A South Wales-based tanning business is purchasing up to 100 new energy-efficient tanning beds with a seven-figure funding boost from HSBC UK.
Lextan, which operates 38 tanning salons across South Wales and the West of England, will use the investment to upgrade its equipment and support its next phase of expansion.
The new beds combine 31 fluorescent tubes with red light therapy and UVA LED diodes. They will reduce energy consumption and running costs by up to 50% in the salons where they are installed.
Only a small number of providers in Wales currently offer this technology, with wider UK adoption still emerging.
Savings generated through reduced energy usage will support the opening of three to five new sites across Wales over the next 12 months, creating additional jobs.
The new beds, supplied by Cyrano and imported from Holland, will be installed across 10 salons from the end of February, with the full programme due for completion by summer 2026.
Lextan anticipates a 5% increase in turnover over the next 12 months as a result of the investment and energy efficiencies.
James Hadley, Director at Lextan, said:
“Customer expectations in our sector are changing rapidly, with growing demand for high performance, new tanning technology. HSBC UK’s support enables us to stay ahead of that shift and strengthen our business model. The efficiencies we gain from this investment give us the scope to reinvest in new sites, new roles and new opportunities across our group.”
Ben Youde, SME Business Banking Relationship Manager, said:
“Lextan has grown from a single Aberdare salon twenty years ago into a network of 38 sites, driven by a consistent willingness to evolve and invest. This funding will help the business modernise its estate as it prepares its next phase of expansion. We’re pleased to support a Welsh business with such a strong track record and clear ambition for further growth.”
