your services and prices, your marketing plan, and your financial projections. You can find many tattoo planning templates online to help you create a comprehensive plan.

Secure financing: Starting a tattoo shop can be expensive, so you will likely need to secure financing. This may involve taking out a loan from a bank or finding investors. You should also create a budget to ensure that you have enough money to cover your expenses until your shop becomes profitable.

Obtain licenses and permits: Tattoo shops are heavily regulated, and you will need to obtain licenses and permits to operate legally. You will need to research the licensing requirements in your area and obtain any necessary permits, such as a health permit or a business license.

Set up your shop: Once you have secured financing and obtained the necessary licenses and permits, you can start setting up your shop. You will need to purchase equipment, such as tattoo machines and needles, and set up a sterile workspace. You will also need to create a tattoo shop layout that is both functional and visually appealing. 

Hire staff: When hiring staff for your tattoo shop, it’s essential to find talented tattoo artists who can deliver high-quality work. Additionally, you’ll need a receptionist or manager to handle administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments and managing finances. To ensure smooth communication with your staff, it’s important to have their contact numbers readily available, so customers can easily text or message them.

Market your shop: Marketing is crucial for any business, and a tattoo shop is no exception. You can market your shop through social media, local advertising, and word of mouth. You can also sell your art to tattoo shops to increase your exposure and generate more business.

To run a successful tattoo shop, it’s important to have more than just tattooing skills. Staying updated with the latest developments in the constantly evolving tattoo industry is crucial. To keep up with the latest trends, attending industry events like tattoo conventions or seminars, following industry publications, websites, and social media accounts, and joining professional organizations and associations are effective ways. These methods provide access to new techniques, equipment, products, and resources, as well as opportunities to network and receive mentorship. By staying informed and connected, you can ensure that your tattoo shop business stays competitive and up to date with the latest advancements in the tattoo industry.

1.0 Executive Summary

“Sample Tattoo Shop Inc.” operating as “Sample Tattoo Shop” (the company) was incorporated on August 1, 2021 in the state of Florida by John O’Miley.  Sample Tattoo is based at 100 Allen St. Miami, Florida where customers receive small tattoos and customized tattoos by an experienced team of professional artists.

In recent years the tattoo industry has seen a surge in demand as tattoos become more commonplace in society.  Furthermore, with the rise of social media, more people are conscious of their physical appearance and are looking to express themselves and their individuality.

To meet this demand, Sample Tattoo Shop, led by Owner & Operator John O’Miley  will provide a clean, hygienic and comfortable experience to clientele.  Sample Tattoo will be a leader in providing not only the highest quality tattoos, but an unrivaled tattoo experience.

John O’Miley  brings 8 years of direct experience in custom tattooing.  He has worked at 6 shops across the US, and in doing so has developed an abundance of knowledge in client care and management.  Dean is focused on establishing the company on a commitment to customer-centrism.  By engaging in feedback from each client, the company plans to not only lead, but in fact evolve the tattoo industry standard.

Sample Tattoo Shop Inc. is seeking a $50,280 business loan through the Small Business Administration.   The funds will be used to purchase equipment, furniture and decor for the shop, to develop a state of the art website, and for six months of a marketing budget.

2.0 Business Overview

Sample Tattoo Shop is currently a one-shop studio that provides two overriding styles: small and customized tattoos.  The business is founded by John O’Miley , an experienced and respected tattoo artist in the Miami area.  Over the first year of operation a few artists will be hired to expand options for clients and increase gross revenues. The business will provide both basic and customized designs based on the client’s needs and requirements. Clients include individuals that are new to tattoos and tattoo enthusiasts.

2.1 Industry Overview

The global tattoo industry has an annual revenue of $3 billion per year, and is expected to grow nearly 8% annually. This near 8% increase can be attributed not only to the increasing popularity of tattoos but younger generations choosing expensive customized work instead of less expensive, pre-designed artwork. Once the client has been tattooed, the customer return rate increases substantially.

The tattoo industry has low barriers to entry and high profit margins. After a few years of establishing clientele, most tattoo artists earn at least $100,000 CAD per year.  Most tattoo shops have an average profit margin of 30% after expenses.

2.2 Mission & Vision Statement

Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide the greatest tattoo experience available in the state of Florida.

Vision Statement

Our vision is a tattoo industry where client care becomes just as important as the final result.

2.3 Goals and Objectives

Sample Tattoo Shop’s primary goal is to retain artists who are not only talented at tattooing but also have great personalities. Communication plays a key role in the tattoo industry, and thus an artist must understand what the client wants and deliver it accordingly. Sample Tattoo Shop recognizes that artists with great personalities tend to receive more loyal customers.

2.4 Key Success Factors

Working with talented artists with great personalities: Clients come in search of talented artists because they believe the artist will provide a heightened standard of service. So, it is important to have talented artists. There’s also another factor associated with success. That is Customer Retention. This is possible only when the artist is talented and professional, in other terms having a good personality. People always respect and prefer a person with a good attitude. A talented artist would bring business to the company but a talented artist with a good personality would bring new business and retain the clients which is essential for the growth of the company.

Creating a safe and comfortable environment for clients: It is important to make the client feel safe and comfortable. At Sample Tattoo, all equipment is cleaned and sterilized frequently. The shop plays music according to the client’s preference, and offers Netflix so the client can feel as comfortable as  possible. The more comfortable and connected the client feels, the greater a  chance the client will return for another positive experience.

Having more loyal customers: Sample Tattoo is focused on retaining loyal customers; which act as advocates, thus bringing more business to the company.

2.5 Staffing

John O’Miley  is currently the company’s main tattoo artist. He will be accompanied by another artist for basic tattoo work and a virtual assistant to book sessions and answer questions about tattoo maintenance. By the third year, the company will have the following professionals:

Tattoo Artists (3)

The tattoo artists will be involved in consultation, drawing, stenciling, tattooing and ordering of tattoo supplies.

Virtual Assistant (1)

The receptionist/manager’s work will involve booking, scheduling & rescheduling appointments, bank deposits, daily payroll management, and taking photographs of finished tattoos.

Tattoo Apprentice (3)

Tattoo apprentices will perform the following work: cleaning, setting up/taking down work areas, learning to draw/tattoo, stenciling, running errands for supplies, helping artists with tattooing.

2.6 Management Team   

John O’Miley

Owner & Operator

About John O’Miley

John O’Miley  is a well-spoken, likable, and personable artist with expert knowledge in the body modification industry specializing in custom tattooing. While most tattoo artists cannot draw, talent has always been present, making it easy, fast and efficient to produce an idea on paper or directly to the skin using traditional pencils, pencil crayons, and markers.

“Being able to put oneself in the shoes of the client and understanding even the most basic needs to make them feel welcome and safe is paramount to good business practices and productivity.”

– John O’Miley , Sample Tattoo Shop Inc.

Work Experience

Geronimo Tattoo and Piercing, Miami, Florida

Tattoo Artist

2021 – to present

• Consulted with clients to understand their idea, vision and desires for a tattoo
• Provided clients with a detailed outline of the process before applying the tattoo
• Used safe sterilized techniques and maintained safe and comfortable environment to the clients
• Gave the clients proper home care instructions after applying the tattoo
• Frequently sterilized tools and equipments
• Keeping in touch with the existing clientele
• Gaining knowledge on how to run a business
• Keenly observing and understanding current scenario of the tattoo industry
• Networking with other artists

Mobile Tattooing, Georgia

• Packing light (took a big business and shrunk it down to fit inside one tattoo case for easier transportation and travelling by air)
• During this time money was tight and I didn’t take on many tattoos. Raising my son was most important because he had Slight Torticollis which I needed to correct. He has a shortening of the muscle in his neck which I needed to physically stretch out several times a day to correct his neck. This process took many months.

Black Tattoo and Piercing, Georgia

Head Artist – 2016

• Achieved high customer satisfaction by doing quality work and creative tattoo work
• Identified key issues of the business and fixed it
• Increased the revenue of the studio and brought many new clients
• Held meetings with the team to improve the business
• Focused on developing a good work culture in the studio
• Responsible for hiring new artists as clientele increased (15 requests per hour for my service)
• Took responsibility of finance and paid the artists
• Dealt with the head of health department overseeing the body modification industry
• Did spore testing and delivered spore tests to labs
• Health board compliance and resolving issues by following recommendation by the health inspector
• Learned sales funnel with regards to converting conversations into deposits for appointment booking
• Built close relationships with clients by making myself reachable and personable
• Delegating tasks to artists
• Teaching client aftercare by sharing stories of past experiences where things went wrong and directing them to not make the same mistakes

Mobile tattoo artist, Manitoba

• Travelled to far places to provide a service to the client
• Responsibly ordered supplies without getting help from the shop
• Coordinated and maintained relationships with suppliers
• Started teaching one apprentice

Twisted Ink, Manitoba

Professional Tattoo Artist

• Worked on designing and applying bigger tattoos (sleeves, back pieces, etc)
• Responsible for conducting contests to promote the shop
• Complexity of tattoos were more gratifying
• Passed Georgia Health body modification competency test and certified as a body modification technician with permit to work
• Maintained a hygienic and neat work environment
• Responsible for setting up/taking down of work areas
• Worked closely with the team of tattoo professionals
• Handled Tattoo appointment booking process, Cash outs/payouts, Pay split agreements
• Learned how to deal with people experiencing shock and loss of consciousness
• Learned how to create a safe environment and culture

Skills/Training

• Computer and website development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Ethereum EVM, React, JSON, python, #C, XCODE, Linux, MAC OS, Microsoft, HTML5, 3D, etc.)
• Audio engineering (routing, mixing, processing, side chaining, compression, mastering, limiting, filtering, distortion, programming synths, setting up plug-ins, stabilization of music production software environment, Ableton live, FLStudio, etc.)
• Art apps (paint, photoshop, procreate)
• Website building apps (wix, shopify)

General Education

Mount Park College 2015

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3.0 Products & Services

Sample Tattoo will be involved only in tattooing where the artists will perform ordinary and customized tattoos based on the client’s needs and requirements. The pricing is based on a per hour basis. The pricing for tattoo service is provided below:

Consultation

$250 deposit (non-refundable)

Customized Tattoos

$180.00/hour + Tax

Small Tattoos

$100.00 / 30 min + Tax

$45.00/15mins + Tax (after first hour)

The deposit will be paid back after the last follow-up and photography.

4.0 Operations

The company is located at 100 Allen, Miami, Florida. The standard business hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m Monday – Saturday. Clients will schedule appointments with our virtual assistant and pay the deposit amount on our website.

4.1 Equipment

The company will use a variety of equipment including:

• (1 rotary, 2 coils, 1 pen) including many different needle cartridges
• tube tips, for different tattoo effects (sizes: 3rl, 5rl, 9rl, 11rl, 7rs, and 9ft)
• digital power supply and analogs
• two types of cords (RCA, Clip)
• 2 ultra-thin foot pedals.
• small tools to fix/replace parts
• Spare parts (coil springs, contacts, sprocket)

Artists are allowed to bring their own equipment provided they follow all standard safety and health processes.

4.2 Inventory

Stocking up inventory is important in the tattoo industry. Sample Tattoo Shop will have all the necessary items in inventory such as needles, and cleaning materials.

5.0 Market Overview

The tattoo business has low startup costs and above average profit margins. There is an 8% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for tattoo studios.  With the increase in people getting tattooed, the industry is flourishing in the Canadian market.

5.1 Market Trends

During the covid pandemic in 2020, all industries, including tattoo studios took a hit. Since the tattoo industry involves frequent interactions with the customer, tattoo studios too had to close down which resulted in a 9.5% revenue decline from the previous years. But currently, the industry is starting to rebound as many prospective customers are making frequent enquiries to have work completed.

The tattoo industry has grown quickly over the past years which is currently valued at $3 billion per year. The growth rate of this industry is on an upward trend with more people accepting tattoos in society. Even Canada’s current Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau has a tattoo on his upper left arm. The industry is expected to grow continuously as more people are coming forward to have a tattoo. 38% of the Canadian population have at least one tattoo on their body and this is expected to increase over the next few years.

5.2 Competition

Liquid Amber

Established in 2001 and located at Powell Street, Miami. Liquid Amber is a female owned and operated studio. They charge $120-$200 per hour. The charges vary from artist to artist.

Gastown Tattoo Parlour

It was established in 2011 and is located at West Cordova, Miami. The minimum rate is $120 per hour and the base rate of the business is $200 per hour.

Black Medicine Tattoo

It was established in 2015 and is located on E Place Street. Black work tattooing is their specialty and the minimum charge is $100 and it varies from one artist to another.

5.3 Competitive Advantage

Quality Tattoos: The biggest advantage Sample Tattoo Shop will have is that it will be known for its Quality tattoos.

Customer Service: Sample Tattoo Shop will provide an excellent service to its clients. The studio will have music, gaming systems, televisions to watch movies or shows on Netflix or cable. Wi-Fi passwords will be given to the client so that they won’t have to worry about their data usage. Music will be played based on the client’s preference.

5.4 Risk Analysis

Health and Safety

The major issue the tattoo industry faces is the risk of health and safety. Due to unhealthy practices like improper sterilization, cleanliness, people have been affected by infections.

