On the 26th of January, the British Beauty Council hosted its first parliamentary drop-in of 2026. The event was aimed at showcasing the economic and cultural contribution the beauty industry makes to the UK and to give attendees an experiential demonstration of hair and beauty services, alongside key industry insights. Hosted with Carolyn Harris MP, Chair of the Beauty and Wellbeing APPG, the drop-in saw record attendance, with 40 MPs and one peer present, with a further 28 MPs represented by their staff.
British Beauty Council patrons provided the beauty experiences. Sephora, one of the fastest growing beauty retailers in the country, offered shade matching and professional make-up tips. Meanwhile, blow-dryers were on full blast as expert hairstylists from the British haircare brand, Charles Worthington, provided express hair touch-ups. Therapists from Sanctuary Spa performed relaxing hand massages.
Another highlight on display was the world’s first AI-powered manicure machine developed by UMIA – a cutting-edge beauty tech brand that creates gel nail design within seconds. MP’s were treated to a choice of artistic, British-themed designs including images of Big Ben.
The event served to highlight the beauty industry’s contribution to the UK economy and society, showcasing the British Beauty Council’s Value of Beauty report, commissioned in partnership with Oxford Economics. The findings were made available to the attendees, with highlights including the beauty industry’s generation of £30.4 billion for the UK GDP; employment of 700,000 people; and a growth rate four-times higher than the wider economy. Demonstrating the sector’s key importance to the British high street.
Alongside the insights, the event offered a first-hand experience of how even a small touch beauty experience can boost confidence and support well-being.
