Are Barbershops - Hair Salons Struggling? Economic Pressures and Changing Styles

[Twiggy]

We've been hearing concerns about the viability of independent barbershops and hairdressers in the UK. Are you noticing a trend of closures, stores reducing their sq ft or relocating in your area - many going to work from home or home visits?

If so, what do you believe are the primary factors contributing to this? Is it primarily due to rising overhead costs or perhaps changes in consumer grooming habits? 

[Twpchair]

Not my field but I am usually 2-3 Weeks getting an appointment. 

[Twiggy]

The current 75% reduction on business rates for salons (bricks and mortar) will be lowered to 40%  reduction for salons . There’s a huge campaign as rising costs and NI (National Insurance contributions for staff paid for by the employer) face significant financial pressures. From April 1st every business faces this rate of employers' NICs set to increase 13.8% to 15%. This means business owners will have to pay more for each employee's earnings.  The threshold at which businesses start paying NICs will be lowered from £9,100 to £5,000. This will significantly impact businesses with part-time employees. 

[Twpchair]

Ouch!!! That is steep! I know my beautician works 3-4 days at the salon and 1-2 days at home. She is picky with her home clients which I get. I did it during Covid but now it’s so hard to get an appointment I book it for the next visit when I leave that day. I’m very picky who does my hair and I tip extremely well. Those are big hikes going on there! I don’t know what she pays for her chair or if it’s a percentage? I never asked her I guess.