Rapid Response: Hourly workers are a ‘hero class’ w/Cue Ball’s Tony Tjan

Nail Care

Tony Tjan is spearheading a transformation in the nail care industry, aiming to elevate it to a safer and more ethical standard. He draws inspiration from Starbucks, seeking to "starbuck" the industry by integrating purpose, design, and technology to address issues like toxicity and poor labor practices 1. This initiative is not just about improving nail salons but also about offering clean, ethical products and setting new hygiene standards.

We're offering a reimagined, better, clean, ethical, safe set of nail polishes because most of the products out there have very high levels of toxicity, carcinogenic and cause neurological damage.

--- Tony Tjan

Tjan's vision extends to fostering conscious consumerism, encouraging people to support local and ethical businesses. He believes that this shift could lead to a more sustainable and inclusive economy 2.

   

Business Model

The nail care industry is undergoing significant business model innovation, driven by leaders like Tony Tjan and his team. Under the leadership of Zoe Krislock, the company experienced rapid growth, even being recognized by Oprah as a favorite 3. However, the pandemic drastically impacted their operations, reducing their workforce from 552 to just seven employees.

We watched going from 552 people down to seven and effectively down to zero revenue.

--- Tony Tjan

Despite these challenges, Tjan emphasizes the importance of supporting the vulnerable workforce, particularly women and immigrant workers in the nail care sector. He calls for a renewed focus on social justice for these essential workers 3.