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milk_shake no frizz allowed is the new anti-frizz treatment range with specific formulas designed to extend the duration of your hairstyle and give you back control over particularly porous and frizzy hair. Silky, soft, and easy to style hair, even in the most humid weather. Cleansing, styling or finish, fine or medium/thick hair, there is a tailored product for all your hair needs! For more information contact milk_shake® on: Email: marku@z-one.co.za or georg@z-one.co.za www.z-oneconcept.com/en | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Sharp. Sleek. Effortlessly chic. Perfection has a shape… and it’s this blunt bob from Sam Catano at Style Cafe Hair Design. Click the image below to see the Instagram post. Stylist: Sam Catano Salon: Style Cafe Hair Design Follow Sam on Instagram @hairbysamcatano @stylecafehairdesign We'd love to feature your work! To get your styles, looks or colour formulas featured in Hairnews, send them either to brad@hairnews.co.za or DM them directly to our Hairnews Instagram page.

Migration of Council’s Accounts System: Billing Over the last couple of months, the Council has been moving over to the new IT system. As indicated in previous Chronicles, we encountered technical issues and requested that you notify the Council of any discrepancies. The Council staff have been working with the IT Developers as well as with establishments to rectify the technical issues and the discrepancies. We trust that the next billing run will be a smooth process. However, as can be expected with projects of this magnitude, there may still be some discrepancies that arise. We kindly request that you scrutinise your Returns and if you have any queries or feedback, that you contact your Credit Controller or email accounts@hcsbc.co.za. When making payment to the Council: • Please ensure that you use your SAL number as a reference and/or email the Proof of Payment to accounts@hcsbc.co.za • Please submit a remittance advice/written document to the Council indicating for which employees the payment is made and/or for which beneficiaries the payments are made, the amount to be allocated to each employee and beneficiary and the time period for which the payment is made. The Credit Controllers for the various Divisions and their contact details are as follows: Div Name Data Capturer Credit Controller Group Salons (3+ per owner) – All areas 101 Gauteng (Excluding Alberton, Pretoria, Wonderboom, Bronkhorstspruit (Kungwini) and Cullinan – see below) Beauty Lihle Melanie 102 East London, Port Alfred and all of the Eastern Cape (Excluding Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), Uitenhage and Humansdorp -see below) Beauty Melanie Melanie 103 Kimberley and all of the Northern Cape Beauty Melanie Melanie 104 Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), Uitenhage and Humansdorp Beauty Melanie Melanie 105 Alberton Beauty Melanie Melanie 106 Western Cape Sonia Zinhle Melanie 107 Free State Beauty Lihle Melanie 108 North West Province (excluding Rustenburg, Brits and Mankwe – see below) Beauty Melanie Melanie 109 Kwazulu-Natal Sonia Zinhle Melanie 112 Pretoria, Wonderboom(40 hours hairdressing, 45 hours beauty and 25 hours part-time) Nomthandazo Zinhle Melanie 113 Pretoria, Wonderboom (45 hours all categories and 25 hours part-time) Nomthandazo Zinhle Melanie 114 Bronkhorstspruit (Kungwini) and Cullinan Nomthandazo Zinhle Melanie 115 Rustenburg, Brits and Mankwe Sonia Lihle Melanie 116 Limpopo Sonia Lihle Melanie Data Capturers: Beauty beauty@hcsbc.co.za Sonia sonia@hcsbc.co.za Nomthandazo nomthandazo@hcsbc.co.za Credit Controllers: Lihle lihle@hcsbc.co.za Melanie melanie@hcsbc.co.za Zinhle zinhle@hcsbc.co.za The Council regrets any inconvenience caused and will continue to utilise its best endeavours to address the various issues raised. Please consult the Council’s WEBSITE for the contact details of Agents in your area. For more information, contact: www.hcsbc.co.za

East Asia has firmly positioned itself at the forefront of global creative direction. For 2026, this influence translates into Asian Tranquillity - a hair trend that fuses bold self-expression with refinement. Charlie Illi of Brooks & Brooks explains the main elements of this stunning trend and how to achieve it in-salon. Individuality with Intention At the heart of Asian Tranquillity is personalisation. Clients are no longer satisfied with templated haircuts or colour placements. They want hair that reflects who they are, adapted to their face shape, bone structure, skin tone, personal style and lifestyle. Creative doesn’t mean extreme, it means bespoke. This trend is about rethinking the map of the haircut. Where should the weight sit? Where should the eye be drawn? It’s about designing hair for the individual. Sculpted and Bespoke Spring/Summer 2026 sees a rise in re-mapped shapes and controlled disconnection. Razor work and sculpting techniques are key, allowing movement and softness without losing structure. Hair should enhance features rather than overwhelm them. Calm Meets Contrast While the overall mood carries tranquillity, colour expression is far from flat. Think controlled colour pops placed within clean, architectural cuts. Panels are personalised - anything from soft tonal to bolder injections of contrast, but with balance. Consultation with Confidence With a trend rooted in individuality, consultation becomes the cornerstone of the service. Clients want to be led, taking time for an in-depth consultation, discussing lifestyle, maintenance, styling habits and personality, building confidence and trust in your vision When you lead the appointment with clarity and creativity, clients feel taken care of and that builds loyalty and respect. Tips for getting the look 1 Re-map the haircut