• At Sample Tattoo, the client’s health and welfare are taken quite seriously
• Equipment is wrapped using a variety of disposable plastic wrap products supplied by tattoo suppliers such as pen bags for tattoo pens and tube grips, cord sleeve bags to protect cords from contamination, machine bags for use as machine contamination barrier, sharps container to discard needles, razors, galvinize to sanitize equipment and furniture after every use, plastic wrap for covering furniture, armrest and lamp grip, tape to secure plastic barriers to equipment, and furniture.
• All machines have spare parts and tools nearby to maintain good working order. Machines are inexpensive and easy to fix and or upgrade. In an emergency, there are Tattoo suppliers nearby which carry everything a tattoo shop would need to stay operational.
• Garbage cans have a step lever that opens the lid. Garbage is emptied regularly. All surfaces have barriers that are purchased in bulk and disposed of after each session.
• Ink is poured into clean ink cups only and handled by clean gloves, tongue depressors are used to scoop out Vaseline so as not to contaminate the whole jar.
• Paper towels are manually pulled from a clean roll with clean gloves and stacked in the set-up area which is covered by a dental bib that helps protect the desk or tray from contamination.
• Gloves are changed in between breaks and hands washed before and after taking gloves off every time.
• Floors are swept and mopped daily.
• Face masks are worn all the time. Needles, tube grips, and needle cartridges are changed every 4 hours (to maintain sharpness during full-day tattoos only). This ensures great color packing and saturation as well as less pain and irritation for the client’s skin. Otherwise, all needles, tube grips, and needle cartridges are discarded into the sharps bin after every client.
• Nothing is reused. Surgical green soap and water solution mix are used to wipe tattoos at all times during the procedure with the positive effect of reducing the chances of infections caused by airborne dust contamination.

Clients cancelling appointments: There are instances where the client would cancel the appointment and the time allotted for the artist goes to waste, which in turn is a loss to the business.

To mitigate this, clients will be required to pay a deposit of $100 at the time of making an appointment. The client needs to go through a follow up process where the tattoo will be examined if it is healed and a photograph of the finished work will be taken. If the client doesn’t come for a touch up and follow up session, they will be charged from the deposit made.

Have Questions? Looking To Get Started?

6.0 sales & marketing plan.

Sample Tattoo intends to maintain frequent marketing campaigns online that will ensure maximum visibility to the target group. Some of the strategies planned are:

• Develop an online presence by having a website, showcase the designs and the portfolio
• Interviews with the client and tattoo artist about their experience and passion for tattooing
• Running Social Media contests for free tattoos, gifts certificates

Sample Tattoo will use digital channels to target the desired customer. John O’Miley  will register the company details and contact information in the online portals available so that the potential clients will be aware of the brand and reach out with ease. The company will have a website, social media pages to feature the artist’s portfolio, the company’s address & contact details.

6.1 Target Customer

Our target customers can be divided into 3 groups..

• 18-30 yrs. – This audience is often brand new to tattoos and is coming in for the first time.
• 30-40 yrs. – Often tattoo enthusiasts who already have multiple tattoos on them. They often get tattooed for sentimental value.
• 40+ yrs. – This audience is a mix of people who have never received a tattoo before, and tattoo enthusiasts.

The age group below 18 yrs. would require consent from their parents. The prospective clients will be ready to spend approximately $150 to $300 for each tattoo.

In order to run at maximum efficiency, Sample Tattoo will serve all these target customer groups. The business will advertise its basic designs and the customized design work they are capable of. The shop will be appropriate for both individuals brand new to tattoos and tattoo enthusiasts, with entertaining music playing and products available for sale.

6.2 Key Channels

Sample Tattoo will use a digital marketing strategy to reach the target audience.  These channels will include:

Company Website: The website will feature details about the company, its services, address, contact details, and artists’ portfolio.

Social Media: The company will focus on Instagram & Facebook and will post pictures of finished tattoo work. The company will also run social media contests to create more awareness about the Company and its services

Google Ads: Google Ads will play a primary role in reaching the target audience.  By geo targeting the Miami area, and appearing for relevant keywords, Sample Tattoo can take the front stage in the Miami tattoo market.

6.3 SWOT Analysis

7.0 financial plan.

7.1 Capital Requirements  

7.2 income statements – year 1  .

7.3 Cash Flow Statement  

7.4 Balance Sheet

How can we help you?

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Tattoo Studio

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Open a Tattoo Studio: Cost & Profit Potential

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on April 20, 2022 Updated on July 23, 2024

Investment range

$9,050 - $19,100

Revenue potential

$104,000 -- $195,000 p.a.

Time to build

3 – 6 months

Profit potential

$62,000 - $78,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Starting your tattoo studio? Here are the most vital considerations:

• Define your services — Decide on the types of tattoo services you will offer, such as custom designs, traditional tattoos, portrait tattoos, cover-ups, and touch-ups. 
• Tattoo artist licenses — Ensure all tattoo artists have the required licenses and certifications to practice legally in your area.
• Choosing a location — Select a high-traffic location with good visibility, such as near shopping centers, nightlife districts, or college campuses.
• Tattoo equipment — Invest in high-quality tattoo machines , needles, ink, power supplies, and other essential equipment. Ensure you have backup equipment to avoid downtime.
• Hiring staff — Hire skilled and experienced tattoo artists, receptionists, and possibly piercers. 
• Register your business — A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple. Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the best LLC services on the market.
• Legal business aspects — Register for taxes, open a business bank account, and get an EIN .
• Website and online presence — Create a professional website showcasing your artists, services, pricing, and contact information. Offer online booking options and maintain active social media profiles to engage with potential clients.
• Sterilization and hygiene supplies — Stock up on sterilization supplies such as autoclaves, disinfectants, gloves, and barrier film. Maintain strict hygiene standards to ensure client safety.

Interactive Checklist at your fingertips—begin your tattoo studio today!

You May Also Wonder:

How profitable is a tattoo studio?

Tattoo studios can be very profitable, with high margins. The key is to be a great tattoo artist so that the word will spread, and you’ll get referrals and repeat business.

What is the process for hiring talented and skilled tattoo artists for my studio?

Start by advertising the job opening through various channels, such as online job boards, social media, or industry-specific platforms. Review portfolios and assess the artistic style, technical proficiency, and overall quality of their work.

How long does it take to learn tattooing?

The time it takes to learn tattooing can vary depending on factors such as the individual’s dedication, learning style, mentorship availability, and the complexity of the tattooing techniques. Generally, it takes several years of consistent practice, apprenticeship, and ongoing learning to become a proficient and skilled tattoo artist.

Can tattooing be self taught?

While it is technically possible to self-teach tattooing, it is strongly advised against. Tattooing is a complex and potentially risky practice that requires a deep understanding of hygiene, equipment sterilization, skin anatomy, and tattooing techniques. Proper training through an apprenticeship under an experienced tattoo artist or attending a reputable tattoo school is crucial to ensure the safety of both the artist and the client.

How can I attract clients and promote my tattoo studio effectively?

Develop a strong online presence through a professional website and active social media accounts to showcase your artists’ portfolios and engage with potential clients. Encourage client reviews and testimonials to build trust and credibility. Collaborate with local businesses, artists, or influencers in related communities to cross-promote each other’s work. 

What tattoo ink is best?

The choice of tattoo ink depends on personal preference, the desired tattoo style, and the client’s skin type. High-quality tattoo inks that are known for their safety and longevity are typically the preferred choice. Some reputable tattoo ink brands include Eternal Ink, Intenze Tattoo Ink, and World Famous Tattoo Ink. 

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Starting a tattoo studio has pros and cons to consider before deciding if it’s right for you.

• Hot Market – Demand for tattoos is growing steadily
• Good Money – Make hundreds per tattoo
• Creativity – Show off your art skills
• Strict Regulations – Need licensing and health compliance
• Crowded Market – Compete with many other tattoo studios

Tattoo industry trends

Industry size and growth.

• Industry size and past growth – The US tattoo artists industry is worth $1.4 billion in 2022 after expanding nearly 30% since 2020.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/tattoo-artists-united-states/ )) 
• Growth forecast – The US tattoo artists industry is projected to grow 5.4% in 2022. 
• Number of businesses –  In 2022, 31,196 tattoo artists businesses are operating in the US.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/tattoo-artists-united-states/ )) 
• Number of people employed – In 2022, the US tattoo artists industry employs 41,128 people.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/employment/tattoo-artists-united-states/ ))

Trends and challenges

Trends in the tattoo industry include:

• Millennials are most likely to get tattoos, with nearly half having at least one. 
• Trends in tattoo designs in 2022 lean toward the nostalgic and abstract.

Challenges in the tattoo industry include:

• Liability is always a concern, as mistakes or injuries can lead to lawsuits.
• The tattoo industry has drawn negative press from allegations of racism and sexual abuse, which may drive some away from getting a tattoo. 

Demand hotspots

• Most popular states – The most popular states for tattoo artists are New York, New Hampshire, and Indiana.(( https://www.zippia.com/tattoo-artist-jobs/best-states/#north-dakota ))  
• Least popular states – The least popular states for tattoo artists are Colorado, Montana, and Florida.

What kind of people work in tattoos?

• Gender –  25% of tattoo artists are female, while 71.3% are male.(( https://www.zippia.com/tattoo-artist-jobs/demographics/ ))
• Average level of education – The average tattoo artist is high school educated.
• Average age -The average tattoo artist in the US is 41.2 years old.

How much does it cost to start a tattoo business?

Startup costs for a tattoo business range from $9,000 to $19,000. The largest costs are studio space rental and preparation, and tattoo equipment.

Each state has its own training and licensing requirements for tattoo artists or body artists. You can take courses through IBMS for a few hundred dollars if they are an approved education provider in your state. If you’re new to tattooing, you might want to consider a tattoo apprenticeship before starting your own studio. 

You’ll need a handful of items to successfully launch your tattoo business, including: 

• Chairs and Beds
• Sanitary kit
• Tattoo machine
• Needles and needles sterilizer
• Chemical for skin sterilization
• Chemical for anesthetic
• Tattoo scanner and design computer

How much can you earn from a tattoo business?

While tattoo prices vary, the average is about $250. Your profit margin after rent and overhead should be about 60%.

In your first year or two, you might do eight tattoos a week, bringing in $104,000 in annual revenue. This would mean $62,000 in profit, assuming that 60% margin. As you begin to get referrals and repeat business, sales could climb to fifteen tattoos a week. At this stage, you’d hire staff, reducing your profit margin to around 40%. With annual revenue of $195,000, you’d make a healthy profit of $78,000.

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry for a tattoo business. Your biggest challenges will be:

• Meeting training and licensing requirements
• Standing out from other tattoo studios

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a tattoo studio, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Research tattoo studios in your area to examine their services, price points, and customer reviews. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a tattoo studio that offers tattoo design, or a cosmetic tattooing shop. 

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as small body art or floral tattoos.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine your services

In addition to tattoos, you could also offer body piercing and sell jewelry and other items. 

How much should you charge for tattoos?

Tattoo prices will depend on the size and complexity of the tattoo, and how long it takes. The average price of a tattoo is $250. After the costs of rent and overhead, you should aim for a profit margin of about 60%.

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will probably tend to be younger, particularly millennials. You can find them on sites like TikTok and Instagram.

Where? Choose your tattoo studio location

Finding the right location for your tattoo studio is crucial to attract and retain clients. Look for a spot with high visibility and easy accessibility, preferably in a commercial area or close to other complementary businesses.

Ensure that the studio is visually appealing, functional, and equipped with high-quality equipment and materials.

By carefully selecting the perfect spot for your tattoo studio, you can establish a thriving business that provides clients with exceptional artistry and a unique experience. You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Tattoo Studio Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “tattoo artist” or “body art studio”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “Eternal Ink Studios” over “Watercolor Ink Tattoo Studio”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Tattoo Studio Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: Summarize your tattoo studio’s vision, highlighting its commitment to artistry, safety, and creating a unique experience for each client.
• Business Overview: Describe your studio’s focus on providing professional tattoo services, including custom designs, cover-ups, and touch-ups.
• Product and Services: Detail the various tattooing services offered, along with ancillary services like aftercare products or consultation sessions.
• Market Analysis: Assess the demand for tattoo services in your area, identifying target demographics and current industry trends.
• Competitive Analysis: Compare your studio to local competitors, emphasizing your unique strengths such as artist expertise, studio ambiance, or specialized tattoo styles.
• Sales and Marketing: Outline your strategy for attracting clients, using methods like social media presence, portfolio showcases, or community engagement.
• Management Team: Highlight the experience and qualifications of your team, focusing on their artistic skills and professionalism in customer service and studio management.
• Operations Plan: Describe the day-to-day operations of the studio, including appointment scheduling, health and safety protocols, and client management.
• Financial Plan: Provide an overview of financial aspects, including startup costs, pricing strategy, and projected revenue.
• Appendix: Include supplementary documents such as artist portfolios, health and safety certifications, or detailed market research to support your business plan.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you’re planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to tattoo studios. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your tattoo studio will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have. 

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you’re completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans: This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans: The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants: A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding: Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a tattoo business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept. 

Step 8: Apply for Tattoo Studio Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a tattoo business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments. Each state has different training and licensing rules for tattoo artists. Check with your state for requirements. 

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your tattoo business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks. 

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as DaySmart , Vagaro , or TattooPro , to manage your appointments, customers, payments, and reports. 

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial. 

Develop your website

Developing a website for a tattoo studio is a vital step in showcasing your artistic work and reaching potential clients. You have two primary options: using a website builder or hiring a professional web developer. Website builders like Wix, Squarespace, or WordPress are user-friendly and cost-effective, making them ideal for those on a tight budget or with limited technical skills. On the other hand, hiring a professional developer allows for a more tailored and unique website.

Regardless of the method chosen, the website should be visually appealing and easy to navigate, with a strong emphasis on high-quality images of your work. Crucially, it should include clear call-to-actions (CTAs) such as booking appointments, contacting the studio, or following social media links, to engage visitors and convert their interest into action.

