The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) is thrilled to announce a major evolution of its highly anticipated Top 100 Influencer Index. Now in its fifth year, due to overwhelming demand and the incredible talent within the sector, the awards will now be divided into two distinct categories: the Top 50 Hair Influencer Index and the Top 50 Beauty Influencer Index.

As the NHBF Top 100 Influencer Index continue to grow, this separation ensures a greater focus on the achievements of professionals across both sectors, giving more recognition to the creators, educators, and trendsetters shaping the sector.

The NHBF Top 100 Influencer Index opens for entries today (Monday 10th March) and is open to all hair and beauty professionals working in the sector who meet the below criteria:

• A professional currently working in the hairdressing, barbering, beauty, spa, nails or aesthetics industries.
• Applicants should have an applicable qualification in the industry they are working in from a regulated awarding organisation, or equivalent continual experience working in the industry (5 years+).

You can nominate as many people as you wish, including yourself, and we encourage you to post it on social media too using #NHBFTop100Influencers. #NHBFTop50HairInfluencers #NHBFTop50BeautyInfluencers

Nominate your Top 100 Influencers here.

The nomination process is simple:

• Enter your name and the name of the person you’re nominating.
• Enter their social media handles (Instagram, TikTok & YouTube).
• Tick the category you are nominating in i.e. Hair or Beauty.
• Confirm that you/they meet the nomination criteria.

Once the nominations close, a Top 250 longlist will be compiled. This will then be independently evaluated based on the following metrics/criteria:

• Followers – the number of people following you/the nominees.
• Engagement – the number of mentions, shares, links, and impressions of your/the nominees’ posts.
• Reach – how many people have seen your/the nominees’ posts.

NHBF Chief Executive, Caroline Larissey said:
“The demand for the NHBF Top 100 Influencer Awards has been absolutely phenomenal. Splitting the awards into two categories allows us to truly showcase the incredible talent and influence across both the hair and beauty sector. We will be unveiling the venues for each final shortly.”

Aura Salonware is pleased to announce its first annual Aura BeautySphere Connect event, which will take place at The Standard Spa in Miami Beach, Florida, on May 5, 2025.

This intimate one-day retreat for salon owners is an opportunity to connect, learn, and recharge. Participants will gain insights from industry innovators and experience salon leadership educational sessions and workshops.

Speakers include Cyd Charisse and David Bosscher of Destroy the Hairdresser, Sarai Speer, known as the Platinum Giraffe, Alicia Soulier from Salon Scale, Benjamin Camagna from Currie Hair Skin and Nails, Keri Davis of Keri Davis Consulting, and more.

In addition, Aura’s official networking lunch and experiential cocktail reception allows salon owners to connect with fellow beauty entrepreneurs.
“Aura promises to infuse new energy to salon businesses by providing an industry event that brings together like-minded beauty professionals,” mentioned Aura Salonware Co-founder Jonathan Levine. ”We invite salon owners to come get inspired, share their experiences and best practices, and discover ways to grow their businesses while taking a little time to breathe in the beauty and vibrance of Miami.”

To learn more about Aura BeautySphere Connect or purchase tickets, visit http://aurasalonware.com/beautysphereconnect.

About Aura Salonware
Aura Salonware is the all-in-one salon operations software that modernizes, automates, and innovates the entire salon management experience. With intuitive and dynamic features, this data-driven, cloud-based platform helps salons provide an elevated client experience to increase retention, satisfaction, and revenue.

For more information about
Aura, visit aurasalonware.com.

Rob Weston, owner of LEVEL 7 BARBER has been announced as OSMO’s new brand ambassador.

With over 12 years of experience in the barbering industry, Rob Weston’s journey began at LAFHAB (Leeds Academy for Hairdressing & Barbering) in Leeds City Centre. After qualifying, he honed his craft in a busy walk-in barbershop, quickly building a loyal clientele that followed him as he moved to the next town. His
ambition led him to convert part of a hair salon into a dedicated barbershop, where he spent two years establishing his name before returning to the heart of Leeds.

Rob gained valuable experience at Boris & Co, refining his skills in a fast-paced city
environment under Michael Tominay. He later expanded his expertise at King Coby’s and 13 Barbers, working alongside a close-knit team. After three years, fatherhood led him back to a local setting at Boris & Co in Mirfield before he set out on his own venture.

In June 2023, Rob opened Level 7 Barbers in a fully renovated space, creating a
modern, thriving barbershop that remains fully booked. His expertise spans both
barbering and hairdressing, incorporating elements of precision cutting, longer
styles, and colouring into his hybrid approach.

