Always make sure to regularly click 'Save for later' on the online entry form to ensure no work is lost. Your entry form will then be located in 'Saved Items' on the left side of this page.

Assistant of the Year

If you’re the future of British hairdressing, it’s time to make your mark. This category is open to any assistant who has been training for a maximum of three years up to the end of December 2026. 

Finalists in this category will be required to attend an interview, in January 2027.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment. 
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply an answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

1. Why should you win this award? Tell us why you deserve to win in a 90-second video (can be filmed on your phone).

2. Why did you choose hairdressing as a career? Tell us why you chose a career in hairdressing, and what you love about your job. (Maximum 350 words)

3. How are you progressing as a hairdresser? Tell us about the training you have undertaken (in your current salon or elsewhere), and any qualifications you have received. What have you gained from this education, and how is it helping your career progress? (Maximum 350 words)

4. What are your aspirations? Tell us about where you would like to take your career next. What are your plans for growth in the next 12 months, and what are your goals and hopes for the future? Whose career inspires you? (Maximum 350 words)

5. How do you engage with the hairdressing industry? Tell us about the ways you stay inspired and motivated by the industry. Include information about shows, seminars, and competitions that you have participated in, industry bodies you are a member of, and any other activities that show your ongoing commitment to professional and creative growth. (Maximum 350 words)

6. Show us your work, upload two images of your hairdressing work; they should sum up your personal approach to hair and represent the very best of your abilities. Please include a short description for each of how you achieved the look.

Barber Team of the Year

Many barbershops refer to themselves as a ‘barber family’. This category showcases the unbreakable bonds and the unified strength that together make a successful business that supports and delights a community and clientele. This is your chance to demonstrate team impact and value, so reflect on everything your team has achieved over the past 18 months and provide clear evidence for our Judges.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested. Where requested for the room they should show the room as a whole and not the corner of a couch etc.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team images should be the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply an answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Tips:

  • Keep your answers clear and concise, no waffle allowed!
  • Provide anecdotal and numerical evidence where appropriate.
  • Lots of examples and evidence to support your entry.
  • Provide good quality high-resolution images, as they might end up in print in Modern Barber.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

Please provide answers on behalf of the whole team. If you have a number of shops please pick just one to represent your business in the entry.

1. Why should you win this award? Tell us why you deserve to win. (Maximum 250 words)

2. Who makes up your team? Tell us about your team. Provide an overview of each team member, their unique strengths, and what they contribute to your salon business. (Maximum 350 words)

3. How does your team engage with the industry? Tell us about the ways you stay inspired and motivated by the industry. Include information about shows, seminars and competitions the team have participated in, industry bodies you are a member of, and any other activities that show your team’s ongoing commitment to professional and creative growth. (Maximum 350 words)

4. How do you develop your team? Tell us how you recruit, inspire and motivate your team. Provide a brief overview of training, team building, assessment and opportunities for growth. (Maximum 350 words)

5. Tell us how has your team worked together to face a challenge? How has your team pulled together to tackle a challenge? Provide a short case detailing how you had had to work together to get through a difficult time or find a solution to a problem. (Maximum 350 words)

6. Show us your business in numbers. Please provide:

  • Turnover of the business for the last two financial years (in graph form)
  • Gross profit for the same period (in graph form)
  • Retail figures for the same period (in graph form)
  • Average number of clients per week
  • Number of team members

7. Please provide: Screenshots of three reviews that make you proud (these could be on social media, Google or on your salon software). Please ensure that you include dates of when each review was submitted.

8. Please upload a high-resolution landscape photograph of your team, shop exterior and interior.

Barbershop/Grooming Salon of the Year

If you’re the owner of a booming barbershop business or grooming space, it’s time to tell the world. You’ll have a strong brand identity, close-knit team and a thriving, loyal clientele – all adding up to a business that stands out on the high street.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team image should be one image of the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply an answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

1. Why should you win this award? Tell us why you deserve to win. (Maximum 250 words)

2. How is your barbershop or grooming salon different? Tell us what makes your business stand out, including a brief overview of the services you offer, your clientele, and any unique selling points. (Maximum 350 words)

3. How do you develop your team? Tell us how you have recruited and maintained a successful team, including how you continue to inspire and motivate them. Provide a brief overview of training, team building and opportunities for growth. (Maximum 350 words)

