News

Irish Government agrees additional measures to support SMEs

The Irish Government has announced new measures to reduce costs for small and mediumsized businesses. There will be a second Increased Cost of Business (ICOB) grant payment for businesses in the retail and hospitality sectors, which includes the hair and personal grooming industry.

The Government has also pledged to widen the eligibility for the Trading Online Voucher Scheme and Digital for Business Consultancy Scheme, extending both to all sectors with up to 50 employees; launch the online National Enterprise Hub for SMEs to access information on Government support; review ESRI research on the impact of statutory sick leave before deciding on any further increases; and review the proposed Roadmap for Increasing Minimum Annual Remuneration Thresholds for Employment Permits.

Meanwhile, the employer PRSI threshold is to increase from €441 to €496, with effect from 1 October 2024. According to the Government, this will ensure that employers with staff working full time on the national minimum wage will not be required to pay the higher rate of employer PRSI of 11.05%, and will instead pay the lower rate of 8.8%.

Work continues on National Barbering Apprenticeship development

The Barber Society of Ireland recently took part in a peer review with Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board (ETB) and the Hair and Beauty Industry Confederation (Habic), as well as representatives and educators from the barbering industry.

The review, which took place in the Athlone Springs Hotel in Co Roscommon, was centred on the ongoing development of the National Barbering Apprenticeship, which Limerick and Clare ETB was given approval to begin work on last year.

“We had two fantastic days at the peer review,” said a Barber Society of Ireland spokesperson. “Working together, we had some engaging discussions on module development and calendar schedules for the National Barbering Apprenticeship. It’s shaping up to be a fantastic programme.”

BPerfect Cosmetics opens revamped flagship megastore in Belfast

BPerfect Cosmetics has opened its revamped megastore in CastleCourt Shopping Centre in Belfast.

The new outlet features hair and scalp diagnostics cameras to create tailored haircare regimes, while customers can also avail of make-up, eyebrow waxing and lamination, and tanning appointments.

In addition, BPerfect Cosmetics has announced its partnership with Aeracha Uladh GAC, Ulster's first LGBTQIA+ inclusive GAA team, and Glentoran Women’s FC.

“We are thrilled to partner with Aeracha Uladh GAC and Glentoran FC as we continue our mission to champion diversity and create spaces where everyone feels valued and accepted, ensuring that regardless of background, gender, identity or ability, everyone has a seat at the table,” said BPerfect Cosmetics CEO Brendan McDowell.

“Our partnerships are about fostering a culture where differences are celebrated and embraced. We hope to inspire others to join us in building a more inclusive society.”