News
PB NEWS
From government announcements to advertising rulings, here’s what’s shaping the industry now.
Wellness economy forecast to hit £7.5 trillion by 2029
The global wellness market reached US$6.8 trillion (£5.17 trillion) in 2024 and is forecast to climb to $9.8 trillion (£7.45 trillion) by 2029, according to new research from the Global Wellness Institute (GWI).
The Global Wellness Economy Monitor 2025 underlines accelerating growth across most wellness markets, with implications for UK spa and beauty professionals seeking to capitalise on rising consumer demand.
The report confirmed the UK is among the largest wellness markets in Europe and ranks within the global top 10 by total market size.
Western Europe, including the UK, continues to sit among the highest per-capita wellness spending regions worldwide, second only to North America.
Across Europe, the wellness economy achieved 6.3% average annual growth between 2019 and 2024, underlining sustained post-pandemic recovery.
Personal care and beauty was named the largest wellness sector in the UK by consumer spending.
Globally, personal care and beauty reached US$1.35 trillion (£1.03 trillion) in 2024 and is forecast to grow to US$1.71 trillion (£1.30 trillion) by 2029, said the report.
Among the 11 sectors tracked, wellness real estate and mental wellness were the fastest-growing from 2019–2024, at 19.5% and 12.4% average annual growth respectively.
GWI noted that the wellness economy has fully recovered from pandemic lows: all 11 sectors now exceed their 2019 values and the global market grew 7.9% from 2023 to 2024. The institute also calculates that wellness now represents 6.12% of global GDP.
ASA’s LED face mask ad ban set to spark change for beauty device advertising
The Advertising Standards Authority, the UK’s advertising regulator, ruled against four brands in November for breaching CAP Code rules by claiming their LED masks could treat acne and rosacea.
The ruling is expected to be a precursor to further crackdowns, not only on LED masks but on other beauty devices or wellness products making medical claims.
The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) banned ads from Beautaholics, Luyors Retail, Project E Beauty and Silk’n after concluding that all four made unauthorised medical claims.
These cases formed part of a broader investigation, identified through the ASA’s AI-powered Active Ad Monitoring system.
In each ruling, the regulator said the brands’ marketing implied their devices could treat or prevent acne and rosacea – conditions classified as medical under UK regulation – despite none of the masks being registered with the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Beautaholics and Luyors were cited for Meta ads suggesting clinical-style acne solutions, while Project E Beauty used claims such as “treats acne” and “heals acne”, supported by before-and-after images. Silk’n was ruled in breach for ads referencing “acnerelated redness”, which the ASA deemed a medical claim.
The ASA reminded advertisers that LED devices can only be promoted for cosmetic benefits unless registered as medical devices, and confirmed its AI monitoring will continue to target misleading skincare technology claims.
Autumn Budget 2025: what the new measures mean for beauty businesses
The 2025 Autumn Budget, delivered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves on November 26, outlined tax, wage and cost measures set to affect UK beauty businesses over the coming years.
Income tax and National Insurance thresholds will remain frozen until 2030/31, meaning rising wages could push more staff into higher tax brackets and increase employment costs for salons.
From April, the National Minimum Wage will rise to £12.71 for over-21s, with increases across younger age groups and apprentices. Given the sector’s labour-intensive nature, businesses may need to review pricing, staffing and service structures.
The Government will replace the Apprenticeship Levy with a more flexible Growth and Skills Levy from 2026, while apprenticeships for under-25s will become fully funded for SMEs.
A new tax on salary-sacrificed pension contributions above £2,000 from 2029, plus a 2% rise in dividend tax, will add further pressure on owner-operators.
Business rates reform from 2026 will introduce lower multipliers for small retail, hospitality and leisure properties, while the fuel duty freeze offers temporary relief for mobile therapists.
Regional mayors may also gain powers to introduce tourist levies, potentially affecting hotel-based spas.
Initial line-up announced for the inaugural Salon Growth Summit in March
The Salon Growth Summit – the new, two-day event hosted by Professional Beauty and Hairdressers Journal International – will be held at the newly renovated Olympia London from March 1–2, 2026.
Tailored to meet the needs of today’s salon owner, the event is an opportunity to access high-impact education from industry experts, including skincare specialist and author Caroline Hirons, and hear from inspiring keynote speakers, such as Sam Conniff, author of Be More Pirate.