4. How do you maintain consistency in standards? Tell us how you monitor, measure and evaluate customer service to maintain high standards. What methods and which platforms do you use to gather feedback, and how do you respond to negative reviews? (Maximum 350 words)

5. How have you built and promoted your brand? Tell us about the ways you have promoted your brand. Provide an overview of your branding, aesthetic and values, and how you bring them to life through your salon, social media and marketing. (Maximum 350 words)

6. Show us your business in numbers. Please provide:

  • Turnover of the business for the last two financial years (in graph form)
  • Gross profit for the same period (in graph form)
  • Retail figures for the same period (in graph form)
  • Average number of clients per week
  • Number of team members.

7. Please upload a high-resolution landscape photograph of your salon and team.

Best All Round Barber

This category celebrates day-to-day brilliance from the shop floor. Any barber with a smartphone or camera and a will to win can enter their work.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested. Where requested for the room they should show the room as a whole and not the corner of a couch etc.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team images should be the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply an answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Tips:

Give it your best shot and do it in as high-resolution as possible. Never forget that the point of your image is showcasing your awesome hair skills. Judges are looking for variety and the breadth of skill that you demonstrate every day on the shop floor.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

Entries should include variety, technical excellence and skills on show. Please share four different styles (images and descriptions) to represent your breadth of skill.

1. Please upload four styles that you are most proud of (using your smartphone or camera).

2. Describe each of the four styles and the techniques on show. State which products and colour were used (if any). (Maximum 350 words)

Business Leader of the Year

Leadership qualities can manifest in the leaders of businesses both large and small. This category will celebrate the barbers with vision, purpose, commitment, tenacity and commercial strength. Look back over the past 18 months and all you have achieved since and answer the questions to give the Judges the best chance to see how you have built a strong business.

Criteria: You must have been trading for at least two full years to qualify for this category. If you have more than one shop then please answer question 3 representing the whole business ie all shops.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested. Where requested for the room they should show the room as a whole and not the corner of a couch etc.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team images should be the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply and answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Tips:

  • Keep your answers clear and concise, no waffle allowed!
  • Provide anecdotal and numerical evidence.
  • Lots of examples and evidence please!
  • Provide good quality high-resolution images, as they might end up in print in Hairdressers Journal.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

You must have been trading for at least two full years to qualify for this category. If you have more than one shop then please answer question 3 representing the whole business ie all shops.

1. Why should you win this award? Tell us why you deserve to win in a 90-second video (this can be filmed on your phone).

2. Please describe your business, your leadership skills and your achievements in building your business to this point. (Maximum 350 words)

3. How would you describe the skills, experience and attributes that have helped support your achievements? (Maximum 350 words)

4. Please give three examples of how your business leadership is building your team and your commercial success. (Maximum 350 words)

5. Show us your business in numbers. Please provide:

  • Turnover of the business for the last two financial years (in graph form)
  • Average number of clients per week
  • Number of team members

6. Please upload a high-resolution landscape photograph of the exterior and interior of the barbershop.

7. Please upload a headshot photo of yourself.

Community Hero

Proving that barbershops truly are pillars of the community, this award recognises the barbers that go above and beyond to support their clients and the wider community. Whether it’s through charity fundraisers, physical or mental wellbeing support groups or events that help improve the lives of locals, the community hero award celebrates those that do more. This is your opportunity to demonstrate the positive impact your barbershop has had on your community. Please include details of what your team has achieved over the past 18 months and provide clear evidence for our judges.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested. Where requested for the room they should show the room as a whole and not the corner of a couch etc.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team images should be the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply an answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Tips:

  • Keep your answers clear and concise, no waffle allowed!
  • Provide anecdotal and numerical evidence (eg testimonials from clients, examples of social media campaigns and amount of money raised – if applicable).
  • Provide good quality images as they might end up in print in Hairdressers Journal.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

Please provide answers on behalf of the whole team. If you have a number of shops please pick just one to represent your business in the entry.

