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PM SLASHES BUSINESS RATES FOR PUBS & CLUBS – BUT NOT BEAUTY SALONS

UK Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, has slashed business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues by 20% to ‘support the backbone of the high street’ – however, personal care businesses have been excluded from this relief. The measures, which begin from April 2027, are part of the UK Government’s wider plan to ‘drive good growth in every postcode, by reducing the burden on local businesses, boosting investment on high streets and helping communities to thrive’. Pubs and music venues received a 15% business rate relief in April 2026, and the new measures reduce their bills by an additional 20%. This package of support is worth around £100 million per year, yet those representing the personal care sector have been left disappointed by its exclusion from the benefit – with the British Beauty Council calling it a ‘slap in the face’. Millie Kendall OBE, CEO of the Council, comments: “With 196,563 businesses across the personal care sector, hair and beauty salons and retailers outnumber pubs across small, medium and large high streets, as well as all urban and suburban areas.

Millie Kendall OBE

If the Government is serious about building an economy that works for every postcode, HM Treasury must stop picking winners and treat retail, hospitality and leisure as the interdependent ecosystem it is. We implore the Chancellor to extend equivalent business rates relief across personal care at the upcoming Budget.” Carolyn Harris MP, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Beauty, Hair and Wellbeing, expressed her ‘profound disappointment’ of the continued exclusion of the beauty industry from Government support. In an open letter to Rt Hon John Healy MP, Chancellor of the Exchequer, she wrote: “Including the personal care industry in the business rates relief package would give a much-needed boost to struggling salons, spas and beauty stores across the country.

Carolyn Harris MP

©House of Commons

Given the size of the beauty industry’s contribution to our economy, the number of people – especially women – it employs, its centrality to our high streets and the significant challenges it is facing, there is no good reason for its continued exclusion from support.” Sam Silver, head of public policy & affairs at the National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF), adds: “Our sector is every bit as important to thriving communities as hospitality. Unlike many businesses, we can’t move online or relocate to warehouses – we’re rooted in our local high streets. Extending business rates relief to hair, beauty, barbering and aesthetics businesses would be an investment in jobs, apprenticeships, community wellbeing and the future of Britain’s high streets.”

Sam Silver

Image courtesy of Linkedin.com

UK Govt supports practical learning with changes to education

In a bid to tackle the UK’s youth unemployment crisis and expand options for young people, UK Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, has unveiled adjustments to the education system. He stated: “For too long in this country, students have been told that they must take the academic path to do well and be respected.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham

©House of Commons

I want an education system based on parity between academic and technical, which gives all young people a clear path in life.” From age 14 (year 10), students will have the opportunity to combine core academic subjects – including English, maths and science, with technical education linked to jobs available in their areas. They will be able to spend time with employers and gain real-world experience to support their growth. Regional mayors, local leaders, schools, colleges and businesses will work together to shape the new pathways, so that young people can develop technical knowledge and skills specific to employers near them. Mikhail Vtornikov, policy executive at the British Beauty Council, comments: “The beauty industry offers a unique pathway into employment for young people and is renowned for vocational training across different disciplines.

Mikhail Vtornikov

Image courtesy of Linkedin.com

Early engagement with employers envisioned by the Government could prove critical in helping young people discover the breadth of beauty careers available, and build the skills and confidence needed to enter the workforce.” Cathy Weston, director of quality & standards at the National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF), adds that inspiring young people is ‘only the first step’. “There must be viable apprenticeships and jobs for them to progress into,” she shares. “That means working directly with our sector and giving small employers practical support to offer safe, high-quality experience and training.”

BRITISH BEAUTY COUNCIL ANNOUNCES ADVISORY BOARD APPOINTMENTS

The British Beauty Council has appointed six new members to its Advisory Board, bringing together expertise from Government, healthcare, aesthetics, beauty and media ‘to support the organisation’s work on behalf of the UK beauty industry’.

The appointments include:

• Anabel Kingsley – brand president & consultant trichologist at Philip Kingsley.

• Dr Raj Arora – NHS GP, medical director.

