A Sidcup salon had a free facelift from the Queen of Shops, who offered expert advice ahead of the new series of her TV show.
Shobiz Hair and Beauty in Nisbett Walk officially re-launched as Shobie & Co last Wednesday (July 22) while being filmed for Mary Portas: Secret Shopper.
Salon owner Shobie Lee, 56, said she was overjoyed with her updated business, modernised by Mary Portas, who also ironed out a few staff niggles.
Mrs Lee, who has 34 years’ experience, said: "I thought it was a great opportunity for us to rebrand.
"It’s been a wonderful journey.
"The business wasn’t failing but it wasn’t going in a direction it should be going in."
Mrs Lee, who co-owns the salon with 54-year-old husband Colin said Mary encouraged her to take a much-needed step back.
She added: "This is my third salon - I do know what I am doing.
"It was about me letting go.
Hairdresser Amy Bailey, with a client
"That’s why it’s rebranded Shobie & Co, because it’s us doing it rather than me doing it."
The company has a family feel, with long-standing members of staff including Robert, who worked at her Lewisham salon over 20 years ago.
However, problems arose after Mrs Lee's daughter started working as a trainee - creating friction within the team.
Mrs Lee added: "I was aware of some of the issues so Mary turned up at the right time.
"Mary was lovely - I think she’s so down to earth, she’s very kind.
Mrs Lee with Mary Portas
"I am quite blunt. I am happy with the truth.
"To have somebody come in and design your salon - wow, that’s just so nice."
Despite her agreement to be less controlling, Mrs Lee was unhappy with some aspects of the new design.
She said: "We are going to change a few bits and they realise that.
"The two big sinks are replaced by two tiny, what I call urinal style sinks, but we are addressing it.
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"I think some of the clients thought we were going under, because Mary’s job is to save you.
"But we were on a decline."
Shoebie & Co’s makeover and re-launch will be shown on Channel 4 at the beginning of next year.
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