Treat Out to Help Out: Why Small Businesses Still Need You
A call for real support, resilience, and community care in the beauty industry. Budget day announcement - 03/03/2021.
When the 2021 Budget was announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak, like many in the beauty industry, we were hopeful for tailored support - for recognition of a sector that contributes nearly £30 billion to the UK economy each year.
Sharing our story with BBC London
Our conversation with BBC London highlighted the realities of running a small business during Covid - reflecting on the challenges we’ve faced and the brighter future we’re working toward.
We spoke to BBC London to share the reality of what salon owners and beauty professionals have faced -and continue to face - in the aftermath of the pandemic. While there has been some government support, the truth is: it hasn’t been enough. Our industry, made up largely of self-employed individuals and small independent businesses, has been left feeling overlooked and undervalued.
For us, and many others, the bills didn’t stop. Rent still needed paying. Insurance premiums increased, even while coverage shrank. Employers’ NI, pensions, holiday pay, maternity contributions, VAT - these monthly outgoings remained, regardless of income. And for salon owners, there’s no furlough. Many took out loans - some secured against their homes - just to survive.
We’re not just fighting for our businesses. We’re holding the line so our teams have jobs to return to. So talented creatives can once again share their passion. So our communities still have spaces that nurture well-being, confidence, and care.
This period has been one of deep resilience, but also a stark reminder of the gaps in how certain sectors are supported. And as we look to the future with hope, we ask one thing: when restrictions lift, choose small. Support your local salons, independent businesses, and community-run spaces.
Because when you do, you’re helping us rebuild, reimagine, and continue serving with love.
We’re working hard behind the scenes to refresh our space - not just to meet safety standards, but to ensure your experience is one of care, joy, and connection as we step into this next chapter together.
To everyone who’s checked in, sent good vibes, and stood by us: thank you, deeply. We feel your love and can’t wait to welcome you back.
Stay safe, stay kind - not long to go now 💛
Ciao for now.
