News

The Irish Spa and Beauty Association (ISA) has announced that its Summer Business Review & Networking Event, run in collaboration with Image Skillnet, will take place at Lyrath Estate in Kilkenny on 13 May.

Previously known as the Irish Spa Association, the ISA recently rebranded to reflect the growing integration between the spa and beauty sectors in Ireland. It now offers a more inclusive platform for professionals across both industries. The official launch of the ISA’s new vision will take place at the event in May.

“The rebrand is a natural progression for our organisation,” said ISA co-founder Anita Murray. “Our members have long been at the forefront of not just spa services, but also the rapidly growing beauty sector. This rebrand is an exciting way to bring both worlds together, and strengthen the voice of professionals across the wellness, spa and beauty industries.” The keynote speaker at the event will be Adrienne Adhami, wellbeing coach, author of Decisions That Matter and host of the Modern Wellness Podcast. Other speakers include Tara De Courcey, director of spa and wellness at Cashel Palace Hotel. De Courcey will share insights into the challenges spas and salons are facing, along with practical knowledge and strategies.

Two new Guinot franchise salons open in Cork and Dublin

Two new Guinot franchise salons have opened in Glanmire in Cork and Rathfarnham in Dublin.

Previously known as Waterfront Studios, The Guinot Salon Glanmire is owned by Louise Coughlan and Ruth Murphy. Their opening event was attended by members of the Guinot team, including managing director of Guinot UK & Ireland Myriam Welsh, franchise development manager Angela Miller, business development manager Eve Kearney and franchise marketing coordinator Shelby Myers.

The Guinot Salon Rathfarnham was previously known as NuU Beauty & Nail Bar and is owned by Gemma Kinahan.

“I’m so excited to begin this new chapter,” she said. “Our salon has been part of the local community for so long, and relaunching as part of the Guinot family is a dream come true. This feels like the start of something truly special.”

The new salons feature three treatment rooms, and offer all of Guinot’s face and body treatments, along with the full Guinot product range.

L’Oréal Professional Products UK & Ireland announces new MD

L’Oréal Professional Products UK & Ireland has announced the appointment of Aurélien Guibret as its new managing director.

Guibret took up the position on 1 April 2025, succeeding David Higgins, who will be taking up a role with the L'Oréal Groupe in Singapore.

With over 20 years of experience within L'Oréal, Guibret began his career with the brand in 2004, holding various roles, before moving to the Professional Products Division (PPD) and later becoming brand director for the Western Europe Zone.

From 2016, he served as general manager for Kérastase and Shu Uemura in the UK and Ireland. Most recently, he held the role of global chief activation officer for the PPD.

“It’s a privilege to be back in the UK and Ireland, leading the PPD team,” he said. “I look forward to reconnecting with the talent and passion within the industry, drawing on the strong foundations that David has established, and continuing to foster a culture of collaboration and innovation, working with our salon partners to help them achieve their ambitions and drive the industry forward.”

IN BRIEF

■ A new AI-powered booking optimisation platform that is designed to fill empty salon appointments is launching in May. Founded by Luke Mulhall, Spare Chair is aimed at salons, barbers, beauty therapists and wellness professionals who want to maximise revenue, while reducing unfilled slots. It is also promising to improve clients’ access to services. Among the features on the platform are scheduling tools, automated reminders and real-time availability updates. “We’re really excited about bringing something new to the beauty and wellness industry,” said Mulhall. “We use dynamic pricing and real-time insights to make sure businesses get the most out of their schedules, while clients can access last-minute, discounted appointments. By using smart scheduling, we help them maximise use of their off-peak times, while offering clients better value and real savings on their favourite treatments.”

■ Jo Browne has announced a partnership with Aer Lingus to bring natural, eco-friendly skincare to its business class passengers. The brand’s Signature Blend Lip Balm and Hydrating Moisturiser are now part of the new Amenity Kits, alongside other eco-conscious travel essentials. Founded by Joanne Browne in 2016, Jo Browne specialises in a range of luxury natural products, which are are blended and hand-poured in the business’s headquarters in Co Carlow. “Seeing our products take flight is a proud moment for our team,” said Browne. “Huge thanks to Aer Lingus for believing in our vision – here’s to more sustainable travel.”

■ Wella Professionals has announced celebrity stylist Nikki Lee as its newest global ambassador. Lee has a client list that includes names such as Selena Gomez, Emma Roberts, Sophia Bush, Hilary Duff, Paris Jackson, Jennifer Love Hewitt and Sarah Hyland. “Nikki aligns perfectly with our brand’s long-standing commitment to the professional industry,” said Nathalie De Gouveia, Wella Professionals GM North America. “Her creativity, approach to colour and unwavering dedication to education make her an inspiration to professionals and clients worldwide.”