Cal Newsome, last year’s top NHBF Influencer, award-winning barber, and member of the Wahl Artistic Team, has been announced as the host for this year’s NHBF Top 50 Hair Influencers. This event, which features the industry’s only independently compiled influencer list, will take place from 5 to 6 PM on Sunday, June 22, at HairCon, held at O2 Victoria Warehouse in Manchester.

As the owner of Bull & Co Barber Club in Shropshire, Cal will join the NHBF team on the Social Stage at HairCon to announce the top 50 hair and barbering influencers. These recipients are chosen based on independently judged results powered by algorithms.

Attendees at HairCon will be the first to witness the official reveal, making this a must-attend event for both industry professionals and fans.

NHBF Chief Executive, Caroline Larissey, said: “We’re delighted to have Cal Newsome hosting this year’s Top 50 Hair Influencer reveal. As last year’s winner and a respected voice in the industry, Cal brings genuine insight and credibility to the event. His passion for barbering and commitment to raising industry standards make him the perfect person to lead the celebration.”

This year’s host Cal Newsome added: “I’m proud to be hosting this year’s NHBF Top 50 Hair Influencer reveal. Being recognised last year was a big moment for me, and it’s great to now be part of highlighting others who are pushing the industry forward. There’s so much talent out there, and this event is a great way to give it the recognition it deserves.”

Join Caroline, Cal and a host of your favourite industry influencers live at HairCon on Sunday 22^nd June at 5.10pm on the social stage as the list is revealed – who will take the top spot this year? 

Level up your craft. The new Phenom Clipper and Trimmer from Andis aren’t just tools— they’re your next power move. Designed for barbers and stylists who don’t settle, the Phenom Series brings next-gen tech and custom styling into the palm of your hand.

Power You Can Feel

The Phenom Clipper delivers blazing speed with a 7,000 SPM brushless motor, while the Trimmer hits 7,200 SPM for crisp lines and clean details. That brushless motor? It’s a beast—quieter, cooler, and built to last 12x longer than brushed motors. More torque. No drag. Zero power dips. Just smooth, relentless cutting through every hair type.

All-Day Energy

Run the shop, hit the road, or knock out back-to-back appointments—2.5 hours of cordless power on the clipper, up to 4 hours on the trimmer. Charge up with a USB-C cable or drop them on the dock. You’re always ready.

Blade Game, Next Level

The clipper comes locked in with an adjustable DLC Phaze Blade (0000–0A)—perfect for clean fades and bulk removal. The trimmer features a DLC Deep-Tooth T-blade for ultra-detailed work, crisp outlines, and that signature crunch barbers live for. DLC coating means cooler operation, longer life, and zero snag.

Customize Your Setup

Go gold or keep it stealth. With swappable all-metal housings and textured thumb rests, you can style your tools your way. The clipper even features a click or no-click lever— because control is everything.

Dense Hair Experts and creative agency Kiss Branding have won the prestigious Diamond Award for Best Visual Identity from the Lifestyle & Wellbeing Sector at the Transform Awards. The accolade recognises their bold and thoughtful approach to tackling the stigma surrounding hair loss through an empowering and authoritative brand identity.

The Transform Awards, which celebrate excellence in rebranding and brand development, praised Kiss Branding for creating a “simple yet impactful visual identity” that confidently stands out in a saturated market. The project not only elevated Dense’s market presence but also delivered tangible commercial success, increasing conversion rates from 0.4% to 2.3%.

Judges highlighted the modern and credible nature of the brand work, noting its careful balance between clinical-level personalisation and consumer accessibility. Kiss Branding’s deep understanding of Dense’s audience enabled them to challenge outdated perceptions and create a brand that speaks to real people with clarity and empathy.

Dense’s win places the Leeds-born brand among the most respected names in global branding. Other major winners at this year’s Transform Awards included LEGO, Aston Martin, ZSL, TikTok and TNT Sports — a peer group that underscores the scale and significance of Dense’s achievement.

