The British Hair Consortium (BHC) has issued an open letter calling for clarity on the state of the UK’s beauty industry, claiming that today’s headlines “don’t reflect the reality facing hairdressers, barbers and beauticians.”
In its role representing the UK’s hairdressing, barbering and beauty sectors, the BHC said that despite media cover suggesting the industry is experiencing a boom this does not reflect the daily reality of those working behind the chair.
“Across the country, salon owners continue to grapple with rising costs, increasing employment burdens, reduced consumer spending and the ongoing impact of VAT disparities,” read the BHC’s letter.
“Businesses that have served their communities for decades are facing immense pressure. Salon closures continue to occur at an alarming rate, while many business owners are questioning the long-term viability of remaining on the high street.”
According to the trade body, this misleading impression of the UK’s beauty sector risks masking the challenges faced by service businesses, potentially undermining the case for targeted support.
The BHC is currently campaigning for VAT reforms that it says are needed to prevent tax losses, and is advocating for measures it claims will protect jobs, apprenticeships and businesses.
As part of its campaigning, the BHC is calling for hair and beauty services be measured and reported separately from retail and manufacturing in data shared with Government, clarity the trade body says is vital in determining the real growth of the sector.
“Our message to policymakers is simple: do not mistake growth in consumer product sales for a boom in salon based service businesses,” said the BHC.
“Our message to the industry is equally clear: we see the reality you are facing, we understand the pressures you are under, and we will continue to ensure your voice is heard at the highest levels of government.”