 successfully hosted the Survive & Thrive Stakeholder Event for key industry leaders.){kind=link}
The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) successfully hosted the Survive & Thrive Stakeholder Event, bringing together key industry leaders to discuss critical challenges and opportunities in the hair and beauty sector.
The event featured two insightful panel discussions. The first panel focused on the economic landscape, examining the upcoming 2025 wage and business rate changes and their impact on the sector. From April 2025, the industry faces substantial changes, including a 6.7% increase in the National Living Wage to £12.21 per hour, a dramatic 16.3% rise in the 18-20 rate to £10 per hour, increased National Insurance contributions, and reduced business rates relief.
These changes present significant challenges, but also opportunities to reshape how the sector operates and demonstrates its resilience.
Future of skills in hair & beauty
The second panel explored apprenticeships, discussing workforce development, training pathways, and the future of skills within the sector. Cathy Weston, NHBF Director of Quality & Standards highlighted the need for the hair industry to look for inspiration from beauty for apprentices to complete modules that support a business from the start of their training such as looking after clients at a backwash and colouring.
Caroline Larissey, NHBF Chief Executive, emphasised: “This event demonstrated the collective strength of our hair and beauty sector. Our sector’s strength lies in its people, their resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Throughout history, we haven’t just survived challenges – we’ve transformed them into opportunities for growth and innovation. By working together, we can navigate challenges, share experiences and best practice, support sustainable growth, and champion professional excellence.”
Three Core Focuses of the Survive & Thrive Transformational Programme:
- Supporting Business Sustainability
- Navigating budget impacts
- Maintaining profitability and compliance
- Protecting service quality
- Unlocking growth opportunities
- Championing Professional Excellence
- Celebrating sector value
- Promoting best practices
- Showcasing success stories
- Supporting innovation and professional development
- Protecting Member Interests
- Strong political representation
- Industry advocacy
- Highlighting economic impact
- Influencing policy decisions
The Survive & Thrive Transformational Programme, launched at the event, provides businesses with essential tools, including budget impact calculators, pricing strategy guides, employment support resources, and political advocacy efforts.
For further information about the support offered to Members CLICK HERE