@CuttingThroughTheNoise is proud to announce they will be a podcast partner at HairCon for this year’s event. Hosted by the dynamic duo Stephanie Mason and Hayley Mears, the podcast is known for its no-nonsense, insightful discussions on the ever-evolving hair and beauty industry. Their combined experience in the hair sector, business strategy, marketing, and digital content ensures that their contributions to HairCon will be both invaluable and inspiring.

With an acute understanding of industry challenges and trends, Cutting Through the Noise will provide real-time, thought-provoking conversations with key players in the market. No commercial topic is off-limits, as Stephanie  and Hayley dissect crucial issues such as:

• The impact of current supply chain disruptions
• The latest e-commerce trends and their influence on the beauty market
• The shifting landscape of salon culture and workplace flexibility
• Strategies for brands that launched during economic downturns and those that have successfully navigated market challenges

At HairCon, the podcast will deliver exclusive interviews with top industry leaders, emerging brands, and pioneering entrepreneurs who have adapted and thrived in uncertain times. Attendees can expect in-depth discussions on business-to-business operations, salon sustainability, digital transformation, and education-driven solutions to the industry’s most pressing concerns.

“Our vision is to unite the hairdressing industry through real-time conversations about the economic and business changes shaping our sector,” says Hayley Mears. “HairCon provides the perfect platform for these crucial discussions.”

@CuttingThroughTheNoise aims to empower salon professionals, educators, and business owners with the knowledge they need to stay ahead in this competitive landscape.

GET YOUR TICKETS

Don’t miss out on this groundbreaking partnership and the exclusive content that@CuttingThroughTheNoise will bring to HairCon. Secure your tickets now and be part of the conversations shaping the future of the industry.

For ticket information and event details, visit HairCon.

We are finally out of the January – February slog, thank goodness! With Spring comes so much newness. New trends, new products, and new inspiration. And this issue is jam-packed with newness, from event announcements, our One 2 Watch and entering a new era. And, in this issue, we have our esteemed columnist Vicki Harrison-Smith takes the cover. This issue is one to remember!

EVENTS 

Kicking off this edition, we’re announcing EVO On the Road Newcastle! If previous iterations of EVO On The Road are anything to go by, EVO On The Road is going to be a night to remember. Next, we talk the Fellowship Project Induction, as well as delving into Haircon 2025. We also go into the Matakki Education day 2025!  

IN THE CHAIR 

No shortage of star power in this edition, we have Zanear the Kurd in the chair – where we delve into Zanear’s story, from his beginnings to his stratospheric rise with Wahl. We also talk with the one you need to be watching, Kieran James Martin. We learn about his journey – both where he’s been, and where he plans to go. We also go across the pond and meet the amazing Jess Younan, highlighting true craft and genuine passion for the industry.  

STYLING 

All this before we get into the world of styling with major industry players, BROSH, American Crew, GAMMA+, and Hardgrind. Ollie Foster also pops by, talking all things consultation and education in the barbershop. We also pay a visit to Male Focus, where James Beaumont talks the new frontiers of styling in the male hair space. Alan Beak’s column this month also has a particular style focus.  

INTERIORS 

In the stunning interiors section, we have STAG Barbershop taking centre stage. With STAG’s interior being centred around Takara Belmont chair – they couldn’t go wrong. Also heading across the pond to Buffalo Co., we get inside the US barbershop – before sitting down with Kevin Luchmun, chatting to Simon Shaw and popping by the House of Selected.  

BUSINESS 

In business, we go Behind the Brand at Denman HQ, finding out just how they’ve maintained their icon status all these years. Also tackling sustainability, we chat with the Pillar Hair Collective about how products can make a huge difference to your carbon footprint. We also sit down with our columnist Hayden Cassidy to talk being independent – and how it’s helped her be the most genuine version of herself. All this before delving into tax and finance with Colette Osborne. Marketing is also a huge focus, with marketing conversations with our columnists Graeme Macaskill and Mark Maciver – and a chat with NHBF Top 100 Sid Da Barber.  

SHAVING 

Shaving is also a huge focus in this edition – that’s why we’re paying a visit to the experts. We delve into the full experience with Sharp & Flask, talk luxury shaves with Lovemore and go all in to the traditional Turkish shave with the iconic Jack the Clipper.

