To mark New Year’s Eve we’re celebrating some of the industry’s successes from 2025.
Published:Andrew Barton Appointed as NAK Hair European Brand Ambassador
Renowned for his creativity and bold ideas, Andrew has been at the top of the industry over four decades. From winning British Hairdresser of the Year and receiving an Honorary Doctor of the Arts by Southampton Solent University for his services to hairdressing, Andrew brings vast, and varied experience to his new role at Australia’s number one haircare brand.
“I’m thrilled to have been appointed as NAK Hair European Brand Ambassador and look forward to working with the NAK Hair team & hairdresser community creatively, educationally and supporting the brands PR and Marketing campaigns. My signature hair work just like NAK Hair is known for its timeless beauty, luxury and vitality and that’s why I chose to work with NAK Hair”, – Andrew.
Australian owned and made, NAK Hair is loved by salons globally with over 13,000 salon partners, and takes sustainability seriously… its products are vegan, cruelty free, eco-friendly and a One Tree Planted partner.
“Andrew joins us at a pivotal moment for NAK Hair, helping to elevate our vision and presence across international markets with true artistry and authority,”
– Hannah Cash, Chief Marketing Office.
More Info: INSTA @andrew_barton_hair, and @nakhairuki
Efi Davies is the NEW British Hairdresser
Congrats to TONI&GUY International Artistic Director Efi Davies who was named 2025 British Hairdresser of the Year at the glittering British Hairdressing Awards event in London, sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional.
Winning a British Hairdressing Awards is one of the greatest accolades in our industry. Efi, who won the award on her first nomination, also took home the Avant Garde Hairdresser of the Year title for the third time and is now a member of the prestigious Hall of Fame for having won the category three times.
“I can’t believe it, I was honoured to be nominated and to win this is amazing! Huge thanks to Sacha Mascolo-Tarbuck and my TONI&GUY family for all the support you’ve given me. My collection was all about collaboration with photographer David Mannah, make-up by Lan Nguyen-Grealis and styling by Borna Prikaski. This is dedicated to my daughter, and my mama who helps me look after my daughter which means I can do this. This is for all the mamas out there!”
– Efi.
More Info: INSTA @efidavies.
Phorest Celebrates 10 Years Client Experience Awards
What began in 2015 as a simple but powerful idea in recognising outstanding client care, has evolved into a global celebration of the businesses that consistently deliver five-star experiences.
The CEAs are based on verified client reviews collected through Phorest’s inbuilt system. There are no panels, votes, or applications, only genuine client experiences, shared in their own words. To qualify, businesses must maintain a minimum average rating of 4 out of 5 stars across a full calendar year.
An unprecedented number of salons worldwide earned the honour in 2025. This includes long-standing five-star winners such as Jardines Face & Body Clinic in Clondalkin. They’ve managed to hold onto their rating for ten years!
“These awards don’t rely on entries or nominations; they’re earned through the everyday moments that matter to clients. Reaching ten years feels significant because it shows just how consistent and people-focused our industry is. The UK and Irish winners leading the way this year are a testament to the power of putting the client first, every single day,”
– Luke Doolin, Phorest’s UK & Ireland Country Manager.
As the awards move into their second decade, the vision remains rooted in recognition, community, and celebrating the people who make this industry shine.
More Info: INSTA @phorestsalonsoftware.
Inverness Destination Salon KIKU Celebrates Successful First Year in Business
As Inverness continues to develop as a hub for creativity and quality, one salon has spent its first year setting a new standard for hairdressing both in the Highlands and in Scotland. KIKU Salon, which opened in November 2024 by owners Paul Ralph and Hiro Kudo, was founded on a clear philosophy: to listen. The name ‘kiku’ is actually taken from the Japanese verb meaning to listen.
“Listening sounds simple, but it changes everything. It allows us to understand people properly, clients, staff, the community, and that builds trust ,” – Hiro.
Rather than pushing rapid expansion, the team have allowed the salon to develop steadily.
“We never wanted to rely on discounts or gimmicks. We’ve built the salon through consistency and word of mouth, and that feels authentic to who we are,”
– Paul.
The first year has also been defined by building the right team. Together, they have brought in talent from across Scotland, blending barbering expertise and local knowledge with emerging talent.
Looking ahead, both founders feel clearer than ever about their direction. A planned refit in early 2026 will allow them to enhance the client experience and expand their space, while maintaining the calm, considered environment they have become known for. Education and a second salon remain future goals, but only when the timing feels right.
More Info: @kiku_salon.
