THE BIRMINGHAM REGIONAL GROWTH SUMMIT

Our Regional Growth Summits return on May 11, 2026, at the Eastside Rooms, Birmingham, bringing salon, spa and clinic owners together for a day of business strategy and inspiration

Hosted by Hairdressers Journal International and Professional Beauty, the summit is designed to help you work smarter, increase profitability and future-proof your business. Expect practical advice, real-world strategies and expert-led sessions covering everything from team development to pricing, marketing and AI.

WHAT’S ON AT THE BIRMINGHAM REGIONAL GROWTH SUMMIT?

10.30 – 11.15 STOP CHASING BUSY: THE KPIS THAT MAKE SALONS TRULY PROFITABLE

11.15 – 12.00 EMPOWER YOUR TEAM TO DELIVER: BUILDING STRUCTURE, PROGRESSION & LOYALTY

12.00 – 12.45 KEYNOTE: MARNIE WILLS PERSONAL AI INTELLIGENCE, THE ESSENTIAL MINDSET FOR EVERY SALON BUSINESS LEADER

Are you spending too much time on admin instead of connecting with your clients?

AI strategy consultant Marnie Wills will show salon and clinic owners how to streamline everyday tasks and reclaim valuable time using simple, effective AI workflows. Her keynote breaks down how AI can support everything from client communication to marketing and planning, without the need for technical expertise.

“By setting up a few simple prompts, AI can help you write tailored follow-ups in seconds that sound exactly like you and your brand,” says Marnie. “It adds a premium touch that builds loyalty and keeps clients coming back – without draining your energy.”

14.00 – 14.45 KEYNOTE: RYAN POWER THE CALM SALON, HOW OWNERS BUILD PROFITABLE BUSINESSES WITHOUT BURNING OUT

According to salon business coach, marketing strategist and Salonology co-founder Ryan Power, the most successful salons aren’t always the busiest.

With more than 12 years’ experience – including running his own successful spa and salon – Ryan believes the traditional “fill every column” model is no longer fit for purpose.

“The old hustle culture is broken,” he says. “Salon owners tell me they want to earn more while working fewer hours – and that’s absolutely possible. The most profitable salons aren’t chasing busy; they’re focused on working smarter.”

Ryan will share the strategies behind building a calmer, more profitable salon business – without burnout.

14.45 – 15.30 CHARGE SMARTER, SELL BETTER: SERVICE PRICING & RETAIL STRATEGIES

15.30 – 16.15 FROM POSTS TO PROFIT: SOCIAL MEDIA & MARKETING THAT WORKS FOR SALONS

GET TO KNOW OUR PANELLISTS

Heffy Wheeler is a vivid colour specialist and global educator, known for transforming hair into bold self-expression. As the founder and Creative Director of HXHair, she has built a brand that blends creativity, education, and individuality. With over a decade of experience, she has worked with leading global brands and delivered education internationally, empowering stylists and clients to embrace fearless, creative colour.

Maria Evangelou is a holistic business and wellbeing coach for hair professionals. A former salon owner who’s lived through illness, grief and burnout, she now helps salon owners and small businesses grow with clarity, balance and purpose – without sacrificing their wellbeing.

Sonny Playforth is an award-winning hairdresser and Salon Director at Sonny Playforth Hairdressing. He specialises in short, precision haircuts and colour, holding a L’Oréal Professionnel Colour Specialist degree.

Samantha Barker is the proud owner of LUXE Hair Salon in Milton Keynes. Sam has a strong focus on team development and salon culture; she has created an environment where everybody feels empowered, valued and inspired to create beautiful hair.

Sarah Winters is the owner of Blades Hairdressing in Nuneaton, a family-run business which this year celebrates its 25th anniversary. Five years ago, Sarah successfully expanded the business to include beauty salon and coffee concept, Beauty Bean.

MEET OUR BRAND PARTNERS