Beyond the shop, Rob has shared his knowledge through stage work with Great British Barber Bash and as a coach for Learn to Cut, an online platform mentoring aspiring barbers to refine their skills and elevate their pricing. He also runs his own independent education courses, helping others unlock their potential.
Rob’s passion for creativity extends to photography and videography, complementing his social media presence.

Always eager to evolve, he continually invests in education and professional development.
Rob’s role as an OSMO ambassador will see him working closely with the brand to create content, attend industry events, and participate in brand shoots… including a
very exciting one, which is yet to be revealed!
“Rob’s expertise in barbering resonates with our passion towards the barbering industry. We’re excited to be working closely with Rob and seeing how his creative
skills help to build the OSMO brand and products to a wider barbering audience,” explains OSMO Senior Brand Manager, Sinéad McLaughlin.

www.osmo.uk.com
Instagram: @osmouk_official / @osmoikon / @_robweston/@level7barbers

BarberEVO UK Issue 52 is OUT NOW! 

This edition takes you right back to the heart of the barbering world – with Hayden Cassidy and her creative collaborators gracing our cover in a shoot that celebrates everything this industry stands for: collaboration, creativity, and the ultimate cool-kid vibes. 

ICON OF THE EDITION & BARBER ABROAD – 
This issue, we sit down with two global heavyweights: DL Master Barber and Fraser Forsey. From across the pond to down under, discover their journeys, their legacies, and what keeps them at the top. Plus, meet the team at Bros X CO as they share their experience in the Brosh Ambassadorship competition. 

TEXTURE – 
Texture takes centre stage as we chat to Franklyn Nnambdi about his rise in the industry, his views on texture, and life in the celebrity spotlight. We also spotlight Tariq Howes’ work on Ex the Barber for BaBylissPRO, before checking in with columnist Mark Maciver. Then, dive into a texture-focused conversation with Craig Fabio, who takes us behind the scenes of the Denman commercial shoot. And to round things off? We get In the Chair with Oliver Hill. 

CREATIVE – 
Our Creative section kicks off with the BaBylissPRO photoshoot and an in-depth chat with Ky Wilson on keeping creativity alive with the brand. We explore more creative energy with American Crew and Gamma+, before returning to our cover star Hayden Cassidy for the inside story on her game-changing, collaboration-fuelled shoot. And we’re not done yet – there’s plenty more inspiration from Cool Blades, OSMO, and Wahl. 

INTERIORS – 
Step inside our Barbershop of the Edition: Dean Gleeson Hair, a Japandi-style haven featuring stunning Takara Belmont chairs. We then discuss Additional Services with Stockholm by Ruger, and we take a trip to Spain to check out HAIR CVLTURE

BUSINESS – 
This issue’s business pages are packed with insight: from going Behind the Brand with the NHBF, to catching up with Morgan’s about their exciting new market in Japan. We also talk tech and trends with Barry Stephens. 

From global icons and industry-leading events to cutting-edge creativity, BarberEVO UK Issue 52 is your ultimate guide to what’s shaping barbering now – and what’s next. Dive in today! 

The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) today released findings from its latest State of the Industry Survey, revealing that an unprecedented 78% of hair and beauty businesses plan to increase their prices in the next three months – the highest level recorded since the survey began.

The quarterly survey of sector businesses across the UK paints a picture of an industry at a crossroads, with rising operational costs post Autumn Budget forcing difficult decisions about staffing, apprenticeships, and business models.

Key findings include:

• 52% of businesses plan to implement price increases of 5-10%.
• 31% of businesses reported a decrease in their workforce over the last quarter.
• 59% expect to reduce apprenticeship intake following the Autumn Budget.
• 26% of businesses are now planning to downsize or hand over their business.

The sector has already seen significant job losses, with official data showing a workforce reduction of 16,500 positions in 2023-24, following a 7% reduction in staff in 2022/23.

The impact of the Autumn Budget has been particularly significant, in addition to taking on fewer apprentices, businesses will reduce staff or apprentice hours (47%), the number of staff employed (47%) and business investment (41%) in response to the 6.7% rise in National Minimum Wage rates and changes to Employers’ National Insurance contributions.

Caroline Larissey, Chief Executive of NHBF, said: “The survey results paint a concerning picture of our sector’s future. While the personal care services sector has grown its economic contribution to £5.8 billion in 2023-24, we’re seeing a fundamental shift in how businesses operate. The combination of rising wages, increased National Insurance contributions, and reduced business rates relief is pushing many salon owners toward self-employed models, potentially ending decades of apprenticeship training that has been the lifeblood of our sector.