Sketch or mentally redesign the cut before you start. Consider weight placement, movement and how the shape enhances facial features. 2.Embrace razor and sculpting techniques Use razor work to soften edges and create controlled texture. Precision with softness is key. 3 Personalise colour placement
Whether subtle tonal shifts or statement panels, ensure every placement is deliberate and balanced within the shape. 4 Think in contrasts but refine them
Bold doesn’t mean loud. Balance stronger elements with calm, clean lines. 5 Elevate the consultation
Spend longer understanding the client’s identity and daily routine. Lead with confidence and present a clear creative direction.

Fresh blonde style from Juane at Foiled Hair Painters. Click the image below to see the Instagram post. Stylist: Juane Salon: Foiled Hair Painters Follow Juane on Instagram @juane_hairartist We'd love to feature your work! To get your styles, looks or colour formulas featured in Hairnews, send them either to brad@hairnews.co.za or DM them directly to our Hairnews Instagram page.

The Label.M M-Plex Bond Repair Range is a specialist, innovative bond building system available exclusively from mhb. It is designed to protect, strengthen and repair damaged hair from harmful effects. M-Plex improves the performance of in-salon colour and treatment services and is supported by a full homecare regime for the ultimate in stronger, healthier looking hair. Exclusive M-Plex Bond Technology, built from four naturally derived and sustainable compounds, including Quartz Crystal and Disodium, forms linkages within the hair structure to intensively repair and, most importantly, protect disulphide hair bonds during in-salon chemical processes, helping maintain the integrity of the hair throughout colouring, lightening and treatment services. Professional use 2-step M-Plex Bond Repairing Treatment is designed to easily and simply fit into your salon services. Step 1 is used during in-salon colouring, lightening and treatment services to strengthen and protect disulphide hair bonds. It leaves hair stronger, smoother and with impactful shine while supporting the structural integrity of the hair during chemical processing. Step 2 is applied after the service to restore and condition the hair. It combines M-Plex Bond Technology with Hydropower Bond Technology to nourish the hair, seal the cuticle and enhance softness, shine and manageability. Used together, the two-step system delivers visible, touchable results that your clients can immediately experience. M-Plex also works exceptionally well as a standalone treatment. Its simplicity and efficiency make it an ideal standalone express treatment while still delivering high impact results to restore damaged hair. The full homecare regime allows clients to maintain and enhance results between salon visits. It also extends the benefits of the in-salon treatment. Supported by mhb’s award winning education team, LABEL.M M-Plex Bonding Treatments provide stylists with the knowledge and confidence to deliver, recommend and retail a complete bond repairing system that drives both in-salon service and retail growth. To order Label.M for your salon, please contact your mhb sales consultant. If you are a new client, please call mhb Telesales on 0860 104 109 and a sales consultant will be in touch. Follow Label.M Instagram Facebook Follow mhb Facebook Instagram Website

One of the most frequently asked questions by salon owners and beauty practitioners alike is: "Should I hire employees or rent out chairs?" This decision has significant implications for both parties, affecting everything from legal obligations to daily operations and financial responsibilities. Let's explore the key differences between these two business models within the framework of South African labour law, helping you make an informed decision that suits your specific circumstances and ensure that you remain compliant. Understanding the Fundamental Difference The Employment Relationship In an employment relationship, the salon owner is the employer and the beauty practitioner is an employee. This relationship is governed primarily by the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA), the Labour Relations Act (LRA), Main Collective Agreement of the National Bargaining Council for Hairdressing, Cosmetology, Beauty and Skincare Industry, and various other labour legislation. Key Characteristic: The employer exercises control over how, when, and where the work is performed. The Rent-a-Chair Arrangement In