Aasim Hashmi (ASH), Co-Founder at Dense, said: “For us, this isn’t really about awards — it’s about recognition that the work we’re doing matters. Hair loss is something that affects so many people, but the conversation around it has always been awkward or brushed off. We set out to change that. To move things on from banter and bravado to real, science-led solutions that actually helps people take control early, confidently, and without the stigma. This award tells us we’re on the right track — but we’re nowhere near done.”

Kiss Branding is an award-winning creative agency specialising in bold, insight-led brand identities. Poonam Saini, Creative Director at Kiss Branding, said: “The best brands don’t just sell products, they meet real needs and empower people to live their best lives. Dense is one of those brands. This award celebrates a true transformation, from strong strategy and compelling storytelling to bold, standout creative all coming together to shift perceptions and make a real difference in young men’s lives. I couldn’t be prouder of the Kiss team, the incredible Founders at Dense®, and everyone who has helped shape this work. This is what meaningful branding looks like.”

The Scottish Hair & Beauty Awards will take place on Sunday 24th August 2025 at the iconic Glasgow Hilton, with the biggest names in the industry coming together for a night of glitz, celebration, and career-defining recognition. This year’s event promises to be more spectacular than ever, shining a well-deserved spotlight on the talent, creativity, and hard work that powers Scotland’s vibrant hair and beauty scene.

On the red carpet, we’re thrilled to welcome two of the industry’s most loved personalities — Fallon Carberry and Justin Mackland — who will be hosting exclusive interviews with finalists and special guests, bringing the red carpet to life with energy, elegance, and a whole lot of fun.SHABA Founder Joanne Reid shares:
“Every year the standard gets higher, and 2025 is no exception. Our finalists represent the best in Scotland — bold, passionate, and game-changing professionals who are shaping the future of the industry. We’re so proud to celebrate them all.”

With celebrities, influencers, industry leaders, and creatives in attendance, SHABA 2025 is set to be an unforgettable celebration — complete with a high-impact awards ceremony, live entertainment, and the legendary SHABA afterparty.

🎟 Tickets are now on sale and expected to sell out fast — secure your spot at Scotland’s biggest hair and beauty event of the year.

Best Apprentice Barber
Revival room	Paul mclaren
Kings barber shop	Robbie gemmel
Future Studios	Mark Howie
Rag & Bone Barbershop	Kye Stewart
The Cave BarberShop	Jodie Taylor
Wee Rebel Barber	Jax Flanagan
Beardy beardy Finnieston	Grant Clark
Brown & sons barber co	Cayden Brown
Beardy Beardy Renfield Street	Lewis Templeton
Serpent Kings Barbershop	Rhys Brannan

Best Barber Colourist
Dadi Long Locs	Dadi Long Locs
Craig Boyd Hairdressing	Kirsty Newlands
Barber & Groom	Leigh Legano
URBANHAIR	Zoe Clark
The Cave BarberShop	Rafal Golaszewski

Best Barbershop

The Cave BarberShop

Kings barber shop

Atelier Alexander – Salon & Barbers

Black Lotus Barbers

R+R Studios

The Changing Room Barbershop

Orbit Smoke Barbers

Serpent Kings Barbershop

Rag & Bone Barbershop

Beardy Beardy Renfield Street

Beardy beardy Finnieston

Mr Dun Barber

Best Male Barber
URBANHAIR	Blayre Turnbull
Mr Dun Inverurie	Tate Mckenzie
Rag & Bone Barbershop	Aaron Wilson
The Cave BarberShop	Scott Thompson
R+R Studios	Keiran Flynn
Apex studio – Premium Barbering	Zak Khokhar
Kings barber shop	Alan nassadi
Hard Grind	Daniel Laird
Beardy Beardy Renfield Street	Mark shannon
Beardy Beardy Renfield Street	Tommie McGuckin
Black lotus barbers	Aaron Fallon
Beardy beardy Finnieston	Euan Pirie
Morelife barbershop	Blair Cochran-Brash
Atelier  Alexander – Salon & Barbers	Stephen Binnie
Sandras Unisex Hair Salon	Kyle Morton