The Business Live Stage will also be home to a series of panels featuring leading figures across the beauty and hair industry.
Key topics covered will include everything from 'Pricing Strategies That Equal Profit" and "KPIs Every Salon Owner Should Track", to "What Today's Client Wants: The Services that Pay in 2026" and "Leading the Next Generation of Stylists and Therapists".
Attendees can also meet leading professional brands, explore new suppliers and have commercially focused conversations that support smarter investment decisions for their businesses.
The event will also host Business Accelerator Tables, an exclusive opportunity to sit down with industry peers and tackle the real issues shaping salon and spa success today.
Hosted in our Networking Lounge, these focused roundtable discussions dive into key business challenges such as retailing, rebooking, and team management.
…IN BRIEF
Supplier of professional ear-piercing systems and aftercare Studex has secured renewal of endorsement from Habia and has also been awarded Endorsed Brand Training status. The endorsement shows that the Studex training programme remains aligned with evolving industry standards while maintaining strong safety and hygiene.
Karen Betts has introduced Virtual Clinic, a digital platform designed to guide clients through every step of the journey when considering semi-permanent makeup. The online hub offers step-by-step guidance, expert-led tutorials, and real treatment footage, bridging the gap between consultation and confidence.
Mac has appointed Grammy-winning artist Chappell Roan as its global brand ambassador, with worldwide campaigns beginning in 2026. Celebrated for her bold self-expression and advocacy, the partnership aligns with Mac’s mission of championing authenticity, creativity and LGBTQIA+ representation.
Skincare brand The Organic Pharmacy has appointed Jean-Christophe Samyn as its new general manager. After 15 years leading French skincare brand Caudalie across Europe, Singapore and Asia, Samyn has established a strong track record in driving brand growth, accelerating innovation, and delivering commercial success.
Luxury Family Hotels has teamed up with Elemis to introduce signature rituals across its spa collection. Guests can now enjoy tailored facials inspired by each hotel’s unique surroundings, such as Moonfleet Manor’s Tides of Calm, which reflects the gentle rhythm of the Dorset coast with flowing massage strokes.
21% of UK salons running at a loss as beauty sector faces “quiet crisis”, says report
Some 21% of salons are operating at a loss, and two in five could close within a year without intervention, according to new stats.
A report by Timely, in partnership with financial education platform The Curve, highlighted growing financial pressures in the UK hair and beauty sector.
Is Beauty On The Brink? The Quiet Crisis Facing Britain’s Self-Care Industry revealed that despite contributing over £30 billion to UK GDP and employing almost half a million people, 95% of beauty businesses are microbusinesses or solo-run, leaving them highly vulnerable to rising costs.
Many professionals under-price treatments, meaning earnings often fall below minimum wage. For example, after overheads, a gel manicure or a 60-minute massage often generates far less than it appears, with margins for hairdressing at just 8-10%, compared with 15.1% across UK service industries.
The report warns that closures would disproportionately affect women, accelerate high street decline, and weaken exports.
Experts stress the need for urgent financial literacy, sustainable pricing, and business education.
Timely has launched a seven-part course to help professionals build resilience, while the report calls on policymakers to formally recognise beauty as a skilled trade and provide targeted support.
Champneys acquires Buxton Crescent, following a £32m investment from Cheyne Capital
Spa group Champneys has acquired iconic UK spa hotel Buxton Crescent, following a £32 million of investment supported by investment fund manager Cheyne Capital.
The spa will become the seventh destination spa in Champneys' portfolio as the group celebrates its 100-year anniversary.
Buxton Crescent is a five-star, 81-bedroom hotel with a thermal pool, rooftop indoor-outdoor pool, restored Victorian baths, saunas, steam rooms and fitness studios.
Champneys chief executive Alan Whitely said, "Our 100th year is a celebration of wellness innovation, and Buxton Crescent perfectly aligns with our vision."
He added, “We are thrilled to combine our expertise with this historic spa, blending centuries-old heritage with modern luxury and care.”
The £32m investment from Cheyne Capital will also fund a comprehensive upgrade of the group’s six existing properties: Tring in Hertfordshire, Forest Mere in Hampshire, Henlow Grange in Bedfordshire, Springs in Leicestershire, Eastwell Manor in Kent and Mottram Hall in Cheshire.