1. Why should you win this award? Tell us why you deserve to win in a 90-second video (this can be filmed on your phone). How have you served your community as a team in the last 18 months? (Maximum 350 words)

2. Please provide three testimonials from clients or members of your community that bring to life your impact on their lives. Provide three clear examples of initiatives that you/your team has introduced that demonstrate how you’ve given back to your local area. This can be through charity donations, events, social media campaigns, support groups etc. (Maximum 350 words)

3. Please add anything else you feel appropriate that supports your entry. (Maximum 300 words/upload)

4. Please upload a high-resolution landscape headshot photograph.

Customer Service Award

If your salon, barbershop or grooming business prioritises client care and have been trading for a minimum of six months by the end of June 2026, it’s time to be recognised for your service. You’ll have an exceptional track record of putting clients first, providing a consistent and all-encompassing five-star experience from start to finish.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested. Where requested for the room they should show the room as a whole and not the corner of a couch etc.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team images should be the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply and answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

1. Why should you win this award? Tell us what customer care means to you, and why you deserve to win this category in a 90-second video. (can be filmed on your phone or in 250 written words)

2. How do you make clients feel special? Tell us how you developed your customer service programme, including any inspirations and research undertaken. Then, provide an overview of the customer journey from start to finish. (Maximum 350 words)

3. How do your team contribute to the customer experience? Tell us how your team brings to life your customer service, the training you undertake with them to maintain standards and any performance-related rewards you provide in relation to client care. (Maximum 350 words)

4. How do you maintain consistency in standards? Tell us how you monitor, measure and evaluate customer service to maintain high standards. What methods and which platforms do you use to gather feedback, and how do you respond to negative reviews? How often do you tweak and develop elements of your customer care? (Maximum 350 words)

5. How have your high standards of customer service led to business success? Tell us how your customer service has contributed to your overall success in business. (Maximum 350 words)

6. Show us your business in numbers. Please provide:

  • Turnover of the business for the last two financial years (in graph form)
  • Gross profit for the same period (in graph form)
  • Retail figures for the same period (in graph form)
  • Overall repeat booking rate (as a percentage)

7. Please upload a high-resolution landscape headshot your salon.

Educator of the Year

If you empower others through education, this is the category for you. This category is open to any educator who teaches hairdressers and barbers and covers technical, creative and business skills. It is open to in-house educators, freelancers and training providers. The education can be delivered in-person or online, including through social media.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply an answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

1. Why should you win this award? Tell us why you deserve to win in a 90-second video (can be filmed on your phone).

2. What is your education philosophy? Tell us why education is important to you, and why you have chosen to work as an educator. Provide an overview of the type of education you provide, and why. (Maximum 350 words)

3. How do you deliver education? Tell us about how you deliver education, and why you have chosen that format. Provide an overview of how a typical education session might go, from start to finish. (Maximum 350 words)

4. How do you appraise learners? Tell us about how you evaluate learner success. Provide an overview of your appraisal process, including assessment, feedback and any relevant reward schemes or qualifications provided. (Maximum 350 words)

5. How do you evolve your education to stay relevant? Tell us about the ways you adapt and develop your education to keep it fresh, relevant and appealing to learners. Share any feedback methods you use, as well as insight into how you get inspired as an educator. (Maximum 350 words)

6. How has your education had an impact? Tell us how your training has had an impact on the success of a team, or on the personal development of an individual.

7. Provide a brief case study highlighting real-world results that have been driven by your education. (Maximum 350 words)

8. Please upload a high-resolution landscape headshot photograph of yourself.

Extensions Business of the Year

This category is open to salon businesses, freelance businesses and sole-trader businesses offering extensions. This entry should pertain only to the element of your business that delivers extensions services.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested. Where requested for the room they should show the room as a whole and not the corner of a couch etc.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team images should be the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply and answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

1. Why should you win this award? Tell us why you deserve to win in a 90-second video (can be filmed on your phone) or in 250 written words.

2. What makes your extensions business stand out? Tell us what makes your extensions business unique, including a brief 4. overview, your branding and marketing, and your clients and services. (Maximum 350 words)

3. How do you make your extensions clients feel special? Tell us why your extensions clients love you, including an overview of the customer journey, customer services policies, client benefits, and how you handle complaints. (Maximum 350 words)

4. How do you/your team get and stay knowledgeable about extensions standards and methods? Tell us about your training/education approach including an overview of training, list of methods used, assessment and opportunities for growth. (Maximum 350 words)

5. Show us your business in numbers. Please provide:

  • Turnover of the extensions business for the last two financial years (in graph form)
  • Gross profit for the same period (in graph form) for extensions only
  • Retail figures for the same period (in graph form) for extensions clients
  • Average number of extensions clients per week
  • Number of team members delivering extensions

