Sevenoaks hair salon owner warns hairdressers are "glue of high streets"
One in five hairdressers expect to shut down by the end of the year, as cost of running become unaffordable.
Last updated 28th Apr 2026
The UK salon industry is under significant pressure, with recent figures from the Salon Employers Association highlighting that half of salon employers are unsure they will survive the next 12 months, and one in five say closure is highly likely.
Toby Dicker, owner of The Chapel in Sevenoaks, emphasized the impact of high VAT rates and rising employment costs, which are crippling the industry.
Speaking to us he claimed that salons employing staff and paying VAT are often paying 123% more in taxes, which has made it unsustainable for many to continue operating.
The decline in apprenticeships and junior roles is another pressing issue, as businesses shift towards rent-a-chair models that do not cultivate new talent. This change has forced many salons to consider closing or altering their business models.
Dicker called for a reduction in VAT to 10%, arguing that the tax system needs a comprehensive review to create a fair environment for businesses to thrive.
He also stressed the role that hair salons play on high streets across the country:
"High streets across the country need some help, but particularly in deprived areas where the big chains move out and everyone moves out and everything goes online.
"You forget just how difficult it is for older people to access online.
"You forget how much how important community is.
"You forget that hairdressing is the place where people come for their mental health. We were the first people to touch people after COVID."
Dicker added:
"If you really want to regenerate high streets, you've got to make it viable and possible for people to survive that- And for independent businesses who care about their community to survive."
The industry's plight reflects broader challenges that require urgent government intervention to ensure its survival and growth. Without action, the future of this staple high street sector remains uncertain.
A Government spokesperson said:
“We know many businesses are facing difficulties, including in the hair and beauty industry, which is why we have introduced a Small Business Plan.
“The decisions we made at the Budget mean we can stabilise the economy and deliver support for families and businesses, including cutting the cost of living. Increasing the National Minimum Wage boosts pay for over 200,000 young workers, and employer NICs are lower when hiring under‑21s”.