Starting a tattoo business requires a strategic approach to marketing to attract and retain clients. Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Optimize for Local SEO: Ensure your website is optimized for local search engine optimization (SEO). Use keywords relevant to your location and services, like “tattoo artist in [City Name]” or “best tattoos in [Area].” This helps your studio show up in search results when potential clients are looking for tattoo services in your area.
• Get Listed in Local Directories: Register your studio on local business directories and Google My Business. This increases your visibility in local search results and provides potential clients with essential information like your address, hours, and contact details.
• Showcase Your Portfolio: Utilize your website and social media platforms to showcase your best work. Regularly update your portfolio to keep it fresh and engaging.
• Engage on Social Media: Maintain an active presence on social media platforms, especially those with a strong visual focus like Instagram and Pinterest. Share your work, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and client testimonials to engage with your audience.
• Encourage Word-of-Mouth and Referrals: Word-of-mouth is particularly powerful in the tattoo industry. Encourage your satisfied clients to refer friends and family, and consider offering a referral discount.
• Host Events or Open Houses: Organize events or open houses in your studio to attract new clients. Use these events to showcase your artistry and the unique experience your studio offers.
• Collect and Showcase Reviews: Encourage your clients to leave reviews online. Positive reviews can significantly influence potential clients’ decisions.
• Engage in Local Community Activities: Participate in local events, festivals, or charity activities to raise your studio’s profile in the community.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that set it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your tattoo studio meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your tattoo business could be: 

• Professional body art to make your statement
• No-regret tattoos to add color to your life
• Precise and stunning – tattoos that speak for you

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a tattoo business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in tattoos for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in tattoos. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a tattoo business include:

• Body Artists – do tattoos and piercings
• General Manager – scheduling, ordering, accounting
• Marketing Lead – SEO strategies, social media

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Tattoo Studio – Start Making Money!

The tattoo industry is booming! Millennials are leading the way, with nearly half of them sporting at least one tattoo. If you have artistic skills, you can grab a share of the market with your own studio. It will take a passion for your craft and hard work, but you can make your dream come true with a small investment that could deliver financial rewards and the gratification of sharing your art with the world. 

You’ve got the business knowledge under your belt now, so you’re ready to find a great space and open your successful tattoo studio!

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Tattoo Studio Name
• Create a Tattoo Studio Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Tattoo Studio Business Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Tattoo Studio - Start Making Money!

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How to open a tattoo shop in 2024: Step-by-step guide

Are you an experienced tattoo artist looking to start your own tattoo studio? Or maybe you're an entrepreneur who can see the potential in the tattoo industry and wants to get in on the action. 

Taking into account that the tattoo industry has not only successfully survived the hard COVID times but is expected to grow from $1.89 billion in 2022 to $3.55 billion by 2029 , opening a tattoo shop may be a great opportunity to create a business that will be both financially rewarding and personally fulfilling. 

So, whether you're a seasoned tattoo artist or a newcomer to the industry, this “How to Open a Tattoo Shop” guide will provide you with valuable information and practical advice to help you turn your dream into a reality. 

Let's get started!

How to start a tattoo shop step by step

Starting a tattoo shop can be an exciting venture, but it requires careful planning, compliance with local laws and regulations, and a solid business strategy. If you are pondering how to open a tattoo shop, below are general steps to consider; however, these may vary depending on your location, so you should conduct additional research and consult professionals as needed.

1. Get a clear framework: begin with research

Researching before opening a tattoo shop is crucial. It may not seem like the most exciting thing to do, especially if you're an experienced tattoo artist who knows the industry. However, when working towards opening a tattoo shop, it's important to take the time to discover what customers want and what the competition is doing. This approach will help you get a clear understanding of how to build a thriving business with a proper unique selling proposition that attracts and retains clients.

And here’s what you’ll need to do for that:

• Identify your target market. Think about who you want to attract to your shop and what they like. For example, if you want to attract a younger crowd, you might focus on creating tattoo designs that reflect the latest trends in pop culture; if you're targeting an older demographic, you might offer traditional tattoo styles that have been popular for decades.
• Get to know your audience. Once you've identified your target market, it's important to find out what they really want. You can ask for feedback through surveys, social media research, or by talking to them directly.
• Look at your competition. See what other tattoo shops are doing and what sets them apart. This will help you find your own unique selling point and create a business that stands out.

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2. Find the missing blocks: develop your tattoo shop business plan 

Once you've done your research on starting a tattoo shop, the next step is to develop a comprehensive business plan for your tattoo studio.

It doesn't have to be a huge document, but a business plan should be a roadmap for your tattoo business that will outline your goals, strategies, and financial projections to help you make informed decisions.

And here's what you should include in your business plan when considering opening a tattoo shop:

• Executive summary — an overview of your tattoo business, including your mission statement, target market, and financial projections.
• Company info — a description of your tattoo studio, including its location, services, and unique selling proposition.
• Market analysis — information about your target market, competition, and industry trends, including customer demographics, market size, and growth potential.
• Marketing strategy — your marketing and promotion plan, including advertising, social media, and networking strategies.
• Financial projections — a detailed financial plan that covers your startup costs, revenue projections, and cash flow analysis.
• Operations plan — the day-to-day management of your tattoo studio, including staff, equipment, and inventory management.

3. Execution: register your business 

Once you have a solid business plan in place for your tattoo shop, the next step is to register your business. 

The specific steps will depend on your location and legal structure, but here is the general procedure to follow:

• Choose a legal structure. This will determine how you register your business and how you pay taxes. You can typically choose from several options, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or LLC.
• General business license
• Seller’s permit
• Zoning permit
• Health department permits
• Register your business name. Choose a name that's unique, memorable, and easy to spell. Then, register it with the appropriate government agency in your area (the Secretary of State's office, the County Clerk's office, or the Department of Revenue).
• Register your business. Depending on your exact location and in the process of figuring out how to open tattoo shop, you will need to register your tattoo studio with the proper government business registration office or department. In some states, it may be called the Secretary of State's office, while in others, it may be called the Department of State.
• Obtain your employer identification number (EIN). After registration, you will receive a nine-digit employer identification number. It is given by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for tax purposes and filing returns. 

4. Manage your expenses: set up a business bank account

Managing your expenses is essential to making your tattoo shop a successful business, no matter what legal structure it operates under, but the requirements for opening a business bank account may vary. 

Thus, when opening a tattoo shop as a sole proprietor, it's not necessary to have a separate bank account for your tattoo studio, but it's still recommended to keep your personal and business accounts separate. For partnerships, LLCs, and corporations, it's mandatory to have a business bank account.

And here’s the process for getting one: 

• Choose a bank. Research and compare different banks to find one that offers the services and features that are best suited for your needs, such as low fees, online and mobile banking, merchant services, business loans, and local branch access.
• Gather the necessary documents. Depending on your legal structure, you'll need to provide documentation that proves your business entity. This may include a partnership agreement, articles of organization, articles of incorporation, or a business license. Be sure to check with your bank to determine what specific documents they require.
• Apply for a business account. Contact your chosen bank to apply for a business account online or in person at a local branch. You'll need to provide your personal and business information, as well as the necessary documentation to prove your business entity. 
• Deposit funds. Once your business account is approved, you'll need to make an initial deposit to activate it. This can be done by transferring funds from another account or depositing cash or a check at a local branch. 

5. Location: find the right place to set up your tattoo shop

Now that your tattoo business is fully registered and you're on the path of figuring out how to open a tattoo shop successfully, it's time to find the perfect location. This will help you attract new clients, keep them coming back for more services, and ultimately increase your profits. But where do you start?

Here are some things to consider when searching for the right location for your tattoo salon:

• Demographics. Find a spot that your target customers can easily get to, like a place where lots of young people or tattoo fans hang out.
• Visibility. Choose a location with high foot traffic, such as a storefront on a busy street.
• Zoning. Ensure that the location you choose is zoned for commercial use and allows tattoo shops to operate in that area.
• Competition. Look at what other tattoo artists are in the area and decide if there's enough demand for another one.
• Costs. Think about your budget and make sure you can afford things like rent, utilities, and taxes.
• Layout and size. Check that the space is big enough for your tattoo parlor, equipment, and tattoo artists.
• Safety and security. Make sure the area is well-lit, easy to get to, and has a low crime rate.

Now that you've found several good location options for your tattoo shop, it's time to dig deeper and evaluate each one based on what matters most to you. Consider things like how much it will cost, how easy it is to get to, and whether the area feels safe and secure.

Once you've narrowed down your options, it's a good idea to visit each location in person to get a feel for the space and the surrounding area. This will help you make a final decision and choose the location that is best for your tattoo parlor.

6. Fill your shop with equipment & supplies 

Once you've secured a location for your tattoo shop, it's time to start filling it with the necessary supplies and equipment. 

Some key items you'll need to purchase include:

• Tattoo machines. This is the most important tool you'll need, and you should invest in a high-quality machine that's designed for professional use.
• Needles. You'll need a variety of needles in different sizes to create different types of tattoos.
• Ink. Choose high-quality tattoo ink that is safe for use on the skin and comes in a wide range of colors.
• Power supply. A reliable power supply is essential to ensure that your tattoo machine runs smoothly.
• Furniture. You'll need chairs or beds for your clients to sit on or lie down on during their tattoo session, as well as a worktable for you to use.
• Sterilization equipment. This includes an autoclave for sterilizing your equipment, as well as disposable gloves, needles, and other supplies.
• Miscellaneous. This may include paper towels, razors, stencil paper, and other items that are necessary for running your tattoo shop.

Looking for suppliers and waiting for their replies can be quite time-consuming, but there's a way to simplify your search and get easy access to top-quality products. By registering with Suplery, you can connect to a vast database of beauty and tattoo suppliers in the US and quickly find the products you need for your tattoo studio, and order them online in just a few clicks. 

7. Set up an inventory management system

After you've ordered all the equipment and supplies you need to start tattoo shop, it's essential to have a system in place for managing your inventory to ensure that you have everything you need to provide your clients with the best service without any misunderstandings.

Here, it includes: 

• Keeping track of your stock levels.
• Determining the minimum quantity of each item you need to keep in stock to avoid running out.
• Reordering supplies when you reach your par level.
• Monitoring expiration dates.

This is where Suplery also becomes the go-to solution. It’s an online platform designed specifically for tattoo and beauty businesses that can help you manage your inventory easily and efficiently. 

Here are some of the ways it can help you:

• Track all of your inventory and stock balances in real-time.
• Prevent product shortages and excess stock.
• Receive timely notifications when stock levels are low or when it's time to reorder.
• Order products from the best beauty brands and suppliers.
• Automate orders based on your usage history, existing stock, and safety stock amount.
• Receive insights about your product usage and ordering.

8. Secure your tattoo studio: get business insurance 

After you've found the perfect location and stocked up on equipment and supplies, the next step is to protect your tattoo business with insurance. Tattoo shops face a variety of risks, such as liability for injuries or infections, damage to property or equipment, and even theft. Having the right insurance coverage can give you peace of mind and protect your business in case of unforeseen events.

And here are the steps to perform:  

• General liability insurance is used to cover costs associated with lawsuits or claims made against your tattoo shop, such as property damage or bodily injury.
• Professional liability insurance, also known as errors and omissions insurance, can help you cover costs associated with claims of negligence or mistakes made by you or your employees in providing tattoo services.
• Property insurance is used for costs associated with damage to your tattoo shop, such as from a fire, theft, or other unexpected events.
• Equipment insurance is used to cover costs associated with damage or loss of equipment used in your tattoo shop, such as tattoo machines or other specialized equipment.
• Workers' compensation insurance can help you cover costs associated with injuries or illnesses that occur to your employees while on the job.
• Research and compare different insurance providers to find one that offers coverage that meets your needs.
• Contact insurance providers to get quotes. Be sure to ask about any discounts that may be available for small businesses in the tattoo industry.
• Review the policies you're considering to ensure that they provide the coverage you need and that you understand the terms and conditions, such as coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions.
• Purchase the policy that fits you best!

9. Create your team: hire a skilled team for your tattoo shop 

As you start building your tattoo parlor business and preparing for your tattoo shop open, one of the crucial steps is to hire a skilled team of artists and professionals who can turn your ideas into reality. The hiring needs of your business may vary depending on its size and concept, but here are some positions you may need to fill:

• Professionally trained tattoo artists
• Receptionist 
• Shop manager 
• Marketing or PR expert 
• Professional accountant
• Cleaning manager

And here’s what your hiring process will look like:

• Determine your staffing needs. Decide how many tattoo artists, receptionists, and other staff members you need based on the size of your shop, your budget, and your business plan.
• Create job descriptions. For each of the positions, create a description that includes both professional requirements and personal qualities you will need in your business. 
• Advertise the job openings. Use a variety of channels to advertise your job openings, including social media, industry job boards, and local classified ads. 
• Screen applicants. Review resumes and portfolios, conduct phone or video interviews, and check references to narrow down your list of candidates.
• Conduct in-person interviews. Meet with top candidates in person to get a better sense of their skills, experience, and personality. This is also a chance for them to see your shop and ask questions.
• Check qualifications. Confirm that candidates have the necessary qualifications and licenses to work in your state or region.
• Train and onboard new hires. Once you've hired your team, provide them with thorough training and onboard them into your shop's culture and processes.

10. Spread the word: market your business and build up a customer base

Congratulations on setting up your tattoo business and assembling a team of skilled artists and professionals! Now, it's time to let the world know about your business and attract a loyal customer base. 

And here’s how to approach it right:

• Create a professional website and social media accounts. This will give potential customers a place to learn about your services, view your portfolio, and get in touch with you.
• Offer promotions or discounts to attract new customers. This can include things like a free consultation, a discounted tattoo session for new clients, or a referral program.
• Attend local events and festivals. There you can showcase your tattoo parlor and meet potential customers.
• Collaborate with other local businesses. Collaborations with other companies, such as tattoo-friendly clothing stores or beauty salons, will help you cross-promote your services and get new customers at a low cost.
• Utilize online directories and review sites. Place your company info and reviews on relevant web platforms to increase your visibility and credibility.
• Consider paid advertising options. Placing paid ads, such as Facebook and Instagram ads or print ads in local publications, may help you build a constant and predictable stream of clients.

