PB News
From a highstreet crime crackdown to a major new cancer care study, here’s what’s shaping the industry now
75% of therapists confident in cancer care, but nearly half unaware of its legal status as a disability
A new report from UK Spa Association has revealed that three-quarters of practitioners feel confident in delivering cancer-adapted care, although crucial gaps in legal compliance remain.
The UK Spa Association (UKSA) Spa Industry Report: Cancer-care showed positivity regarding practitioner readiness, with 75% of therapists stating they feel confident to deliver treatments for guests living with cancer, and 73% of wellness businesses already offering dedicated, adapted services.
However, the report also exposed a regulatory gap, with 46% of operators unaware that cancer is legally classified as a disability under UK law, leaving them potentially vulnerable to discrimination claims.
Despite this legal confusion, standard product safety and compliance ranked highly across the sector, with 75% of operators confirming that their treatment formulas comply with EU directives and have been rigorously tested for sensitivity and toxicity.
The survey, which captured insights from a mix of single-site spas, multi-site operators, boutique salons and independent therapists across the UK, showed that a huge 94% of respondents believe that spa and wellness treatments are vital for guests navigating a cancer journey.
Some 79% of businesses actively perform an adapted consultation process for these clients, with 42% using a dedicated, specialised form; and 75% believe their current customer journey is successfully inclusive.
Meanwhile, 57% of those surveyed state that cancer-adapted treatments have already shifted from a niche offering into an expected industry standard.
However, a disconnect exists in the booking journey. While 31% of guests disclose their medical status prior to arrival, 37% do not mention their diagnosis until they are already in the treatment room with their therapist, meaning on-the-spot adjustments.
Industry calls for fair treatment for salons in Government highstreet crime crackdown
The UK Government has announced a major crackdown on organised crime gangs operating across Britain’s high streets, targeting businesses linked to money laundering, tax evasion and illegal working
At the centre of the initiative is the launch of the Government’s High Streets Organised Crime Unit, a cross-government taskforce.
Backed by £30 million in funding over the next three years, the unit will focus on tackling money laundering, tax evasion and illegal working, and named barbershops and salons among the sectors under scrutiny.
Industry bodies welcomed the crackdown, but warned that legitimate beauty and hair businesses must not be unfairly stigmatised.
The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) said the action is an important step towards protecting responsible businesses.
Darran Gould, NHBF board member and owner of Gould Barbers, said: “Legitimate barbershops, salons and beauty businesses are the backbone of high streets across the UK. They pay their taxes, train apprentices, follow health and safety rules and support their local communities.
“Legitimate businesses simply cannot compete with illegitimate businesses.
They should not have to compete with rogue operators who ignore the rules, evade tax, exploit workers or use high street premises as cover for criminal activity.”
The NHBF is calling for a level playing field and added that the initiative should form part of a wider strategy to support high streets and compliant small businesses.
…in brief
Spa operator Barons Eden has rebranded as Hiddenwell to anchor its UK wellness hospitality expansion strategy. The parent brand identity will oversee existing award-winning properties Hoar Cross Hall and Eden Hall, alongside newly confirmed portfolio additions Ardencote Manor in Warwickshire and Orsett Hall in Essex.
Kama Ayurveda has signed its first spa partnership with Fairmont Windsor Park, launching an Ayurvedic spa experience within the hotel's 2,500sqm wellness suite. The holistic face, body and hair treatment menu includes a mind-healing Shirodhara ritual exclusive to the Surrey property, supported by a dedicated on-site retail boutique.
Boutique property The Shepherd Mayfair has announced its founding wellness and lifestyle partners ahead of its summer opening in London's Shepherd Market. The lineup features bespoke Floris London bathroom amenities, clinical skincare from Miamo via in-room menus, E-Pulsive EMS personal training, and a tableside Moatwood Gin trolley.
The Hair & Beauty Charity hosted a fundraising tennis day at Weybridge Riverside Lawn Tennis Club to support industry members facing hardship. Organised by committee member Philip Sharp, the networking event gathered salon professionals and brands for competitive and casual doubles matches.
Coastal resort Fairmont St Andrews has introduced skincare expert Caroline Hirons's brand Skin Rocks Pro to its wellness menu, marking the brand’s first luxury spa partnership in Scotland. The launch includes a 50-minute bespoke facial designed to tailor clinically-proven formulations and lifting massage techniques to individual skin concerns.