Toni & Guy Billericay’s Owner and Director, Jim Shaw, is known for his grooming expertise and men’s hair education. Now, he’s sitting down with BarberEVO to share his 2025 Beard and Facial Hair Trends – so, your client is always ahead of the curve.

Jim’s Take on the Trends

“As we set our sights on Spring, it’s time to look ahead at the grooming trends set to dominate the brighter months. From updated classics to bold new interpretations, Spring/Summer 2025 is all about embracing individuality and expressing personality through facial hair. Here, I’ve rounded up my top picks for the most exciting men’s beard trends to keep an eye on for the upcoming season.”

“Five O’clock shadow – This timeless look is a classic and lives up to its name, a short beard referring to growing back in a day. This is one of the only beard styles that suits just about everyone! Sported by celebrities such as David Beckham and Robert Pattison, this looks requires perfect timing to get it looking just right.”

“Corporate Beard – This is a beard style we have saw increasing in popularity towards the end of 2024 and we know will be a huge hit for 2025. The corporate beard is perfect for anyone wanting to make a statement. The style is very angular and exudes authority and power, with the beard being balanced on each side of the face to avoid any hairs being out of place.”

“Ducktail Beard – The ducktail beard is a v-shaped beard, wider at the chin and narrower at the sides. The style dates back to the 50’s and is the perfect blend of undone and polished. This classic style makes a statement and suits a number of different face shapes. This style is very versatile and is super easy to upkeep making it an amazing look for 2025.”

“Classic Full Beard – A beard trend that will never go out of style, this is a symbol of masculinity and confidence. This look is dense and long all over with an extremely easy upkeep. The full beard can be difficult to achieve for many, however, for those who can, a stylist is your best friend for the upkeep. This looks exudes masculinity and is great for making a statement.” 

Salon owners are calling on Chancellor Rachel Reeves to throw the sector an economic lifeline, with a new report highlighting how an unbalanced tax system is decimating their industry.

New findings warn that unless things change, there will be no new apprenticeships by 2027 and a 93% fall in employment by 2030. This would leave very few in employment, creating a sector largely devoid of the employment rights that come with being an employee.

With the Spring Forecast due in five weeks, the British Hair Consortium – which represents 50,000 UK hairdressing professionals – says the Government must urgently halve the VAT salons pay on labour costs to 10% to help them overcome the existential crisis they’re facing.

The analysis commissioned from the independent consultancy CBI Economics – based on responses from over 2,000 salon owners and professionals – highlighted how:

“Our industry has been ignored for years and we’re calling on the Government to correct decades of mismanagement,” said Toby Dicker, co-founder of the British Hair Consortium.

“Most owners haven’t had a pay rise in many years and simply can’t consider expanding their business, let alone take on an apprentice. A ‘one size fits all’ tax system doesn’t work and has created an unlevel playing field. Increasing numbers of owners are either closing their salons or changing their employment practices and are renting chairs to contractors just to survive. This report shows how cutting VAT to 10% won’t cost the Government a penny. It would save salons across the country and ensure the future of our industry which sits at the heart of the high street,” he added.

Ireland has recognised this and dropped its VAT on labour intensive businesses in hairdressing and hospitality to nine percent. The change is working – new salons are popping up and paying tax while workers are also benefiting from improved employment rights.

Laura Geary, Director at Headmasters, one of the UK’s biggest salon groups and one of the largest providers of apprenticeships in the industry said: “The changes from the last Budget have made it very hard for salons to continue to offer the benefits of employment and we will certainly not be able to take on as many apprentices going forward. This will kill the future of our industry.”

Charlie Collinge, Director at Collinge & Co, added: “Last year’s change in NI contributions has forced us to close our salon in Ormskirk in West Lancashire after 57 years of trading. Nearly all our competitors in Ormskirk are self-employed and we cannot continue to be competitive.”

“We’re also a specialist provider of hairdressing apprenticeships – the largest in Liverpool. Last year we had over 300 applications but were only able to find employment for 60 apprentices because fewer salons can afford to take them on. Apprenticeships are the main route for sustainable careers in hairdressing, but the model is under threat if there aren’t enough salons able to directly employ hairdressers,” adds Charlie.

