Piersten Gaines, a trailblazing entrepreneur and Harvard Business School graduate, has successfully scaled her Texas-based blowout bar, Pressed Roots, into a leading destination for luxury haircare tailored to the textured hair community.
According to a report by Afrotech, despite initial skepticism from investors, including concerns about the market’s potential and Gaines’s lack of cosmetology background, her innovative approach and determination have paid off.
Notable investors like former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz, through the Schultz Family Foundation, and tennis star Naomi Osaka have supported the venture.
Origins and Conceptualization
Gaines’s journey began after experiencing traumatic salon visits where she lost her hair due to inadequate care.
These experiences inspired her to create a salon that offered reliable, affordable, and luxurious haircare for people with highly-textured hair.
The concept for Pressed Roots was pitched during a class presentation at Harvard, catching the attention of “Shark Tank” judge Kevin O’Leary.
Transition from Pop-Up to Storefront
To test market demand and understand customer preferences, Gaines launched Pressed Roots as a pop-up in cities like Boston, Atlanta, and Dallas. By 2020, the first permanent location opened in Dallas, Texas.
Gaines prioritized hiring a talent acquisition specialist and implementing training programs to ensure consistent service quality.
Training and Expertise
A standout feature of Pressed Roots is its comprehensive boot camp training for hairstylists. The program focuses on mastering blowout techniques for various hair types, reflecting the unique needs of textured hair.
This intensive training ensures that stylists can deliver consistent, high-quality results, setting Pressed Roots apart in the industry.
Since its inception, Pressed Roots has expanded to multiple Texas locations, including Arlington, Plano, and Houston. In 2022, the company reported $2 million in annual revenue, which increased to $3.5 million in 2023.
This growth has been supported by standardized processes, from salon design to staff training, allowing for rapid expansion.
Funding and Overcoming Challenges
Gaines faced several challenges in securing investor support, including doubts about the profitability of focusing on textured hair and her lack of direct industry experience.
She addressed these concerns by presenting compelling market data and emphasizing her unique perspective as a longtime salon customer. Her business acumen and detailed business plan further convinced investors of the venture’s potential.
Future Vision
Looking ahead, Gaines aims to expand Pressed Roots to more cities, providing exceptional haircare services to a broader audience.
“Our goal is to reach as many women with textured hair as possible,” she stated, expressing excitement about the growing community that trusts Pressed Roots with their hair.
Pressed Roots continues to redefine the textured haircare industry, proving that luxury and specialized care can go hand in hand.