“Without urgent government intervention, particularly around VAT reform and targeted support for small employers, we risk losing the traditional salon model that has been central to high street vitality and community wellbeing. The NHBF is calling for immediate action, including a review of the VAT system, enhanced apprenticeship incentives, and improved business rates support to help protect and grow this vital sector.”

The survey also revealed that 41% of businesses are currently making a profit, with 42% breaking even. However, the number of businesses reporting losses has increased to 17%, up from 14% in September 2024.

Look out for our ‘Straightening out the costs’; report analysing the impact of the Autumn 2024 Budget on Hair & Beauty Sector in the coming days – a comprehensive analysis commissioned by NHBF and conducted by Pragmatix Advisory Ltd.

NHBF has written to the Chancellor ahead of the spring fiscal statement on 26 March calling for VAT reform, apprenticeship incentives for employers and business rates reform.

The NHBF has also launched its “Survive & Thrive with the NHBF,” a transformative programme designed to support members through these challenging times. This bold initiative provides month-by-month practical support including business adaptation tools, employment guidance, political engagement resources, and professional excellence development. The initiative will help businesses prepare for and navigate through the April 2025 changes and beyond.

Members can access these valuable resources through the ” Survive & Thrive with the NHBF” section of the NHBF website.

The spotlight is set to shine on Liverpool this autumn as the British Hair, Beauty And Barbering awards (BHBABs) make their highly anticipated debut in the city.

On Sunday, 5th October 2025, the prestigious event will bring together professionals from across the hair, beauty, barbering, and aesthetics industries for one unmissable night of celebration and recognition for excellence, innovation and true industry talent.

After 13 years of success and sell-out events in Scotland, and following overwhelming demand from salons and professionals across the UK, founder and Organiser Joanne Reid is finally bringing the celebration south of the border. Liverpool, with its thriving beauty scene and cultural significance, is the perfect city to host this landmark event.

Held at one of Liverpool’s most iconic venues, The Titanic Hotel, the BHBABs will unite industry-leading experts, rising stars, and innovators under one roof, celebrating the artistry, skill, and dedication that drive the UK’s ever-evolving hair and beauty sectors. This one-night-only event will set the stage for the best in the business to be acknowledged for their talent, hard work, and impact.

Joanne Reid, Founder of the BHBABs said: “The BHBABs are more than just an awards night – they are a platform for the industry to come together, share success, and be recognised on a national scale. We’re thrilled to be bringing this event to Liverpool, a city known for its vibrant beauty scene and rich cultural heritage. This will be a night to remember!”

With categories spanning across all areas of hair, beauty, barbering, and aesthetics, the awards will shine a spotlight on the professionals shaping the future of the industry. From cutting-edge hairstylists and trend-setting barbers to innovative beauty experts and pioneering aesthetic practitioners, the BHBABs will honour the very best talent from across the UK.

In addition to the prestigious awards ceremony, guests can expect an unforgettable evening of entertainment, networking, and celebration, with opportunities to connect with some of the industry’s most influential figures. Judged by industry leaders, ensuring credibility and prestige the BHBABs is a must-attend event for anyone in the beauty industry.

Nominations and Tickets: The BHBABs 2025 is now open for entries, welcoming registrations from professionals across the UK. Early registration is recommended due to high demand.
For more information, to register to take part or to secure your tickets, visit www.bhbabs.co.uk .

By Alyssa Cink

How you deal with criticism can impact your bottom line. According to a poll of 1,000 Americans commissioned by Toni & Guy, one in 10 clients has been so disappointed by a haircut, they’ve refused to pay for it. One percent even threatened to sue.

Here are 7 ways to handle barbershop complaints with ease.

1. Don’t ignore an unhappy client.

If you receive a harsh customer review, withdrawing is not the answer. Don’t ignore the flustered voicemails or simply delete the inflamed comments from your Instagram post.

Harvard Business Review’s study of more than 400,000 customer service-related tweets found that customers who received any kind of customer service response were willing to pay that company more. It didn’t matter if the customer was happy, furious, or sad. All of them were willing to recommend a brand for at least six months after their interaction.

Takeaway: Respond to all feedback, good and bad. Engaging with even the most confrontational, difficult hair clients can positively impact their brand loyalty.

2. Respond fast.

Harvard Business Review observed that, after 20 minutes of waiting for a reply, customers saw the brand as $3 more valuable. After waiting five minutes or less, many customers were willing to pay almost $20 more (an increase of 85 percent).

Takeaway: The sooner you reply to a barber shop complaint, the more value your brand captures.

3. Stay calm.

In his book “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” Dale Carnegie says customers can “hear” your smile through your voice.

So remind yourself to smile—yes, even if you can’t see your client’s face, and even if you don’t feel like smiling. By acting happy, you’ll influence your inner thoughts and change how you respond to unhappy clients.

