A landmark moment for our industry: New SIC codes for hair, beauty and spa are announced
After seven years of determined lobbying, the British Beauty Council has secured the first change to the beauty industry’s Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes since 1948. A milestone that defines and legitimises the different professional hair, beauty and spa services sectors at government level.
Exporting Beauty: Your Need To Know Trade Guide
The UK beauty industry is a powerhouse contributing over £30 billion to the UK economy, over £22 billion of which is accounted for by personal care goods. According to our Value of Beauty Report, produced in collaboration with Oxford Economics, exports by UK beauty and personal care manufacturers totalled £4.3 billion in 2024, making up 1.3% of UK good exports.
British Beauty Council Welcomes Scotland’s Landmark Legislation on Aesthetics
For years, The Council has championed the necessity of rigorous standards around aesthetics in order to professionalise the sector, with this legislation representing a definitive step toward raising the reputation of the industry and safeguarding the public.
This Bill introduces long-overdue regulations for high-risk non-surgical procedures, including Botulinum Toxin, dermal fillers, and other advanced aesthetic treatments. By requiring these procedures to be performed by or under the supervision of designated healthcare professionals within registered, regulated premises, Scotland is setting a high bar for clinical excellence.
The Business Rates Overhaul: what beauty businesses need to know
From 1 April 2026, one of the most significant changes to the UK’s business rates system in decades will come into force. For many high-street businesses — including salons, spas and beauty retailers — the changes will reshape how rates are calculated and what support is available.
The Sustainability Guide for Salons and Hair and Beauty Professionals
As the beauty industry navigates a pivotal shift toward greater environmental responsibility, the pressure is on for hair and beauty professionals to also play their part…
Thinking of Exporting to China? Start With This Guide
China has a strong consumer base with interest in premium skincare and appetite for Western brands as demonstrated at the recent launch of the British Beauty Festival in Shanghai. The Chinese market presents great opportunities for British beauty brands with the Department for Business and Trade valuing this at £60 billion. However, the regulatory environment for cosmetics is quite dynamic and requires careful consideration.
From Experimentation to Execution: Is the Beauty Industry Ready for AI-led Commerce?
Partnering with Pattern, the leading global ecommerce accelerator, the British Beauty Council hosted an intimate breakfast event examining how AI is transforming commerce in the beauty sector globally, and how brands can leverage it without losing their unique identity.
The Future of Beauty Employment: Have Your Say on Employment Rights
Following the passage of the landmark Employment Rights Act (ERA) 2025, the most significant modernisation of workers’ rights in a generation, the Government has officially opened five key consultations.
From salon owners to retailers and brand headquarters to therapists, these changes to employment rights will touch every sector of the beauty industry. More than just a legislative update, it is your opportunity to ensure the unique needs of businesses operating in our sector are heard, before these rules are formalised.
Exporting to India? Read This Guide On What You Need Know
India is a highly attractive market for UK beauty, with a growing middle class with increasing disposable income. UK exporters have seen rapid recent rises in Indian sales. The 2025 Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement signed between the UK and India makes this an even better time to consider entering the Indian market. Although still awaiting ratification, the deal is projected to increase bilateral trade between the two countries by £25.5 billion by 2040.
British Beauty Council welcomes landmark report calling for urgent SME reform
The House of Commons Business and Trade Committee, a cross-party group of MPs tasked with scrutinising the policy, spending, and administration of the Department for Business and Trade in Westminster, has today published a comprehensive roadmap for the future of UK small businesses. It echoes many of the urgent calls for reform championed by the British Beauty Council, says Victoria Brownlie MBE, the Council’s Chief Policy and Sustainability Officer.