How much does it cost to open a tattoo shop

Opening a tattoo shop involves various expenses, with costs fluctuating based on location, size, and your overall vision for the shop. Generally, here are three main cost categories you should anticipate:

• Rent and Utilities : Depending on the area, rental costs can range from $1,000 to $5,000 per month. Utilities such as water, electricity, and internet will also contribute to your monthly overhead.
• Equipment and Supplies : Initial investment in quality tattoo machines, chairs, needles, inks, and sterilization equipment is crucial. This setup could range from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the quality and quantity of equipment and supplies purchased.
• Licenses, Permits, and Insurance : Securing the necessary business license, health department permit, and professional liability insurance are mandatory. These costs can vary but expect to spend approximately $2,000 to $5,000 initially for all the necessary legal and protection measures.

These are broad estimates, and actual costs might vary; detailed research and planning based on your locality and business plan are vital.

Final thoughts on how to open a private tattoo shop

Starting a tattoo parlor may be a highly-rewarding venture, but it requires careful planning and preparation. 

To build a successful business and understand how to open a tattoo shop, you should conduct thorough research, develop a comprehensive business plan, and execute each step precisely: obtain the required permits, register your business, open a bank account, find a location, get the necessary equipment and supplies, set up the inventory management system, obtain insurance, and hire a team.

With the right tools and mindset, step by step, you can create a thriving tattoo business and build a loyal customer base. So take the leap, stay focused, and never stop learning and growing. Good luck on your journey!

Frequently asked questions

Is opening a tattoo shop a good idea in 2024?

Figures suggest that the global tattoo market is projected to grow from $1.89 billion in 2022 to $3.55 billion by 2029. So, opening a tattoo shop might be a good idea as the industry is expected to grow, and new trends are coming. 

How to open a tattoo shop?

Opening a tattoo shop requires the following steps:

• Conduct industry and target audience research. 
• Develop a business plan.
• Register your tattoo shop. 
• Open a bank account.
• Choose a proper location.
• Buy equipment and supplies.
• Purchase insurance.
• Hire the team.
• Create and implement an effective marketing strategy.

How much does it cost to start a tattoo shop?

Opening a tattoo shop can normally cost between $20,000 and $25,000. However, it can exceed based on your size, services, setup, and marketing costs. On the other hand, costs for opening a small home-based tattoo studio may range between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the equipment and supplies you need to purchase.

How to legally tattoo from home

It's crucial to keep in mind that tattooing from home might not be allowed in some places. Therefore, it's important to check your local laws and regulations before you start. But, if you can legally tattoo from home in your area, here are some steps you will need to take:

• Research the permits or licenses you may need.
• Set up a clean and safe workspace.
• Invest in quality equipment.
• Follow proper sanitation and sterilization procedures.
• Obtain liability insurance.
• Advertise and market your business.

What license do i need to open a tattoo shop?

To open a tattoo shop, you need a state tattoo license, local business license, and health department permit. Requirements vary by location, so check local and state regulations.

What do you need to open a tattoo shop?

To open a tattoo shop, you need inked ambition, an artful team, regulatory blessings, a skin-stained dream location, needle-sharp equipment, and a business plan etched with creativity and precision.

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Last updated on Jun 20, 2023

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Opening a tattoo shop: 10 steps to launch your business

Key takeaways

• To open a tattoo studio, you must register your business in your state and meet local licensing requirements
• Claiming your online profiles and creating a marketing plan can help you build an engaged following 
• An expense plan is key to ensure you have enough capital to operate 

Once a sign of rebellion, tattoos are now part of the mainstream. Three in 10 Americans have at least one tattoo—including 40% of people under 35—and the numbers are increasing every year. Plus, the average American doesn’t stop at one: People with tattoos get an average of four in their lifetime. 

If you’re thinking of opening a tattoo shop, now is the perfect time to enter the industry and help create the permanent body art millions are seeking. Follow these important steps to bring your business idea to life.

1. Choose your business name

Your brand name can give you a competitive advantage in your local market. Strong business names clue shoppers in on what you do and what makes your brand experience different. 

First, identify your approach to the art form and business. Do you specialize in any kinds of tattoos, such as fine line or minimalist designs? Will you offer other services, such as piercings? If so, you can include these elements in your name. For example, a shop that specializes in delicate, fine-lined artwork could be named “The Razor’s Edge.”

Start brainstorming business names in a written list. Then, make sure your top choice is legally available using your state government’s name search tool—like the Florida Division of Corporations’ fictitious name search —and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s database before proceeding. If your top choice is taken, go down the list until you find one that’s available.

2. Select your business structure

Your business structure affects how your tattoo shop is taxed, what annual paperwork you file, and your level of personal liability when your business owes cash to lenders (or is sued). There are different legal structures you can choose from—including Limited Liability Companies (LLCs ), S corporations, and C corporations—and there’s no right or wrong answer:

• S corporations 
• C corporations

However, it’s generally not recommended to operate a tattoo shop as a sole proprietorship or partnership. Though these business entities can be easier to launch since there’s no required paperwork or costs in most states, they leave you with more personal liability in an industry that has its own inherent risks. Since your team is regularly working with clients using needles and permanent ink, there’s always potential for injury, blood-borne illnesses due to poor sanitation, and other issues with unhappy clients. If your business is sued or defaults on a loan, your personal assets could be at risk.

3. Find your business location

Next, you’ll need to find a location for your tattoo parlor. As you tour potential spaces for your tattoo business, consider the cost of any renovations and how much foot traffic the area gets.

Tattoo shop owners must also be mindful of local zoning requirements. Tattoo parlors in certain cities—like Myrtle Beach, FL and Ashland, KY —are sometimes barred from operating within a set distance from schools, churches, and parks. 

In other cases, a city might restrict the number of tattoo parlors that can operate in its limits. Historically, cities like North Chicago have regulated tattoo parlors with the same zoning requirements as adult entertainment businesses , citing health, safety, and community development concerns. 

4. Register your business

Registering your business with state and local governments is a key step that allows you to legally run your tattoo shop under your chosen business name. To begin, use the Small Business Association’s tool to identify the agency that regulates business formations in your state. Your state agency can provide the paperwork you need to file in person or online.

If you’re registering your business as an LLC or corporation, most states require you to have a physical address before you start the registration process. Due to zoning requirements, this typically can’t be your home address or a coworking space address. As a result, you’ll likely need to secure your tattoo shop before registering.

Many states also require tattoo shops to be licensed by their local health department. To get your business license, you might need to complete a bloodborne pathogen course and first aid training and provide proof of Hepatitis B vaccination. A few states, like Iowa and Kansas, also require tattoo artists and shop owners to have a high school diploma or GED.

Some tattoo shop owners—including those who plan to have employees or operate as a corporation or partnership—will also need to register with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to obtain an employer identification number (EIN), which is a type of tax identification. But even when it’s not legally required, getting an EIN can be a good idea, since they’re often requested by banks, investors, and lenders.

5. Set up your online profiles

Once you have a legal claim over your business name, establish your online presence to build brand awareness, engage with prospective clients, and promote your soft launch before your grand opening. This way, your new shop won’t be empty on your first day in business.

In addition to creating a website, create accounts on sites where your target market searches for local tattoo shops. For example, you can create a social media profile to showcase your tattoo portfolio or claim your Yelp Business Page up to a month ahead of your opening date. On Yelp, you can add information about your grand opening in the “From the Business” section of your page.

Once you’ve claimed your online profiles, spruce them up to attract more people to your small business. Add your business information—including your phone number, address, and store hours—along with images of your logo, shop, and tattoo designs. This is especially important for tattoo shops because most customers will search for examples of your work to see if you’re the right fit for them—whether that’s specific color work, custom designs, or portraits. Be sure to also include detailed photo captions with credit to the specific artists. 

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6. Open a business bank account

Keeping your personal life and business separate is always a good idea, especially when it comes to finances. Doing so makes your revenue and expenses easier to track, which can help you:

• Maintain accurate records: Monitor your business revenue and expenses without any risk of confusion so your financial statements can accurately reflect your business growth (or losses).
• Easily prepare your taxes: When you’re sorting out your documents during tax season and finding deductions to claim , your finances will be more neatly sorted and reduce the headache of filing with or without an accountant.
• Access more financing: Many lenders and creditors require you to have a business bank account to access business loans.
• Show off your professionalism: Clients will be able to make a check out to your business instead of writing your first and last name.

Separating your personal and business accounts is also a requirement for most business structures, with the exception of sole proprietors and partnerships.

Once you have your federal EIN, open a business bank account with a bank of your choice. Business checking and savings accounts are great places to start. You can always consider starting a cash management account, which offers higher interest than savings accounts, later on. 

When you’re first opening a tattoo shop, you can minimize risk by choosing free or low-fee accounts that offer basic services like money transfers. If you want to apply for funding from your bank or gain more financial guidance for your business, choose a traditional brick-and-mortar bank instead of a digital-only one to establish personal relationships. 

7. Create an expense plan

Preparing for the costs of opening a tattoo shop can help you maintain cash flow in your first year—one of the biggest challenges for new businesses . Start by listing all the startup expenses associated with launching your business, such as:

• Furniture, like reclining chairs and full-length mirrors
• Tattoo equipment, including tattoo machines, supply carts, needles, and ink
• Office equipment, such as a phone, printer, and credit card reader
• Autoclaves for sterilization
• Point-of-sale (POS) equipment and software

Next, outline the recurring costs of running your shop:

• Rent and utilities
• Commission for tattooists
• Salaries or wages for other tattoo shop employees
• Your business liability insurance policy
• Tattoo supplies like needles and ink
• Hygiene and cleaning supplies, like plastic gloves and cling film for chairs
• Appointment/booking software

Estimating your expenses will help you create a pricing strategy for your services so you can maintain a healthy cash flow. Plus, you’ll know how much capital you need to launch. If you need outside financing—such as credit cards, business loans, or lines of credit—a budget will help you start the application process early on.

8. Create a marketing plan

A solid marketing strategy will help you grow your small business . Brainstorm ways you can reach your target market, such as using social media to share your tattoo art and sales promotions or starting a referral marketing program to drive word of mouth . Check out the websites and social media profiles of other businesses like yours to see what they’re doing successfully (and what you might do differently to stand out).

Once you have a few ideas, compile them in a marketing plan , which will help you define your mission statement, audience, and objectives.

Make sure to include a digital advertising strategy in your marketing plan to drive faster growth. For instance, Yelp Ads , social media ads, and search engine ads can help you reach your target audience and attract clients within your budget.

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9. Plan out the client experience

A strong client management system will help you create a seamless customer experience, from booking to payment. The first step is deciding how to take appointments. You might use an online booking system, accept walk-ins, or offer phone bookings—or any combination of the three. If tattoo artists rent space in your shop, you might have clients go directly through them, via social media or a website.

You should also consider what waivers and consent forms you’ll need to provide when clients arrive.

Of course, the customer experience doesn’t end there. Consider creating guidelines for post-appointment client management as well—following up with clients to show you care. For example, you can send an email to see if clients have further questions about tattoo care or share images of their completed body art online and tag them with permission. You should also make responding to reviews on platforms like Yelp part of your process.

10. Write your tattoo shop business plan

To set yourself up for long-term success, create a five-year tattoo parlor business plan that compiles all the strategies you outlined above—and more. This document will help you and your team work toward unified goals and strategies. And if you need outside funding to get started, a strong business plan will help lenders decide if your tattoo business is worth the investment.

An effective business plan typically includes these core sections:

• Executive summary: A compelling, one-page intro to your tattoo shop and why it’ll succeed. (Write this last so you can gather highlights from the rest of your plan and avoid inconsistencies.)
• Business description : An in-depth description of what you do, who you serve, and what gives your business a competitive advantage.
• Business and management structure: Introducing your business structure, owner-operators, and management team, including your leadership team’s experience and artists’ licenses and certifications.
• Products and services: A complete list of what you sell, including pricing and descriptions of each service.
• Market analysis: Thorough research on market and industry trends and how you differ from the competition.
• Marketing plan: An overview of your primary marketing channels and the metrics you’ll track to ensure you meet your goals, including the strategies outlined in your tattoo shop marketing plan. 
• Financial plan: Include your expense plan with start-up and monthly operational costs, as well as realistic (and positive) financial projections for the next five years.

Opening a tattoo shop is easier when you have a plan

Opening a tattoo shop can be a lucrative opportunity—and a great way to create long-lasting relationships with people who value your skill and artistry. Many tattoo artists have used their platforms to connect with customers and make the industry a more welcoming and diverse place.  

Once you complete this process, you can begin building a client base and recognizable brand to help deliver on your small business goals. To generate excitement for your opening day and beyond, consider these low-cost ideas to promote your business .

The information above is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice and may not be suitable for your circumstances. Unless stated otherwise, references to third-party links, services, or products do not constitute endorsement by Yelp.

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Tattoo Business Plan – The Ultimate Guide With Example

Writing a convincing tattoo business plan requires careful consideration and a well-structured approach. Here’s a detailed guide on how to create a compelling tattoo business plan:

1. Executive Summary For Tattoo Business Plan

Begin with a concise overview of your tattoo business. Highlight your business name, location, mission statement, and the essence of your unique selling proposition.

Touch on key points like the types of tattoos you’ll specialize in, your target market, and your commitment to artistic excellence and customer satisfaction.

