GINA KHAN, co-owner of two eponymous salons in San Francisco and Walnut Creek, CA, collaborates with her local competitors to generate business-building ideas on everything from retail sales strategies to staff training and retention. "We call ourselves the 'Super Six,'" she says. The group meets regularly at a restaurant, member's home or destination spa for "no holds barred" sharing sessions. "We share our struggles and our successes," Khan says. "All of our numbers and marketing materials are available for everyone to look at." The group also hosts guest speakers from inside and outside the industry to tap into their expertise. "I try to get the word out about the benefit of working together as an industry, not just as an individual," Khan says. "In the end it helps us all grow and succeed." —L.A.
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