a rent-a-chair arrangement, the beauty practitioner operates as an independent contractor or sole proprietor, renting space from the salon owner. This is essentially a commercial lease agreement between two independent business entities. Key Characteristic: The practitioner maintains independence and control over their own business operations. Quick Reference Comparison Table Aspect Employment Rent-a-Chair Legal Status Employee under labour law Independent contractor/business owner Control Employer controls work methods, hours, and procedures Practitioner maintains independence and control Income Structure Regular salary/wage Pays fixed rent, keeps all client income Tax Obligations PAYE deducted by employer Self-assessment, pays own tax to SARS Annual Leave 21 days paid leave per year No paid leave entitlement Sick Leave 66 days over 3 years (paid through Sick Pay Fund) No paid sick leave Maternity/Parental Leave 4 months unpaid leave No statutory maternity leave UIF Employer contributes, access to benefits No UIF (must self-insure) Working Hours Maximum 45 hours/week, overtime rates apply Sets own hours, no overtime concept Notice Period Statutory minimums apply as per Main Collective Agreement As per rental contract Dismissal Protection Protected against unfair dismissal No labour law protection Client Ownership Clients belong to salon Practitioner owns client base Equipment & Products Provided by employer unless otherwise stipulated in the Main Collective Agreement Practitioner provides own Professional Insurance Employer's responsibility Must obtain own cover Business Registration Employers and Employees must be registered with the National Bargaining Council for Hairdressing, Cosmetology, Beauty and Skincare Industry Must register own business Pricing Control Employer sets prices Practitioner sets own prices Financial Risk Employer bears all financial risks Practitioner bears own risk, however may be held jointly liable in retrenchments when salon owner has to retrench support staff CCMA/HCSBC Access Can refer disputes to CCMA or Bargaining Council Civil court jurisdiction only Restraint of Trade May be subject to restrictions Not applicable Detailed Comparison: What You Need to Know Legal Relationship and Control Employment: The employer has the right to supervise and control the employee's work The employer determines working hours, leave periods, and scheduling The employer sets service prices and business policies The employee must follow the employer's instructions and procedures The employer can discipline or dismiss the employee according to labour law Rent-a-Chair: The practitioner operates independently with minimal interference from the salon owner The practitioner sets their own working hours (within agreed premises access times) The practitioner determines their own service prices The practitioner manages their own client relationships and bookings The salon owner has no disciplinary authority over the practitioner's work methods Financial Arrangements Employment: The employee receives a regular salary or wage The employer deducts PAYE (Pay As You Earn) tax and UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund) contributions The employer is required to contribute to the HBSI Pension Fund The employee may receive commission on top of basic salary The employer bears the financial risk of quiet periods The employer provides all equipment (unless otherwise stipulated in the Main Collective Agreement), products, and supplies Rent-a-Chair: The practitioner pays a fixed rental amount to the salon owner (weekly, monthly, or per day) The practitioner keeps all income from clients after paying rent The practitioner is responsible for their own tax registration and payments to SARS The practitioner bears their own financial risk during quiet periods, however may be jointly liable for severance costs in the event that the salon owner needs to retrench support staff The practitioner typically provides their own products and equipment (though arrangements vary) No PAYE or UIF deductions are made by the salon owner Employee Benefits and Protections Employment: Annual Leave: Minimum 21 consecutive days per year (or one day for every 17 days worked/ 1 hour for every 17 hours worked) Sick Leave: 66 days' sick leave over a three-year cycle (33-days short-term illness and 33 days long-term illness – Sick Pay Fund rules) Maternity/Parental Leave: Four consecutive months' unpaid maternity/parental leave Family Responsibility Leave: Three days per year for certain family matters Public Holidays: Paid time off on public holidays or overtime when public holidays are worked Notice Periods: Statutory minimum notice periods before termination Severance Pay: One week's pay per completed year of service as a result of retrenchment UIF Benefits: Access to unemployment benefits if retrenched or in other certain circumstances Protection from Unfair Dismissal: Cannot be dismissed without fair reason and fair procedure CCMA Access: Can refer disputes to the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration or National Bargaining Council for Hairdressing, Cosmetology, Beauty and Skincare Industry (HCSBC) Rent-a-Chair: No entitlement to paid leave of any kind No statutory benefits (sick leave, maternity/parental leave, family responsibility leave) No UIF contributions or benefits No protection under labour legislation regarding dismissal No severance pay entitlements, but may be liable for other support staff's severance The rental agreement can typically be terminated with notice as per the contract Disputes are resolved through civil law (breach of contract) rather than labour law The practitioner must make their own provision for leave, illness, and retirement Working Hours and Conditions Employment: Maximum 45 ordinary hours per week Maximum nine hours per day for a five-day work week Overtime paid at 1.5 times normal rate (or time off) Meal intervals required after five hours of work Daily and weekly rest periods prescribed by law Employer must maintain employment records Rent-a-Chair: No prescribed working hours (practitioner sets their own schedule) No overtime provisions No mandatory rest periods (though premises access may be restricted) The practitioner determines their own work-life balance No requirement for the salon owner to maintain employment records Health and Safety Obligations Employment: The employer must comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) The employer must provide a safe working environment The employer must provide necessary safety equipment and training The employer is liable for workplace injuries (Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act - COIDA) The employer must ensure infection control and hygiene standards Rent-a-Chair: Both parties have responsibilities under OHSA The salon owner must maintain safe common areas and premises The practitioner is responsible for their own work area, equipment safety, and procedures The practitioner should have their own insurance for liability and injuries Each practitioner is responsible for their own hygiene and infection control standards Liability for client injuries caused by the practitioner's services rests with the practitioner Registration and Compliance Requirements Employment: The employer and employee must register with the National Bargaining Council for Hairdressing, Cosmetology, Beauty and Skincare Industry (HCSBC) The employer must register with SARS as an employer The employer must register with the Department of Employment and Labour The employer must register with the Compensation Fund (COIDA) The employer must maintain various statutory records The employer must comply with Employment Equity Act requirements (if applicable) The employer must comply with Skills Development Act levies (if applicable) Rent-a-Chair: The salon owner maintains business registration with CIPC (or as sole proprietor) The salon owner holds the business licence for the premises Each practitioner must hold a South African and industry recognised qualification Each practitioner should register their own business entity with CIPC Each practitioner should register with SARS and obtain a tax number Each practitioner should register for VAT if turnover exceeds the threshold Each practitioner should obtain their own business licence (requirements vary by municipality) Each practitioner should obtain professional indemnity insurance Client Relationships and Business Assets Employment: The client base belongs to the salon/employer and all other intellectual property of the business The employer owns all business goodwill Employees may be subject to restraint of trade agreements The employer controls marketing and branding Client information and booking systems belong to the employer Rent-a-Chair: The practitioner builds and owns their own client base The practitioner develops their own business reputation The practitioner is free to market their own services The practitioner can take clients with them if they relocate Restraint of trade is not applicable Termination of the Relationship Employment: Must follow fair procedures as per labour law Requires valid reason (operational, misconduct, incapacity) Requires notice period (maximum 2 weeks’) May require consultation and retrenchment process Risk of unfair dismissal claims and CCMA or Bargaining Council proceedings Possible severance pay obligations Rent-a-Chair: Terminates according to the rental contract terms Usually requires notice period as stipulated in agreement No need to provide reasons No labour law procedures required No risk of unfair dismissal claims at CCMA or Bargaining Council Disputes resolved through civil courts (breach of contract) The Risk of Misclassification A Critical Warning One of the most significant risks in the beauty industry is misclassifying an employment relationship as a rent-a-chair arrangement. South African labour law applies a substance-over-form approach, meaning that what matters is the actual nature of the relationship, not what the parties call it. When Is It Really Employment? Labour authorities and courts will look at the following factors to determine if someone is truly an independent contractor or actually an employee: Red Flags Indicating Employment - The salon owner controls when and how the practitioner works The practitioner