2. Business Description

Provide an in-depth explanation of your tattoo business.

Describe the services you’ll offer, the tattoo styles you specialize in, and your approach to creating customized and meaningful designs.

Explain your studio’s ambiance, setting it apart as a creative haven for clients seeking personalized body art.

3. Market Analysis For Your Tattoo Studio

Conduct thorough research to understand the tattoo industry and your local market.

Highlight industry trends, growth rates, and customer demographics. Identify the demand for different tattoo styles and sizes, and explore any gaps or opportunities you can capitalize on.

4. Target Market

Define your ideal clients. Outline the characteristics, preferences, and needs of your target audience.

Please explain how you’ll tailor your services to cater to their diverse tastes and motivations for getting tattoos.

5. Competitive Analysis In The Tattoo Industry

Analyze your competitors – both local tattoo studios and online platforms.

Identify their strengths and weaknesses.

Highlight how your studio will differentiate itself by offering unique tattoo styles, exceptional hygiene practices, customer-centric services, and an inviting studio environment.

6. Marketing and Sales

Detail your marketing strategies to attract clients to your tattoo business.

Discuss your online presence through a professional website and active social media engagement.

Outline promotional events, referral programs, and collaborations with local businesses to increase visibility.

Describe how you’ll use content marketing, such as blogs and videos, to educate and engage your audience.

7. Operations

Explain the day-to-day operations of your tattoo studio.

You have to describe how you’ll maintain a clean and safe environment, adhere to industry regulations, and ensure artists follow proper sterilization protocols.

D etail the tattooing process, from initial consultations to design creation and aftercare instructions.

8. Financial Projections

Provide a clear financial forecast for your tattoo business.

Please, for the financial projections, you need to provide detailed startup costs, including equipment, studio setup, licenses, and initial marketing expenses.

Project your revenue for the first few years, factoring in the growth trajectory of your client base.

Present estimated gross margins, net profit margins, and the expected break-even point.

9. Funding For Your Tattoo Business

Discuss how you plan to finance your tattoo business. Outline your initial investment, which could come from personal savings, small business loans, or potential investors.

Also, specify how the funding will be allocated to different aspects of your business setup and operation.

10. Future Growth

Highlight your long-term vision for the tattoo business.

Describe your plans for expanding the studio, introducing new services or merchandise, collaborating with other artists, or hosting tattoo-related events.

In addition to that, show how your tattoo studio will adapt to evolving industry trends and customer preferences.

11. Appendix

Include any supporting materials, such as artist portfolios, studio designs, legal documents, permits, licenses, and additional market research.

These materials can add credibility to your business plan.

Tips for Writing a Convincing Tattoo Business Plan

Below are some of the expert tips for writing an outstanding business plan for your tattoo enterprise:

• Be Specific:  Provide concrete details about your tattoo studio, including the types of tattoos you’ll offer, the artists on your team, and the equipment you’ll use.
• Show Passion:  Convey your enthusiasm for tattoo artistry and your commitment to creating a unique and welcoming experience for clients.
• Research Thoroughly:  Back up your claims with accurate market research, industry statistics, and local demographic information.
• Realistic Financial Projections:  Ensure your financial projections are based on realistic assumptions and industry benchmarks.
• Use Visuals:  Incorporate visuals, such as images of tattoo designs, artist portfolios, and studio layouts, to make your business plan engaging.
• Edit and Proofread:  Make sure your business plan is well-organized, free of grammatical errors, and easy to understand.

Remember, your tattoo business plan is not only a roadmap for your own success but also a tool to attract potential investors, lenders, and partners who share your vision for a thriving tattoo studio.

Now that you know how to design your tattoo business plan, let us show you an example by using a hypothetical business name: Tattoo Haven Studio .

A Plan For Your Tattoo Business

In a world where self-expression takes many forms, the art of tattooing stands as a remarkable testament to individuality.

Each inked stroke, every intricate design, and every chosen location on the body narrates a story, an emotion, or a memory.

Tattoos have evolved from being counterculture symbols to becoming mainstream avenues for artistic expression.

It’s within this vibrant tapestry that Tattoo Haven Studio finds its place, as both a guardian of tradition and a pioneer of creativity.

At Tattoo Haven Studio, we understand that a tattoo is more than just ink on skin – it’s an embodiment of a person’s identity, a wearable masterpiece, and an intimate connection to one’s past, present, and future.

This business plan delves into the core of our endeavor, detailing how we aim to bring a new dimension to the tattoo industry.

From the initial spark of inspiration to the intricate execution of designs, and from fostering a welcoming atmosphere to pushing the boundaries of artistry, every facet of Tattoo Haven Studio is explored here.

In the pages that follow, we’ll unfold our vision for a premium tattoo establishment that not only caters to the rising demand for body art but also elevates it to a realm where creativity knows no bounds.

Our studio will be more than a place to get a tattoo; it will be a haven where stories come alive on living canvases, where artists collaborate with clients to craft meaningful, personalized designs that resonate deep within.

Join us as we journey through the intricacies of our business plan, which outlines our mission, market analysis, competitive strategies, and financial projections.

This plan encapsulates our commitment to excellence, safety, and innovation, ensuring that Tattoo Haven Studio becomes a beacon for those seeking a unique and unforgettable tattoo experience.

As the world changes and art continues to evolve, tattoos remain timeless imprints of personal stories, beliefs, and passions.

Tattoo Haven Studio is poised to be at the forefront of this transformative journey, shaping the way people perceive and experience tattooing.

We invite you to read on and explore how we intend to turn this vision into a vivid and vibrant reality.

Business Plan: Tattoo Haven Studio

Using Tattoo Haven Studio as our brand name, here is an example of a template for your tattoo studio:

1. Executive Summary

Tattoo Haven Studio is a premium tattoo establishment that aims to provide high-quality tattoo artistry in a safe, welcoming, and creative environment.

Located in a prime urban location, our studio will offer a wide range of tattoo styles, including traditional, neo-traditional, realism, geometric, and custom designs.

Our focus on artistic excellence, hygiene, and customer satisfaction will set us apart in the competitive tattoo industry.

Tattoo Haven Studio will operate as a boutique tattoo parlor, offering personalized tattoo experiences for clients seeking unique and meaningful body art.

Our skilled and experienced tattoo artists will collaborate closely with clients to design and execute custom tattoos that reflect their individual style, preferences, and stories.

We will maintain a portfolio of diverse tattoo artists with expertise in various styles to cater to a broad customer base.

3. Market Analysis

The tattoo industry has witnessed significant growth and mainstream acceptance in recent years.

People of all ages and backgrounds are seeking tattoos as a means of self-expression, making the market more lucrative than ever.

The increasing demand for customized, high-quality tattoos presents an opportunity for Tattoo Haven Studio to capture a share of this growing market.

Our target market includes the following:

• Young adults aged 18 to 35 who are looking for unique ways to express their identities.
• Professionals seeking discreet and tasteful tattoos that can be easily concealed.
• Tattoo enthusiasts looking to add to their existing collections.
• Tourists interested in commemorating their visit with local-themed tattoos.

5. Competitive Analysis

While there are several tattoo parlors in our area, Tattoo Haven Studio will differentiate itself through:

• Exceptional artistic talent and diverse styles offered by our experienced tattoo artists.
• Emphasis on cleanliness, hygiene, and safety, complying with industry standards.
• Strong customer focus with personalized consultations and aftercare guidance.
• Inviting and aesthetically pleasing studio environment that enhances the overall experience.
• Develop a professional and user-friendly website showcasing artist portfolios, studio ambiance, and online booking options.
• Leverage social media platforms to share tattoo art, engage with potential clients, and create buzz.
• Offer promotional events, loyalty programs, and referral incentives to attract and retain customers.
• Collaborate with local businesses for cross-promotions and sponsor community events.
• Secure a prime location with good visibility and accessibility.
• Invest in top-quality tattoo equipment, ensuring safety, precision, and comfort.
• Create a comfortable and inspiring studio ambiance that encourages creativity.
• Implement strict hygiene and sterilization protocols to maintain a safe environment.
• Initial investment: $150,000 (studio setup, equipment, licenses, marketing, and working capital).
• Projected revenue for Year 1: $250,000.
• Projected revenue for Year 2: $400,000.
• Gross margin: 60%.
• Break-even point: 8-10 months.
• Profitability forecast: Net profit margin of 15-20% by Year 2.

The initial investment will be funded through personal savings and a combination of small business loans and potential angel investors who share our passion for the tattoo artistry.

• Expand the studio space to accommodate more artists and clients.
• Launch an online store selling tattoo-related merchandise.
• Collaborate with local art galleries to host tattoo-themed art exhibitions.
• Explore partnerships with skincare and aftercare product brands to offer holistic tattoo care solutions.

Tattoo Haven Studio is committed to creating an exceptional tattoo experience that combines artistry, professionalism, and customer satisfaction.

With a focus on innovation, creativity, and hygiene, we aim to become a sought-after destination for individuals seeking meaningful and unique body art.

That is all you need to know about writing a convincing tattoo business plan.

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How to Start a Profitable Tattoo Studio Business [11 Steps]

By Nick Cotter Updated Feb 02, 2024

Business Steps:

1. perform market analysis., 2. draft a tattoo studio business plan., 3. develop a tattoo studio brand., 4. formalize your business registration., 5. acquire necessary licenses and permits for tattoo studio., 6. open a business bank account and secure funding as needed., 7. set pricing for tattoo studio services., 8. acquire tattoo studio equipment and supplies., 9. obtain business insurance for tattoo studio, if required., 10. begin marketing your tattoo studio services., 11. expand your tattoo studio business..

When considering the launch of a tattoo studio, a comprehensive market analysis is a crucial first step. It provides valuable insights into the industry trends, customer demographics, and competitive landscape, enabling a strategic approach to establishing your business. Follow these guidelines to thoroughly understand the market:

• Research industry trends: Look into current and emerging trends in the tattoo industry, such as popular styles, technological advancements, and shifts in consumer preferences.
• Analyze target demographics: Identify potential customers by age, gender, income level, and lifestyle to tailor your services accordingly.
• Study competitors: Examine other tattoo studios in your area, evaluating their strengths, weaknesses, services offered, pricing, and market positioning.
• Assess demand: Determine the overall demand for tattoo services in your desired location through surveys, focus groups, or by analyzing the performance of existing studios.
• Understand regulations: Familiarize yourself with local health and safety regulations, licensing requirements, and zoning laws that may impact your business operation.
• Identify suppliers: Research potential suppliers for equipment and inks to ensure quality and cost-effectiveness.

Are tattoo studio businesses profitable?

Yes, tattoo studio businesses can be highly profitable for the owners. Depending on the size of the studio and the demand for services, a tattoo studio business can generate thousands of dollars in profits each year. Additionally, the ongoing costs of running a tattoo studio are generally low, allowing owner to retain more of their profits.

Creating a well-structured business plan is a crucial step in launching a successful tattoo studio. It serves as a roadmap that outlines your business goals, strategies, and how you plan to achieve them. Below are key points to include in your tattoo studio business plan:

• Executive Summary: Briefly describe your tattoo studio’s mission, the services you will offer, and your target market.
• Company Description: Provide detailed information about your studio, including the location, the vibe or theme, and why it’s unique.
• Market Analysis: Research and detail the tattoo industry trends, your target demographic, and your competition.
• Organization and Management: Outline the structure of your business, including the ownership and the qualifications of your team.
• Services: List the types of tattoos and related services you will offer and explain what sets them apart.
• Marketing and Sales Strategy: Describe how you plan to attract and retain customers, including advertising, promotions, and sales tactics.
• Funding Request: If you’re seeking financing, specify the amount needed and how it will be used.
• Financial Projections: Provide financial forecasts to give investors an idea of your studio’s potential profitability.
• Appendix: Include any additional documents or materials that support your business plan and provide further detail.

How does a tattoo studio business make money?

A tattoo studio business makes money by charging customers for the art services they provide. As with any brick-and-mortar business, increased customer traffic equates to a boost in profits. The target audience for a tattoo studio is usually the 18-35 age group that is looking to express themselves and their interests through body art. Those interested in starting a successful spice business should focus on communicating their products' benefits to the food and restaurant industries, as well as specialty stores catering to those respective segments.

Developing a brand for your tattoo studio is a critical step that sets the tone for your business and distinguishes you in the market. Your brand is the identity that resonates with your clientele and encapsulates the values, aesthetics, and reputation of your studio. Here are some key points to guide you in creating a compelling brand for your tattoo studio:

• Define Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Determine what makes your studio stand out. Is it a particular style, exceptional service, or a renowned artist? Highlight this in your branding.
• Choose Your Brand Aesthetics: Select a color scheme, typography, and logo that align with the vibe of your studio. Whether it's edgy, classic, or modern, ensure your visual elements reflect the atmosphere you want to create.
• Create a Memorable Name: Your studio's name should be unique, easy to remember, and give an indication of the experience clients can expect.
• Develop a Brand Voice: The tone and language you use in your marketing materials should match your brand personality, whether it's professional, friendly, or irreverent.
• Consistency is Key: Use your brand elements consistently across all platforms, from your storefront to your social media profiles and marketing materials, to build recognition and trust.

How to come up with a name for your tattoo studio business?

When coming up with a name for your tattoo studio business, creativity and thoughtfulness are key. Think about a name that will be memorable and that expresses the core values of your studio. It should also be unique enough to help it stand out in the marketplace. To ensure that it is something customers will recognize, consider a name that has significance to you or speaks to how you want your business to be perceived. Get creative and come up with something original that stands out from the crowd!

