Now synonymous with the nail industry, in the early 1980s, Richard Hurter‘s journey began in a seemingly unrelated field — working in a machine shop in Simi Valley, California. However, fate had other plans, leading him to work in a beauty supply store where he started stocking shelves and taking salon orders. This humble beginning marked the start of an illustrious career in the nail industry, a field where Richard would leave an indelible mark.
Richard’s deep dive into the nail sector began when he purchased the nail segment of the beauty supply store. Immersed in an emerging industry, his path took a dramatic turn after a devastating earthquake destroyed his business. This setback, however, became a pivotal moment when he was offered a job at KUPA by then-owner Robert Upshaw. Thus, Richard’s historical journey with KUPA commenced.
Founded by Robert Upshaw and Kito Ochi in 1984, KUPA pioneered the first e-file machine specifically designed for nail technicians. This innovation set a new standard in the industry. Richard’s arrival at KUPA coincided with their collaboration with Keystone Industries to manufacture acrylic liquids and powders, becoming a leading distributor of acrylic nail products to the burgeoning market.
As the growth of the e-file emerged, Richard & KUPA partnered with renowned industry educator Vicki Peters to bring formal education on the safe and effective use of e-files in salons in 2003. This partnership filled a crucial gap in the industry, establishing e-files as essential equipment in every nail salon.
Richard’s vision extended beyond distribution, dreaming of branding the products KUPA distributed. After the death of Bob Upshaw in 2012, Richard bought out the remaining partners, becoming the sole owner of KUPA Inc. This move marked the beginning of a new era of innovation and product creation under the KUPA brand. The introduction of the Manipro Passport marked Richard’s first foray into product creation and branding. Inspired by the growing pedicure market, this portable e-file was designed as an entry-level machine for new nail technicians and one that could easily go from the nail table to the pedicure station.
Richard’s passion for innovation drove the development of state-of-the-art e-files and salon equipment, culminating in the creation of the “eco-system.” This innovative concept offered all KUPA machinery and equipment at a nail station a color-changing option, creating a harmonious look and feel that matches the salon’s decor, personality, or mood.
Over the years, Richard has collaborated with numerous industry educators to ensure his innovations met the needs of nail professionals while providing extensive education. His unwavering passion for creation and improvement has kept him at the forefront of the industry. This year, as KUPA celebrates its 40 years in business, they mark the milestone by launching a new innovation—the Manipro Passport NEXT. Featuring a large LED display, a backup battery system in the docking station, and multiple color-changing options, this next-generation e-file is set to turn heads and reinforce KUPA’s legacy of innovation.
Richard Hurter’s journey from a machine shop worker to a leading figure in the nail industry exemplifies how passion and vision can transform a side job into a lifelong pursuit of excellence. As KUPA Inc. looks forward to the future, Richard’s insatiable passion for innovation continues to drive the company toward new heights, ensuring its place as a trailblazer in the nail industry for years to come.
For more, watch our interview with KUPA CEO and President, Richard Hurter, now on GlossaryLive.
