Linda and Scott Sharkey on Building a Brand That Lasts
Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids expands its unique brand experience with over 220 locations and plans for international growth.
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Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids has grown to over 220 locations in the U.S., with an additional 40 planned to open in 2026 and ambitions for international expansion by 2027. The brand's focus on transforming the haircut experience for children has made it the leading kids’ salon franchise, ranking first in its category according to Entrepreneur's 2026 rankings.
Why It Matters
This substantial growth may compress available territories, presenting both challenges and opportunities for franchisees as they consider future expansions in the children's services sector.
Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids, a franchise dedicated to providing enjoyable haircut experiences for children, was established in 2001 by Linda and Scott Sharkey in Greenwich, Connecticut. The concept emerged from their own struggles in taking their children for haircuts, leading them to create a fun environment that appeals to both kids and parents. Initially not considering franchising, the brand's positive reception in their first location prompted the couple to explore franchising opportunities, which they officially began in 2006.
Currently, Sharkey’s boasts over 220 operational locations across the United States, with an impressive 78 additional locations in development, including 40 slated to open by 2026. The brand is also preparing for international expansion in 2027, potentially pushing the total unit count beyond 300 worldwide. This growth trajectory positions Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids as the leading children’s salon franchise globally and reflects its robust system health, as evidenced by its ranking of No. 1 in the children’s hair care category and No. 346 on Entrepreneur’s 2026 Franchise 500 list.
Scott Sharkey attributes their success to a well-researched approach that emphasizes customer feedback and experiential value, stating, “We understood how to build businesses, create memorable brands, and — most importantly — listen to what customers really wanted.” The brand effectively capitalizes on the rising demand for experiences over material goods, a trend highlighted by findings from Eventbrite, which revealed that 78% of millennials prefer spending on experiences.