Digital booking and AI tools could add £76k a year to salon business revenue
New benchmark data shows salons embracing digital booking, automation and AI tools are outperforming peers, adding around £6,397 per month per location (roughly £76k annually), according to Zenoti’s Beauty and Wellness Benchmark Report: Europe.
While the European sector grew 7% (2024–2025), like-for-like growth was only 2%, driven mainly by new openings.
Crucially, new client visits fell 7% overall, with salons down 9%, spas 6%, and aesthetics 3%, while visits from existing clients rose 4%, highlighting retention as the key growth driver.
Top-performing salons generated £1.23m per location versus £52,816 for median businesses. They also had far higher digital adoption: 77% online bookings vs 40%, and 41% rebooking vs 24%. Similar patterns in spas (£1m+ revenue; 49% online booking vs 23%).
AI and automation tools including booking assistants, waitlists and abandoned booking recovery are linked to roughly £6,397 extra monthly revenue by capturing missed demand.
Zenoti said utilisation, rebooking and online booking adoption are the biggest opportunities for 2026, especially as acquisition becomes harder. Operators are being urged to prioritise digital transformation now.
Warnings issued over illegal and unregulated peptide injections
The British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM) has issued a warning over the growing promotion of injectable peptide treatments.
Growing consumer interest in injectable peptides has been driven in part by their promotion online by health and wellness influencers for benefits including weight loss, muscle growth, recovery and anti-ageing.
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that serve as cellular messengers. However, they are often grouped together under the banner of "peptide therapy," an umbrella term covering many different compounds with very different evidence bases, legal statuses and safety profiles.
BCAM emphasised that some peptide-based medicines, such as GLP-1 receptor antagonists, are regulated for UK use and prescribed within a medical framework.
However, these injections are entirely different from the growing market of unregulated and unauthorised peptide products being sold online or in nonmedical settings.
Under the MHRA, unlicensed medicines and prescription-only medicines must not be advertised.
“Peptides may be ‘natural’, but that does not make them automatically safe,” said BCAM member Dr Mayoni Gooneratne.
BCAM said potential risks are multi-layered, spanning the safety of the molecule itself, dosing accuracy, product sterility and the integrity of the label.
…in brief
Karina Dubinina, founder and chief executive of beauty salon group Backstage, received a Medal of Honour for Inspirational Leadership and Societal Impact from the Parliamentary Society for Arts. Hosted by Alex Davies-Jones MP at the Houses of Parliament, the award recognised Dubinina’s ethical leadership and ongoing charitable support for the Zemliachky Foundation.
The Spa at Carden in Cheshire has relaunched its Women’s Only Spa Days across selected dates in 2026 due to high guest demand. To ensure complete privacy, the venue is reserving the facilities exclusively for female clients on these specific days and using entirely female spa staff.
German collagen skincare brand QMS Medicosmetics is expanding its UK spa footprint with two new partnerships. QMS launched its facial treatments at the newly transformed Spa at The Landmark London on July 1, while also commencing an exclusive seasonal residency at Fletcher's Cottage Spa in Scotland.
Wellness brand Taylor’s CBD has launched a new CBD education course endorsed by Habia, the government-recognised standard-setting body for the hair and beauty industries. Developed by founder Jacqueline Taylor, the training curriculum covers cannabinoid fundamentals, the endocannabinoid system, and practical treatment applications to address common product misconceptions.
Piercing manufacturer Studex supplied more than 30 exclusive event packs to its retail network to mark National Piercing Day 2026 in May. The brand-backed initiative aimed to support its nationwide piercing partners in hosting synchronised in-store promotional events focused on self-expression and safe piercing practices.
Pinterest Summer 2026 beauty trends reveal rise of SPF-focused skincare and smoky eye makeup
Pinterest’s Summer 2026 Trend Report has highlighted a strong shift towards sport-inspired beauty, with “sport-luxe” aesthetics set to define summer makeup, skincare and lifestyle trends across the UK and globally.
Based on search data from over 600 million monthly users, Pinterest reports rising demand for smoky eyes, shimmer finishes, sweatproof makeup and SPF-focused skincare, alongside sporty styling influences in interiors and social beauty experiences.
The platform said consumers are increasingly blending athletic culture with beauty routines, particularly for festivals, sports events and “on-the-go” lifestyles.
A key trend is “Winning Glam”, a sporty take on makeup featuring smudged smoky eyes, frosted textures and high-shine finishes described as “lived-in” and high energy.
