WELCOME
HAIR: L’ORÉAL COLOUR TROPHY WINNERS 2026
Autumn has arrived in full force, bringing that fast-paced energy into the salon as we all gear up for one of the busiest times of the year. With Salon International 2026 just days away from taking over ExCeL London, we bring you a final inspirational preview as the hair industry prepares – including a guide to the brand new programmes and unmissable shows.
With clients lining up for seasonal transformations, we are also tackling all things festive retail, with top salon owners and educators sharing their favourite tricks for turning client appointments into retail wins – from getting the conversation started early to leaning into sensory displays that practically sell themselves. Plus, our gift guide edit showcases the ultimate lineup of holiday treats, luxury haircare sets, and styling essentials to get your shelves festive-ready.
Because running a brilliant salon business is all about staying ahead of the game, we are also looking at the tools and numbers shaping your columns. In our KPIs feature, we break down the key performance indicators that actually matter, while our AI special decodes artificial intelligence on the salon floor, revealing how real-world salons are using smart tech in the background to streamline stock takes, skip admin headaches, and boost visibility in client searches.
For those forging their own path, our guide to freelance confidence delivers actionable advice on conquering social media fears, entering awards, and building a supportive squad. Then inside our dedicated Modern Barber section, British Hairdressing Awards, sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional, Men’s Hairdresser of the Year Josh Lamonaca, and Modern Barber Business Leader of the Year Joe Pomper, talk business mechanics and authenticity, while MB Best Newcomer Cosmin Gradinaru shares how he built up his Manchester shop.
October is all about gathering our community, pushing creative boundaries, and getting inspired. Whether you are gearing up for your trip to Salon International, refining your festive retail strategy, or hunting for fresh ideas to fuel your team, this issue is packed with everything you need to feel ahead of the curve.
TEAM HJ
Managing Director Mark Moloney
Head of Editorial Eve Oxberry eve.o@thepbgroup.com • 020 3841 7378
Acting Deputy Editor Abbie Skliarsky abbie.s@thepbgroup.com • 020 73494 798
Editor Charlotte Grant-West charlotte.g@thepbgroup.com • 020 3841 7369 (Maternity Leave)
Content & Social Lead Chloe Weldon chloe.weldon@thepbgroup.com • 020 3841 7362
Senior Content Writer Josie Jackson josie.j@thepbgroup.com • 020 3841 7362
Group Sales Director Jackie Brown jackie.b@thepbgroup.com • 020 3841 7366
Group Sales Manager Matt Crane matt.c@thepbgroup.com • 020 3841 7367
Account Manager Max FitzGerald max.f@thepbgroup.com • 0207 349 4793
Account Manager Jane Thomson jane.t@thepbgroup.com • 0203 841 7363
Senior Events Executive Anna van der Walt anna.v@thepbgroup.com • 020 3841 7377
Awards Contributor Angela Jones angela.j@thepbgroup.com • 020 7351 0536
Executive Assistant Katie Matthews katie.m@thepbgroup.com • 020 7349 4792
Marketing Director Chloe Monina chloe.m@thepbgroup.com • 020 7349 4799
Events Marketing Manager Phoebe Ollerearnshaw phoebe.o@thepbgroup.com • 020 7351 0536
Contributors Keysha Davis, India Hurford-Jones, Matthew Batham