A NORTH Essex businesswoman has launched an innovative website to transform the way beauty treatments are booked, and services provided, across the county.

Jacqui Sweeney’s venture, The Shortlyst, is the first, Essex-based website to display 1,000-plus beauty and hair businesses all in one place, revolutionising the way customers find therapists.

Jacqui, 30, from East Street, Colchester, who is the managing director of JaxPr marketing firm, explained: “We wanted to create a new and easy way of connecting local and wonderfully talented mobile therapists, home salons and high-street beauty therapists, with new clients and customers, particularly after how hard the last year has been.

Gazette:

Business - Jacqui Sweeney 

“The Shortlyst is a trusted space for small and large beauty businesses, where their specialities and marketing activities aren’t lost in a sea of competitors.

“Business owners can create their own page, with all the information available in one place – making it much easier for them to attract bookings.

“The idea for The Shortlyst has been in the planning for well over a year, but over Christmas it really took shape, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we’re launching today.”

The site includes certifications which give customers information about the quality of service on offer.

It also encourages businesses to upload qualification documents and insurance policies to add peace of mind to those booking in.

Emma Hunt, who manages Glow salon in Priory Street, Colchester, has signed up.

She said: “The Shortlyst is a refreshing boost to the industry set to reshape the way we advertise our services as an established business, but also, a great resource to customers who shouldn’t have to work hard to find a therapist in their area.”

Go to TheShortlyst.com or find on social media @TheShortlyst.