Best Trainer / Training School

Desiree’s

Erasure Skin Academy

James Dun Salon

MANIQUE Beauty Salon & Academy

MADEwithMTA Barber Academy

Fempire Beauty / Fempire Beauty Academy

Samantha Blues Hair

Mr Dun Barber

Evolution Hair Clinic

Best Female Barber
Black lotus Barbers	Erin Wick
Barber & Groom	Leigh Legano
Mastercut Hairdresser Glasgow	Sabrina Samuel
Orbit Smoke Barbers	Angela Dickson
Serpent Kings Barbershop	Janna Carlton
Serpent Kings Barbershop	Emily McKenna
R+R Studios	Michelle Duncan
Kings barber shop	Joanne woods
MINT Barbers	Sheridan  Smith

Iconic barbering brand PASHANA® proudly unveils the next chapter in its storied legacy with a striking new visual identity, showcased in a recent photoshoot set in an authentic, working barbershop. 

With a rich heritage spanning back over a century, to 1910, PASHANA® has long been trusted by professional barbers for its classic grooming products and traditional formulations. The brand’s recent refresh honours that rich history while embracing a contemporary look designed to resonate with today’s discerning barbers and style-conscious clientele. After all, even the classics need a little touch up now and again! 

The new photography captures the essence of the PASHANA® range in its natural habitat — a barbershop! From vintage chairs to heritage tools of the trade, the shoot brings together timeless barbering traditions with the modern evolution of the brand. 

The brand refresh includes updated packaging, enhanced branding elements, and a renewed focus on supporting barbers with products that blend classic quality with contemporary appeal. Trade wholesalers Trade wholesalers will also appreciate the strengthened shelf presence and elevated visual impact that PASHANA® now has. 

Wholesalers and industry professionals can expect to see the fresh look rolled across stores and marketing materials in the coming months. 

Olivia Garden, a leader in professional and consumer hair care tools, proudly introduces its latest innovation: the OG Barber Shear Collection. Designed with precision, durability and comfort in mind, this collection includes three shear sizes (5.75”, 6.25” and 7”) along with a 6” thinner, catering to the diverse cutting needs of barbers and hairstylists.

Each shear in the OG Barber Shear Collection is engineered with a distinctive matte black titanium coating, reinforced steel alloy and convex blades. These unique features enhance durability and ensure superior hardness and longevity for smooth and effortless cutting performance. Plus, with larger finger holes and two sets of finger ring inserts, the shears provide a customized, ergonomic fit for all hand sizes.

The 6.25” thinner, designed with 30 handcrafted teeth featuring micro-serration, offers seamless blending and texturizing capabilities. An offset handle with specialized thumb curvature keeps the hand relaxed in a natural open position, reducing strain during extended use.

Each OG Barber Shear Collection purchase includes a premium zipper case with essential maintenance tools like the ShearCare™ oil brush, cleaning cloth, finger ring inserts and a tension adjustment tool. Purchase also offers eligibility for the Exclusive Service Program. This program allows barbers and stylists to exchange their used Olivia Garden Barber Shears for a brand-new identical pair, ensuring optimal shear performance over time.

With its superior design, precision craftsmanship and hassle-free maintenance program, this collection is set to become an essential tool for barbers and stylists alike. The OG Barber Shear Collection is available for purchase at www.oliviagarden.com and select Olivia Garden retailers. Be sure to follow the brand on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for more information.

Excitement! Energy! Education! Community! Growth!

April 5-7, 2025, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

The 102nd America’s Beauty Show 2025 (ABS), held April 5-7, 2025 at the prestigious Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL, showcased the beauty industry’s ongoing growth, unity, and innovation. This year’s theme, GROW, was a reflection of the collective spirit of the beauty community, which emphasized professional and personal growth.

With another record-breaking 20,000+ attendees, ABS brought together beauty professionals from across the globe to learn, network, and celebrate the beauty community. The event featured 320 classes, the majority FREE with an ABS ticket. 2025 is a renewal year, and courses offered a diverse range of education from haircare to skincare, barbering, nails, makeup, health and wellness. Over 100 world-class educators shared their global expertise, and 400 exhibitors, including 130 new exhibitors, a Global Nail Competition, and Student Power Hour hosted by Beauty Cast Network.

