In December 2018, Innovation Hair Co celebrated its 40th anniversary – an incredible achievement that is testimony to the passion and vision of founder Richard Wyss and his team. Innovation Hair Co has been a legendary industry name for decades, and the Innovation Hair Academy is dedicated to the training of new industry talent.
“What an exciting and fulfilling journey thus far,” Richard says. “Looking back, but with a firm vision of the future, it truly pleases me to acknowledge the many avenues in our industry I have explored.”
How did it all begin?
Richard Wyss started hairdressing in Bern, Switzerland, 50 years ago. In 1973 he arrived in South Africa, and began working at Salon Chic, Durban North. He was offered a position at Salon Mayfair before opening his first salon at the Royal Hotel. “I had built up a large enough clientele to take the plunge and open in this 5-star hotel in central Durban. I have never looked back other than reminiscing how easy it was in those days to run a salon and make profits!”
In 1980 Richard was invited to become a member of Intercoiffure. He subsequently opened a branch at the Berea centre, and began making a big name for himself in the industry. As a member of the Intercoiffure fashion team he did photo shoots, ran national workshops, and represented South Africa at the World Congress in Paris and New York. He served as board member of the EOHCB KZN and the Chairman of Intercoiffure Durban.
In 1997 Richard was elected President of Intercoiffure South Africa and in 1999 he received the prestigious Intercoiffure Worldwide Chevalier Award. By this time Innovation Hair Co had relocated to Silverton Road.
2002 saw Richard named as a South African Superstar by SA Hairdressers Journal magazine, and in 2003 he received the Merit Award from L’Oreal Professionnel for his contribution to the industry. In 2004 he opened the Innovation Hair Academy in Windermere Road where the salon later moved.
Most recently, Innovation Hair Co opened a new branch in Ballito Junction. Today they have three branches – Windermere Road, La Lucia, and Ballito Junction. Richard’s salons have always been exquisite, with trendsetting design and decor that has reflected the standard of workmanship and expertise that clients have enjoyed in the chair. To have consistently excelled for 40 years is an incredible achievement that shows not only a tireless enthusiasm and energy, but a visionary talent for reinvention – constantly adapting to remain on the leading edge of trends.
“ I look forward to my continued commitment of keeping Innovation hair co at the forefront of hairdressing and will carry on delivering a professional and caring service which most certainly has always been my mantra, at times becoming literally obsessive!” Richard explains.
While Richard has led by example as a top competitive stylist and platform artist, he has nurtured and produced hairdressing champions, including Brendan Broedelet and Caroline Michael, who have both won multiple industry awards and competitions and today are business partners.
“I owe big words of gratitude to my two partners in business, Brendan Broedelet and Caroline Michael. Without them Innovation hair co’s accomplishments would not have been possible. Their incredible competition success and continued contribution in the salons have all led to a perfect formula - Thank you so much. Last but not least I thank my team of senior Stylists for their loyalty over many years and their creativity and dedication in making Innovation Hair Co a wonderful brand.”
Richard, you, your hairstylists and your salons are an inspiration to us all. You are an industry leader who has inspired thousands, built careers, grown businesses, and found the time to travel, educate, learn, laugh, give, share, and party with the very best. We congratulate you on this milestone, and look forward to the further successes of the iconic Innovation Hair Co.