Denise Thomas, owner of Denise Thomas Hair Salons in Liverpool, has been a hairdresser for almost 47 years and a salon owner for 25 years. “ One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced over the years has been VAT. A growing number of salons now operate with chair renters who don’t have to pay VAT, which allows them to keep their prices low and creates an uneven playing field.

“I also worry about the future for the next generation of stylists. Who will train them? Recently I had to make the difficult decision to let my two newest apprentices go because I simply can’t afford them. My training provider has no salons on their books looking for apprentices this year, as chair rental salons don’t typically train apprentices. If salons like mine continue to be squeezed, they’ll become less and less viable, making it even harder for employers like me to secure a stable future.”

What can you do to help?

The British Hair Consortium is desperately urging the industry to take the following action:

Head to the BHC website and everything you need is there.
1. Download the templated letter – https://www.bhc.org.uk
2. Personalise the letter where indicated.
3. Download the report.
4. Look up your local MP & email them the letter, report and link to the video that is on the website.

Fresha, the world’s leading marketplace and business management platform for the beauty, wellness and self-care industry, is accelerating its global expansion while reinforcing its position as the safest and most secure platform on the market.

In just six months, Fresha’s proprietary AI and Machine Learning technology has reduced fraud by an incredible 99%, preventing fraudulent transactions from affecting businesses and clients. This milestone sets a new benchmark for security in the industry, showcasing Fresha’s commitment to staying ahead of evolving cyber threats and ensuring unparalleled protection for businesses and clients worldwide.

To achieve this, Fresha combines advanced AI-driven fraud prevention with a comprehensive layered security program. By leveraging frameworks like ISO 27001, HIPAA, and GDPR, Fresha ensures that data is protected, vulnerabilities are identified in real time, and all system access is tightly controlled. Zero-trust access management, continuous automated compliance monitoring, and secure vendor protocols further minimize risks, ensuring both proactive and reactive defences are in place.

Fresha’s AI-powered fraud detection system uses predictive analytics to identify suspicious patterns before they cause harm—going beyond traditional, reactive methods. Advanced transaction scoring monitors multiple parameters to detect fraudulent activity, while automated systems flag and block payment fraud attempts—such as stolen card transactions—before they happen. Furthermore, Fresha’s secure messaging infrastructure proactively combats SMS and email phishing scams, ensuring that clients and businesses remain protected across every interaction.

To further strengthen its security posture, Fresha invites skilled security researchers and ethical hackers to partner in enhancing the platform’s security infrastructure. Through a comprehensive bug bounty program, Fresha fosters collaboration with the cybersecurity community to proactively identify and address potential vulnerabilities. The focus is on discovering high-impact security findings that help maintain the robust protection Fresha users expect and deserve. Qualified security researchers interested in participating in the bug bounty program can reach out to security@fresha.com for detailed program guidelines, scope, and reward information.

“As we continue to grow, our responsibility to safeguard businesses and clients grows with us,” said William Zeqiri, Founder & CEO at Fresha. “Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but so are we. With our proprietary AI and Machine Learning systems, we don’t just react to fraud—we stop it before it even starts. Combined with our robust compliance and security frameworks, this ensures that Fresha remains the safest and most reliable platform in the industry.”

Fresha’s approach to security is not just about fraud prevention—it’s about maintaining a seamless, efficient experience for over 130,000 partners and tens of millions of users globally. By automating security processes, Fresha eliminates complexity while safeguarding operations at scale.

With fraud on the rise globally—including £571 million in card payment fraud in the UK in 2023 and projected $91 billion in e-commerce payment fraud losses by 2028—Fresha’s AI-driven security measures have never been more essential. As cybercriminals evolve, Fresha continues to lead the industry in setting new security benchmarks for trust and reliability.

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 .

With 2025 marking a new perspective on male grooming, Keune is shifting its focus from traditional barber-centric offerings to a more inclusive approach, aiming to serve all hair professionals worldwide.

1922 by J.M. Keune is a tightly edited collection of premium grooming staples, made in the Netherlands, enriched with homegrown ingredients, and perfected by science. Among opening new horizons for men’s hair care by broadening its perspective, Keune features a modest yet impactful 25ml increase in all jar-packaged products.

