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Roger Molina’s Duagrams Eliminate Guesswork for Stylists

Roger Molina, Sam Villa ArTeam and Master Stylist at Lunatic Fringe @rogermolinahair, has parlayed his famous duagrams (stop motion video and moving diagrams) into his live education. This teaching methodillustrates every step, angle and finish entailed in teaching a cut by projecting a video and visuals onto a screen for a fully immersive experience. See his Wolf Lob here.

“This method shows 3D imagery with aerial perspectives of all elevations and cut lines, so it eliminates guesswork for sectioning and technical approach. Students see every step of the new technique broken down into bite size experiences, before they try it themselves, so it takes a lot of the guess work out of the equation,” says Molina whose is focusing on the “wolf lob” in upcoming classes and shows.

The wolf cut has become a household name in most salons, as well as the lob. The wolf lob is a simple and salon friendly way of creating the elements of both shapes together. “There is a high demand for nongender haircuts…styles that work for whoever wants to wear them and this one sits at a perfect length and style for any face shape and type of client,” adds Moina.

Technical Breakdown for the Wolf Lob

Fringe: Elevate 45° to the opposite side of the nose. Using a diagonal finger angle, cut from chin to lip length with a Sam Villa Classic Series Dry Cutting Shear.

Face Frame: Using guide from corner of fringe, elevate diagonal and forward with diagonal finger angle, and cut inside fingers like a razor while using a scissor.

Top: Elevate triangle sections to 90° vertical and cut with a diagonal angle leaving volume to front. Over direction is to center. Stationary guide.

Crown: Using guide from previous section, elevate diagonal to stationary center guide. Finger angle matches head form and point cut short to long.

Nape (internal graduation): Take vertical finger width section, elevate diagonal and remove bulk in bits where it’s thick. Gradually pivot to diagonal elevation and continue technique until the back of ear.

“The fusion of modern and classic haircuts may be the future of haircut progression. The classic will always ground and inspire, but evolution and progression are required to thrive in the salon world today. As a wise chef once said, “a truly modern dish is classic one served with the slightest necessary twist,” concludes Molina.

Molina will be at America’s Beauty Show teaching 1 hour classes, filter by Classroom #14 to view the full schedule here.

Saturday April 5th

11:00am On-Point Cutting and Styling Textures (with Jesse Linares, Teresa Romero and Roger Molina)

3:30pm Gender-Free Haircutting: Creating for All (with Roger Molina, Jamie DiGrazia and Manda Ziegelman)

Sunday April 6th

12:30pm Always Chic: Cutting with Purpose Meets Lived-In Styling (with Jesse Linares, Roger Molina and Justin Michael Parra)

2:00pm Short to Long Haircutting and Finishes (with Jesse Linares, Teresa Romero and Roger Molina)

Monday April 7th

1:00pm Textur & Haircutting: Enhance, Control and Create (with Jesse Linares, Roger Molina and Evie Rivera)

2:30pm Today’s Essentials: Interactive Session (with Jesse Linares, Sam Villa and Roger Molina)

To learn more about Molina or book an in-salon class with him, see here.

NHBF Top 100 Influencer Awards Expands to Meet Unprecedented Demand

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.”

Miami Welcomes First BeautySphere Connect for Salon Owners

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.

OSMOS NEW BRAND AMBASSADOR: ROB WESTON

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

Celebrating Women in Barbering for Women’s History Month With Wahl

As March is Women’s History Month, BarberEVO decided to team up with Wahl Professional to show our appreciation of some of the top female barbers in the industry, and how they have overcome adversity in a male-dominated industry.

Featuring: Kristi Faulkner, Wahl Education Team, International Platform Artist & Educator

From a very early age, I loved everything about cutting hair – I always cut all my Barbie dolls’ hair and did all my friends’ hair in school. After high school, I went to college and cosmetology school at the same time and got my cosmetology license. Shortly after, I got married and moved to a military town – that’s really where my passion for barbering started. Even though I had just graduated from cosmetology school, I had never picked up a pair of clippers ever. I found a barbershop to work at, and the owner gave me a Wahl Professional Designer clipper and a Wahl Professional Peanut. The rest is history.

At the beginning, it was extremely hard to even have anyone sit in my chair. Not many female barbers cut hair for those of all different races and with all textures, but I was young and eager to learn, so I learned learning to cut men’s hair and all different textures. The owner, Miss Ann, was a Korean female barber who taught me everything I know. I’m so grateful for the opportunity she gave me. At that time, it was $4.00 a haircut and I made 40% of that. I definitely had to learn fast and cut fast. That is where my love of barbering came from and my speed.

After time and A LOT of practice I began to really start a great clientele on the military. Unfortunately, I ended up moving home and that’s when I really had a reality check. I was a white woman that cut all different textured hair, but mainly ethnic hair because it was my favorite to cut. When I looked for a job, I got turned away over and over again. I finally found a barbershop that gave me a chance, but still, no one wanted me to cut their hair. They thought I was an undercover cop or something like that. It took a lot of time and patience, but once I had a few people sit in my chair, I proved my skill.