Further UK and overseas expansion is expected to be announced soon.
…IN BRIEF
The London College of Beauty Therapy has appointed CEW executive president
Caroline Neville MBE as its inaugural patron. Announced during the college’s 30th
anniversary, the patronage reflects Neville’s long-standing support for beauty
education and aligns with LCBT’s plans to expand advanced diplomas following its
recent move to a new Shoreditch campus.
Massage expert Beata Aleksandrowicz has launched the Beata Digital Academy, an online learning platform for massage, beauty and holistic therapists. Offering
accredited courses, weekly resources, community forums and an affordable
subscription model, the app provides over 280 training videos designed to advance
skills while supporting therapist wellbeing.
The Meeting of Minds event, hosted by Andrea Simpson, Jo Serrant and Alice Dring-Fern, sold out with attendees travelling from across the UK. Following strong
feedback, a second event is planned for this year. Proceeds supported Look Good Feel Better’s cancer confidence programmes.
Phorest is marking the 10th anniversary of its Client Experience Awards, recognising
salons that maintain a four-star average across a full year of verified reviews. Hundreds of UK and Irish businesses earned 2025 awards, with 640 certificates
hand-delivered as part of Phorest’s tradition of celebrating exceptional client care.
Ishga’s Nurturing Touch Training – designed to help therapists safely treat clients
affected by cancer – has been endorsed by Cibtac, approved by Habia and recognised by the SATCC. The hybrid programme blends online learning with
practical training, offering 24 CPD hours and complimentary delivery to qualifying
spa partners.
Texture, asymmetry and mystical aesthetics among Pinterest’s 2026 beauty trends to watch
Pinterest's annual Pinterest Predicts report, based on search behaviour from 600 million monthly users, found that clients increasingly seek comfort, personalisation and sensory experiences, with trends evolving 4.4 times faster than seven years ago.
Textural and tactile beauty is on the rise. Searches for “jelly blush” and “gummy bears aesthetic” point to demand for 3D nail art, playful gloss finishes and ASMR-style experiences.
Asymmetric and maximalist looks, including “Glitchy Glam” and accessory-inspired styles, are also growing, alongside delicate lace detailing and fragrance layering.
Salon interiors are being influenced by Neo Deco and Afrohemian aesthetics, offering ways to update spaces without major refurbishment.
Meanwhile, nature-inspired and mystical trends, from opalescent finishes to forest-themed nails, are shaping immersive client experiences.
Pinterest advises beauty professionals to focus on texture, escapism and individuality to meet evolving client expectations.
Pantone and WGSN reveal their 2026 Colours of the Year
Pantone and WGSN/Coloro have announced two very different – and divisive – Colour of the Year predictions: Cloud Dancer, a soft, billowy white; and Transformative Teal, a blue-green shade rooted in ecological awareness and change.
For beauty professionals, these two contrasting hues offer distinct creative paths for the year ahead: one centred on minimalism, calm and visual clarity, and the other on nature, regeneration and future readiness.
The forecasts provide opportunities for contrasting trends across the professional beauty sector, providing inspiration for everything from salon interiors and packaging, to nail and makeup trends.
Gerrard International acquires the Jessica nail brand
Professional beauty supplier and training academy, Gerrard International has acquired the Jessica nail brand, 35 years after its launch into in the UK
Founded in 1992 by professional manicurist Susan Gerrard and her late husband Ian, Gerrard International supplies products for manicures, pedicures, skincare, tanning and makeup.
Following the passing of Jessica Vartoughian, founder of Jessica,in 2025, Gerrard International has now acquired Jessica Cosmetics and has plans to evolve the brand.
…IN BRIEF
Huus Quell – the flagship of Appenzeller Huus – has now opened in Gonten, Switzerland, featuring a 2,200sqm spa, Swissline treatments and Switzerland’s only full biohacking Longevity Center. With cryotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, infrared cabins and nine pools, the hotel blends science and relaxation.
Acre Pharmacy has been named an official UK and Ireland distribution partner for
Merz Aesthetics. Meanwhile, Acre is also developing a training roadmap designed to support clinic growth through 2026 and beyond. This will include educational events, product workshops, and business support sessions delivered in partnership with leading brands and products.
