Government backs beauty with dedicated Personal Care Sector team

The government has created a new, sector specific team for hair and beauty, dedicated to supporting the industry as it continues to navigate the extreme challenges brought about by the Coronavirus crisis.

The creation of the new Personal Care team follows "a relentless non-stop campaign" by the British Beauty Council, UK Spa Association, British Association of Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology and the National Hair & Beauty Federation.

The four key organisations have worked closely with the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) to overcome the challenges of the past year and  highlight the sectors size, scope and value to the UK economy and people.

The government will also commission an exhaustive report aimed at valuing the contribution of the beauty industry to the UK economy, as part of the move.

The British Beauty Council described the creation of the new team as a "game-changing move forward and a major milestone for UK hair, beauty and wellness, with far-reaching positive implications."

British Beauty Council chief executive officer Millie Kendall said: “When the British Beauty Council formed in 2018 there was no government representation.

"This government recognition cements one of the key goals of the British Beauty Council - which from its inception set out to have the beauty industry recognised at government level; creating the first working definition of the beauty industry and also commissioning an exhaustive report aimed at valuing the contribution of the beauty industry to the UK economy.

"Fast-forward two years and we have achieved this major milestone as an industry and look forward to shining the light on the beauty industry to further showcase and improve this amazing sector in which we all work.”

National Hair and Beauty Federation chief executive Richard Lambert added: “We are delighted that BEIS is giving the sector the recognition it deserves.

"Our work now continues to secure urgent and vital support for hair and beauty as lockdowns and restrictions continue and we look forward to positive discussions with BEIS to secure the best possible deal for the personal care industry.”

Lesley Blair, CEO & chair of BABTAC & CIBTAC added: “We are delighted to have secured a designated sector team within government for personal care - a huge milestone and the direct result of the dedication, passion and cooperation of the four key industry organisations and BEIS over the challenges of the past year. As one of the largest contributors to the UK Economy, our sector deserve to have a strong dedicated voice in government, something BABTAC has campaigned and worked towards for many years, and we look forward to the opportunities and credibility this will provide our industry going forward.” -