Takeaway: Don’t match an upset client’s emotions. Instead, stay calm and smile.

4. Adopt HEAT.

Another trick is to adopt the HEAT model: Hear, Empathize, Apologize, and Take ownership.

First, people who feel heard, feel better. The 2020 National Customer Rage Study reported that one percent more active listening can yield 14 percent more gratitude from customers. Furthermore, one percent more empathy can yield up to 90 percent more gratitude.

So listen actively to upset clients. Use their names. Don’t interrupt. Give verbal cues over the phone, like repeating information to show you’re paying attention.

Takeaway: Hear and empathize.

Additionally, tell clients how sorry you are for the inconvenience or the trouble.

Don’t admit fault. Do present possible solutions, set expectations, and follow through.

Takeaway: Empathize and take ownership.

5. Rethink the refund.

In lieu of refunds, solutions like gift cards give you the opportunity to provide a stellar second experience and earn an unhappy client’s loyalty. In other words, it allows you to make things right at your salon, not someone else’s.

Takeaway: Instead of refunds, invite them back.

6. Learn from your mistakes.

As Carnegie writes in his book, learning from the past is way more productive–and fun–than getting defensive.

Takeaway: Never miss an opportunity to learn.

7. Set and practice your protocol.

Before complaints happen, set a complaints policy for all kinds of barbershop conflicts: in person, over the phone, and online.

Furthermore, give every customer-facing employee an opportunity to practice. Giving them pretend Google reviews or roleplaying stressful scenarios in-person keeps everyone calm and confident during real conflicts.

Make insurance part of your procedure.

If a barbershop complaint turns into something serious, like a lawsuit, make sure you have an insurance provider who’s in your corner.

Visit their our website and start your coverage journey with WellnessPro.

NFL Wide Receiver, Braxton Berrios and Barber, Vince Garcia attend A1 x House Revlon with American Crew, John Varvatos and Juicy Couture in New Orleans, Louisiana.

The leading men’s grooming brand has partnered with Athletes First in a luxury hospitality activation, called “The Block”, just outside the sports arena ahead of the Big Game.

As part of the American Crew Grooming Lounge, Vince is utilizing American Crew’s top styling products and franchises – Fiber, Forming, and Boost – to help athletes & VIPs get ready for Big Game celebrations and recreate this year’s hottest grooming trends.

Have you ever wanted to add another string to your bow, or team up with another creative in a different field to create a multifaceted business? Barbershop X Cocktail Bar, or a Barbershop X SMP studio, or even a Barbershop X Coffee Shop… we have seen it all. But how do you practically manage two businesses at once?

Well, the best person to speak to is OC Junior IV Thomas, owner of Rich In Flesh Barbershop X Tattoo X Music Studio in Livermore, CA. So, that’s just what we did in our most recent Vagaro X EVO Live on Instagram!

While running three businesses simultaneously may seem like a huge task… OC Thomas has a secret weapon. Vagaro.  

“I got into the industry as a tattoo artist. I opened a studio, and knew I wanted to diversify my business. So, I invested into a barbershop with one of my best friends, and I took time to learn the industry. It’s very similar to the way tattoo studios work – with independent contractors making their own schedules. It’s the same free-spirited environment, so, I thought it would be perfect to combine the two.”

But how can diversifying your business help set you up for success?

OC told: “I feel like diversifying helped a lot, because it broadened our demographic. Some people who would never walk into a tattoo shop now do, because they’re getting a haircut, and they feel a little more welcome – vice versa. Barbering and tattooing are both forms of self-care, and so to have more than one reason to come to the studio… it builds a community and therefore a better business,” OC Thomas said.  

Find this, even more, in the full live down below. 

National Hat Day is here, and Lids and Sport Clips are celebrating in style with an exciting competition! To mark the occasion, they’re offering the chance to win a free hat—and not just any hat! Fans won’t want to miss out!

Introducing the Clear Hat

The first-ever fully-clear hat—a groundbreaking innovation that lets you wear a hat while still showing off your fresh haircut. Finally, the perfect solution to the age-old dilemma: how to rock a hat and flaunt your hair at the same time.

Win the Clear Hat

Lids and Sport Clips are giving away 100 Clear Hats! To enter, comment on their official Instagram giveaway post before January 20th. Don’t miss your chance to snag this one-of-a-kind piece!

Exclusive In-Store Offer

From now until January 20th, head to a Lids store and sign up for the Lids Access Pass Premium. Not only will you unlock all the perks of the program, but you’ll also receive an email with a coupon for half off an MVP haircut at Sport Clips. Fresh hats and fresh haircuts—a perfect combination!