Town centre salon listed for sale

A popular hair salon in Ipswich town centre has been listed for sale, two years after its Polish-born owner opened it to fulfil a lifelong dream.

VR Unique in Ipswich
VR Unique in Ipswich (Photo: Oliver Rouane-Williams/Ipswich.co.uk)

Why it matters: VR Unique Hair Salon and Academy on Lloyds Avenue is on the market for £45,000 — with a stripped-back "salon takeover" option available for £18,000 for buyers who want to bring their own brand to the space.

The details: The salon was established in February 2023 by Weronika Rej, a hairdresser with more than 20 years of experience who moved to Ipswich 11 years ago after visiting her mother. The listing describes a modern, well-laid-out salon featuring eight styling stations, two wash basins, a beauty treatment room, a large storage area, and a welcoming reception.

The business runs on a chair rental model, with self-employed stylists renting space. The lease runs until December 2027, with an option to renew, at a rent of £840 per month.

It is being sold due to "personal circumstances and a change in career direction," with the business available for handover at the end of July.

The salon holds a 4.8-star rating from 51 Google reviews and has an "active social media presence" and online booking system, all of which are included in the full business sale.

What they're saying: At the time of the salon's official opening in May 2023, Mrs Rej spoke warmly of her connection to Ipswich to the Ipswich Star. "I came to Ipswich eight years ago. At first, I just meant to visit my mum with the kiddies, but it turns out I found my home here," she said.

"Many people underestimate our town, but I feel it is a beautiful gem that, with a little bit of love, will shine bright."

She added that opening the salon had been a long-held ambition: "When lockdown finished, I said to myself, it's time for me to follow my dreams. Hairdressing, and especially hair colouring, is my biggest passion. I love what I do, and it brings me so much joy and fulfilment in life."

The bottom line: VR Unique has been trading since February 2023 and holds a 4.8-star rating from 51 Google reviews. The business is available for handover at the end of July.

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