Beauty businesses continue to fuel high street success, data reveals
The British Beauty Council has recognised the beauty industry's strength and flexibility despite a number of business challenges over the last year, with new data supporting its growth across UK high streets.
According to official figures, the industry makes a contribution of £24.5 billion to the UK’s GDP, with retailers making a direct contribution of £3.3 billion, and the service sector facilitating £7.8 billion worth of consumer spending.
The new research, carried out by Local Data Company on behalf of the British Beauty Council, reveals the number of units, openings and closures of premises on Britain’s high streets across the personal care sector.
As part of this, the data showed that independent beauty retailers are continuing to show resilience on UK high streets. Between September 2022 and 2023, it found a positive growth of 1,653 additional independent units.
It also uncovered the beauty industry’s nationwide reach, highlighting that success is not city-centric. Whilst London welcomed a net increase of 68 beauty businesses across its shopping streets, the Northeast witnessed a net opening of 102 units and Wales saw an average increase of 118 vacancies filled.
The British Beauty Council believes this further spotlights the industry’s role in creating jobs and promoting increased social mobility across the UK.
Millie Kendall OBE, CEO of the British Beauty Council, said: “The British beauty industry has faced unique challenges since the pandemic, due to the nature of the service sector and the slimming of its talent pool. However, this new data reinforces the sector's ability to remain agile and competitive, despite adversity.
“It is positive to see that the number of barbers, beauty salons and nail salons have all increased over the past year, increasing by 815 and 618 units respectively.”
In contrast, the hairdressing industry witnessed a net decline after experiencing continuing challenges resulting in salon closures. However, hairdressers in Wales bucked the trend presenting an increase of 31 units across the period.
The news follows British Beauty Week 2023 last month, which brought brands, consumers, press and policymakers together to highlight the influence of British beauty brands in the UK and overseas via a selection of in-person and digital events.
The objective of the annual event is to drive growth and awareness among consumers, whilst strengthening the reputation of the UK beauty industry with businesses and government.