Formalizing your business registration is crucial to establishing your tattoo studio as a legal entity, ensuring compliance with regulations, and protecting your personal assets. This step involves several important actions, such as choosing a business structure and registering with the appropriate government agencies. Follow these guidelines to ensure your tattoo studio is properly registered:

• Decide on a business structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation) that best fits your needs and offers the right balance of legal protection and tax benefits.
• Register your business name with your local or state government to ensure it's unique and not already in use. This may also involve filing a 'Doing Business As' (DBA) if you're operating under a name different from your legal name.
• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes, especially if you plan to hire employees.
• Apply for the necessary business licenses and permits specific to tattoo studios in your area, which may include a health department permit, a business operation license, and a tattoo artist license.
• Check with local zoning laws to ensure your chosen location is zoned for a tattoo studio.
• Register for state taxes, including sales tax and unemployment insurance tax, if applicable.

Resources to help get you started:

Explore top resources designed specifically for tattoo studio entrepreneurs, featuring insights on market trends, operational best practices, and strategic business growth advice:

• Tattoo Artist Magazine: Offers in-depth articles on industry trends, artist features, and business strategies for tattoo professionals. Website: http://tattooartistmagazine.com
• InkSoft Blog: Provides valuable advice on improving studio operations, marketing strategies, and sales tactics for tattoo businesses. Website: https://www.inksoft.com/blog
• The World Tattoo Industry Trade Association: Offers resources, industry reports, and legislative updates to support tattoo studio owners in navigating the business landscape. Website: https://www.wtita.org/
• Tattoo Business Academy: Features online courses and resources aimed at helping tattoo business owners enhance their operations and customer service skills. Website: https://tattoobusinessacademy.com
• Booksy Blog: Offers insights on leveraging technology and tools to manage and grow a tattoo studio business efficiently. Website: https://booksy.com/biz/en-us/blog

When starting a tattoo studio, it's crucial to navigate the regulatory landscape to ensure you're operating legally. Acquiring the necessary licenses and permits can be a complex process, but it's essential for the legitimacy and safety of your business. Here's a guide to help you with Step 5 of your journey:

• Research Local Regulations: Every city and state has its own set of rules for tattoo businesses. Contact your local health department or city licensing division to understand the specific requirements in your area.
• Health Department Permit: Most localities require a health department permit to ensure your studio meets health and safety standards. This may involve an inspection of your premises.
• Business License: Apply for a general business license through your city or county. This legal document allows you to operate your tattoo studio as a business entity.
• Artist Licenses: Individual tattoo artists, including yourself, may need to be licensed. This often involves passing a bloodborne pathogens training and a test on hygiene practices.
• Building Permits: If you're renovating your space or building a new studio, you'll need the appropriate building permits before you can start construction.
• Signage Permits: Some local governments require a permit to put up business signs. Check the size and location restrictions for signage in your area.

Remember to keep all your licenses and permits up to date to avoid any legal or operational issues.

What licenses and permits are needed to run a tattoo studio business?

Your business needs a range of licenses and permits depending on your location. These can include general business licenses, health permits or certifications, zoning permits, fire safety permits, and possibly a license specific to tattooing. It is important to check your local regulations and laws to ensure that you are fully compliant.

When starting a tattoo studio, it's essential to keep your business finances separate from your personal ones, and to secure the necessary funding to cover your initial costs. Here's how to go about opening a business bank account and obtaining the funding you might need:

• Research banks and credit unions that offer business banking services, comparing fees, minimum balance requirements, and additional perks.
• Prepare the required documents to open a business bank account, such as your business license, employer identification number (EIN), and ownership agreements.
• Choose an account that aligns with your business needs, whether it's a basic checking account, a savings account for your reserves, or one with merchant services for payment processing.
• Explore different funding options, including small business loans, lines of credit, investors, or crowdfunding platforms, to find the best fit for your startup costs and financial situation.
• Develop a solid business plan to present to potential lenders or investors, showcasing the viability and profitability of your tattoo studio.
• Consider applying for business credit cards to manage smaller expenses and build your studio's credit history, ensuring you use them responsibly.

Establishing the right pricing for your tattoo studio is crucial to attract customers while ensuring profitability. It's important to take into account your costs, the skill level of your artists, and the local market rates. Here are some guidelines to help you set your prices:

• Calculate Operating Costs: Determine all your operating expenses including rent, utilities, supplies, and artist salaries. This will help establish a baseline for your service prices.
• Assess Skill Levels: Charge higher rates for experienced tattoo artists with advanced skills and a strong portfolio. Newer artists or apprentices might command lower prices.
• Analyze Market Rates: Research what other tattoo studios in your area are charging to ensure your prices are competitive. Adjust based on your studio's unique offerings.
• Price by Size and Complexity: Develop a pricing scale based on the size and complexity of the tattoos. Simple designs should be less expensive than intricate, time-consuming pieces.
• Consider Custom Work: Custom designs typically command higher prices. Factor in the time spent on design consultations and revisions.
• Offer Flat Rates or Hourly Pricing: Decide whether to charge a flat rate for each tattoo or an hourly rate, considering the pros and cons of each approach.
• Provide Clear Quotations: Always provide customers with clear, upfront pricing to avoid misunderstandings and ensure transparency.

What does it cost to start a tattoo studio business?

Initiating a tattoo studio business can involve substantial financial commitment, the scale of which is significantly influenced by factors such as geographical location, market dynamics, and operational expenses, among others. Nonetheless, our extensive research and hands-on experience have revealed an estimated starting cost of approximately $13500 for launching such an business. Please note, not all of these costs may be necessary to start up your tattoo studio business.

Starting a tattoo studio requires careful selection of equipment and supplies to ensure safety, comfort, and the ability to produce high-quality tattoos. You'll need a variety of items to cater to different styles and preferences, as well as to maintain a hygienic workspace. Here's a list of essential equipment and supplies to get your tattoo studio up and running:

• Tattoo Machines: Purchase both coil and rotary machines for lining and shading.
• Power Supplies and Foot Switches: Reliable power sources are crucial for your tattoo machines.
• Needles and Tubes: Stock up on a variety of needle sizes and tube types, including disposable options.
• Ink: Invest in a wide range of high-quality tattoo inks in various colors.
• Autoclave: This is essential for sterilizing reusable equipment.
• Disinfectants and Cleaners: Maintain cleanliness with medical-grade disinfectants and surface cleaners.
• Gloves and Protective Gear: Keep a good supply of disposable gloves, aprons, and barrier films to prevent cross-contamination.
• Practice Skins: For honing skills without practicing on real skin.
• Stencil Products: Needed for transferring designs onto skin.
• Aftercare Products: Offer aftercare products to clients to ensure proper healing.
• Furniture: Invest in comfortable and adjustable tattoo chairs and workstations.
• Lighting: Adequate lighting is essential for detailed work.

List of software, tools and supplies needed to start a tattoo studio business:

• Professional Tattoo Kit: $100 - $500
• Tattoo Machine: $100 - $400
• Ink: $10 - $30 per bottle
• Disposable Razors and Gloves: $5 - $20
• Power Supply Unit: $60 - $200
• Numbing Creams: $20 -$50 per bottle/tube
• Disinfectant/Antiseptic Solution: $20 -$30 per bottle
• Transfer Paper for Tattoo Stencils: $10 - $40 per pack
• Flash Art Books/Designs:$10 -20 each
• Furniture (chair, table, etc.): $50 - 400

Securing the right insurance for your tattoo studio is crucial to protect your business, employees, and clients from potential liabilities and risks. Not only is it a smart business move, but it may also be a legal requirement depending on your location. Here are some key steps to obtaining business insurance for your tattoo studio:

• Research local regulations to determine the types and levels of insurance required for tattoo studios in your area.
• Contact several insurance providers to compare quotes and coverage options tailored for tattoo studios, such as general liability, professional liability, and property insurance.
• Consider any additional coverage that might be necessary, like workers' compensation insurance if you have employees, or product liability if you sell aftercare products.
• Review policy details carefully, paying attention to coverage limits, deductibles, and any exclusions or conditions.
• Choose an insurance provider with experience in the tattoo industry, as they will best understand the specific needs and risks associated with your business.
• Keep your insurance documentation organized and accessible, and make sure to renew your policies on time to avoid any lapses in coverage.

Now that your tattoo studio is ready to welcome clients, it's crucial to spread the word and attract your target audience. Effective marketing strategies can set your studio apart from the competition and help establish your brand in the community. Here are some essential tips to begin marketing your tattoo studio services:

• Develop a strong online presence by creating a professional website and engaging on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, where you can showcase your artists' work and interact with potential clients.
• Launch promotional campaigns offering discounts for first-time customers or referral bonuses to encourage word-of-mouth marketing.
• Collaborate with local businesses and attend community events to network and build relationships with potential customers.
• Invest in search engine optimization (SEO) to increase your studio's visibility on search engines, making it easier for clients to find you.
• Leverage customer testimonials and reviews to build trust and credibility for your studio.
• Consider paid advertising options such as Google Ads or targeted social media ads to reach a broader audience.
• Regularly update your portfolio with high-quality images of recent work and share these across all marketing platforms.

Once your tattoo studio has established a solid customer base and a reputable presence in the market, it's time to consider expansion. Growing your business can take various forms, from increasing your services to scaling up your operations. Here are some key strategies to help you expand successfully:

• Open New Locations: Research areas with high demand and consider opening additional studios to tap into new markets.
• Hire More Artists: Bringing in new talent can attract a different clientele and offer a broader range of styles to your customers.
• Extend Services: Consider offering related services such as piercing, laser tattoo removal, or selling branded merchandise to diversify your revenue streams.
• Strengthen Online Presence: Invest in digital marketing, social media campaigns, and a robust website to attract more customers and build your brand.
• Franchising: If your brand is strong enough, you might consider franchising your business model to expand rapidly with lower direct capital investment.
• Partnerships and Collaborations: Team up with other businesses or artists for special events, cross-promotions, and co-branded projects to reach new audiences.
• Continued Education: Encourage your artists to attend workshops and conferences to stay ahead of industry trends and techniques, ensuring your studio remains competitive.

Tattoo Shop Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Beauty Care Industry » Tattoo Shop

Are you about starting a tattoo shop ? If YES, here is a complete sample tattoo shop business plan template & feasibility study you can use for FREE .

Tattooing is popular and can be found in many cultures. In fact, Tattooing is trending for girls. Everywhere I go, I see girls with tattoos and this trend is more common among high institution students. So rather than sit by and watch the trend pass, you can make some cool money by starting a tattoo design business and meeting the various demands. Below is a sample tattoo shop business plan;

A Sample Tattoo Shop Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

The Tattoo Artists Studio industry comprises of businesses that primarily provides tattoo services by injecting ink under the skin and permanently altering the coloration of the skin. This industry also includes businesses that provides tattoo-related maintenance, design and modification services.

So also, those that offer laser tattoo-removal services may be included in the industry especially when they provide other core services in the industry.

In the united states, different States have their rules and regulations as it relates to running a tattoo studio. For example, according to the health departments in the State of Oregon and Hawaii, tattoo artists are required to take and pass a test ascertaining their knowledge of health and safety precautions, as well as the current state regulations.

In Oregon, operating a tattoo shop without a proper and current license or in an unlicensed facility is considered a felony offense. Between 2002 and 2006 was when tattooing was legalized in New York City, Massachusetts, South Carolina and Oklahoma.

So also in the state of Tennessee, the local health department can/will do a hands-on inspection of tattoo studios every 4 months. The location of the tattoo studio will be graded based on the areas being inspected. If the studio passes an inspection, the health department will sign off on a passing scorecard and the studio will be required to show their score publicly.

If the studio fails an inspection, they will be given the opportunity to correct the mistakes (if minor) or be fined (major health risks) and can also be placed out of business on the spot. The Tattoo Artists industry is currently in the growth stage of its life cycle.

Statistics has it that the Tattoo Artistic industry in the United States of America, is worth $722 million, with an estimated growth rate of 9.8percent.

There are about 35,399 registered and licensed tattoo studios in the United States and they are responsible for employing about 54,712 people. It is import to start that no tattoo studio can boast of having a lion market share in the industry; the industry is very much open for competitions from all players.

According to report published by Pew Research Center, 36 percent of Americans aged 18-25 have at least one tattoo. This goes to show that more than one third of America’s young adults have tattoos! Little wonder the tattoo industry is the sixth fastest-growing retail business in America, as determined by the U.S. News & World Report.

This has obviously translated to online interest as well, as there are more than 147 million tattoo related searches each month on Google.

Over and above, the tattoo artist industry is very open to any aspiring entrepreneur who has acquired the required trainings, skills and perhaps professional certifications to start his or her own tattoo studio business and of course make good money from the industry.

2. Executive Summary

Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC is a U.S based and licensed tattoo artists studio. We have been able to secure a standard and well – positioned facility in a central and busy district in Fairhope – Alabama.

We are a tattoo artist studio company that is set to compete in the highly competitive and fragmented tattoo artists industry not only in Fairhope – Alabama, but also throughout the United States market because we intend opening our outlets in key cities across the United States.

Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC will offers services such as designing customized tattoos, Providing body piercings , predesigning tattoos, maintaining aftercare tattoo services, administering permanent makeup tattoos, and laser tattoo-removal service set al.

Our business goal is to become one of the leading tattoo artists studio in the United States and we will make sure that we do all we can to compete favorably with leaders in the industry. Our workers are going to be selected from a pool of certified, creative and highly experienced tattooist in and around Fairhope – Alabama and also from any part of the United States of America as the business grows.

We will make sure that we take all the members of our workforce through the required trainings that will position them to meet the expectation of the company and to compete with leading tattoo artist studios in the United States and throughout the globe.

At Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC, our client’s best interest will always come first, and everything we do will be guided by our values and professional ethics. We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by meeting our client’s needs precisely and completely.