must seek permission for leave or time off The salon owner sets the service prices The practitioner uses only the salon's products and equipment The salon owner provides all clients through salon bookings The practitioner wears a uniform or branded clothing required by the salon The practitioner receives regular "rental" payments that resemble a salary The practitioner works exclusively for one salon The salon owner can discipline the practitioner for poor work The relationship has existed for an extended period with increasing dependency Consequences of Misclassification If a labour inspector, council designated agent or court determines that a rent-a-chair arrangement is actually disguised employment: The salon owner may be liable for backdated PAYE, UIF, SDL and Bargaining Council contributions The salon owner may face penalties and fines from SARS and the Department of Employment and Labour The "independent contractor" may claim employee benefits, including leave pay The salon owner may face claims for unfair dismissal The salon owner may be liable for unpaid overtime Reputational damage and potential criminal liability in serious cases Decision-Making Framework: Which Model Suits You? Consider Employment If You: As a Salon Owner: Want full control over your business reputation, operations, quality standards, and service delivery Prefer to build a cohesive team and business brand Have the financial resources to meet salary and benefit obligations Want to own the client relationships and business goodwill Can manage the administrative burden of employment compliance Want to train and develop practitioners in your specific methods Have consistent cash flow to pay salaries during quiet periods As a Practitioner: Prefer the security of regular income regardless of client flow Value paid leave, sick leave, and other statutory benefits Want the protection of labour law Prefer not to handle your own tax and business administration Are starting out and need the stability of employment while building skills Want access to UIF benefits if needed Prefer someone else to handle marketing and client acquisition Consider Rent-a-Chair If You: As a Salon Owner: Want to reduce administrative burden and compliance obligations Prefer predictable rental income without salary obligations Want to offer flexibility to experienced practitioners Have limited cash flow for salaries during establishment phase Want to minimise liability for services provided by practitioners Are comfortable with less control over day-to-day operations Want to create a collective of independent professionals As a Practitioner: Have an established client base you want to maintain Value independence and flexibility in your work Are comfortable with variable income and financial risk Want to build your own business and brand Can manage your own tax, insurance, and business obligations Prefer to set your own prices and service offerings Are willing to forgo employment benefits for entrepreneurial freedom Have the financial resilience to manage income fluctuations Practical Tips for Implementation For Salon Owners Choosing Employment: Ensure Proper Contracts: Use written employment contracts that comply with labour law Register Correctly: Complete all employer registrations with relevant authorities Maintain Records: Keep meticulous employment records as required by law Stay Compliant: Regularly review compliance with BCEA, LRA, and other legislation Seek Advice: Consult with the Employers Organisation for Hairdressing, Cosmetology and Beauty (EOHCB) Budget Appropriately: Factor in all employment costs beyond basic salary (UIF, leave provisions, etc.) For Salon Owners Choosing Rent-a-Chair: Written Agreements: Always use comprehensive written rental agreements Verify Credentials: Check that practitioners are properly registered and qualified Insurance Requirements: Ensure practitioners have their own professional indemnity insurance Clear Boundaries: Maintain the independence of the arrangement (don't exercise employment-like control) Health and Safety: Ensure common areas comply with health and safety regulations Regular Reviews: Periodically review arrangements to ensure they remain genuinely independent For Practitioners: If Employed: Understand your rights under labour law Keep records of your employment terms and payslips Raise concerns about non-compliance with your employer or seek advice Know the proper procedures for disputes If Renting a Chair: Register your business with CIPC and SARS Keep proper financial records and file tax returns Obtain professional indemnity insurance Maintain your professional qualifications and credentials Build financial reserves for quiet periods and leave Consider opening a business bank account separate from personal finances Common Questions Answered Q: Can I have some employees and some chair renters in the same salon? A: Yes, this is legally permissible provided each relationship is genuinely structured and operated according to its classification. However, be careful to maintain clear distinctions in how you manage each group to avoid misclassification claims. Q: If I start as an employee, can I later