Eventually I had to leave the barbershop, and I saved all the money I earned to open the first multi-cultural shop in my area. I have been licensed for 32 years now and with Wahl Professional clippers going on 17 years.

I’ve always found joy in continuing my barber education, so I went to all the hair shows I could. I was very fortunate that when I was at the Bronner Bros. Beauty Show, the largest ethnic show in the country, the head of education for Wahl clippers at the time, Isadore Adams, was there working the booth. He gave me the chance of a lifetime – I went on stage at the show and cut a head as a demonstration. I was so nervous to be up there, but when I turned on my Wahl Pro clippers, I instantly relaxed and showed off my skills that I had worked so on for over the years. I would never have thought a pair of Wahl Pro clippers would take me all over the world. I have done international shows and classes, all throughout the U.S. as well. Even working for the most trusted barbering tools company in the world, I still faced doubters who challenged my skillset. I worked even harder to know my Wahl tool knowledge better than anyone else, and I never gave up, which only made me better.

I’ve been so blessed to be a part of the Wahl family. They have supported me and encouraged me throughout my career. Now, I’m a part of the product and development team as well. I absolutely love anything and everything that has to do with Wahl – from the actual products, like my current favorites the 5-Star Vapor™ and the 5 Star A•LIGN Trimmer, to learning how to use them to create new looks and cuts.

This industry is ready for new upcoming female barbers. We have a few new female barbers on our Wahl Education team that are phenomenal. I love to share my story with other aspiring women in the industry, and I always encourage all female barbers to be fearless. Don’t give up! We have an incomparable skillset and presence. I always tell other female barbers the road might not be easy, but it’s so worth it. Every single disappointment will make you stronger and better. The future is bright for female barbers, and I’m so blessed I was able to help pave a little of the way.

Andis Introduces the New Envy II Clipper – Kenny Duncan Edition

Be Great on Purpose with the Envy II Clipper – Kenny Duncan Edition

This limited-edition clipper was created in collaboration with Kenny Duncan, Andis North American Artistic Team Lead and internationally known barber, in celebration of his 20-year anniversary of barbering excellence with Andis.

The inclusive design allows for customization that accommodates both right- and left-hand users with the addition of a left-hand lever in the kit. Featuring original artwork by Chuck Styles, this limited-edition clipper delivers cutting-edge performance wrapped in show-stopping aesthetics.

The blueprint to success is artfully depicted on this limited-edition clipper through hidden nuggets of wisdom relating to the steps that every barber can take in order to achieve greatness.

“Greatness is a reflection of mindset. It’s easy to settle for just being good. I encourage you to know what’s missing for you to be GREAT and curate a plan to obtain that greatness. I encourage each of you to: BE GREAT ON PURPOSE.” – Kenny Duncan

Elevate Your Craft with the Envy II Clipper – Kenny Duncan Edition. Designed by Legends, Built for Excellence.


*This new Envy II Clipper is unlike the previous Andis Envy II Clippers (standard Black and premier Gold editions) because the Kenny Duncan edition only fits with the Master model blade and Master model attachment combs. Learn more about this tool here.

Two Forces. One Mission

It’s the collab you never knew you needed, and the one we have all been waiting for. Legendary professional barber tool brand, BaBylissPRO have joined forces with the revolutionary and innovative education and product brand, Tomb45, to create a tool range like no other, including a Clipper, Trimmer, wireless charging pad, and Professional Nano Light Ionic Dryer. Everything you need to know, here in BarberEVO.  

For both BaBylissPRO and Tomb45, the words ‘by barbers, for barbers’ are not taken lightly. Both bodies are constantly devoted to innovating for the barbers at the center of this industry. This shared passion behind each brand has led to a tool collaboration unlike any other. We introduce to you: The BaBylissPRO X Tomb45 Clipper, Trimmer, Wireless Charging Pad, and Professional Nano Light Ionic Dryer. 

With features such as the trimmer’s new reversed blade orientation making lineups easier than ever, the clippers DS1 Dual Speed Motor that runs at 7,500RPM at high speed, and 6,800 RPM at low speed, and a LED Battery-Level Indicator Screen on both, these tools are the pinnacle of innovation.  

Not to mention, the clipper and trimmer in addition to being USB-C Compatible and FXCORD Compatible for Cord/Cordless Use, both tools are wireless charging compatible… to pair perfectly with the oh-so slick BaBylissPRO X Tomb45 Wireless-Charging Pad.  

And to top the tool range off with a cherry on top, they have also created the BaBylissPRO X Tomb45 Professional Nano Light Ionic Dryer. The Nano Titanium and Ionic technology offer maximum smoothness and shine, the cold shot button locks in styles, and with nine LED heat and speed settings and engineered airflow offers more efficient and effective styling.  

Joining Forces 

By BaBylissPRO and Tomb45 collaborating on this tool range, not only has increased the power and functionality of the tools, but it also strengthens the reach and education available within the industry.  

44 Global Educators: There is a combined total of 44 BaBylissPRO® and Tomb45® global educators  

25+ Million: Between BaBylissPRO® and Tomb45®’s digital presence, they have a combined 25+ million followers.  