We will cultivate a working environment that provides a human, sustainable approach to earning a living, and living in our world, for all our partners, employees and for our clients.

Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC is founded by Pablo Cesar a renowned tattooist per excellence who graduated with from New York School of Arts and his twin brother and business partner for many years Pearson Cesar. They have a combine experience that can help them build Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC to favorably compete with leaders in the tattoo artists industry.

3. Our Products and Services

Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC was established with the aim of maximizing profits in the tattoo artists industry. We want to compete favorably with the leading tattoo artist studios in the United States which is why we have but in place a competent team that will ensure that every tattoo design or related services rendered meet and even surpass our customers’ expectations.

We will work hard to ensure that Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC is not just accepted in Fairhope – Alabama but also in other cities in the United States of America where we intend opening our garages. Our products and services are listed below;

• Designing customized tattoos
• Providing body piercings
• Predesigning tattoos
• Maintaining aftercare tattoo services
• Administering permanent makeup tattoos
• Laser tattoo-removal service
• Other related consulting and advisory services

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to establish a standard and world class tattoo artists studio whose services and brand will not only be accepted in Fairhope – Alabama but also in other cities in the United States of America.
• Our mission is to provide professional tattoo artist services and other related services to individuals.
• We want to build a tattoo artists studio that can favorably compete with other leading brands in the tattoo artists industry.

Our Business Structure

Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC is a tattoo artist studio that intends to start humbly in Fairhope – Alabama, but hope to grow big in order to compete favorably with leading tattoo artist studio in the industry both in the United States and on a global stage.

We are aware of the importance of building a solid business structure that can support the picture of the kind of world class business we want to own. This is why we are committed to only hire the best hands within our area of operations.

At Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC, we will ensure that we hire people that are qualified, hardworking, creative, customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business that will benefit all the stake holders (the owners, workforce, and customers).

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our senior management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of five years or more as agreed by the board of trustees of the company. In view of the above, we have decided to hire qualified and competent hands to occupy the following positions;

• Chief Executive Officer
• Studio Supervisor

Human Resources and Admin Manager

• Sales and Marketing Executive
• Tattoo Artists (Tattooist)

Client Service Executive

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities.
• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization

Studio Supervisor:

• Serves as project manager of the organization; works directly with employees
• Develops strategic plan by studying the trends in the tattoo artists industry, and financial opportunities; presenting assumptions; recommending objectives.
• Accomplishes subsidiary objectives by establishing plans, budgets, and results measurements; allocating resources; reviewing progress; making mid-course corrections.
• Coordinates efforts by establishing procurement, production, marketing, field, and technical services policies and practices; coordinating actions with corporate staff.
• Builds company image by collaborating with customers, government, community organizations, and employees; enforcing ethical business practices.
• Maintains quality service by establishing and enforcing organization standards.
• Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; benchmarking state-of-the-art practices; participating in professional societies.
• Make certain that the tattooist perform efficiently, coordinate employee efforts, and facilitate communications between management and the workforce
• Ensures that the organization work in line with international best practices.
• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Designs job descriptions with KPI to drive performance management for clients
• Regularly hold meetings with key stakeholders to review the effectiveness of HR Policies, Procedures and Processes
• Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carries out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
• Oversees the smooth running of the daily office activities.

Sales and Marketing Manager

• Mans external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Model demographic information and analyze the volumes of transactional data generated by customer
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects
• Writing winning proposal documents, negotiate fees and rates in line with organizations’ policy
• Responsible for handling business research, market surveys and feasibility studies for clients
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
• Creates new markets cum businesses for the organization
• Empowers and motivates the sales team to meet and surpass agreed targets

Accountant / Cashier:

• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties.
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensuring compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC
• Serves as internal auditor for Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC

Licensed Tattooist (Tattoo Artists)

• Using needles and pigments, a tattoo artist applies a permanent design directly to a client’s body, injecting ink under a layer of skin.
• Pricks skin of patron, using needled electric tool, that inserts indelible nontoxic pigment into skin to form decorative or ornamental design: Shaves area to receive tattoo and washes it, using germicidal soap
• Presses charcoal-coated stencil, draws design, or traces pattern of design onto skin of patron, to mark outline of design
• Dips needles of tool into colored pigment solution and presses needles into skin to insert indelible pigment into skin following outline of design.
• Applies sterile dressing to area.
• Sterilizes needles in steam-heated cabinet
• Mixes nontoxic colored pigments according to formula
• Adjusts and repairs needled electric tool, using hand tools, such as screwdrivers and pliers
• Draw original designs on paper , trace designs onto acetate sheet, and cut out design to form pattern or stencil, using stylus and knife
• Responsible for maintaining a safe and clean work environment, including donning gloves when contact with broken skin is possible, sterilizing single-use tattoo equipment and tools using an autoclave after each tattoo application and ensuring that all work surfaces are properly disinfected to avoid the spread of blood-borne viruses such as hepatitis, HIV and other communicable infectious diseases.
• Welcomes clients and potential clients by greeting them in person or on the telephone; answering or directing inquiries.
• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the Human Resource and Admin Manager in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to clients when they make enquiries

6. SWOT Analysis

Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC engaged the services of a core professional in the area of business consulting and structuring to assist our organization in building a well – structured tattoo artist studio business that can favorably compete in the highly competitive tattoo artists industry in the United States and the world at large.

Part of what the team of business consultant did was to work with the management of our organization in conducting a comprehensive SWOT analysis for Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC. Here is a summary from the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC;

Our core strength lies in the power of our team; our workforce. We have a team of certified, creative and highly trained and experience tattooist, a team with excellent qualifications and experience in the tattoo artists industry.

Aside from the synergy that exists in our carefully selected workforce, our designs and services will be guided by best practices in the industry. Another strength that counts for us in the location of our tattoo studio; it is located in one of the most must busiest places in Fairhope – Alabama.

As a new tattoo artist studio in Fairhope – Alabama, it might take some time for our tattoo studio to break into the market and gain acceptance especially from top profile clients in the already saturated and highly competitive tattoo artists industry; that is perhaps our major weakness. Another weakness is that we may not have the required cash to pump into promoting our business the way we would want to.

• Opportunities:

No doubt, the opportunities in the tattoo artists industry is massive considering the number of individuals in the United States who are embracing the tattooing culture shift. As a tattoo artist studio, we are ready to take advantage of any opportunity that is available in the industry.

Just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn. It is a fact that economic downturn affects purchasing / spending power. Another threat that may likely confront us is the arrival of a new tattoo artist studio in same location where our target market exist and who may want to adopt same Business model like us.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

The Tattoo Artists industry has exhibited growth over the last five years, partially due to the popular culture, which include tattoo-related reality television programs, which have made tattoos less culturally taboo. In addition, individuals have continued to demand customized tattoos with intricate designs, rather than predesigned tattoos.

Going forward, the tattoo artists industry will continue to grow, as the US population will likely become increasingly tattooed. On the other hand, new public health initiatives and regulations may add to operational costs for the industry and stand as barriers to entrepreneurs who may want to launch their own tattoo studio.

So also, cultural and religious taboos surrounding tattoos and keep people from having tattoos on their bodies have increasingly faded, leading to strong growth in demand for tattoo artists.

Lastly, it is now becoming trendy to find tattooist or tattoo studios step up their designs to 3D and also going beyond having tattoo design catalogue to leveraging on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube et al to display their tattoo designs.

8. Our Target Market

Before starting our tattoo artist in Fairhope – Alabama, we conducted a market survey and feasibility studies and we are certain that there are loads of young and old people who would need the services of a tattooist or a tattoo artist studio.

In view of that, we have created strategies that will enable us reach out to various groups of people whom we know will need our services. Below is a list of the people that we will specifically market our services to;

• Celebrities / Stars / Public Figures
• Sports Men and Women
• Power Bikers and Cyclists
• Every Individual both old and young in Fairhope – Alabama

Our Competitive Advantage

Surviving in the business world as a tattooist or a tattoo artist studio requires more than, your expertise, creativity, and knowing how to deliver standard tattoo designs et al but also how to network with key people that matters; decision makers that can decide who will get a tattoo contract from celebrities.

We are quite aware that to be highly competitive in the tattoo artists industry means that you are not only expected to be able to deliver consistent and highly creative tattoo designs, but you must be able to meet set targets.

Our competitive advantage lies in the power of our team; our workforce. We have a team of certified, creative and highly trained and experience tattooist, a team with excellent qualifications and experience in the tattoo artists industry.

Lastly, all our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category (startups tattoo artists studios / businesses in the United States) in the industry. It will enable them to be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our business aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the  tattoo artists industry and we are going to go all the way to ensure that we do all it takes to meet and surpass the expectations of all our clients. Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC will generate income by offering the following services;

10. Sales Forecast

One thing is certain; there would always be individuals who would need to experience what it means to have tattoos on their bodies or those who would want some of the latest 3D tattoo designs on their bodies.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in the tattoo artists industry and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income / profits from the first six month of operations and grow our tattoo artist studio to enviable heights.

We have been able to critically examine the tattoo artists market and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projection is based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions that are peculiar to similar startups in Fairhope – Alabama.

Below is the sales projection for Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC. It is based on the location of our business and of course the wide range of auto repair, servicing and maintenance services and target market;

• First Fiscal Year-: $100,000
• Second Fiscal Year-: $250,000
• Third Fiscal Year-: $500,000

N.B: This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and there won’t be any major competitor offering same tattoo artists services as we do within same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

We are mindful of the fact that there is stiffer competition in the tattoo artists industry; hence we have been able to hire some of the best marketing experts to handle our sales and marketing.

Our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experience in tattoo artists industry and they will be trained on a regular basis so as to be well equipped to meet their targets and the overall business goal of Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC.

Our corporate goal is to grow Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC to become one of the top 10 tattoo artist studio brands in the United States of America which is why we have mapped out strategy that will help us take advantage of the available market and grow to become a major force to reckon with not only in Fairhope – Alabama but also in other cities in the United States of America where we intend opening our tattoo artist studios.

Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC is set to make use of the following marketing and sales strategies to attract clients;

• Introduce our tattoo artist studio by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to individuals and key stake holders in Fairhope – Alabama
• Advertise our business in relevant magazines, newspapers, TV stations, and radio station.
• List our business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
• Attend relevant international and local expos, seminars, and business fairs et al
• Create different packages for different category of clients in order to work with their budgets and still deliver excellent services
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms to promote our business
• Engage direct marketing approach
• Encourage word of mouth marketing from loyal and satisfied clients

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We know that one of the things that is capable of making us stand out is the extent to which we make our business known. This is one of the reasons why we do not plan to take our marketing strategies for granted. We have been able to work with our brand and publicity consultants to help us map out publicity and advertising strategies that will help us walk our way into the heart of our target market.

We are set to become the number one choice for both corporate clients and individual clients in the whole of Fairhope – Alabama and other cities in the United States of America where we intend opening our tattoo artists studios which is why we have made provisions for effective publicity and advertisement of our business.

Below are the platforms we intend to leverage on to promote and advertise Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC;

• Place adverts on both print (newspapers and magazines) and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant community based events / programs
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook , twitter, YouTube, Google + et al to promote our services
• Install our Bill Boards on strategic locations all around Fairhope – Alabama
• Engage in road show from time to time in targeted neighborhoods
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas
• Contact corporate organizations by calling them up and informing them of Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC and the services we offer
• List our tattoo artist studio in local directories / yellow pages
• Advertise our tattoo artist studio in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site.
• Ensure that all our staff members wear our branded shirts and all our vehicles are well branded with our company logo et al.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

At Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC we will keep the prices of our services below the average market rate for all of our customers by keeping our overhead low and by collecting payment in advance from individuals and celebrities. In addition, we will also offer special discounted rates to all our customers at regular intervals.

• Payment Options

At Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC, our payment policy will be all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that we will make available to our clients;

• Payment by via bank transfer
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via bank draft
• Payment via mobile money
• Payment with cash

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our plans with little or no itches.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

It is really very vital to do some good costing and projections in the tattoo shop business quest. That is why in setting up any business, the amount or cost will depend on the approach and scale you want to undertake.

If you intend to go big by renting a place, then you would need a good amount of capital as you would need to ensure that your employees are well taken care of, and that your facility is conducive enough for workers to be creative and productive.

This means that the start-up can either be low or high depending on your goals, vision and aspirations for your business. The tools and equipment that will be used are nearly the same cost everywhere, and any difference in prices would be minimal and can be overlooked.

As for the detailed cost analysis for starting a tattoo artist studio; it might differ in other countries due to the value of their money. However, this is what it would cost us to set up Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC in the United of America;

• Business incorporating fees in the United States of America will cost – $750.
• The budget for Liability insurance , permits and license will cost – $3,500
• Acquiring a facility for our tattoo studio for at least 6 months (Re – Construction of the facility inclusive) will cost – $100,000.
• The amount required to purchase the needed tool box and repair equipment – $25,000
• Equipping the office (computers, printers, projectors, markers, servers / internet facility, furniture, telephones, filing cabinets, and electronics) will cost – $30,000
• Amount required to purchase the needed software applications to run our business – $ 3,500
• Launching an official Website will cost – $500
• Amount need to pay bills and staff members for at least 2 to 3 months – $70,000
• Additional Expenditure such as Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions will cost – $5,000

Going by the report from the market research and feasibility studies conducted, we will need about two hundred and fifty thousand ( 250,000 ) U.S. dollars to successfully set – up a medium scale but standard tattoo artist studio in the United States of America.

