Free Software. Expensive Lessons.
What Hooks You In:
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No monthly fee — at first: Fresha looks ideal if you’re just starting out or trying to save money. But that “free” label only tells half the story.
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Slick interface: Clean design and easy navigation help make a strong first impression.
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Marketplace exposure: Appears to help you gain clients through their online directory — especially in busy cities. But at what cost?
What They Don’t Shout About:
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Sky-high transaction fees: Fresha makes its money on every payment you take — well above standard card processing rates. The more successful you are, the more they take.
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Commission on your own success: Clients who find you via Fresha’s marketplace come with a built-in commission fee, and you keep paying even if they become regulars.
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They own the platform — and the data: Stop using their payment system, and your access to client info may suddenly vanish. Many salons have learned the hard way that you don’t really own your client list.
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Your brand takes a back seat: The experience is Fresha-branded, not salon-branded. You can’t control how your business looks or feels — and that’s by design.
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It won’t grow with you: Key features like stock control, advanced marketing, and loyalty tools are either too basic or completely missing. As your business matures, Fresha holds you back.
