Why Commercial Sunbeds Remain a Profitable Investment in 2025
The UK tanning market continues to grow steadily, even in a challenging economic climate. With the unpredictability of British weather, consumers increasingly turn to professional tanning salons to achieve a natural glow. For entrepreneurs, investing in commercial sunbeds is not just about equipment – it is about tapping into a market that shows resilience and strong demand
Market demand in the UK tanning industry
Recent years have seen an increase in tanning salon openings in both urban centres and smaller towns. Demand is driven by younger demographics, lifestyle trends, and a shift towards year-round beauty services. Salons that combine professional sunbeds with high-quality tanning lotions attract repeat customers and grow rapidly
How location and footfall impact profitability
Location remains a decisive factor. High-street salons near gyms, beauty salons, or shopping areas enjoy steady walk-in traffic. However, even smaller community salons can thrive if they deliver excellent service and reliable sunbeds. Success is about matching the right number of sunbeds to the available space and tailoring the offer to the target audience.
The role of reliable equipment in client retention
A client who experiences a patchy or weak tanning session is unlikely to return. Modern commercial sunbeds from Ergoline, megaSun, Opal Fitness or Luxura ensure consistency and performance. Reliability keeps clients loyal, while downtime due to frequent breakdowns can cost a salon thousands in lost revenue.
Running Costs – How Much Does a Sunbed Really Cost Per Minute?
Before opening a salon, most business owners want to understand running costs. The reality is that commercial sunbeds are more affordable to operate than many expect.
Electricity consumption explained
A standard lay-down sunbed usually requires a three-phase 32A power supply, while vertical models typically use 25A. On average, the cost per tanning minute is only a few pence, depending on local electricity rates.
The latest LED sunbeds, such as Ergoline Elements or megaSun K11 Air, take efficiency to the next level. They consume significantly less electricity compared to traditional fluorescent-lamp units, while still delivering strong tanning performance. For salon owners, this means lower running costs, reduced heat output, and happier clients thanks to shorter cool-down times.
Lamp lifespan and replacement costs
Traditional tanning lamps generally last between 400 and 800 hours. In contrast, LED technology offers lifespans measured in thousands of hours, drastically reducing replacement frequency and ongoing expenses. This long-term saving makes LED sunbeds a smart investment for forward-thinking salons.
Comparing running costs of standing vs. lay-down sunbeds
Stand-up sunbeds often use less electricity and are quicker to service, while lay-down models provide a premium experience and may command a higher price per session. LED-equipped models in both categories now bridge the gap – offering energy efficiency, durability, and premium results all in one.
Sunbed Service and Repairs – Keeping Your Salon Running Smoothly
Owning a salon means planning not only for daily operations but also for ongoing service and maintenance. A single machine out of order can affect turnover significantly.
Common technical issues and error codes
From ventilation blockages to ballast failures, most problems can be diagnosed quickly by trained engineers. Modern digital controllers display error codes that point to the affected area, but accurate repairs require expertise. Best Sunbeds provides full support in interpreting codes and resolving issues.
How often to service your sunbed
An annual inspection is highly recommended. This includes testing the power supply, replacing filters, and checking cooling systems. Preventative servicing reduces the risk of unexpected downtime and prolongs the lifespan of your equipment.
Benefits of professional maintenance vs. DIY fixes
Attempting to repair complex sunbeds without proper knowledge can cause further damage. Professional engineers not only restore the machine but also ensure compliance with safety standards. Best Sunbeds offers quick response times across the UK, ensuring your salon remains open and profitable.
New vs. Reconditioned Sunbeds – Which One Should You Choose?
When starting or expanding a salon, the choice between new and reconditioned sunbeds is one of the most important decisions.
Advantages of investing in brand-new models
New sunbeds offer the latest innovations, such as LED technology, improved airflow, and modern designs that impress clients. Manufacturer warranties provide peace of mind, making them an attractive choice for salon owners with larger budgets.
Cost savings and reliability of reconditioned sunbeds
Reconditioned sunbeds from Best Sunbeds are fully refurbished, tested, and fitted with brand-new tanning lamps. Many clients choose reconditioned models as a cost-effective way to enter the market while still enjoying professional performance.
Key factors to check before buying used equipment
Always ensure that the sunbed has been refurbished by a reputable company. Check lamp hours, condition of components, and ensure installation is handled by trained professionals. This prevents costly breakdowns and ensures consistent tanning results.
Boosting Results with Tanning Lotions and Lamps
Tanning lotions are not just an add-on – they are essential for client satisfaction and salon profitability.
