Editor's letter

When the Irish hair and beauty industry was given the green light by the Government to reopen on 10 May, it marked the end of the longest lockdown since the pandemic began in March 2020. The fact that personal services were allowed to resume business ahead of non-essential retail services is testament to the standard of excellence displayed by hair and beauty salons all over Ireland. The industry as a whole has adapted to the challenges of a post-Covid working environment, putting the health and safety of staff and clients to the forefront. Reopening has been hugely successful, with businesses firmly back doing what they do best.

The focus now is to continue building on this momentum, and the July/August issue of PB/HJ has lots of tips and advice to help you do that. Our body care feature takes a look at the best treatments to offer clients during the summer months, and how to encourage them to invest as much in this area as they do in facial skincare.

Technology has never been more accessible, sophisticated and user-friendly, and in this issue we explain the different ways it can be used to your advantage. Our salon software feature highlights the key areas of your business that could benefit from an effective management system. And our digital marketing feature outlines the steps involved in creating a compelling social media plan that fits in with your schedule. Meanwhile, with technology comes a certain amount of risk, and our insurance expert gives some top tips for protecting your business from a cyber attack.

Columnist Liz McKeon explains the merits of a good business model, and how fine-tuning one now will be invaluable to you as we continue to navigate the degree of uncertainty that comes with the new normal. But with the vaccine rollout well under way, and a range of Government supports still in place, including an extension of the 9% VAT rate for hairdressers, the future is looking brighter and more hopeful than it has for some time.

A big welcome back to everyone, and we wish you all a productive and profitable summer. Until next time, continue to stay safe!

Karina Corbett Editor