Keeks Reid

Mark Moloney

• Dr Uliana Gout – founder of London Aesthetic Medicine.

• Keeks Reid – beauty director, Cosmopolitan UK (appointed to the Media Advisory Board).

• Mark Moloney – managing director, Trades Exhibitions.

• Rupert Daniels – founder & CEO, Studio Rupert Daniels. Millie Kendall OBE, CEO of the British Beauty Council, comments: “As the beauty industry continues to demonstrate its value to the UK economy, it has never been more important that the Council draws on expertise from every part of our sector. These appointments strengthen our ability to advocate for the industry, drive growth and ensure our work reflects the challenges and opportunities facing beauty businesses.” www.britishbeautycouncil.com

Margaret Dabbs London expands LED hand technology globally

British beauty and wellness brand, Margaret Dabbs London, has announced the accelerated expansion of its AstraeaNatura™ LED Hand Mitts across global luxury spa destinations. As the brand continues its mission to integrate ‘medical-grade technology into the traditional spa environment’, the technology has been adopted by hospitality portfolios including Four Seasons, Belmond and Dior Spa. The LED Hand Mitts use photobiomodulation (PBM) to optimise cellular function and target signs of ageing in hands. Near-infrared and red light ‘deeply penetrate to stimulate cellular energy, accelerating healing, reducing inflammation and stimulating collagen to plump thinning skin’. Green light is ‘used to target hyperpigmentation, reduce redness and improve skin clarity’. In a statement, Margaret Dabbs London cites five advantages of the AstraeaNatura™ LED Hand Mitts for beauty businesses:

Margaret Dabbs OBE

• Seamless integration: The mitts require no additional therapist time or dedicated room space.

• High-margin returns: As a premium add-on, the technology drives higher average treatment values, while maximising the productivity of every booking.

• Retail upsell: Customers may to purchase the mitts to take home, driving revenue.

• Market appeal: By offering clinical-grade expertise, spas can appeal to a tech-savvy, results-oriented demographic seeking innovations to support skin health.

• Elevating guest experiences: Clients experience an elevated treatment journey, with visible results. Brand founder, Margaret Dabbs OBE, says: “We are seeing a fundamental shift in the global spa industry toward results-driven wellness. The hands are often the first place to show age, yet they have historically been overlooked in luxury treatments. Our LED technology allows spas to elevate the handcare category to the same level of clinical precision as the face, delivering visible results that today’s discerning spa guests demand.” www.margaretdabbs.co.uk

UPDATES MADE TO ALLERGEN LABELLING REQUIREMENTS FOR COSMETICS

New cosmetic products placed on the EU market must comply with updated fragrance allergen labelling requirements, following changes to EU legislation which came into force on 31 July. Jeremy Freedman, managing director at Guardpack – specialists in wet wipe and liquid-filled sachet manufacturing, comments: “The updated legislation increases the number of fragrance allergens requiring individual declaration from 24 to more than 80, following scientific research that identified additional ingredients capable of causing contact allergies.”

Jeremy Freedman

He continues: “Fragrance allergens are naturally occurring or synthetic ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive skin or fragrance allergies.” Rather than indicating that these ingredients are unsafe, the legislation is intended to provide consumers with clearer information about the products they use. Beauty professionals are not expected to interpret the legislation, but understanding the significance of the changes is important. “Clients are increasingly aware of ingredient information, particularly those with sensitive skin or known allergies, and they often look to beauty therapists for reassurance when choosing products,” Jeremy adds. “For beauty businesses that pride themselves on delivering safe, professional treatments, access to clearer ingredient information can support client consultations, build trust and help professionals select products with greater confidence.” As new products adhere to the labelling legislation, beauty pros may notice changes to the packaging of their products, rather than their formulas. “While rules that came into effect on 31 July 2026 apply to all new products placed on the EU market, products already on the market can be purchased until 31 July 2028, when non-compliant stock must be updated or withdrawn,” Jeremy explains. “The transition period gives brands an opportunity to review existing product ranges in a planned and structured way, helping to minimise disruption across the supply chain.” www.guardpack.co.uk

