NEWS

HAIRDRESSING INDUSTRY PROTESTS FOR TAX REFORM

The hairdressing sector took to the streets for a day of action on 17 March in central London. The British Hair Consortium urged the whole industry to pull together to show its support for tax reform, calling on Chancellor Rachel Reeves to urgently halve the VAT salons pay on labour costs to 10% to help them overcome the crisis. It is hoped that the ‘Save Our Salons’ rally will grab the attention of the media and Government.

Speaking from the protest, Toby Dicker from the British Hair Consortium said: “We’re trying to highlight to the Government that this industry needs a levelling of the playing field. If we get a levelling of the playing field our industry can grow, it can get back to the excitement that we’ve always had.” A recent report commissioned by the British Hair Consortium and carried out by CBI Economics, highlighted that an unbalanced tax system is harmful to the hair and beauty industry showing that unless things change, there will be no new apprenticeships by 2027 and a 93% fall in employment by 2030. Head to modernbarber.co.uk to stay up to date on the campaign.

DERMAPENWORLD APPOINTS GLOBAL GENERAL MANAGER OF HAIRCARE

DermapenWorld has announced Tracey Hughes as the General Manager for its Global Haircare Division leading the EXOGROW Brand: under Tracey’s leadership, the brand will launch Dp Dermaceuticals EXO-GROW Collection, a range designed to revolutionise scalp health. Tracey brings decades of expertise in hairdressing, business strategy, education, and brand leadership. “Tracey’s leadership, innovation and deep industry insight make her the perfect choice to spearhead our expansion into haircare,” said CEO, Stene Marshall, DermapenWorld. The appointment signals a new era for DermapenWorld as it leverages cuttingedge microneedling science to address hair loss and scalp rejuvenation with the EXO-GROW Collection.

FOUNDER OF CAPTAIN FAWCETT RECEIVES MBE

Richard Finney, founder of Captain Fawcett Ltd, based in Norfolk, has been presented with the prestigious Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) by His Royal Highness, Prince William.

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 12 February, Richie said: “It was a particular delight to meet His Royal Highness, who happens to be cultivating his own truly topnotch beard; suffice to say, beard care tips may well have been shared.”

In his acceptance of the accolade, Richie emphasised the support of his team, explaining: “I am truly honoured to have been awarded an MBE, however the success of Captain Fawcett would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the whole team, who strive for excellence every day.”

THE SNAP! AWARDS ARE OPEN FOR ENTRY

Hairdressers Journal International is proud to announce that its SNAP! Awards are open for entry. The digital only competition allows all hair professionals of any skill level across the world to submit just ONE image of their best work. Simply take a picture on your phone and upload via the online entry form. There are six SNAP! categories to choose from, including Barbering, and the winners will be announced live at Salon International on Monday 13 October. Each winner will receive a trophy, be featured in HJ, have the opportunity to work on the HJ Academy Stage at Salon International 2026 and will receive a complimentary ticket to the British Hairdressing Awards 2025. Head to hji.co.uk to enter now – entries close 13 June.

TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE FOR THE MODERN BARBER AWARDS

Tickets are now on sale for the Modern Barber Awards, taking place on Sunday 18 May 2025 at the National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham. This event is a celebration of talent, skill and creativity, bringing together the best barbers and industry experts for a night of recognition and inspiration. Whether you’re an experienced professional, an up-and-coming barber, or simply passionate about the craft, this is an event you don’t want to miss. Head to modernbarber.co.uk to book your tickets now to secure your spot.

DENSE HAIR EXPERTS APPOINTS STEPHANIE MASON AS GLOBAL BUSINESS CONSULTANT

Dense Hair Experts, which specialises in personalised hair loss treatments, has announced Stephanie Mason as its new Global Business Consultant. In her new role, Stephanie will focus on strengthening Dense’s international distribution network. She will also lead Dense’s strategic move into professional salons and oversee the development of an education platform, designed to train haircare professionals in Dense’s personalised treatment plans. “Dense’s commitment to highperformance, scientifically backed hair growth solutions is truly inspiring. The brand is redefining what it means to treat hair loss with precision and effectiveness, and I am excited to drive its expansion,” she said.

“We are thrilled to welcome Stephanie to the Dense family,” said Ash Hashmi, Co-founder of Dense Hair Experts. “Her expertise in business strategy and brand development is exactly what we need as we take Dense to new heights.”

OSMO ANNOUNCES TWO NEW BRAND AMBASSADORS

ROB WESTON AND RYAN FITCHETT

£13 That’s the average cost of a men’s haircut in the UK, according to Ripe Hair & Beauty.

OSMO has announced Rob Weston and Ryan Fitchett as its newest Brand Ambassadors. With 12 years and 17 years of industry experience respectively, Rob and Ryan are well placed to help build the OSMO brand and reach a wider barbering audience. 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. Meanwhile, reflecting on the opportunity, Ryan said: “I’m thrilled to be working with OSMO as a Brand Ambassador. It’s an incredible chance to showcase my work, connect with a wider audience and dive deeper into education and product knowledge. OSMO has always been a brand I admire, and I’m excited to inspire other barbers with their amazing products.”