VISAKHAPATNAM: As the New Year is on the threshold, there seems to be no cheer for the makeup stylists and owners of beauty salons as people are still reeling under cash crisis.
Despite the marriage and festive season is on, the business of beauty parlours in the city has plummeted, thanks to demonetisation. Although it has been more than 45 days since Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 ceased to be legal tender, cash crunch still rules the roost.
Maria Khan, a makeover expert from the city, said that she had almost lost half of her business. “Now, I am making only Rs 15,000 for complete bridal makeup when compared to the around Rs 25,000 in the months before demonetisation,” she said.
For Shanti Prabhu of Amrutha Beauty Clinic, the cashless transaction ha snot proved the best bet so far. “Lack of a swiping machine has made it difficult for me and people are not willing to pay in cash. So, render services on credit to the regular customers is what keeps me going.”
Reiterating same, Satya Prema, the owner of Do-up beauty parlour, said: “My business has been hit hard in December as there is a 25 to 30 percent decline. Immediately after the demonetisation, clients approached us for services to get rid of the old notes, but to be on safe side, we had put up boards announcing ‘Old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes not accepted’,” she said.
“Now, my clients have switched over to cards from cash. So, I hope of recouping the loses,” she added.
Meanwhile, the customers too are treading cautiously and go for those treatment which is very necessary.
“I could not opt for the luxury service this festive season. I went for the basic services as the cash crisis has not eased,” said Priyanka S, a homemaker.