King congratulates Hair & Beauty Charity on 195th anniversary

His Majesty The King sent a letter to the Hair & Beauty Charity, as the organisation marked 195 years supporting hairdressing and beauty professionals in need. The letter from Buckingham Palace read: “I much appreciate your long-standing commitment to providing financial assistance, wellbeing support and practical help to professionals within the hair and beauty sector, and their families, during times of hardship, illness and personal crises. I send my warmest good wishes to all those who are present for a most successful season of events.” The Charity’s president, Jayne Lewis-Orr, comments: “Receiving recognition from The King is a proud moment for everyone involved with the organisation, from our trustees, to our fundraisers and beneficiaries. “Since 1831, the Charity has been there for industry professionals who have had nowhere else to turn. Looking through our archives, many issues our beneficiaries face today were also issues 195 years ago, such as being unable to work through unexpected illness or injury. Our Orphans Fund helped children, while our financial support helped families make memories they will never forget. “As the Charity looks ahead to 2026 and beyond, this anniversary reminds us that the need for support has never been greater.” www.hairandbeautycharity.org/support

THE GELBOTTLE INC RELAUNCHES LOYALTY PROGRAMME FOR PROS

Brighton-based nail brand, The GelBottle Inc (TGB), has reintroduced Club TGB – a tiered rewards system for nail techs. The scheme is focused on bringing a ‘single, consistent loyalty framework to TGB’s international community for the first time’. Designed to support loyal customers ‘beyond a simple discount’, Club TGB retains its previous three-tier structure, but rebuilds it around ‘ongoing engagement rather than historic lifetime spend’. This means that customers who are actively shopping and engaging with the brand reap the rewards on offer. Membership to Club TGB remains free, and every nail tech is automatically enrolled into Tier 1 after their first order. From there, members progress based on spend, and tiers recalculate every 12 months in line with activity. The three-tier system comprises the following:

• Tier 1: Customers are auto-enrolled after one order and earn three points for every £1 spent.

• Tier 2: This is unlocked when a customer has spent £600 (inc VAT) in 12 months, and they earn four points for every £1 spent.

• Tier 3: This is available once a customer has spent £1,200 (inc VAT) in 12 months, and they earn six points for every £1 spent.

Hannah Morgan

The initiative also includes Club TGB monthly gifting, a bi-annual print magazine for Tier 2 and Tier 3 members, TGB Academy growth rewards, an annual lamp upgrade for Tier 3 members, double value points and an improved refer-a-friend scheme. Hannah Morgan, managing director at The GelBottle Inc, comments: “We are so excited about the relaunch of Club TGB, which has been designed to show our commitment to the community that’s built this brand. We want to recognise the techs who shape this industry by rewarding them generously and giving them more ways to earn beyond transactions.” www.thegelbottle.com

NAIL & BEAUTY BITES

Independent nail business, Magikels, has launched Dark Arts Grimoire: a premium embossed PU leather binder that includes 25 of the brand’s Stick & Slide decal sheets, sticker storage pages and a reusable silicone tracing mat. It has also unveiled two Precision Liner Brushes, available in 5mm and 7mm sizes. www.magikels.com

Salon software company, Phorest, has announced its B Corp Certification, meaning it meets B Lab™ Standards for social and environmental performance. With an impact score of 89, Phorest joins a global community of businesses ‘leading the movement towards a more inclusive, equitable and regenerative economy’. www.phorest.com

Milky nails are reported to be one of the fastest-growing manicure trends, as searches have reached 89,000 per month, and celebrities are amongst those championing the style. During her wedding to footballer, Cristiano Ronaldo, Georgina Rodriguez showcased a soft, subtle manicure that caught the attention of the nail industry.