ABS 2025 highlighted the international nature of the beauty industry, with a strong presence of international exhibitors. The Fruitful Yield Health and Wellness Pavilion showcased 40+ leading brands, offering the latest in wellness products and services, designed to care for those that have dedicated themselves to caring for others.

Evening entertainment added to the excitement, with the famous ABS Global Image Awards. ABS Global Image Awards provided a glamorous celebration of talent and creativity. Winners from around the world were recognized for their submissions and artistry. Live music and dancing with Libido Funk Circus created an unforgettable atmosphere, and the official ABS Sunday Night Party, in collaboration with

Chrystofer Benson’s CBC Productions L.I.V.E. 312, brought a standing-room-only crowd together for an evening of high-energy fun with industry leaders, influencers, and professionals celebrating the best of the community.

“America’s Beauty Show 2025 was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when our beauty community comes together. It was pure joy — experienced by tens of thousands throughout the weekend. I’m so proud of our beauty community, which has made this non-profit event possible for over 102 years. Now more than ever, community is the path to sustainable growth. We all need to take note of the magic that happens when we show up for each other. That’s America’s Beauty Show, and to us, community is everything,”

Commented Frank P. Fulco, Chief Executive Officer of America’s Beauty Show.

ABS 2025 featured stunning presentations by top-tier artists and world class educators, including The Ulta Beauty Pro Team, Tabatha Coffey, Guy Tang, Chrystofer Benson Collective, Sam Villa, Social Art House, Salon Centric, J Ladner, Ted Gibson, Nick Arrojo, A-ROD, Kenny Duncan, Candy Shaw, George Alderete, and many more!

Brands included Amika, Ulta Beauty, CHI by Farouk Systems, BabylissPro, L3V3L 3, Wahl, Ergo Styling Tools, Hairtools, Oliva Garden, Wet Brush, Framar International, Stylecraft Gamma+, Andis, Wahl, FarmHouse Fresh, CIDESCO Section USA, Repechage, Fruitful Yield, Cuccio, Henkel Corporation, Colortrak, Keratin Complex, and DNA Hairtools.

Save the Date!

Mark your calendars for the next America’s Beauty Show, April 18, 19 & 20, 2025, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Rosemont, IL.

The Fellowship for British Hairdressing is unveiling their next phase of development, welcoming three new members on to their Executive Board. Under the guidance of CEO, Barry Stephens and President, Ashleigh Hodges, the past few years has seen incredible growth for the Fellowship, celebrating their highest membership to date, opening two new Centres of Excellence, and continuing to provide the industry with
educational opportunities for their members in the shape of Hair & Vision events and the new Creative Xchange localised presentations.

• The new Fellowship Executive Board members are:
• Chris Foster, Head of Technology
• Marnie Williams, Head of Further Education & Centres of Excellence
• Marcus Allen, Head of Business

Chris Foster is an internationally recognised, multi-award-winning barber with a career that spans the worlds of grooming, fashion, education, and digital innovation.
Chris was the first to create a dedicated barbering app for barbering education, breaking new ground in how industry knowledge is shared and scaled. He went on to establish his own academy and develop signature digital products designed to help barbers and hair professionals grow their influence and income. Chris is deeply passionate about bringing the tools and mindset of the digital world—such as
automation and AI—into the hair industry, while always preserving its unique creativity and craftsmanship. Through his company, The Profile Guy Digital Agency, he equips professionals with systems that help attract, convert, and retain clients on autopilot—freeing up time so they can focus on what they love most. Chris Foster joins the Fellowship Executive Board as the Head of Technology. His role will explore how technology is shaping the industry and how to keep the Fellowship’s members informed on all things related to technology.