transition to renting a chair? A: Yes, this is common as practitioners build their client base and seek more independence. However, the employment relationship must be properly terminated, and a new, genuinely independent arrangement must be established. Q: What if a chair renter wants to work only for my salon? A: Exclusivity alone doesn't automatically create employment, but it's a factor that could contribute to a finding of disguised employment if combined with other employment-like characteristics. Many genuinely independent practitioners choose to work primarily from one location, but they should maintain the freedom to work elsewhere if they choose. Q: Do I need to provide training to chair renters? A: You can offer training, but be cautious about requiring specific training or controlling how practitioners perform their services, as this could indicate employment. Chair renters should already be qualified and competent to perform services independently. Q: What happens if a chair renter injures a client? A: Generally, the practitioner is liable for injuries caused by their own negligence or improper procedures. This is why professional indemnity insurance is crucial for independent practitioners. However, if the salon owner is negligent (e.g., unsafe premises), they may share liability. Q: Can I deduct costs from a chair renter's income? A: No, this resembles salary deductions and could indicate employment. Rental should be a fixed amount agreed in advance. Any shared costs (utilities, products) should be clearly specified in the rental agreement and invoiced separately if necessary. Both employment and rent-a-chair arrangements have legitimate places in South Africa's beauty industry. The key is to choose the model that genuinely suits your business needs and circumstances, then implement it correctly and consistently. Remember these fundamental principles: Be honest about what type of relationship you're creating Structure the arrangement according to its true nature Maintain proper documentation Ensure compliance with applicable laws Review arrangements regularly Seek professional advice when uncertain The choice between employment and rent-a-chair is not about finding loopholes to avoid obligations—it's about selecting the business model that aligns with your operational needs, financial capacity, and business philosophy whilst respecting the legal framework designed to protect all parties. By understanding the genuine differences between these models and implementing your chosen approach correctly, you can build a sustainable, compliant business that serves both your interests and those of the practitioners who contribute to the beauty industry's success. For any further information or enquiries please contact the EOHCB representative in your area by clicking HERE. EOHCB Contact Details Web: www.eohcb.co.za | YouTube: www.youtube.com/@eohcbsa7855 Facebook: www.facebook.com/eohcb | Twitter: twitter.com/eohcbsa Instagram: www.instagram.com/eohcbsa

Lucid Futurism was born from a desire to restore feeling in an era of digital desensitisation. We are living in a time where everything is louder yet somehow less expressive, polished yet emotionally flat. I felt compelled to create work that cuts through that noise - work that reawakens sensation, imagination, and hope. This collection reflects my belief that hair can be both precision craft and emotional language. It represents joyful rebellion against digital sameness and a return to sincerity, colour, and expressive form. I wanted to build a world that felt hopeful, modern, and emotionally charged without leaning into chaos or cliché - where structure meets dream logic and technique carries meaning. My process began with studying the emotional climate of the year ahead and the growing cultural shift toward New Sincerity - a longing for honesty, uplift, and expressive individuality. From there, Lucid Futurism took shape as a vision of future optimism grounded in technical mastery. Each look was refined through silhouette and architectural study before colour was introduced, ensuring the hair could stand as sculpture. The final palette fused deep, grounded neutrals with unexpected bursts of pastel and vivid tone, creating a space that feels both real and imagined. Surrealism has always been an important influence in my work because of its intention to liberate the subconscious mind. The movement sought to free artists from rationalism and social constraint, which mirrors the emotional climate of the present day. I wanted every image to embody that freedom and to feel like a dream state the viewer could step into. Each look was personalised to the model so they became the artwork rather than simply wearing it. Most importantly, I wanted this collection to remind people of the power of art to lift us, connect us, and help us remain hopeful in complex times. Lucid Futurism is hair that dares, dreams, and feels - created not to be scrolled past, but to move people forward. Collection: LUCID FUTURISM Hair- Lauren McCowan @laurenmccowan Photographer- Andrew O ‘Toole @andrewotoolestudios Makeup- Mikele Simone Styling- Monica Morales Production- Lauren King Collection Partner - @cprhairpro