6. Please provide photographs of your salon/workspace and three key client transformations with before, 2 x during process and after images. (These images can be taken using your phone)

New Business of the Year

If you’ve launched an exciting new salon/barbershop/grooming salon, it’s time to celebrate your achievements. This category is open to owners of new independent salons/barbershops/grooming salons, which are less than two years old by the end of June 2025.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested. Where requested for the room they should show the room as a whole and not the corner of a couch etc.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team images should be the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply and answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

1. Why should you win this award? Tell us about your new salon/barbershop/grooming salon and why you deserve to win. (Maximum 250 words)

2. Why did you open your salon/barbershop/grooming salon? Tell us why you decided to launch your business, including an overview of your goals and business aspirations. (Maximum 350 words)

3. How have you achieved your goals? Tell us how you successfully launched your business, including the methods and services you have used to achieve growth. Provide an overview of how you monitor, measure and evaluate success, as well as any changes you have made to your initial business plan, and why. (Maximum 350 words)

4. How did you recruit your team? Tell us how you have recruited and maintained a successful team, including how you continue to inspire and motivate them. Provide a brief overview of training, team-building and opportunities for growth. (Maximum 350 words)

5. What are your future goals for the business? Tell us about your plans for the future. Provide an overview of your goals, and how you plan to continue to grow and evolve your business. (Maximum 350 words)

6. Show us your business in numbers. Please provide:

  • Turnover of the business for the last year (in graph form)
  • Gross profit for the same period (in graph form)
  • Retail figures for the same period (in graph form)
  • Average number of clients per week
  • Number of team members

7. Please provide high resolution landscape photographs of your salon.

Marketing Excellence Award

If you’ve created captivating campaigns for your business, it’s time to share your story. This category celebrates the creativity, strategy, and business impact of campaigns. You’ve not only got a strong brand identity, but you’ve also produced dynamic marketing campaigns, which have had real results.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality.  They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words. Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested. Where requested for the room they should show the room as a whole and not the corner of a couch etc.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team images should be the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply and answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail."

1. Why should you win this award? Tell us why you deserve to win. (Maximum 250 words)

2. How would you describe your barbershop's/salon's brand? Tell us about your barbershop's/salon’s overall brand identity. Include information about your business aesthetic, brand values and clients, and how it all comes together as one cohesive brand. (Maximum 350 words)

3. Outline successful marketing campaigns you’ve produced in the last 12 months. Tell us about your objectives. Your campaigns could be for anything from an in-salon promotion or new service to a launch or rebrand. (Maximum 350 words)

4. How did you measure the success of your campaigns? Tell us how you monitored, measured and evaluated your campaigns, as well as any changes or updates you made to your original plan once the campaigns were live, and why. (Maximum 350 words) 

5. How did these campaigns fit with your overall approach to marketing? Tell us about your overall marketing strategy and explain how your campaigns complement everything else you do as a brand. (Maximum 350 words)

6. Show us your business in numbers. Please provide:

  • Cost of marketing investment (please break down in detail)
  • ROI of marketing spend (please break down in detail)
  • Turnover of the business for the last two financial years (in graph form)
  • Gross profit for the same period (in graph form)

Retail figures for the same period (in graph form) Please provide high resolution landscape photographs of your salon.

Salon Business Director of the Year

If you’re a business visionary with a forward-thinking approach to running your salon, and the results and reputation to back it up, it’s time to claim your title. You must have a minimum of 3 (three) years working as a director of your business. Your business must show a minimum profit of £50,000 per year* (judges may request proof of this should you become a finalist). A joint entry may consist of a maximum of three executive directors. Finalists in this category will be required to attend an interview in January 2027.

*If you do not meet the criteria for this category, please do consider entering other categories e.g. Manager of the Year and/or Marketing Campaign of the Year

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested. Where requested for the room they should show the room as a whole and not the corner of a couch etc.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team images should be the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply and answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

1. Please provide a concise overview of your business, including size, number of salons, locations, number of staff and key services offered. (Maximum 350 words)

2. How have you excelled as Business Director? Highlight major milestones, recognitions, innovations and/or business growth. 