Marcus Allen is an internationally experienced Salon Management Professional and Educator, offering a proven track record of maximising profits and consistent growth
in high end salons and businesses. Marcus co-created Paramount Business, a platform delivering advanced salon business education across the U.S., Canada, UK,
Ireland, and Australia. Upon returning to the UK, he continued to shape the industry, supporting Urban Retreat before moving to The Refinery, a multi-award-winning
men’s grooming brand. Alongside these ventures, Marcus remained active in London, Milan, and Paris Fashion Weeks over the last five years. His focus on innovation and business transformation led him to become General Manager of
Electric Space, a premium co-working salon, photography studio, cinema, and member’s space, redefining how creative professionals work and collaborate. Marcus Allen joins the Fellowship Executive Board as the Head of Business, where he will facilitate the best practices, innovation, new technology, and business tools to hairdressers, salon owners, and educators – strengthening the industry with a
greater understanding and foundation.

Marnie Williams is the Head of Hair and Beauty at West Suffolk College with over 42 years’ experience in the hairdressing industry – starting out as a stylist in the best
Dublin salons, then working for L’Oreal as a Technical Consultant, ultimately becoming an educator in both the private and public sector. West Suffolk College is a
3 Star Fellowship Centre of Excellence, which was awarded for the achievements of their students and the opporunties that the college has created for their students.
The college was awarded ‘outstanding’ in all 4 area of OFSTED measures, including ‘strong’ for the newest skills category. Marnie has worked alongside The Fellowship
for almost 4 years helping to create the Centre of Excellence project, modelling, piloting, re-working, and developing a programme that will recognise excellent education for 16–19-year-olds leaving school and into industry. Marnie joins the Fellowship Executive Board as the Head of Education and Centres of Excellence, aiming to help bridge the gap between education and employment, whilst giving the
next generation the support and preparation for succeeding in to industry.

“We’re delighted to have three new exceptionally talented individuals joining the Fellowship Executive Board. Chris Foster, Marnie Williams and Marcus Allen will bring their expertise and knowledge to the Executive Board to help nurture and develop the skills and talent of Fellowship Members… This Year, the Fellowship’s Executive Board will continue to encourage the growth of those who are new to the industry and those who have worked in the industry for
many years. The Fellowship will be collaborating and bringing the industry together from all over the UK – with a focus on inspiring, educating, and encouraging salon stylists, salon owners, freelance stylists, and barbers”,

Ashleigh Hodges, President of the
Fellowship.

“As the Fellowship moves towards its 80th Anniversary, and the industry continues to shift on its axis, we are delighted to have three new dynamic members joining us on the
Executive Board. The plans we are putting in place today will benefit the whole industry of the future, both creatively and commercially. These new positions will help us gather and analyse business critical data, as well as attracting “Best in
Class” Business, Technology and Education Partners for the direct benefit of our members and the wider hairdressing community”.

The Fellowship for British Hairdressing’s CEO, Barry Stephens,

The winners of the 2025 America’s Beauty Show (ABS) Global Image Awards were announced on Saturday, April 5, 2025, during an electrifying evening at America’s Beauty Show. 

The celebration, held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, brought together salon professionals, beauty industry leaders, and artists for a night filled with excitement and recognition.

The ABS Global Image Awards honor creativity, artistry, and dedication in the beauty industry, recognizing both emerging and seasoned professionals for their talent and innovative work. The competition features multiple categories, showcasing a broad range of beauty disciplines, including hairdressing, makeup artistry, and salon team collaborations. This year’s competition saw a significant increase in participation from international artists, underlining the global reach and impact of the event.

Proudly announcing the 2025 ABS Global Image Awards Winners:

• Barber – Professional: Salvador Oliver – Spain

• Creative Color – Professional: Chrystofer Benson – USA

• Full Concept – Professional: Anthony Negron – USA

• Haircutting – Professional: David Barron – USA

• Team Collaboration – Professional: Rafael Bueno & Manuel Mon – Spain

• Texture Expert – Professional: Lukas Press – USA

• Leo Passage Gold Trophy Award: Chrystofer Benson

The ABS Global Image Awards celebrate more than just talent—they are a reflection of the community spirit that defines America’s Beauty Show. The event was hosted following the Cosmetologists Chicago President’s Party at 6:00PM CST. The evening was filled with live music by Libido Funk Circus and a high-energy celebration that brought beauty professionals together to honor their peers. The event is the signature celebration for America’s Beauty Show.

