The National Hair & Beauty Federation’s campaign delivers a clear message: Respect Our Sector: Recognise. Invest. Include.
Published:“Respect Our Sector is more than a message – it’s a movement. We’re asking government to recognise our true value – to value the people, power the economy, and futureproof the services that are integral to daily life across every UK postcode ” Caroline Larissey, NHBF Chief Executive.
The UK’s hair and beauty sector contributes £5.8 billion to the economy annually, supports over 220,000 jobs, and is 86% female – making it one of the most accessible and empowering career pathways for women and entrepreneurs.
The sector also plays a major role in the UK’s education and employment landscape. With thousands of apprenticeship opportunities each year, it enables young people and career changers to access meaningful, skilled work with clear routes to self-employment and business ownership.
The NHBF is calling for an apprenticeship system that is employer-led, properly funded, flexible, and aligned with modern working realities. This is key to closing the skills gap and supporting long-term growth.
There are around 50,000 salons, barbershops and clinics on UK high streets, serving as community hubs where relationships flourish, isolation is reduced, and local identity is strengthened. Unlike online retailers, hair and beauty businesses offer meaningful human connection – a vital service in an increasingly disconnected world.
Hair and beauty professionals also support mental health and emotional wellbeing. For many clients – particularly older people or those living alone – their stylist or therapist is one of their few consistent points of contact, providing safe spaces for conversation, touch, and care.
“Support the sector that supports everyone. We play a key role in community wellbeing – economically, emotionally and socially,” – Caroline Larissey.
Despite its strengths, the sector continues to face barriers to growth. Current VAT thresholds and rules disproportionately penalise labour-intensive personal services and stifle expansion. The NHBF is advocating for a fairer VAT model – including the potential for reduced rates or a smoothing mechanism – to allow businesses to scale sustainably, create more jobs, and drive economic recovery.
Additionally, many hair and beauty businesses are leading the way on sustainability, adopting water-saving tools, eco-friendly practices, and low-waste operations. With the right investment and policy support, this commitment to green growth can flourish further.
This campaign is a united call to government, industry stakeholders, and communities: it’s time to respect and invest in the hair and beauty sector as a national asset.
“Stronger hair and beauty businesses mean stronger communities,” says Larissey. “This sector is resilient, creative and essential. But to continue thriving, it must be included in the policy decisions that shape our country’s future.”
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