The “Budget” Aftermath

Autumn Budget 2024: What it Means for Hairdressers

The Autumn Budget 2024 presents both opportunities and challenges for hairdressers:

• Minimum Wage Increase: From April 2025, the minimum wage will rise to £12.21 per hour for workers over 21, increasing payroll expenses for salons. This may lead to higher customer costs or a need for improved efficiency.

• National Insurance Changes: Employers' contributions will rise from 13.8% to 15%, with the threshold lowered to £5,000. However, the Employment Allowance increase to £10,500 offers some relief.

Despite these challenges, the budget includes measures like tax simplification and business rates support, which could benefit small businesses. Yet, the rise in apprentice wages threatens traditional training pathways, urging the sector to adapt swiftly.

Hair salon owner gets emotional saying the 'government is not listening'

Toby Dicker, founder of the Salon Employers Association, expresses frustration over the government's budget plans, which propose increased labour costs. He warns that these changes could cost his business tens of thousands, highlighting the financial strain on salon owners.

Dicker's emotional plea underscores a broader concern: the government appears unresponsive to the challenges faced by employers in the hair salon industry. He emphasises that many are at their breaking point, urging for more consideration and support from policymakers.

The situation reflects a disconnect between government actions and the realities of small business operations, prompting calls for a more empathetic and informed approach to economic policy. Dicker's insights serve as a reminder of the urgent need for dialogue and understanding between the government and business communities.

Salon Spotlight 💇

Inclusive Hair Salon Opens to Support Neurodiverse Clients in Romsey

The Coven, a pioneering salon in Romsey, offers a sensory-friendly environment for neurodiverse clients and those seeking alternative hairstyles. Owned by Verity Wall, it provides a calm, inclusive space with low lighting and private appointments, addressing sensory sensitivities and embracing bold, expressive styles.

Supercuts' Real Dumb Coupon Adds Money to Any Haircut

Supercuts, a leader in the value-salon industry for over 50 years, has launched a unique marketing campaign with the "Real Dumb Coupon," which adds $50 to the cost of a haircut. This move challenges the perception of Supercuts as the 'fast food' of hair salons, often seen as cheap and undesirable.

Despite serving over 23 million customers in 2023, including celebrities and athletes, the brand seeks to redefine its image and the value of its services.

The "Real Dumb Coupon" contrasts with the 2023 "Real Smart Hair" campaign, which celebrated customers' smart choices in using Supercuts. This new approach aims to provoke thought on the true cost of feeling good about one's appearance, encouraging a reassessment of what quality and value mean in the context of haircuts.

Best Tress Picks 🔍

UK’s Top Salon Picks: Cosmo-Approved

Cosmopolitan’s beauty team rounds up the best hair salons across the UK, showcasing spots that blend top-notch service with standout style. From London’s trendiest hubs to hidden gems, each salon is selected for its expert stylists, welcoming vibes, and exceptional results.

Top Picks:

• Neil Moodie Studio, Old Spitalfields Market

• Ena Salon - Holborn, London

• Gielly Green - West London

• Lush Hair Lab - Brighton

• Samantha Cusick - Liverpool Street, Fitzrovia, and Notting Hill

Fresh Finds 💡

Growth Serums for Thicker, Longer Hair

Shape Magazine highlights the top hair growth serums designed to support thicker, fuller hair. Each product is chosen for its effectiveness, ease of use, and suitability for different hair types and goals, from boosting growth to adding volume.

Top Picks:

• Vegamour GRO Hair Serum – Known for its plant-based formula that promotes thickness and overall hair health.

• The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density – An affordable option targeting hair strength and density.

• Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Foam – FDA-approved and clinically proven to stimulate hair growth in men and women.

• Nutrafol Growth Activator – Utilizes Ashwagandha for a natural boost in scalp health and hair vitality.

• BondiBoost Hair Growth Support Serum – Australian-made with peppermint oil to energize the scalp and support growth.