Three UK salon owners have shared their perspectives on business safety heading into 2026, highlighting adaptability as a critical factor amid economic pressures and evolving employment models. Casey Coleman, founder of Chair Salons, believes no business owner should ever feel entirely 'safe', advocating for constant preparedness and a strong community focus. Coleman's salon offers free education, a sense of belonging for self-employed staff, and unique services like aromatherapy head massages. She acknowledges challenges like rising rents and the difficulty of recruiting chair renters, comparing it to hiring employed staff. Despite these pressures, Coleman invests in marketing, price increases, and financial reserves, finding security in a healthy culture and genuine client care.
Andrea Dorata, director of Dorata Hairdressing, sees safety as a direct result of adaptation, stating that expecting old methods to yield new results is unrealistic. Dorata focuses on reviewing operational costs without compromising service quality or client experience. Smart purchasing and supplier changes are essential. While apprentices are still valued, Dorata's salon has adjusted its service structure to reduce reliance on assistants, acknowledging apprentices may no longer be viewed solely as affordable labour. This shift requires thoughtful pricing that justifies longer, personalised services, balanced against client budgets and salon occupancy rates.
Charles Rose, founder of Crate Cheshire, emphasises 'futurproofing' for business safety. He made an early decision to adapt rather than remain static, a move prompted by budget changes in 2025 that significantly increased operational pressures. Crate Cheshire introduced a hybrid employment model, offering experienced barbers self-employment options for increased take-home pay while retaining benefits. Employed roles continue for those needing structure. This approach, coupled with ongoing community building for self-employed staff, facilitated expansion, including the late 2025 opening of Crate Manchester, a co-working space for independent professionals.
