1 mins
INSIDER BEAUTY
Our exclusive monthly benchmarking stats for each sector of the market
JOE BROWNS
March brought a challenging mix of results for salon businesses, but strong client relationships continue to offer reasons for optimism. While 21% of salons saw growth in treatment business compared to March 2024, over a third (35%) reported consistent performance.
Treatment room occupancy averaged 63%, showing that many salons are still operating at a healthy capacity. Notably, 58% say client referrals have increased over the last year – proof that word-of-mouth and exceptional service are powerful growth drivers.
When asked about the potential impact of a VAT reduction, 46% said it would enable them to hire more full-time staff. However, with no such reform announced in the Government’s Spring Statement (see page 18), many businesses are exploring alternative strategies.
On the spot
Would a VAT reduction on labour costs allow you to hire more full-time staff?
1. Yes, we could afford to expand our team (46%)
2. Yes, but only slightly – other costs are still high (35%)
3. No, VAT is not the main barrier to hiring more staff (13%)
4. No, we prefer to manage labour costs in other ways (6%)
58% say client referrals have increased in the last 12 months
Month in numbers
How did treatment business in March 2025 compare with March 2024?
How did retail business in March 2025 compare with March 2024?
63% average treatment room occupancy in March
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