Instagram.com/jessicareisnailartist

Scan here to view our gallery of milky manis

Townhouse announces expansion into Italy

Nail salon brand, Townhouse, has signed a 40-salon development agreement with PRCNX Italia, marking its entry into Italy. The business, which has had two of its London premises scoop the title of Scratch Stars Nail Salon of the Year, was founded in 2018 by Juanita Huber-Millet. The success of its flagship location in Fitzrovia, London, has seen the brand open more than 45 spaces across Europe and the US. A multi-unit franchise that aims to ‘redefine the traditional nail salon experience through elevated design, proprietary technology, rigorous hygiene standards and consistently premium service’, Townhouse is now furthering its reach with the deal in Italy, with the first salon set to open in Milan. PRCNX is an investment and operating platform that specialises in beauty, wellness, medical aesthetics, healthcare and technology-enabled services. In a statement, Townhouse stated that ‘the partnership combines Townhouse’s brand, operating system and sector expertise with PRCNX’s local market knowledge, investment capability and experience building consumer businesses’.

Juanita Huber-Millet

“Italy is a natural next step in Townhouse’s international growth,” says Juanita Huber-Millet. “We are building the brand through a group of well-capitalised, operationally strong franchise partners capable of developing markets at scale. The PRCNX team combines relevant sector experience, deep local market knowledge and the ambition required to establish Townhouse as Italy’s leading premium nail salon brand.” Ivan Marandola, chairman of PRCNX, adds: “We did not choose Townhouse simply to add another beauty brand to our portfolio.

Ivan Marandola

Image courtesy of Linkedin.com

We chose it because [it] has built what the Italian nail market currently lacks: a trusted premium brand, a repeatable customer experience, and the technology and operating platform required to scale nationally. “Nailcare is one of the highest-frequency categories in beauty, but the Italian market remains fragmented. Beginning in Milan, our ambition is to build Italy’s defining premium nail salon network.” www.townhouse.co.uk

Jennie Nippard & Kylea Wherry.

Glitterbels unveils education team shake-up

Scratch Stars Educator of the Year 2020/21, Jennie Nippard, has been promoted from deputy head of education to head of education at Glitterbels, and three-time Scratch Stars L&P Tech of the Year winner, Kylea Wherry, has been announced as deputy head. The duo support, develop and grow the Glitterbels Education Team: a collective of talented educators who US. are in the Scratch Stars Hall Of Fame for their commitment to excellence. In a post on Instagram, Kylea writes: “I’m so excited to step into this role, and for what Jennie and I can bring to this next chapter of the Glitterbels Training Academy. We’re both incredibly passionate about raising standards, while supporting the growth of our industry, educators and students. There are some very exciting plans in the pipeline; watch this space!” www.glitterbels.com

DID YOU KNOW?

OPI has enhanced its product offering by introducing more hues in the GelColor formula, and matching over 145 shades in Nail Lacquer and GelColor. The brand shares: “Whatever you love in the bottle, you can now get in gel too!” uk.wella.professionalstore.com

DATES FOR THE DIARY

20 September Nailtopia

Founded in 2019 by nail pro, podcast host & Emoki Nails founder, Rachel Allen, the Nailtopia trade show returns after a three-year hiatus. It will bring brands, educators and nail techs together at The Steamworks, Sheffield, to connect, compete and shop. Scratch will be exhibiting, alongside Moyra UK, Glitter Planet and more. Purchase tickets via www.tickettailor.com/events/nailtopiatradeshow

27-28 September Nailympia Puerto Rico

The Nails Expo in San Juan will be home to the newest Nailympia competition, hosted by award-winning nail artist, Michelle Soto, and owner of the Expo, Lyssa Avilés. Categories range from Manicure Poster, Gel UV Competition and Salon Nails to Runway Nails and The Joy Of Nails. Find out more at www.nailympia.com/puerto-rico

4 October Pedi Pro United

This professional footcare education and networking event in Atlanta, USA, will feature free foundational classes, optional paid breakout sessions on advanced techniques including toenail restoration, correction and E-filing, plus access to innovative footcare vendors. Book your ticket via www.nufeetpedicures.com/generaladmission

4-5 October Nailympia London

Celebrating 22 years at its flagship location, Nailympia London returns to the Professional Beauty show at ExCeL London. Following eight arena competitions across the two days, the Nailympia London 2026 announcement of winners will take place on 5 October at 3.30pm, revealing the European Cup and Global Cup champions. Learn more at www.nailympia.com/london