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Last year on stage at Salon Smart, I opened the event by listing all the headaches and challenges that business owners were currently facing. “Who in their right mind would want to run a salon today?” I joked… But with the ever-increasing squeeze on margins, that joke isn’t funny anymore – it’s actually become a valid question many are asking themselves. I implore you to take time to truly digest the Cost of Doing Business Special we have in this issue (from page 40). It’s a brilliant investigation of today’s landscape for hair business owners – many of whom are on their fraying final nerve – by publisher Catherine
Handcock, who has witnessed the shifting sands of this industry across three decades. “The pandemic, Brexit, high energy costs, rising employment costs… We used to think recessions were bad, but this has been wave upon relentless wave of challenges and disruption, and it’s affected everyone in the industry: salons, freelancers and brands,” she says. “It’s not surprising to see some businesses go to the wind – but equally, I’m not surprised others are showing resilience and growth.” The latter can be seen with Sally Montague (from page 60), celebrating 40 years in business, and eagle eyed on growing her group from seven to 10 salons – and we wouldn’t bet against her!
Amanda Nottage Editorial director
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That’s MWIT, people! With award entries now closed, the wait is on to find out who will be vying for the 22 trophies that will be bestowed upon our stars of 2024 at this year’s Most Wanted and It List Grand Final. But you won’t have to wait too long – promise! Finalists will be announced on Friday 14 June, so set reminders to check our website and socials for the big reveal. And while you’re in your calendar app, set another alarm for Monday 8 July, when tickets to the most wonderful night of the year – that fabulous Grand Final – are released for sale. We’re planning a big, beautiful occasion, and we’d love you to be there. To everybody who entered this year’s competitions; a big thank you and best of luck! creativeheadmag.com/ connect