Johannesburg, November 2025: A bold new player is set to redefine the nail care industry with the launch of Popsicle Nail Bars (Popsicle), a fresh, colourful brand that brings advanced nail services together with a culture of service excellence.
The concept is being launched by Ian Fuhr, the founder of Sorbet and renowned entrepreneur and culture specialist, together with dynamic young partners, Anil and Trisha Bhogayata. Over the past several years, Anil and Trisha have successfully built an extensive range of Popsicle Nail products. With Fuhr now joining forces with them, the brand is expanding into a nationwide chain of nail bars.
“Popsicle is more than just a business. It’s the next chapter in a lifelong journey of building customer experiences rooted in service excellence,” says Fuhr. “True success in the beauty industry doesn’t come from treatments alone. It’s not only about what we do or how we do it. It’s about how we make people feel”.
Popsicle will combine fun, welcoming, and inclusive spaces with the latest international trends in advanced nail technology. Behind the brand’s playful identity lies a serious commitment to professional excellence and creating a people-first service culture where people feel valued, cared for, and uplifted. That philosophy is at the heart of Popsicle.
What makes Popsicle different?
- Medical-Grade Hygiene: Sterilised equipment and hospital-standard safety protocols elevate salon cleanliness to international benchmarks.
- AR Technology: Augmented reality consultations let clients preview designs in real time and choose styles with confidence.
- Exclusive Services: Signature manicures and pedicures not currently available in South Africa, offering unmatched differentiation.
- Trend Leadership: Global beauty innovations introduced first through Popsicle, positioning the brand as South Africa’s trend-setter.
- Holistic Brand Experience: From product to service, Popsicle is not just a salon but a lifestyle movement celebrating individuality.
- NEW Popsicle Body Care Range: Taking the Popsicle experience beyond nails, this exclusive collection of bath and body products elevates fragrance, texture, and the feel-good factor to the next level. Designed to complement its nail services, this luxurious range will be available at all Popsicle Nail Bars, offering clients a complete sensory experience.
According to Fuhr the mission is clear: “Service is not what we do, it’s who we are. Each client should leave Popsicle not only with beautiful nails, but also feeling energised, confident, and appreciated.”
Looking ahead, Popsicle will be built on a franchise model that will allow entrepreneurs to join the journey, with the goal of scaling the brand nationally and bringing its unique spirit of joy and service to communities across South Africa.
The first two Popsicle Nail Bars will open at the Bedford Centre in Bedfordview, Johannesburg, and Fourways mall in Fourways, Johannesburg in early December 2025, with several additional sites planned for 2026.
