LaserLove is preparing to enter the Uzbek market.

LaserLove, a nationwide chain of laser hair removal clinics based in Novosibirsk, is preparing to enter the Uzbek market and is actively seeking financial partners to grow its business. This was announced by the chain's founder, Alexander Dolgov, citing information from Continent Siberia and Pravda.Ru.

According to Dolgov, the decision to expand internationally stems from a desire to diversify the business and reduce dependence on the Russian economy. Before selecting a country, the company conducted a thorough analysis of potential markets, studied the competitive landscape, and consulted with representatives of relevant industries.

According to Dolgov, Uzbekistan was recognized as one of the most promising destinations. Among the country's advantages, he highlighted its large population, growing middle class, lower labor costs compared to Russia, a small number of large systemic players, and a relatively low level of competition.

According to its own data, the LaserLove chain has 190 branches in Russia, with an annual turnover of 1.4 billion rubles.

LaserLove's founder is Novosibirsk entrepreneur Alexander Dolgov, who is also involved in the development of several national chains in the food service industry and other business ventures.

At the same time, Dolgov noted the specific characteristics of the Uzbek market that must be taken into account when entering the market. Specifically, he observed that rent in the most attractive areas of Tashkent can be comparable to Moscow.

He also recommended that entrepreneurs immediately calculate the economics of their business, taking into account VAT and a full cost structure, rather than relying solely on preferential tax regimes.

Among other market characteristics, Dolgov mentioned the significant volume of cash transactions and more accessible personnel compared to Russia.

At the same time, he estimates that service prices are comparable to those in Russian regions, customer acquisition is less expensive, and the market is experiencing a shortage of strong, specialized studios.

The first stage of LaserLove's development in Uzbekistan will be the opening of its own clinics. The company plans to test its economic model, adapt its marketing strategy and operating standards, evaluate its staff, develop a legal model, and study actual client registration, attendance, and return visit rates.

Following this, the chain plans to transition to a franchise model. Dolgov named Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, Namangan, Andijan, and Fergana as potential cities for opening clinics.

The company's plan for the next year calls for opening at least 20 of its own clinics and at least 50 franchise facilities in Uzbekistan.

According to Dolgov, Uzbekistan is viewed not just as a new market, but as one of the key areas for LaserLove's international expansion.

The entrepreneur named Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan as the next markets for network expansion.