Why tanning lotions increase results and revenue
Lotions accelerate the tanning process, improve hydration, and make results last longer. For salons, they represent an important secondary income stream with high margins. Clients who use lotions often book more sessions because they see visible results faster.
Accelerators vs. bronzers – what’s best for your clients?
Accelerators are ideal for beginners who want to stimulate melanin naturally. Bronzers, on the other hand, provide an instant cosmetic effect and are favoured by experienced tanners. Best Sunbeds offers a full range, including exclusive Fame Tan, QL Tan, and Tan Desire.
The importance of replacing tanning lamps on time
Even the best lotions cannot deliver great results if the lamps are old. Replacing lamps regularly ensures clients achieve deep, even tans – and keeps your reputation strong.
Our Expert Recommendations – The Best Commercial Sunbeds in the UK Market
Choosing the right sunbed brand and model is not only a matter of budget or design – it is also about understanding your local competition. If the salon down the street already operates the latest Ergoline or megaSun, then simply buying the same model may not give you a competitive edge. This is where the expertise of Best Sunbeds specialists becomes invaluable – we analyse your location, your competitors, and your target customers to recommend the solution that makes the most sense for your business. Sometimes, paying extra for the most advanced model is not necessary to achieve success.
Ergoline vs. megaSun – which brand suits your salon?
Ergoline is famous for its design, comfort, and advanced features, creating a luxurious impression that appeals to style-conscious clients. megaSun, on the other hand, is recognised for its performance, durability, and strong airflow systems, making it a reliable workhorse for high-traffic salons. Both brands deliver excellent tanning results, and the choice often depends on your salon style, customer profile, and budget.
Vertical (stand-up) vs. horizontal (lay-down) sunbeds
Vertical sunbeds are space-saving, hygienic, and perfect for short, high-turnover sessions. Lay-down sunbeds offer a premium, relaxing experience and are often considered the flagship choice for clients who value comfort. Most successful salons combine both options, giving customers the freedom to choose and maximising overall revenue.
Importantly, when it comes to vertical sunbeds, there is currently nothing better on the market than Opal Fitness. And we do not say this simply as a distributor – we say this as an experienced operator who has tested these units in real salon conditions. The quality, reliability, and customer response speak for themselves.
Matching the right model to your business size and budget
A smaller salon may start with a single vertical unit, while larger operations often invest in a mix of vertical and horizontal models to cover every customer preference. At Best Sunbeds, we go beyond simple sales – we help you design your salon layout, recommend cabin configurations, and ensure optimal airflow and aesthetics. This personalised approach guarantees that your equipment choice is not only cost-effective but also strategically competitive in your market.
Final Thoughts – How to Future-Proof Your Tanning Salon
Running a successful salon means looking beyond the first months of operation and planning for sustainable growth.
As a proud member of The Sunbed Association, Best Sunbeds is listed among the organisation’s recommended suppliers. This reflects our commitment to professional standards, safety, and responsible tanning in the UK market.
Smart financing and leasing options
Leasing allows new entrepreneurs to start their salon with minimal upfront costs. Best Sunbeds works with trusted UK finance partners to provide flexible solutions tailored to each client’s circumstances.
Building client loyalty with the right equipment and cosmetics
Offering high-quality sunbeds alongside exclusive lotions such as Fame Tan and QL Tan ensures clients see results and return regularly.
Why after-sales support is the hidden key to long-term success
From fast delivery of spare parts to professional repairs, after-sales support keeps salons running smoothly. At Best Sunbeds, we believe our client’s success is our success – many of our partners return to us because of the complete support we provide.
On average, a traditional sunbed costs around 6p per minute, while the latest LED sunbeds cost only 2–3p per minute.
Typically every 600–800 hours of use, but LED technology lasts much longer – often several thousand hours.
New sunbeds provide the latest features and warranties, while reconditioned sunbeds are fully refurbished, fitted with new lamps, and offer a cost-effective entry point.
Vertical sunbeds are more space-efficient and hygienic, while lay-down sunbeds provide a premium, relaxing experience. The most successful salons usually combine both.
We are not only one of the UK’s largest distributors of commercial sunbeds, tanning lamps, and lotions – we are also a proud member of The Sunbed Association. Being part of the TSA means we are recognised as a trusted and recommended supplier, fully aligned with the Association’s mission to ensure safe and responsible tanning. This gives our customers peace of mind, knowing they are working with a company that has been vetted by the UK’s leading tanning authority and consistently upholds the highest standards of service, safety, and professionalism.