Popsicle Nail Bars National Launch: Interview With Anil Bhogayata

Popsicle Nail Bars National Launch: Interview Anil Bhogayata. A new force in the professional beauty industry is poised for national growth with the launch of Popsicle Nail Bars (Popsicle), a high-impact brand redefining nail care through service excellence, advanced hygiene standards and digital innovation. The business is a strategic partnership between Ian Fuhr, founder of the Sorbet Group, and entrepreneurs Anil and Trisha Bhogayata, the creators of the Popsicle Nail product range. StartUp Mag recently had an insightful conversation with Anil Bhogayata regarding Popsicle Nail Bars and the broader vision of national expansion. Check it out below!

1. What inspired the creation of Popsicle Nail Bars, and how did the partnership between Ian Fuhr and the Bhogayatas come about?

Popsicle Nail Bars were inspired by our belief that nails are a canvas for self-expression, our purpose is “Free to be me.” The partnership with Ian Fuhr began through Sandy Fuhr, founder of BTI beauty schools, where Popsicle supplies professional nail products. Through this relationship, we met Ian, who was consulting via the Hatch Institute. Ian was impressed by our brand’s supply chain, R&D, and growing market traction. He suggested Popsicle was ready to scale with a national chain of stores, and we invited him to partner with us, he agreed, seeing the potential for a game-changing brand in the industry.

2. How does Popsicle plan to differentiate itself from existing nail salons in South Africa’s competitive beauty market?

Popsicle Nail Bars are designed to be vibrant, inclusive spaces where customers can truly express themselves. We offer a fresh, trend-forward experience, exclusive signature treatments, and a “people-first” culture. Our allergy-free product range, medical-grade hygiene standards, and innovative systems set us apart, while our brand’s energy and inclusivity create a welcoming environment unlike anything else in the market.

3. Why was now the right time to launch Popsicle Nail Bars nationally?

With Popsicle’s strong foundation, supplying over 400 salons locally and internationally, and launching a first-of-its-kind showroom in 2023, we’ve built the expertise, supply chain, and brand presence needed for national expansion. The market is ready for a new, vibrant nail bar experience, and we have the right partners, systems, and vision to deliver it.

4. What role does the existing Popsicle nail product range play in shaping the new retail nail bar experience?

Our allergy-free products are at the heart of the Popsicle Nail Bar experience. We specialize in gels, builder gels, acrylic, hybrid gel, and nail art, ensuring every treatment is safe, innovative, and on-trend. Our product quality and variety empower both technicians and customers to explore creative, personalized nail looks.

5. Popsicle introduces augmented reality (AR) consultations – can you explain how this will work in practice for customers?

This is a work in progress and will be a surprise element for our customers.

6. What makes the exclusive signature treatments unique compared to what’s already available in South Africa?

Our signature treatments are developed in-house, using Popsicle’s innovative, allergy-free products and inspired by global trends. Each treatment is designed to offer something new, whether it’s a unique finish, a creative technique, or a personalized touch, ensuring our customers always have access to the latest and most exciting nail experiences.

7. How will Popsicle ensure medical-grade hygiene standards are consistently upheld across all branches?

We implement strict, medical-grade hygiene protocols, including sterilized tools and hospital-grade cleaning procedures. Our staff are thoroughly trained, and we conduct regular audits to ensure every branch maintains the highest standards of safety and cleanliness.

8. Can you elaborate on Popsicle’s promise of affordability while still delivering premium-quality service?

Our systems are designed to save time and reduce costs for franchisees, allowing us to offer premium-quality services at accessible prices. By optimizing our supply chain and innovating our service models, we help salons increase their margins without compromising on quality.

9. The first branches are opening in Bedford Centre and Fourways Mall – why were these locations chosen?

Bedford Centre and Fourways Mall are vibrant, high-traffic destinations that align with our brand’s energy and vision. These locations allow us to reach diverse, trend-conscious customers and set the stage for Popsicle’s national presence.

10. What are Popsicle’s expansion targets for 2026 and beyond, and how many branches do you aim to open in the next five years?

Our goal is to establish Popsicle Nail Bars as a leading national chain, with a strong presence in key cities across South Africa and select international markets. We aim to open 50 branches over the next three years, focusing on sustainable growth and franchisee success. We would like to take this opportunity to appeal directly to centre and mall management teams, as well as landlords: Popsicle is committed to building long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships. Our brand brings something truly new and vibrant to the mark, a destination where customers feel free to express themselves and where inclusivity and innovation are at the core of everything we do. We invite you to consider Popsicle as a long-term partner in your expansion plans. Together, we can create spaces that not only attract and delight customers but also set new standards for the beauty industry.

11. What qualities are you looking for in prospective franchise partners and nail technicians?

We seek franchise partners and technicians who are passionate about beauty, committed to excellence, and share our values of inclusivity and self-expression. A strong customer service ethos, willingness to innovate, and alignment with our brand culture are essential.

12. How does the franchise model empower entrepreneurs compared to other franchise opportunities in the beauty space?

Our franchise model offers robust support, from supply chain and training to marketing and operations. We empower entrepreneurs with proven systems, innovative products, and a culture that values individuality and growth, helping them succeed in a competitive market.

13. Ian Fuhr has long championed a values-driven service culture – how will this ethos shape Popsicle’s everyday operations?

Ian’s values-driven approach is central to Popsicle’s culture. We prioritize people, both customers and staff, fostering an environment of respect, empowerment, and exceptional service. This ethos guides every aspect of our operations, from hiring to customer care.

14. How does Popsicle align with Fuhr’s broader work through the Hatch Institute and The Human Bridge Movement?

Popsicle embodies the principles of inclusivity, empowerment, and service excellence championed by the Hatch Institute and The Human Bridge Movement. Our partnership with Ian ensures these values are embedded in our DNA, shaping a brand that uplifts both staff and customers.

15. What long-term impact do you hope Popsicle will have on the South African nail and beauty industry as a whole?

We hope Popsicle will set new standards for creativity, inclusivity, and professionalism in the industry. By empowering franchisees, supporting technicians, and delighting customers, we aim to inspire positive change and elevate the nail and beauty experience for everyone.