Each category’s winner received a prestigious award from America’s Beauty Show. The Leo Passage Gold Trophy Award, in honor of the late Pivot Point International founder and Cosmetologists Chicago member, Leo Passage, was also presented to an extraordinary artist who exemplified the highest standard of artistry.

“The ABS Global Image Awards continue to grow each year, elevating artists and professionals from around the world,” said Jessi Marshall, VP of Events and Education. “We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible talent, creativity, and passion that our finalists and winners have contributed to the beauty industry. This event is a true reflection of the growth and collaboration that define our community.”

The ABS Global Image Awards were anonymously judged by an esteemed panel of industry experts, media, educators, and elite artists. More information regarding the 2025 ABS Global Image Awards, visit americasbeautyshow.com and follow ABS on social media.

Two Captain Fawcett products have been announced as Finalists in the Pure Beauty Global Awards 2025. Huzzah!
Both Captain Fawcett’s ‘Booze & Baccy’ Eau De ParfumSignature Series with Ricki Hall and Captain Fawcett’s ‘Expedition Reserve’ Matt Styling and Volumising Hair Powder have been chosen in the Best Fragrance and Best Hair Prep or Styling Product categories respectively. Winners will be selected by world-leading professionals on the Pure Beauty Global Awards international judging panel.
The Pure Beauty Global Awards Winners 2025 will be announced on 8th May 2025 at an exclusive gala event in central London. Captain Fawcett founder, Richard Finney MBE, said-

“To have not one but two products named as Finalists by the renowned Pure Beauty Global Awards team is an incredible achievement for our small but truly mighty team. Following last year’s UK success in both Hair and Fragrance categories, reaching the same heights on the global stage is beyond exciting. Competing against major players, it is hugely rewarding to see Captain Fawcett consistently demonstrate that products made with true craftsmanship and global appeal can stand shoulder to shoulder with the biggest names in the industry. The entire Captain Fawcett crew is absolutely thrilled!”

Captain Fawcett’s ‘Booze & Baccy’ Signature Series Eau De Parfum with Ricki Hall

“The ‘Booze & Baccy’ Signature Series with Ricki Hall was Captain Fawcett’s first collaboration and it has been a phenomenal success. Over ten years, sales have consistently climbed, with the Eau De Parfum in ever-increasing demand. ‘Booze & Baccy’ was crafted to exceptional standards as a tribute to Ricki’s Dad. As such, it’s a story bridging generations, blending contemporary sophistication with a rich, lived-in nostalgia. It celebrates the hard-working, big-hearted men of the 70s and 80s who knew how to graft and still turn up looking sharp. Everyday heroes, one and all!”

Richie Finney

Captain Fawcett’s ‘Expedition Reserve’ Matt Styling and Volumising Hair Powder Captain Fawcett’s ‘Expedition Reserve’ Matt Styling and Volumising Hair Powder is part of the acclaimed ‘Hair Couture’ styling range, created for use in salons, barbershops and also at home.

“Captain Fawcett’s ‘Hair Couture’ range is tested, used and recommended by professionals across the world. Hair Powder is a versatile ‘must-have’ product, but often it has a neutral aroma. Captain Fawcett’s version is imbued with the delectable ‘Expedition Reserve’ fragrance making it just the ticket for refreshing hair on no-shampoo days and scent-layering with companion products in the ‘Expedition Reserve’ range. As such it offers to the contemporary gentleman both convenience and an outstanding sensory experience to boot.”

Richie Finney

The Pure Beauty Global Awards announcement comes following a bumper start to the year with the Captain Fawcett brand picking up prestigious awards month on month, including an MBE for company founder Richie Finney. Watch this space for more news soon!

For more information on Captain Fawcett, please visit www.captainfawcett.com