3. Provide a clear strategy implemented within the last 24 months, including challenges faced, actions taken, and measurable outcomes (e.g. revenue growth, profitability, team development) (Maximum 350 words)

4. How do you inspire your team and others in the industry? Please include details of leadership philosophy, mentoring initiatives or team engagement (Maximum 350 words)

5. How do you actively contribute to the wider hairdressing industry? This could include speaking engagements, industry panels, education programs or charity initiatives (Maximum 350 words)

6. Show us your business in numbers:

  • Annual turnover for the past two years (income must reflect only your business turnover; do not include income from separate businesses or freelance workers)
  • Net profit for the past two years (minimum £50,000/year required), applicants must demonstrate a minimum net profit (in the previous two years; judges may request evidence at the finalist interview stage)
  • Team retention rates
  • Client retention rates
  • Growth percentage over the past 24 months

Graph example - please note this is only a guideline

  

7. Why should you win this award? Tell us why you deserve to win in a 90-second video (although this can be quickly filmed on your phone, do not underestimate its relevance to judges, as this is where they learn about who you are).

8. Please provide photographs of your salon (a minimum of three photographs, showing interior, exterior and team).

9. Please provide a high-resolution landscape current headshot.

Salon Manager of the Year

If you inspire, empower and motivate a team as a successful salon manager, this is the category for you.

This entry is for an individual managing a single salon, and finalists in this category will be required to attend an interview in January 2027 .

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested. Where requested for the room they should show the room as a whole and not the corner of a couch etc. 
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team images should be the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply and answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

1. Provide a brief overview of your salon, including:

  • How long it has been established
  • How long have you been salon manager
  • Salon size and location
  • Type of clients you cater for

2. Tell us why you deserve to win in a 90-second video (although this can be quickly filmed on your phone, do not underestimate its relevance to judges, as this is where they learn about who you are).

3. What makes you a great manager? Tell us about your strengths and skills as a manager. Provide an overview of your management style, details of how you motivate and develop your team and how you do things differently compared with others. (Maximum 350 words)

4. How has your management style had an impact? Tell us how you have had an impact on the success of the business with a brief case study. Provide an example of how you fixed a problem, created a solution, or changed something for the better. Provide an example of a specific strategy or initiate you personally introduced that contributed to your salon growth. Outline the challenge, what action you took and provide measurable results (financial and/or team related). (Maximum 350 words)

5. Provide an example of how you have helped develop an under-performing team member. Include details of your approach, actions taken and the positive outcome achieved. (Maximum 350 words)

6. How have you evolved your career to stay relevant? Tell us about the ways you have adapted and developed your career to stay up to date and inspired. Include details of ongoing learning and development, industry involvement and personal inspirational sources. (Maximum 350 words)

7. Show us your business in numbers. Please provide:

  • Number of team members (include a breakdown of stylists, apprentices, reception etc)
  • Average weekly turnover (past 12 weeks)
  • Retail sales: Average retail percentage (graph format)
  • Average number of clients per week
  • Average client bill
  • Salon retention rate (new clients)
  • Salon retention rate (all clients)
  • Average rebooking percentage

8. Please provide photographs of your salon and team.

9. Please provide a high-resolution landscape headshot.

Salon of the Year 1 (>450k turnover)

If you’re a single salon with an annual turnover of more than £450k, this is the category for you. This category is open to independently-owned salons, or one salon within a group.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested. Where requested for the room they should show the room as a whole and not the corner of a couch etc.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team images should be the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply and answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

1. Why should you win this award? Tell us why you deserve to win. (Maximum 250 words)

2. How is your salon different? Tell us what makes your salon unique, including a brief overview of your business model, your branding and marketing, and your clients and services. (Maximum 350 words)

3. How do you make your clients feel special? Tell us why your clients love you, including an overview of the customer journey, customer services policies, client benefits, and how you handle complaints. (Maximum 350 words)

4. How do you develop your team? Tell us how you inspire and motivate your team, including an overview of training, assessment and opportunities for growth. (Maximum 350 words)

5. How do you engage with the hairdressing industry? Tell us about the ways you stay inspired and motivated by the industry. Include information about shows, seminars and competitions you and the team have participated in, industry bodies you are a member of, and any other activities that show your ongoing commitment to professional and creative growth. (Maximum 350 words)

6. Show us your business in numbers. Please provide:

  • Turnover of the business for the last two financial years (in graph form)
  • Gross profit for the same period (in graph form)
  • Retail figures for the same period (in graph form)
  • Average number of clients per week
  • Number of team members

