Skincare brand Guinot has welcomed new franchisee Gulshin Nawaz to its expanding network.

The new branch opened in Cricklewood, North London at the end of July. Gulshin was joined at the grand opening by international franchise director Edouard Falguieres and the Guinot franchise team.

Gulshin made a series of improvements to the former estate agency to make the premises more welcoming, including replacing the old shop front window and moving the door to the centre.

Prior to launching her own franchise, Gulshin ran a successful home-based salon but had always dreamt of opening one on the high street. She fell in love with the brand when completing her initial Guinot training. Gulshin later read about previous franchise opportunities and eventually met with Edouard and Chris Gillam, managing director of Guinot UK.

Gulshin says: "Being a beauty therapist for over two decades and absolutely loving every bit of my career, I have finally found my destination with Guinot franchising.

"I was fortunate to secure a property instantly and support was given with a business plan from the franchise department to secure a bank loan (Guinot’s longstanding relationship with the bank helped); from then on, everything moved swiftly.

"The support I received from the Guinot franchise department was fantastic, they were my backbone throughout the process. I am passionate about being a beauty therapist but had a slight hesitation in opening a salon – knowing how demanding it could be – but I overcame my fear knowing that I had support any time I required it.

“The choice of franchising with Guinot rather than opening up an independent salon was the right decision. I am excited about the years to come and very much looking forward to the salon becoming a huge success."