Interest has surged in “smoky eyes makeup” (+1,522%), “frosted makeup” (+97%) and “'90s blue eyeshadow look” (+81%), alongside festival-ready looks like face gems and glitter accents.
Skincare trends are also shifting towards portability and protection under “On-The-Go Glow”, with rising searches for glowy skin routines (+216%), sweatproof makeup (+180%) and SPF products including fluid and minimalist sunscreens. Pinterest said consumers are prioritising “reapplication culture” and lightweight, durable layers.
Beyond beauty, “Courtside and Coastal Prep” and wider sports-luxe styling are influencing salon interiors, retail displays and event concepts, with strong growth in tennis-, padeland Formula 1-inspired aesthetics.
Pinterest said sport is now becoming a shared “cultural language” shaping identity and self-expression.
Late payments and client ghosting linked to "soft" communication, study finds
Self-employed professionals who soften client communication with phrases like “just checking” or “no worries if not” are significantly more likely to experience late payments, cancellations and pricing disputes, according to new research from business management platform Tide.
A survey of 1,500 UK workers, including 250 self-employed business owners, found that those who use softened language are eight times more likely to face late payments (59% vs 7%) and client ghosting (59% vs 9%), and nearly nine times more likely to have agreed prices renegotiated (62% vs 7%). They are also far more likely to chase overdue payments (57% vs 4%).
The findings are particularly relevant for salon owners, freelancers and beauty professionals, where missed payments and no-shows directly impact cash flow.
One in three self-employed respondents said they worry about discussing money, while 62% admitted to regularly softening requests at work.
Younger workers were most likely to use this language, with 75% of Gen Z saying they regularly soften communication.
Experts advise setting clear payment terms upfront, including deposits or retainers, and communicating fees confidently to reduce disputes and delays.
…in brief
Physician-led longevity healthcare provider Hum2n has opened its second London location at the newly launched Six Senses London hotel. The partnership integrates long-term preventative medical care into luxury hospitality, offering advanced diagnostics, clinical oversight and personalised longevity programmes to hotel guests, residents and club members.
Distributor Harpar Grace International has launched The HGI Hub, a digital business platform for aesthetic and wellness clinics. Available via the App Store and Google Play, the application centralises product ordering and professional support to streamline clinic management operations.
Suffolk-based Riverhills Health Club & Day Spa has developed "How Do You Feel Today?", an intuitive, mood-led treatment concept. Moving away from advance bookings, the system allows guests to choose therapies on arrival based on five emotional states, with expert therapists guiding them via a personalised consultation.
Professional beauty retailer Salon Services has expanded its nail portfolio by launching The Gel Bottle across selected stores and online in the UK and Ireland. The partnership is designed to increase trade access to the professional nail brand's systems, including its hero BIAB (Builder in a Bottle) products.
Devon-based Gaia Spa at Boringdon Hall Hotel has launched a year-round, two-night Gaia MenoPause Escape retreat designed to support women navigating menopause. The holistic package integrates temperature-regulating bamboo bedding, specialist nutritional support, and a dedicated 90-minute treatment using cooling gels and jade tools to alleviate both physical and emotional symptoms.
Ragdale Hall Spa appoints new managing director as long-serving leaders retire
Iconic UK destination spa Ragdale Hall has appointed Helen Bull as managing director, succeeding long-serving directors Hugh Wilson and Allison Garner as they retire after more than three decades with the business.
The leadership change marks a new chapter for the spa, which employs 525 people and operates a 93-bedroom property in Leicestershire.
Bull joins the spa with more than 30 years’ experience in the hospitality, leisure and tourism sectors, including leadership roles at Merlin Entertainments, where she was responsible for resort strategy and operational performance.
She said: “It is a privilege to join a brand that is so highly regarded…I look forward to using my experience and expertise to lead Ragdale Hall Spa into its next era.”
Founded as a spa destination more than 50 years ago, Ragdale Hall is known for its extensive spa facilities, which include six pools, a large treatment offering and a wellness programme featuring studio, pool-based and outdoor activities.
Masaj opens new massage studio in Islington Square
London wellness brand Masaj opened a new studio at Islington Square on June 18, expanding its presence in the capital.
Located on Upper Street, the site features eight treatment rooms, including a fully accessible room and two couples’ treatment spaces. The studio offers Masaj’s existing treatment menu, including deep tissue, sports and pregnancy massage, alongside restorative bodywork and signature Facework treatments.