158+ Million:  158+ million interactions on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube in 2024. 

Who are Tomb45? 

We spoke to Chris Bossio, one of the founders of Tomb45 about the collaboration, and why he believed it was a perfect fit. But first, Chris told us a little more about Tomb45 and what the brand stands for.  

“I have been teaching barbers how to cut hair and get better at their craft, and just been pouring into elevating the industry as much as I can for the past 10 years. One of the things that I noticed in the barbering industry as I was coming in was there wasn’t a lot of innovation. If it’s not innovative, if it’s not going to elevate the industry, then it’s not a project that Tomb45 want to take on. 

“BaBylissPRO® was a brand that wanted to do something new, something different. They were willing to listen to us. It wasn’t just about the money. They wanted to do something different, something that would elevate the industry and bring the standards higher.” And so, Chris travelled to BaBylissPRO®’s HQ, to meet with the team.  

“I spent the weekend with the leadership team, and it was all so synergistic. Big barber brands, they usually don’t want to do something expensive, they don’t want to reengineer something and build from scratch. But BaBylissPRO® will willing to take that risk. It felt like going to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. I drew on a piece of paper what I thought would be the most ergonomic, cool, best feeling clipper in a barber’s hand, and they came back with some renderings and mock ups. They came back with technology that they were never willing to introduce in the past… until now.”  

Two Innovators, One Mission: Redefining the Industry.  

“So,” Chris continued, “This is what it looks like when Tomb45 and BaBylissPRO® come together and create a vision. You can see the ergonomics, the way it hugs your hand, the size of it, the shape, the balance, the weight, all of these details were thought about. I just feel like we are paying attention to the real behavior that happens in a barbershop.”  

An example of this is the location of the lever on the trimmer. “How long have trimmers been around? Why hasn’t anyone thought about putting the lever on the side where your hand naturally lies, to be more ergonomically efficient? So, that’s what we did! I want it to be fun to move the lever around. It’s little details like this that barbers will notice and appreciate.  

“I remember one of the team members at BaBylissPRO handing me a piece of clay and saying, ‘form the lever that you think would feel best in your hand.’ I did it, then we drew it out, and that’s the tool we created. The second you feel this in your hand, you know it was built for a barber, by a barber.”  

Making the Cut  

We also wanted to get the tools in the hands of a barber to hear their feedback on the brand new tools and collaboration. And who better to speak to than educator for BaBylissPRO® as well as Tomb45®, Sean Ralston!?  

First Impressions of the Tool 

“When I first saw the clipper, I thought it was super cool. It’s tough to be unique these days, especially since many clippers look alike. But this one, from the design to the features, is completely new. It’s not just an update or an iteration; it’s an entirely new concept. Seeing it come to life from a sketch was a really cool moment, especially from two of my favorite companies.” 

The Power of Collaboration 

“Tomb45 has been making innovative charging products for a while, and BaBylissPRO® has always been a brand that values the opinions of barbers. The two brands understood that working together could be beneficial to everybody, and the two brands have teamed up really nicely and naturally. So, it just made sense for us to connect, combine ideas, and create something unique.” 

Favorite Features 

“There are a few cool new features. One is the built-in wireless charging. Unlike previous tools where you needed attachments to make it work, this one charges wirelessly straight out of the box. Another is the ergonomic lever; it fits perfectly in your thumb. But the feature I’m most excited about is the trimmer. The power button is on the back, so you can use it for lineups without flipping it over. It’s a completely new approach that I think will make barbers’ jobs easier.” 

The Backwards Trimmer 

“It’s funny because, when you first see it, it looks ‘backwards,’ but it makes so much sense. The power button is on the back, and the blade faces away from you, making it perfect for lineups without having to flip the tool over. It’s definitely different, but we think it’s going to be a game-changer for the industry.” 

Describing the Tool in Three Words 

“Innovation, ergonomics, and power.” 

Get your hands on the BaBylissPRO X Tomb45 Tools NOW!

HairCon 2025 announce Cutting Through The Noise as podcast partner

@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.

Men’s Hair Expert Jim Shaw Shares 2025 Beard Trends

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.” 

BHC state hair beauty sector facing existential crisis

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:

  • the sector is far more labour intensive than most other high street businesses with limited chances to reclaim VAT costs
  • this labour intensiveness creates an unlevel playing field, with taxes impacting the sector three times as much compared to other high street operators
  • VAT-registered businesses are at a disadvantage with the rising levels of ‘disguised employment’
  • where contractors are hired to avoid VAT and NI payments, this creates the unlevel playing field where employers often contributing more than double the tax (123% more) than the disguised model
  • by 2027 there may be no new apprenticeships offered and direct employment could plummet 93% by 2030
  • the shift to self-employment has coincided with a decline in overall sectoral employment which may have cost the Treasury £2.4bn in VAT receipts alone since 2009
  • cutting VAT on salons’ labour costs would be hugely cost positive and potentially reverse the decline in VAT registrations

“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.