7. Please provide high-resolution landscape photographs of your salon.

Salon of the Year 2 (≤ 450k turnover)

If you’re a single salon with an annual turnover of less than or equal to £450k, this is the category for you. This category is open to independently-owned salons, or one salon within a group.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested. Where requested for the room they should show the room as a whole and not the corner of a couch etc.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team images should be the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply and answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

1. Why should you win this award? Tell us why you deserve to win. (Maximum 250 words)

2. How is your salon different? Tell us what makes your salon unique, including a brief overview of your business model, your branding and marketing, and your clients and services. (Maximum 350 words)

3. How do you make your clients feel special? Tell us why your clients love you, including an overview of the customer journey, customer services policies, client benefits, and how you handle complaints. (Maximum 350 words)

4. How do you develop your team? Tell us how you inspire and motivate your team, including an overview of training, assessment and opportunities for growth. (Maximum 350 words)

5. How do you engage with the hairdressing industry? Tell us about the ways you stay inspired and motivated by the industry. Include information about shows, seminars and competitions you and the team have participated in, industry bodies you are a member of, and any other activities that show your ongoing commitment to professional and creative growth. (Maximum 350 words)

6. Show us your business in numbers. Please provide:

  • Turnover of the business for the last two financial years (in graph form)
  • Gross profit for the same period (in graph form)
  • Retail figures for the same period (in graph form)
  • Average number of clients per week
  • Number of team members

7. Please provide high-resolution landscape photographs of your salon.

Salon Stylist of the Year

If you’ve got a full column of loyal clients, a five-star reputation and the skills to match, it’s time to make your mark. This category is open to fully-qualified hairdressers who work full time in a UK salon.

Finalists in this category will be required to attend an interview, in January 2027.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested. Where requested for the room they should show the room as a whole and not the corner of a couch etc.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team images should be the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply and answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

1. Why should you win this award? Tell us why you deserve to win in a 90-second video (can be filmed on your phone).

2. How do you make clients feel special? Tell us about your client’s journey, from consultation through to aftercare and rebooking. How do you stay connected with your clients, and make them feel excited with every appointment? (Maximum 350 words)

3. How are you developing your career? Tell us about the ongoing training you participate in to stay inspired and up-to-date with new techniques and trends. Share courses and qualifications, where relevant. What have you gained from this education, and how is it helping your career progress? (Maximum 350 words)

4. What are your aspirations? Tell us about where you would like to take your career next. What are your plans for growth in the next 12 months, and what are your goals and hopes for the future? Whose career inspires you? (Maximum 350 words)

5. How do you engage with the hairdressing industry? Tell us about the ways you stay inspired and motivated by the industry. Include information about shows, seminars and competitions that you have participated in, industry bodies you are a member of, and any other activities that show your ongoing commitment to professional and creative growth. (Maximum 350 words)

6. Show us your business in numbers. Please provide:

  • Average number of clients per week
  • Average bill
  • Rebooking statistics
  • Monthly upsells, including treatments and technical services
  • New client request figures
  • Retail results, including average client spend

7. Please provide high-resolution landscape headshot and photographs of your salon.

Salon Team of the Year

The team is the backbone of any successful salon business, and this category celebrates teams of three or more employees. You are a tight-knit team who learn and grow together, and work to provide a consistent and all-encompassing five-star experience from start to finish.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality.  They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words. 
  • Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested. Where requested for the room they should show the room as a whole and not the corner of a couch etc.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team images should be the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply and answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

1. Why should you win this award? Tell us why you deserve to win this category. (Maximum 250 words)

2. Who makes up your team? Tell us about your team. Provide an overview of each team member, their unique strengths, and what they contribute to your salon business. (Maximum 350 words)

3. How does your team engage with the hairdressing industry? Tell us about the ways you stay inspired and motivated by the industry. Include information about shows, seminars and competitions the team have participated in, industry bodies you are a member of, and any other activities that show your team’s ongoing commitment to professional and creative growth. (Maximum 350 words)

4. How do you develop your team? Tell us how you have recruited and maintained a successful team, including how you continue to inspire and motivate them. Provide a brief overview of training, team-building and opportunities for growth. (Maximum 350 words)

5. How has your team worked together to face a challenge? Tell us how your team pulled together to tackle a challenge. Provide a short case detailing how you had had to work together to get through a difficult time or find a solution to a problem. (Maximum 350 words)

6. Show us your business in numbers. Please provide:

  • Turnover of the business for the last two financial years (in graph form)
  • Gross profit for the same period (in graph form)
  • Retail figures for the same period (in graph form)
  • Average number of clients per week
  • Number of team members

7.Please provide high-resolution landscape photographs of your team and your salon.