Masaj said the new location has been designed as a calm, restorative space, combining minimalist interiors with a personalised approach to treatment.
Rather than following fixed protocols, sessions are tailored by therapists to meet individual client needs.
A founding membership offering launch incentives and introductory pricing is also available.
Masaj currently operates studios in Islington, Shoreditch and Marylebone.
Hyundai launches "spa in a car" concept in London with K-beauty treatments
A new London pop-up has been bringing spa treatments into an unexpected setting – the back seat of a car.
Fine Clinic London partnered with car manufacturer Hyundai to launch a “Spa in a Car” activation, transforming the electric IONIQ 9 SUV into a mobile wellness space.
The experience took place at St Martin-in-the-Fields in Trafalgar Square in June, with visitors able to book complimentary 20-minute sessions including Korean head, neck and shoulder massage and facial massage treatments.
The concept comes as new research commissioned by Hyundai found many consumers are increasingly using their cars as a place to decompress and escape daily pressures.
Diary dates
July 1-2
TONES OF BEAUTY
Excel London
Trade show covering fragrance, hair and beauty, connecting brands with retailers. 02477 298 628
tonesofbeautyexpo.com
July 5
SCRATCH STARS
The Underglobe, London
Party to celebrate the winners of the Scratch Stars awards.
scratchmagazine.co.uk
October 1-2
CCR
Excel London
Aesthetics trade show featuring education, networking and brands.
020 3096 1228
ccrlondon.com
October 4-5
PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY LONDON
Excel London
Europe’s leading beauty and spa event, featuring live education stages plus international conferences.
020 7351 0536
professionalbeauty.co.uk/london
October 4
WORLD SPA & WELLNESS AWARDS 2026
London
Awards celebrating outstanding spas from across the globe. professionalbeauty.co.uk/wswawards
October 12-25
BRITISH BEAUTY WEEK
Nationwide
British Beauty Week 2026 will see brands spotlighting “The Impact of Beauty” through activations across the UK.
britishbeautyweek.co.uk
November 8
BABTAC & CIBTAC AWARDS
The Fairmont Windsor Park
Awards celebrating practitioners, salons, spas and educators.
babtac.com
RISE celebrates first student cohort completing industry employability programme
RISE has celebrated the graduation of its first student cohort, from Wella, marking a milestone for the industry-focused programme.
Created by salon owner Fiona Jackson to help bridge the gap between education and employment in the beauty, spa and hair sectors, the initiative aims to equip students with the confidence, industry knowledge and employability skills needed to transition from college into the workplace.
During a series of interactive sessions, students received training on topics including confidence building, communication, interview and trade test preparation, career development, retailing and client experience skills.
Speaking about the first cohort's graduation, Jackson said, “Seeing this first group graduate is incredibly special. RISE was created to help students feel prepared, confident and excited about their future careers.
“The talent within our colleges is incredible, but many students need support in understanding how to navigate the transition into industry.”
Student Orlaith Wales added, “I really think this course has benefited me in confidence levels with how to get into industry and what to do after college, which I feel is a common stress for people just finishing early levels in college. It has given me an insight into what industry is all about and all the opportunities open to me and that anything is possible.”
CACI appoints Dr Hansel Misquitta as KOL and celebrates awards achievements
CACI has appointed London-based aesthetic practitioner Dr Hansel Misquitta, also known as Dr Hans, as a key opinion leader (KOL) for its Rejuva Med system.
Dr Misquitta, founder of Dr Hans Clinics in Cavendish Square, is known for her focus on natural-looking results and long-term skin health. She joins the brand to help raise awareness of Rejuva Med, CACI's skin-rejuvenation technology.
She said, "Rejuva Med sits in a very interesting space between traditional beauty treatments and more advanced aesthetic procedures. It gives patients something structured, visible and low downtime."
Dean Nathanson, managing director of CACI, added, "Dr Hans is a natural fit for Rejuva Med. She combines genuine clinical expertise with a refreshingly honest, down-to-earth approach that instantly puts her patients at ease."
Elsewhere, CACI's Hydro Mask and Purifying Silver Mask were named finalists in the 2026 Live That Glow Independent Beauty Awards, in the Best Dry Skin Product and Best Blemish Solution categories respectively.
The awards recognise standout beauty products tested by a panel of industry experts, including dermatologists, beauty editors and makeup artists.