SNIP-ITS EXPANDS ITS SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES AND CHILDREN WITH AUTISM

(Franchise Buy) - By . Updated Apr 10, 2012

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SNIP-ITS EXPANDS ITS SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES AND
CHILDREN WITH AUTISM 

--National Children’s Hair Salon Franchise Hosts Fundraiser for
National Autism Awareness Month--

[Minneapolis, MN – April 10, 2012]– Snip-its, (www.snipits.com), one of the country’s fastest-growing chains of children’s hair salons, is implementing programs in salons across the nation in April as part of National Autism Awareness Month. Snip-its salons are hosting a series of fundraisers and other activities from April 1 - 30 to benefit Autism Speaks, the leader in research development, awareness and advocacy for families and children on the spectrum.

Snip-its salons have long been supporting families and children with autism. The Snip-its Corporation, together with Autism Speaks, created a haircutting guide and educational DVD for stylists and parents of children with autism to help prepare the kids for the salon experience. All of Snip-its’ stylists are trained to work with children with autism and other special needs.

First launched in 1995 by founder Joanna Meiseles, Snip-its has since been revolutionizing the hair care industry by creating a branded entertainment concept designed to untangle the hair-care challenges of children. Currently, Snip-its has more than 60 locations in 26 U.S. states.

“The Snip-its concept” said founder Joanna Meiseles, “is about creating an environment to meet all children’s needs so they feel comfortable and leave the salon with the most positive experience possible.”

With life-size characters, music and games, Snip-its has turned what was once a tedious chore into an amazing adventure, filled with fun, games, a whimsical cast of cartoon characters, and vibrant colors.

Each cutting station includes a special chair for parents to sit close at hand, and an entertainment station featuring custom computer games and activities for the little ones. Upon completion of the haircut, children insert a lock of hair into the “Snip-its Magic Box” for a prize. Snip-its locations also offers a “baby’s first haircut” package, which includes a haircut certificate, lock of hair and commemorative photo.

In addition to hair care, Snip-its salons offer spa services including mini-facials, manicures and pedicures using kid-friendly products, birthday parties and events.

About Autism Speaks

Autism Speaks is North America's largest autism science and advocacy organization. Since its inception in 2005, Autism Speaks has committed more than $142.5 million to research through 2014 and develops innovative new resources for families. The organization is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. In addition to funding research, Autism Speaks also supports the Autism Treatment Network, Autism Genetic Resource Exchange and several other scientific and clinical programs. Notable awareness initiatives include the establishment of the annual United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day on April 2 and an award-winning “Learn the Signs” campaign with the Ad Council which has received more than $249 million in donated media. Autism Speaks' family resources include the Autism Video Glossary, a 100 Day Kit for newly-diagnosed families, a School Community Tool Kit and a community grant program. Autism Speaks has played a critical role in securing federal legislation to advance the government's response to autism, and has successfully advocated for insurance reform to cover behavioral treatments in 23 states thus far, with bills pending in an additional 14 states. Each year Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are held in more than 80 cities across North America. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit www.autismspeaks.org.

About Snip-its

Snip-its, originally headquartered in Natick, Mass., was conceived by creator and founder Joanna Meiseles in 1995. In 2010, Snip-its relocated its headquarters to Eden Prairie, Minn., under the direction of President and CEO, James George, who has been involved in the franchise and hair salon industry for the past three decades. The five original Massachusetts locations have been joined by seven more locations for a total of 12 in Massachusetts and nearly 20 locations in New England. The chain has expanded nationally to approximately 65 salons in 26 states and continues to offer numerous franchise opportunities throughout the U.S. For more information about franchise opportunities, email Kim Ellis at kellis@snipits.com.  For further information about Snip-its in general, visit the website at www.snipits.com or call toll-free 877-SNIP-ITS.

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