From aesthetic regulations to the Autumn Statement, 2023 was full of policy changes and initiatives that are set to shape beauty for the year to come

The British Beauty Council is dedicated to raising the reputation of the personal care sector within the walls of Whitehall.

Wondering what we’ve been up to? Here’s a roundup of our key policy work from the last 12 months, so that you’re ahead of the curve for the next year.

The Council continued its work to aid in regulating the aesthetics sector 

In 2023, the Council continued its work on the improvement of aesthetic regulations in the UK. The organisation worked with Government to launch a primary consultation in September, seeking views on proposals including extending the ban on under 18s, and the introduction of a traffic light system for who carries out procedures.

 Chief Policy Officer, Victoria Brownlie said:

‘Having worked on raising the reputation of the industry since the Council’s inception, implementing clear and accredited mandatory standards for anyone wishing to offer higher risk aesthetics procedures is a key objective for the British Beauty Council. Robust training and qualifications, mandatory insurance, premises standards and inspections will all help to ensure patient safety remains the number one priority and that there can be confidence in the treatments and services offered.

‘We worked hard during 2023 to build the foundations with Government, industry and other stakeholders and will now use these to build a strong licensing framework as the license is drafted.’

Future Talent was put in the spotlight at No10 Downing St 

In early 2023, the Council launched the Future Talent programme at No10. With support from the Department of Education, it aims to future-proof the beauty industry by highlighting opportunities to young people.  In October, the organisation also hosted a successful ‘Lessons at 10’ event at Downing Street with Akshata Murty, showcasing careers in the industry to groups of students.

Explaining Future Talent’s impact, British Beauty Council’s Victoria Brownlie said:

‘We truly believe that initiatives such as Future Talent, creating exciting and impactful films and presentations in schools, will breakdown stereotypes and stigmas, revealing that top scientists and business leaders as well as creative designers and marketing experts can develop highly successful, high paid, careers in beauty, an industry that continues to grow even in tough times.’

VAT-free shopping was put on the Government’s radar

In 2023, the Council called for the reintroduction of VAT free shopping for oversea shoppers alongside other retail organisations. Removed post-Brexit, there is evidence that overseas shoppers spend more when VAT is re-imbursed, increasing profits for the industry.

Whilst not implemented yet, there is hope, with Victoria Brownlie stating:

‘We are encouraged by the Treasury’s agreement to review the economic impact of the removal of tax-free shopping, and will continue to lobby for the reintroduction of an internationally competitive tax-free shopping incentive for all overseas visitors.’

Business rates relief remained a key focus for the Council

The Council has lobbied for changes to business rates, which had positive outcomes for high-street businesses. Changes included the business rates multiplier being frozen, rates relief being extended and increased from 50% to 75%, as well as transitional relief support. This helped to bolster businesses in their economic recovery following the pandemic.

Responding to the positive news, Victoria Brownlie said:

‘This is so important in helping those sectors and supply chains which have faced and continue to face a particularly difficult time.’