Hairdresser
Introduction
So you've decided you want to run a hairdressing business. Maybe you've recently completed a relevant training course, or perhaps you've been working in someone else's salon for a while and feel the time is right to go it alone. This guide will take you through the issues you need to consider and give you practical pointers on getting started.
Sector trends
There has been much talk in recent years of introducing compulsory registration for hairdressers. The aim of this would be to weed out the untrained 'cowboys' who bring the industry into disrepute.
Qualified hairdressers can now register with the Hairdressing Council on a voluntary basis, but there are currently no plans to introduce compulsory registration in the UK. You can find out more about registration on the Council website.
The range of hair products for home use has grown larger and ever more sophisticated. To compete, many salons have had to raise their own standards and look for other ways to attract customers. A growing number of salons now offer a whole range of beauty treatments alongside hairstyling.
The hairdressing sector benefited from a more prosperous economic climate during the 2000s, when people had more money to spend on non-essentials. Competition in this sector is strong though, holding prices down at the lower end of the market in particular. Although the late 2000s saw many people tighten their belts, demand for hairdressing remained strong until the end of 2008. 2009 saw the UK fall into recession and although the hairdressing sector proved to be reasonably resilient, customers did cut back on expensive treatments and waited longer between appointments. The next year or two are likely to be tough as the economy slowly recovers.
1.1 Keeping up to date with developments
Joining a trade association is an excellent way of staying up to date with developments in your industry. The National Hairdressers' Federation represents the interests of businesses and individuals in the hairdressing sector.
HABIA - the standards setting body for the hairdressing and beauty industries - publishes lots of useful information including news, statistics and industry reports. You can contact HABIA at Oxford House, Sixth Avenue, Sky Business Park, Robin Hood Airport, Doncaster DN9 3GG or visit their website for more information.
Trade journals such as Hairdressers Journal International can help you to keep up to date with developments and trends in the sector. Hairdressers Journal International is published weekly by Reed Business International. Visit the website for more details and subscription information. There is also a Hairdressers Journal Interactive online resource that includes industry news and a blog that can help you to keep up to date with developments and fashion trends in the industry.