Harpar Grace International has launched Skin Squad Days – tailored in-clinic activations offering education, social content support and business development for UK and Irish partners, with brands from its portfolio including Is Clinical, Revitalash Cosmetics, Totally Derma and Déesse Pro.
Wellness music brand Myndstream has entered a know-how partnership with
Mayo Clinic to study how functional music can support patient recovery and clinician wellbeing. Mayo Clinic has taken an equity stake, with research led by integrative oncologist Dr Dawn Mussallem to explore music’s impact on
physical, emotional and cognitive outcomes.
Curated Beauty London has joined the product lineup at Richard Ward Hair & Metrospa in London. Founded by Sam Grocutt, Ros Simmons and Natalie Ingham, the brand offers skincare, haircare and wellness supplements for midlife women. The salon's managing director Hellen Ward welcomed the range after trialling it and praising its results and quality.
Germaine de Capuccini appoints Anke Menkhorst to drive international growth
Spanish professional skincare brand Germaine de Capuccini (GDC) has announced a leadership change as it advances its international growth strategy.
The group has appointed Anke Menkhorst as its new chief executive. Menkhorst, who is of Dutch origin, brings over 20 years of international management experience in beauty companies across Spain, the UK, Germany and the Netherlands.
She joins the business from Douglas Group, a luxury beauty retailer, where she was senior vice president of global marketing.
At Douglas, Menkhorst helped develop a unified brand identity and implemented an integrated omnichannel marketing strategy across multiple markets.
Ana Pons, currently general manager of GDC, will remain in a senior leadership role as executive director of global operations. The company said her continued involvement will be central to supporting the brand’s global growth.
CACI expands across Asia and Europe
CACI International has launched Synergy Flex in three new locations across two continents.
Mary Overton, CACI’s global export manager, visited the five-star Capella Taipei, in the Songshan District, Taiwan, and Domaine de Manville hotel in Provence, France, to conduct training on the device, which launched in the UK earlier this year.
CACI’s managing director Dean Nathanson and Overton were invited by CACI’s Turkish distributors D2 Grup Medical to the launch of Synergy Flex at the Rene Clinic in Istanbul, Turkey.
Discussing the launch, Nathanson said, “Turkey is a dynamic aesthetics market, and we’re proud to introduce a system that combines advanced microcurrent with LED synergy to deliver visibly lifted, rejuvenated skin.”
Vagaro launches Business Health Check tool
Salon software provider Vagaro has launched its Business Health Check tool, a free assessment that helps business owners evaluate the health, stability, and long-term potential of their business.
The Business Health Check tool delivers a score based on five key areas said to drive long-term success: service diversification, customer retention, recurring revenue, pricing flexibility, and technology adoption.
Users receive an instant report with personalised recommendations to identify strengths and uncover opportunities for improvement.
“Small business owners pour their heart into their work, but too often they’re left guessing about what’s working and what isn’t,” said Vagaro chief executive Fred Helou. “This tool gives them clarity and points them in the direction of growth.”
DIARY DATES
January 29-31
IMCAS WORLD CONGRESS
Palais des Congrès de Paris, Paris
International expo for aesthetic procedures. +33 (0) 140 738 282 imcas.com/en
February 2-3
PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY DUBAI
Festival Arena, Dubai
The biggest industry event in Dubai, featuring live stages and competitions. +971 (0) 4375 7300 professionalbeauty.ae
March 1
PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY AWARDS
The Royal Lancaster Hotel, London
Awards for beauty, spa, nails and aesthetics businesses and professionals, recognising excellence across the industry. 020 7351 0536 professionalbeauty.co.uk/awards
March 1-2
SALON GROWTH SUMMIT
Olympia London
Connect with salon and spa owners committed to business growth, meet key decision makers within beauty, spa and hair businesses and hear from world-class speakers. 020 7351 0536 professionalbeauty.co.uk/summit
March 26-29
COSMOPROF WORLDWIDE BOLOGNA
BolognaFiere exhibition centre, Bologna
Trade fair for beauty with a UK pavilion. +39 041 2719009 cosmoprof.com
April 27
GLASGOW REGIONAL SUMMIT
The Briggait, Glasgow
With world-class education and supplier networking, the first of Professions Beauty’s new regional summits will equip salon owners with the tools to grow their businesses. 020 7351 0536 professionalbeauty.co.uk/regional-growthsummits