This move isn’t just about offering more value for money – it’s also about reducing its unnecessary impact to the environment and economy by switching to jars made from 100% recycled plastic.

ALL GROOMING NEEDS SATISFIED

The 1922 by J.M. Keune range offers a complete hair care portfolio for men:

Care: The foundation of every routine with essential cleansing and nourishing products.

Style: Powerful styling tools that cater to every hair need, from classic to cutting-edge looks.

Beard: Elevates the grooming game with refined fragrances, and much more!

Richard Finney, founder of Captain Fawcett Ltd, travelled to Windsor Castle where he was presented with the prestigious Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.

Richie has been awarded an MBE in His Majesty The King’s New Year Honours, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to International Trade and to Charity. 

After attending the ceremony on 12th February, Richie said: “It was a particular delight to meet His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, who happens to be cultivating his own truly top notch beard. As a fellow Norfolk boy, I found him a most charming, and indeed, discerning fellow. Suffice to say, beard care tips may well have been shared!”

In his acceptance of this prestigious accolade, Richie is quick to emphasise that such esteemed recognition is in fact a tribute to extraordinary team work. 

“In the guise of Captain Fawcett, I am but truly honoured to have been awarded ‘Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire’ — Huzzah! However, I am but the conductor of an orchestra of talent, proud to work with a simply remarkable collective of people who strive for excellence every day. This is their achievement as much as it is mine.

“Furthermore, I believe international trade has always been more than simply business. For centuries, traders have carried ideas as well as goods, forging friendships where there might have been conflict and creating incredible opportunity. Amicable trade is simply one of our oldest and, perchance, greatest forces for understanding. Every product shipped is a testament to the notion that prosperity grows when nations work together.

Founded in 2010 at a kitchen table in Terrington St Clement, Norfolk, Captain Fawcett has grown to become a beacon of British quality and craftsmanship in Gentleman’s Grooming and Hair Care, exporting to 45 countries and earning a reputation for its award-winning products and distinctive character.

Beyond business, Richie has driven Captain Fawcett’s commitment to social responsibility, with initiatives like ‘BarbersRide’, co-founded with Xavier Berrell and Colin Petrie, becoming a flagship of the brand’s charity mission. After this truly auspicious start to 2025, the next adventure awaits. Richard Finney MBE and the crew at HQ are currently preparing for Captain Fawcett’s ‘Great Expedition USA’, a 6 week solo motorcycle road trip through the heart of America.

Following the incredible success of the Scottish Hair and Beauty Awards (SHABA), the UK’s hair, beauty, and barbering industries are set to welcome an exciting new event – the British Hair, Beauty & Barbering Awards (BHBABs).

This highly anticipated awards ceremony will take place in England for the first time, shining a spotlight on the country’s most talented professionals and businesses. With registration officially opening on 1st February, the BHBAs will provide a prestigious platform to honour the skill, creativity, and dedication of those shaping the industry.

The event will take place in Liverpool in 2025, the event will bring together leading hairstylists, barbers, beauty therapists, makeup artists, aesthetics specialists, and rising stars from across the UK.

A National Celebration of Talent
Building on SHABA’s 13-year legacy, the BHBAs will elevate industry recognition to a national level, creating an inclusive and inspiring event for professionals at all stages of their careers. With a range of categories covering hair, beauty, barbering, and aesthetics, the awards will celebrate both established names and fresh talent making waves in the industry.

Founder Joanne Reid said:“After years of success with SHABA, we knew it was time to expand and bring a new platform to England. The British Hair, Beauty & Barbering Awards will honour the best in the business, providing well-deserved recognition to those who work tirelessly to push the industry forward. We can’t wait to celebrate with everyone in Liverpool in October”

How to Enter
Entries will open on 1st February, with industry professionals invited to submit their applications via www.bhbabs.co.uk Categories will cover a broad spectrum of expertise, ensuring recognition for all aspects of the industry.

This is set to be the must-attend event for anyone passionate about hair, beauty, and barbering, offering an unmissable opportunity to network, celebrate success, and gain industry recognition.

For more information and to register, visit www.bhbabs.co.uk