French startup Planity has capitalized on France’s pervasive hair salon culture by introducing a Software as a Service (SaaS) solution tailored specifically for these businesses. Initially targeting hair salons, Planity has since expanded its services to include other beauty establishments like barbers and nail salons. This strategic move has garnered significant success, with over 40,000 small businesses now relying on Planity for appointment scheduling and more.
Funding Milestone
Recently, Planity secured a €45 million Series C funding round (equivalent to $48 million) led by InfraVia Capital Partners, with participation from existing investors Crédit Mutuel Innovation, Revaia, and Bpifrance’s Digital Venture fund. This substantial investment underscores the growing demand for tech solutions in the beauty salon industry and reflects confidence in Planity’s ability to deliver innovative services.
Unique Approach to Salon Management
What sets Planity apart from existing competitors like Treatwell is its focused approach to salon management. Founded by Antoine Puymirat, who previously worked on online appointment booking with ClicRDV, Planity offers a comprehensive SaaS platform that streamlines salon operations. Inspired by the success of Doctolib in the healthcare sector, Planity aims to revolutionize appointment booking for beauty salons, replacing traditional paper-based systems with a digital solution.
SaaS Model and Features
Unlike commission-based models adopted by other players in the market, Planity operates on a traditional SaaS subscription model, charging a monthly fee for its services. With features like online appointment booking, employee scheduling, and automated reminders, Planity serves as a centralized platform for salon management. Additionally, it offers add-on services such as point-of-sale solutions and payment terminals, providing a holistic solution for salon owners.
Market Expansion and Growth
While Planity’s primary market remains France, the company has started expanding its presence in Belgium and Germany. Its target market includes not only beauty salons but also well-being and fitness centers. Despite the fragmented nature of the beauty salon industry, Planity’s robust sales strategy, supported by a dedicated sales team of over 200 professionals, has enabled it to onboard new clients effectively. This capital-intensive approach, coupled with a solid sales playbook, positions Planity as a leader in salon management solutions.
Future Outlook
With millions of monthly visits and bookings handled through its platform, Planity continues to experience rapid growth and innovation. As it expands its reach beyond France, the company remains committed to simplifying salon management for businesses of all sizes. With a clear focus on customer satisfaction and technological advancement, Planity is poised to redefine the beauty salon experience in Europe and beyond.
