DEBATE

“What is the Biggest Threat to the Hair Industry Right Now?„

Three business leaders discuss the future of the industry

COLIN MCANDREW, OWNER MEDUSA

1 “The biggest threat to the hair industry right now is a decline in standards, and it’s something I’m constantly discussing with my team – are you a hairdresser or a professional hairdresser? We are seeing more people enter the industry and almost immediately go self-employed or open their own space. On the surface, that looks like ambition, but without strong foundations, it creates a generation of ‘one-trick’ hairdressers. They can deliver a specific look or trend, often driven by social media, but lack the depth of skill, consultation, and adaptability that define true professionals. Hairdressing has always been a craft built on progression – assistant to stylist, learning through repetition, discipline, and mentorship. When that journey is skipped, standards drop. Clients may not recognise it immediately, but over time it erodes trust in the industry as a whole. I believe we’re heading towards a clear divide. On one side, those who call themselves hairdressers. On the other, professional hairdressers, made up of teams who invest in education, understand consultation, deliver consistency, and build long-term client relationships. If a client’s experience is inconsistent or purely trend-led, they are far less likely to rebook or build trust. That feeds into the wider challenge of retention across the industry. I believe that opportunity and responsibility lies with salon owners and educators to raise the bar. We must protect the craft, invest in training, and champion professionalism. Because if we don’t define standards the market will, and not in our favour.”

MARLENE LAMONT, OWNER URBAN HAIR & BEAUTY

2 “One of the biggest threats to the hairdressing industry right now is the decline in apprenticeships. Rising minimum wage and National Insurance costs are making it increasingly difficult for salons to take on and invest in young talent, but without apprentices, the future of our industry is at risk. I’ve been in the industry for over 40 years, and for more than 20 of those, I ran my own salon. During that time, I consistently took on two apprentices every two years. Out of a team of 14, nine of them came through our apprenticeship programme. That pipeline of talent wasn’t just important for the business; it was essential for the industry as a whole. I’m based in a deprived area of Ayrshire, and I’m incredibly proud to say I’ve trained many of the hairdressers working locally today. For me, it’s about giving back, creating opportunities, and supporting the next generation. What concerns me is that increasing employment costs are making salons think twice about hiring apprentices. Even with a strong track record of training and developing young people, securing funding and support is becoming more challenging. We could see a shift back to individuals having to fund their own education, and that’s something we simply can’t allow. Hairdressing has always been an accessible career, open to people from all backgrounds. If we don’t protect apprenticeships, we risk closing the door on future talent and weakening the industry long-term. Investing in education and creating opportunities isn’t optional; it’s essential.”

WIL FLEESON & SHANNON FLEESON, SALON DIRECTORS RAINBOW ROOM INTERNATIONAL, BUCHANAN STREET

3 “One of the biggest threats to the hairdressing industry right now is the shift away from long-term employment. As more of the industry moves towards self-employment, it becomes harder to create the structure, consistency, and progression that underpin a strong, sustainable salon business. Our success has been built on a clear and unwavering belief: retention drives success. For us, it’s long-term relationships, with both our team and our clients, that create stability, trust, and sustainable growth. That’s why we’ve remained committed to a fully employed model, even as the industry continues to evolve. At the same time, flexibility is essential. Many of our stylists work part-time, balancing their careers with family life, but still deliver exceptional performance. In fact, part-time staff have strengthened our growth; some of our stylists work just 2.5 days per week and generate over £125,000 in net revenue, demonstrating that with the right systems, education, and support, both lifestyle and productivity can thrive. Over the last financial year, we welcomed more than 10,000 client visits and delivered 4,500 colour applications. This consistency feeds directly into the client experience, creating trust and strengthening relationships. Some members of our team have been with us for over 30 years, and that stability underpins our continued growth. In an industry that’s constantly changing, our focus has remained the same. We’ve created a model that not only supports our team but drives the business forward.”