Position your salon at the forefront of innovation, with LESSOAN Thermoplastia A premium smoothing treatment that transforms texture while preserving the hair's natural beauty. Paired with the LESSOAN Home Care Range, your clients enjoy: • Extended treatment longevity • Healthier, more radiant hair • Salon-quality results at home For stylists, it means: • Confidence in performance • Exceptional client satisfaction • A retail range that sells itself Contact details: Tel: 021 552 2369 Email: georg@z-one.co.za marku@z-one.co.za Take Note Trading 188cc (Distributor of LESSOAN Cosmetique) 1 Indwe Road, Milnerton, Cape Town

Alex Thaddeus, Owner of Alex Thaddeus Hairdressing Alex Thaddeus Hairdressing is a small independent salon based in Cupar, Fife and for the last 13 years has, like many, survived the rollercoaster of the global pandemics, recessions and now a severe cost of living crisis. Becoming one of the leading salons in Scotland and known for their exceptional service and travelling clientele, Alex Thaddeus Hairdressing has amassed an incredible strong foundation, which has allowed her and her team to successfully, ride the waves of the economic storms. But what does it take to survive the hardships? Here we talk to Salon Owner, Alex Thaddeus on how she ensures the salon remains strong and successful and shares her tips on how those in similar positions can future proof their business. Don’t Be Everything to Everyone Being a salon owner who also works behind the chair, you will find yourself stretched very thin, very quickly – it’s easy to do and difficult to balance. You want to still service your clients, be a great employer and a focused salon owner, yet spinning all these plates is hard and you simply cannot be everything to everyone – something has to give! Have a structured approach and future plan as much as you can. Plan in your admin days and stick to them, otherwise admin falls behind. Condense your chair days, allowing you to remain on the floor but with a schedule that suits you and the business needs. And really focus on setting dates for team meetings, 1-2-1s and career planning – once set in stone they cannot be changed or moved. This approach allows you to get in a routine. Finances – let’s be honest! Financials are very much a taboo subject, but let’s talk about it! You absolutely must plan for every scenario, which is difficult, especially when times are hard. Have your main business account for transactions (clients/business purchases – the usuals!), have a separate account for tax/vat etc where you put over a set amount to cover this each month and a savings account where you save a standard amount each month which is in the pot for any emergency scenarios. Honestly working this way will help solidify finances and allow you to forecast carefully. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask the Experts Across so many areas of business – finance, tax, HR, legal and everything in between, it’s absolutely ok not to know everything – honestly, you simply cannot know every single detail, especially as things change continuously (almost daily at the moment!) So, do not be afraid or embarrassed to ask experts in these fields – these people are here to help and advise. I for one am thankful to find people who genuinely understand certain areas of business and who have aided me throughout the last few years. Work to 80% Utilisation In business, you cannot stretch yourself over 80% utilisation – it would be impossible in terms of service time and growth. Instead set 80% as your limit as this allows you to see where time is being spent and allows you to monitor your efficiency levels. Being above this means no growth can happen as you are have no further space to progress. Finally, Ask Each Other! We are in a time where collaboration is the key to success. Once upon a time we saw salons in our local areas as direct competitors, those we would not chat to or share info with, however now more than ever it’s time that we came together to help, advise and grow as an industry. Hairdressing has been completely overlooked by the government and it’s time for us to come together for the future of our industry. Help one another and see how you can work together to succeed.

Tamah Patel in Johannesburg reminds us that the right hair can change the way you feel. Click the image below to see the Instagram post. Stylist: Tamah Patel Salon: Hair by Tamah Follow Tamah on Instagram @tamahstyliste We'd love to feature your work! To get your styles, looks or colour formulas featured in Hairnews, send them either to brad@hairnews.co.za or DM them directly to our Hairnews Instagram page.

Nourish, strengthen and repair with milk_shake integrity & strength. Nourishing and fortifying products for hair at the top of its splendour: integrity & strength is the line by milk_shake dedicated to weak, brittle hair with split ends which needs proteins and nutrients to return to its natural vitality. For more information contact milk_shake® on: Email: marku@z-one.co.za or georg@z-one.co.za www.z-oneconcept.com/en | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram