PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
Respect our sector
A look at the National Hair and Beauty Federation’s new campaign to have the Government recognise the contributions of the sector
The National Hair and Beauty Federation (NHBF) has launched Respect Our Sector, a new campaign requesting formal recognition from the UK Government for the hairdressing and beauty sector’s vital contribution to the nation’s economy, communities and wellbeing. At its core, the campaign delivers a clear message – Respect Our Sector: Recognise. Invest. Include.
This call to action urges policymakers to move beyond seeing the sector as simply consumer-facing. It is a dynamic, high-value sector that delivers jobs, skills, wellbeing, sustainability and social infrastructure – all of which must be supported by informed and inclusive policy.
“Respect Our Sector is more than a message, it’s a movement,” says Caroline Larissey, NHBF chief executive. “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 postcode in the UK.”
More than looks
The UK’s hair and beauty sector contributes £5.8bn 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.
Stronger businesses equals stronger communities
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,” says Larissey. “We play a key role in community wellbeing – economically, emotionally and socially.”
Beauty means business
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.
Recognise, invest, include
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.”
Join the movement
For more information on how to join the campagin, scan the QR code or visit nhbf.co.uk