N:B . We have been able to secure the following tattoo related tools, equipment and supplies;

Tattoo Parts

• Power supply: Main power unit that runs your tattoo machine
• Foot switch
• Spring clip cord
• Feeler gauge

Medical Supplies and Sterilization Equipment

• Surface disinfectant sterilization
• Tattoo antiseptic aftercare
• Tattoo Topical antiseptic ointment and cleanser
• Machine cover bag and headrest cover sleeve
• Waste disposal container
• Tattoo autoclave (stericlave): Decontaminates the tattoo equipment by exposing it to steam at high pressure
• Rubbing alcohol and alcohol prep pads
• Disinfecting cleaning wipes
• Tattoo arm sleeve cover barrier or latex gloves
• Tubes and tips cleaning brush set
• Autoclave bag: Stores tattoo equipment including needles after the sterilization process
• Ultrasonic cleaner and solution: Cleans residue coming from the tattoo tools e.g. tubes and tattoo needle
• Tattoo machine rack: Holds machines when they are not in use
• Germicidal solution: Maintains the sterilization of tattoo equipment
• Needle trays
• 16: Spray bottles: One containing a mixture of 1/4 soap and 3/4 water, and a second holding isopropyl alcohol
• Glass jar: Carries sterile ink caps
• Stainless steel trays with sealing tops: One for liner and needle bars, another for shader needles and a third for shader and liner tubes
• Green soap: For prep and clean up only!
• Disposable razors
• Bandages, handi wrap and hospital tape: Used to cover the tattoo
• Tongue depressors
• Stainless steel hospital scissors: Should be sharp!

Tattoo shop furniture and supplies

• Rolling artists chair
• Tattoo work table: Glass top or linoleum table that should hold all your equipment and supplies
• Customer chair
• Adjustable light source: Should be free standing
• Basic weight-lifting bench: This is used by customers getting tattoos on their backs and legs
• Paper towels

Needle supplies

• Needle bars
• Needles: Round liners and magnum/flat shaders
• Needle jig and needle bar jig
• Soldering gun and stainless solder: Fuses the needles together and attaches the needles to the bars
• Round and flat tubes
• Sharps containers: To dispose of the needles
• Rubber nipples
• Grips: Prevents finger cramps
• Rubber bands

Art and stencil supplies

• Colored inks: Black ink included
• 4Oz Ink bottles
• Flash sheets containing tattoo designs
• Watercolors and pencils: Colors the flash sheets
• Thermal copier: Transfers a copy of the tattoo design onto the skin

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC

Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC is a business that will be owned and managed by Pablo Cesar and his twin brother and business partner for many years Pearson Cesar. They are the sole financial of the business which is why they decided to restrict the sourcing of the start – up capital for the business to just three major sources.

These are the areas we intend generating our start – up capital;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
• Generate part of the start – up capital from friends and other extended family members
• Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the bank (loan facility).

N.B: We have been able to generate about $100,000 (Personal savings $70,000 and soft loan from family members $30,000) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $150,000 from our bank. All the papers and document has been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

We do want our business to really grow and that is why the future of a business lies in the numbers of loyal customers that they have the capacity and competence of the employees, their investment strategy and the business structure.

If all of these factors are missing from a business (company), then it won’t be too long before the business close shop. One of our major goals of starting Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without the need for injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running.

We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to offer our tattoo design and services a little bit cheaper than what is obtainable in the market and we are well prepared to survive on lower profit margin for a while.

Pablo Fiasco Tattoo Studio®, LLC will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and re – training of our workforce is at the top burner.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts various banks in the United States: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Securing a standard office facility for our tattoo studio: Completed
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of All form of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating part of the start – up capital from the founders: Completed
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents: In Progress
• Design of Logo for the business: Completed
• Purchase of repair and servicing tools and equipment: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the Needed furniture, office equipment, software applications, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In Progress
• Creating Official Website for the business: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with vendors and key players in various industries: In Progress

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Tattoo Salon Business Plan Template

Published Jun.20, 2018

Updated Apr.24, 2024

By: Brandi Marcene

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Table of Content

Do you want to start tattoo shop business?

Do you want to open tattoo shop ? Well, according to a report by Pew Research Center, 36 percent of Americans aged 18-25 have at least one tattoo. In other words, we can say that more than one-third of America’s young adults have tattoos! So, it will be safe to say that you’ll never run out of customers by starting a tattoo shop business provided that you plan and market it successfully.

Although this business yields immense profit yet its startup isn’t easy. Obtaining a license for it is very difficult and secondly, a lot of machinery and medical equipment is needed along with experienced tattoo artists. That’s why, before you move on to starting this business, you will have to prepare a comprehensive business plan which will not only help you acquire a license for it but will also serve as the basis of your company’s future operations. In case you don’t know how to write a business plan , you can take help from this sample business plan of a tattoo shop business startup named ‘Jerry’s Tattoo Studio’.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

Jerry’s Tattoo Studio will be a licensed and registered tattoo studio which will provide customized tattooing, body piercing and tattoo maintenance and removal services. The business will be based in downtown Chicago which is an ideal location for starting a tattoo shop .

2.2 Management

Jerry’s Tattoo Studio is a sole proprietorship owned by Jerry Tim. Jerry is a passionate tattoo designer who has been in this industry for more than 10 years. The company’s main management framework comprises of sales executives and tattoo artists.

2.3 Customers

Our customers include the young adults, adults, and celebrities based in Chicago. We will offer them a variety of tattoo designs as per their requirements.

2.4 Business Target

Our business targets to be achieved within next three years are as follows:

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Jerry’s Tattoo Studio is a sole proprietorship owned by Jerry Tim. Jerry is a passionate tattoo designer who has been associated with tattoo industry for more than 10 years. Jerry is well aware of all health regulations related to this precarious work and has also taken a course on ‘Bloodborne Pathogens and Cross-Contamination Prevention’ from the Toronto Tattoo School.

3.2 Why the Business is being started

Jerry is passionate about tattoo designing and is known for creating exceptionally realistic tattoos. Tattooing is what he is made for and, being experienced in this industry, he knows how to open a tattoo shop . In addition to that, he aims to make profits in this industry by providing unparalleled tattooing services.

3.3 How the Business will be started

Jerry’s Tattoo Studio will be started in downtown Chicago in a leased location which was previously used by an IT agency. The facility features an open reception space, a small office space, a waiting room, a sterilization space, three tattoo stations and a bathroom. In addition to the usual inventory, the company will procure tattoo station equipment (2 tattoo chairs, lights, mirrors, tool box, trash bins, sharps container), sterilization room equipment (autoclave,  ultrasonic unit, sterilization pouches), waiting area furniture (sofa seats, coffee table, 2 flash art binders), reception area items (a reception desk, cash register, laptop, credit card reader, phones), office equipment (phone, printer, scanner, photocopier), a digital camera, a sound system as well as tattooing supplies (sterilizers, disinfectants, antiseptics, ointments, paper products, towels, gloves, linens, thermofax, skin scribes and stencil paper). The financial experts have forecasted following costs for opening a tattoo shop :

The detailed start-up requirements are given below:

Services for customers

Before starting a tattoo shop business , you must decide what kinds of services will you offer to your customers. There are more than 35,000 tattoo parlors open in the United States and for surviving in such competitive environment, you need to offer all those services which are offered by them. If you are offering more services than it will be a big competitive advantage for you. But, in any case, you need to decide your services before you plan to open a tattoo shop .

Jerry’s Tattoo Studio will be a licensed and registered tattoo studio which will provide following services to its customers:

• Customized Tattoos: Our primary service includes designing of customized tattoos. Customers can either provide a picture of what they want or can just communicate their requirements. They can also choose a design from the set of our tattoo designs comprising of traditional, neo-traditional, realistic, watercolor, Japanese, tribal and blackwork tattoos.
• Body Piercings: A body piercing is a piercing or puncture made in the body by a needle for the purpose of inserting a piece of jewelry in the hole. Commonly pierced body parts are the ears, nose, and the belly button while there are also oral piercings which include the piercing of lip, cheek, and tongue. We will offer high-quality piercing services following all safety regulations.
• Tattoo Aftercare: We will provide tattoo aftercare and tattoo maintenance services and will also provide consultation and advice on how to take care of tattoos.
• Laser Tattoo Removal: We will also provide laser tattoo removal services for removing the permanent tattoos from the bodies of our customers.

Our customers can make a reservation with us by visiting our shop or through our official website. They can also choose a design from the set of tattoos displayed on our website.

Marketing Analysis of tattoo shop business

The most important component of an effective tattoo shop business plan is its accurate marketing analysis and a good tattoo business plan  can only be developed after this stage. If you are starting on a smaller scale, you can do marketing analysis yourself by taking help from this tattoo business plan template or any other tattoo shop business plan free  available online. If you are starting on a larger scale, it is always best to seek the counsel of marketing experts for developing a good tattoo parlor business plan .

The success or failure of a business totally depends upon its marketing strategy which can only be developed on the basis of accurate marketing analysis. Therefore, it must be considered before you think about how to start a tattoo business plan .

5.1 Market Trends

The tattoo industry adds $722 million every year in revenue to the United States and the industry is currently growing at the rate of 9.8 percent. There are more than 35,000 registered open tattoo shops  which employ more than 54,000 people. However, a unique thing about this industry is that there is no tattoo studio which possesses a lion share in the market. The tattoo industry is the sixth fastest-growing retail business in the United States and more than one-third of America’s young adults (aged 18-25) have tattoos. In short, tattoo industry has a lot of potential and can be immensely profitable provided that you plan your business successfully.

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

Our target market is the residential community based in Chicago. The community consists of people from varying backgrounds, most of which are financially stable. As per the population distribution, 40.4% of population live singly, 18.9% are females with no husband, 35.1% are married couples who are living together and 28.8% population has children under the age of 18 living with them. The median for a household income in the city was $38,625 in 2000, and the median family income was $46,748.

It is very important to analyze the market segmentation of your future customers before starting a tattoo business plan because a successful and efficient marketing strategy for business can only be developed after we completely know our potential customers. Our experts have identified the following type of target audience which can become our future consumers:

The detailed marketing segmentation of our target audience is as follows:

5.2.1 Young Adults: Our first target group will be the young adults between 18 and 25 years of age. According to a report by Pew Research Center, 36 percent of Americans aged 18-25 have at least one tattoo. This target group will have the biggest contribution to our revenue so our marketing strategy will be specially built to attract the young adults in Chicago.

5.2.2 Adults: Our second target group comprises of adults aged above 25 years. These adults also have tattoos but their number is comparatively less than the young adults.

5.2.3 Celebrities: The third target group comprises of celebrities such as actors, public figures, and sportsmen and women. This target group contains all important customers so it will be directly dealt by Jerry himself.

The detailed market analysis of our potential customers is given in the following table:

5.3 Business Target

Our main business targets to be achieved as milestones over the course of next three years are as follows:

• To achieve the net profit margin of $10k per month by the end of the first year, $15k per month by the end of the second year, and $25k per month by the end of the third year
• To balance the initial cost of the startup with earned profits by the end of the first year

5.4 Product Pricing

After considering the market demands and the competitive environment, we have priced our tattooing services 5 percent cheaper than that of our competitors. There is no fixed price for tattooing and the prices depend on the type of tattoo and the number of hours required to work on that. The base price will start from $75 and the hourly rate of the session will depend on the tattoo type.

After identifying the market trends, market demand, and the potential customers of the startup, the next step is to define an effective strategy to attract the potential customers. Like marketing analysis, sales strategy is also an important component and must be properly developed before thinking about how to open a tattoo shop .

6.1 Competitive Analysis

Our biggest competitive advantage will be the quality of our tattoos which will also be attractive and eye-catching. In addition to that, our second biggest competitive advantage will be our exceptional customer service. We will make sure that our customers get the best tattoo which suits their personalities. We will work with customers to search for designs that will look perfect on them. Our location is also one of our biggest competitive advantages since we will be based in downtown which is considered an ideal location to start a tattoo business .

6.2 Sales Strategy

After carrying out a detailed analysis, our experts came up with the following brilliant ideas to advertise and sell ourselves.

• We will emphasize on our search engine marketing efforts to ensure a strong web presence.
• We will get featured in the local news or on a certain website by a popular blogger to increase our popularity.
• We will advertise our tattoo shop in magazines, newspapers, TV stations, and social media.
• We will offer a 5% discount on our services for the first month of our launch.

6.3 Sales Monthly

6.4 Sales Yearly

6.5 Sales Forecast

Personnel plan

Personnel plan is also an important component of a good business plan for a tattoo shop  so make sure to duly consider it before thinking about how to start a tattoo shop business plan. The personnel plan of our company is as follows.

7.1 Company Staff

Jerry will act as the General Manager of the company and will initially hire following people:

• 1 Accountant for maintaining financial and other records
• 2 Sales Executives responsible for marketing and discovering new ventures
• 3 Tattoo Artists for tattooing the customers
• 3 Assistants for helping with day-to-day operations
• 1 Technical Assistant for managing the company’s official website and social media pages
• 2 Customer Representatives for interacting with customers and recording their orders

All the employees will be hired by following strict testing procedures and will also be trained before onboarding.

7.2 Average Salary of Employees

The following table shows the forecasted data about the salaries of the employees for the next three years. These salaries are just an estimate and are also expected to deviate but the overall expenses will be more or less the same.

Financial Plan

The financial plan covers all the expenses needed for the startup so you must develop it before you think about how to open tattoo shop . The financial plan should craft a detailed map about the cost of inventory, payroll, equipment, rent, and utilities needed for the startup and how these costs will be covered by the earned profits. It is recommended that you hire a financial expert for guiding you through all financial aspects needed to start a tattoo business .

8.1 Important Assumptions

8.2 Brake-even Analysis

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

8.3.1 Profit Monthly

8.3.2 Profit Yearly

8.3.3 Gross Margin Monthly

8.3.4 Gross Margin Yearly

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

8.6 Business Ratios