B-TAN HELPS FILL LOCAL TANNING NEEDS

When pockets of opportunity exist within a market, businesses tend to step up to fill the void.

Success the case with B-Tan! tanning salon. The new salon opened March 3, at 130 S. High Street -- Suite 201.

"I just thought Jackson needed another tanning salon," said owner Faye Bergstrom. "The two here stay pretty well booked full. I thought they could use a third one and keep the Jackson business in Jackson instead of everyone driving to Cape."

Bergstrom, of Whitewater, has lived in the area since 1976 and has run an in-home tax preparation business before. The tanning business, however, was new to the family.

For Bergstrom and her daughter, Michele Schoen, the salon manager, learning the trade was no problem.

"It's a pretty simple thing," Bergstrom said. "All you have to know is how to clean a bed."

The business has been well-received, according to Bergstrom. Business has been brisk during the early days of operation.

"It's been really good," she said.

One secret is in trying to put the customers at ease.

"We have tried to make a relaxing atmosphere," Bergstrom said, "a place where they can come in and relax for a few minutes."

B-Tan! charges by groups of tans or by the month. As a Grand Opening special, an unlimited month of tans is $35. One-to-four tans (split allowed) is $5. A 10 percent discount is offered for students. Additionally, a "March Madness" special offers three month's unlimited tanning for $90.

The salon is open Monday through Saturday, beginning at 9 a.m. and on Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Appointments are highly recommended and all tans are considered to be 20 minutes (or less) of tan time. B-Tan! can be reached at 204-7170.