Editor’s Comment

This is our last full issue of the year and I don't think any of us will be too sad to see the back of 2020. But with promises of a vaccine, and a lot of missed time to make up for, we're looking ahead to next year with optimism.

At the time of writing, we’re awaiting the end of England’s second national lockdown and supporting colleagues in Scotland and Northern Ireland during theirs.  

While an extension to furlough, loans and in some cases support from the fabulous Hair & Beauty Charity have gone some way to providing a financial lifeline during this time, what the industry really wants and needs is to be allowed to return to work. 

So, the news that salons, spas and mobile beauty businesses in England can reopen across all tiers from December 2 has been welcomed (see page 16). As emphasised in a letter to Government signed by all the major associations, close contact services have only contributed up to 0.05% to the R rate, indicating they’re able to operate far more safely than many of the sectors that faced fewer restrictions.

As the industry gets back to work, this month we are also raising the profile of the people and businesses that set the standards in beauty and spa. Our World Spa & Wellness Awards did this on a global scale in November and you can see the winners on page 17. On December 8, we’ll announce the incredible winners of the Professional Beauty Awards 2020. This year, it is a virtual event and you’re all invited, so if you’ve not signed up yet, register here and join us for some much-needed celebration of the talent and strength of our amazing industry.

Editor