Dozens of salons in Boston and New York have signed up to show appreciation for existing clients, bring back inactive customers and gain new ones during Salon Week, where they will offer 50 percent off a minimum of services from April 1 to 7.

Salons who participate in this program will recieve national advertising, PR and social media exposure. In addition, a variety of in-salon marketing materials are provided including t-shirts, brochures and more. The event will occur twice yearly in the Spring and the Fall in select markets across the U.S.

“Every salon owner faces similar challenges with customer acquisition and retention,” said Maria Lekkakos, President of Salon Week. “Many turn to daily deal sites, which diminish ones brand and most often brings in clients who come in only for the discount and never return. We’ve created an event that enables top salons to both show appreciation for existing clients and gain new ones.”

Salons that have signed up in support of the event include: Bradley & Diegel, Salon Eva Michelle, Salon Marc Harris and Studio 9. In addition, Salon Week is launching with the support of a number of top lifestyle and beauty brands, including Boston Magazine, Goldwell, Hey Hey Gorgeous, Nioxin, Oribe Hair Care, P&G Professional, Sebastian and Wella.

The event is being held nationwide for the inaugural event and is expected to expand to other cities for the Fall, 2012 event. Salons can participate for a fee of $699. For more information or to enroll, visit www.salonweek.com.