Social Stylist of the Year

Having thousands of followers on social media is one thing, but if you’ve turned your online presence into a thriving salon business, this is the category for you.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality.  They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words. 
  • Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested. Where requested for the room they should show the room as a whole and not the corner of a couch etc.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team images should be the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply and answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

1. Why should you win this award? Tell us why you deserve to win in a 90-second video (can be filmed on your phone).

2. What is your social media strategy? Tell us about your approach to social media. Outline the type of content you create, who your audience is and how you plan and promote your posts to bring the two together. (Maximum 350 words)

3. How does your social media reflect your brand? Tell us how your social media represents your brand (salon or personal). Outline how the content you create for online enhances what you’re doing in person, and how the two work together harmoniously. (Maximum 350 words)

4. How do you keep your social media fresh? Tell us about how you stay inspired and motivated to create relevant, dynamic content that attracts and grows an engaged audience. Where do you get inspired, what education have you undertaken and what tools or platforms do you use to make your content stand out and work hard for you? (Maximum 350 words)

5. What are your most popular posts from the last 12 months? Share your three most popular posts from the last 12 months, on the platform of your choice. Please include:

  • Number of likes and comments for each
  • Number of views for each, if video
  • Reach for each, to date
  • Impressions for each, to date
  • A brief explanation of why you think each post was successful
  • A brief explanation of how each post converted to business (new clients, bookings, followers, product purchases etc.)

6. Show us your business in numbers. Please provide:

  • Follower count for each platform in January 2023 and follower count for each platform today
  • Average monthly reach
  • Average monthly impressions
  • Average number of clients per week

7. Please provide high-resolution landscape headshot and photographs of your salon.

Sustainable Salon of the Year

If sustainability is at the forefront of your business, it’s time to tell the world. This category is open to all salons/barbershops and grooming salons. You’ll have made real, impactful changes to the way your salon/barbershop/grooming salon does things, and seamlessly blend exceptional hair services with more sustainable choices.

Important Information:

  • Although entries reliant on Chat GPT or Al will not be marked down, overuse of Chat GBP or AI can result in entries that feel generic or impersonal. Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words.
  • Our judges value authenticity, personality and individuality. They are not looking for overly polished responses. This entry will be judged on its content, so please answer in your own words. 
  • Please ensure all photos submitted are as requested. Where requested for the room they should show the room as a whole and not the corner of a couch etc.
  • Please do not upload selfies for your headshot, these images should be a professional photograph in your work environment.
  • Team images should be the team together and not individual headshots.
  • Entries will not be submitted to the judging panel where entrants supply and answer of "N/A" to a required question.

Click Enter Now to look at the entry form in more detail.

1. Why should you win this award? Tell us why you deserve to win. (Maximum 250 words)

2. Why is sustainability important to your business? Tell us why you have prioritised sustainability and what prompted you to either make these changes or incorporate them in your business from day one. (Maximum 350 words)

3. How have you made your salon/barbershop/grooming salon more sustainable? Outline some of the ways that you are committed to sustainability, giving examples across all aspects of the business (for example: suppliers, product partners, fit out, recycling and waste). (Maximum 350 words)

4. How do you promote your sustainability to clients and potential clients? Tell us about how you market your green credentials and shout about your sustainability message through marketing, in-house activities and social media. (Maximum 350 words)

5. How have your sustainable changes impacted business? Outline how becoming a more sustainable business has positively impacted your business. This might include business growth and new clients or team members, local partnerships, or publicity and awards. (Maximum 350 words)

6. Show us your business in numbers. Please provide:

  • Estimated costs of any sustainability measures implemented
  • Estimated savings through sustainability measures for the last two years
  • Turnover of the business for the last two financial years (in graph form)
  • Gross profit for the same period (in graph form)
  • Retail figures for the same period (in graph form)

7. Please provide high-resolution landscape photographs of your salon/barbershop/grooming salon.