NOCO Hair named as entrepreneurial star in HJ’s British Hairdressing Business Awards 2020

Even in the face of adversity this year, independent salon NOCO Hair in Bristol has not only weathered the storm but has been recognised as a finalist for two awards in HJ’s British Hairdressing Business Awards 2020.

The Independent Salon Business - Newcomer of the Year award, recognises the top six British hairdressing entrepreneurs who have made their business dream a reality and launched a successful salon. The category is open to owners of newly established independent salons which are less than two years old.

Though this year hasn’t been without its challenges for hairdressers, NOCO Hair captured the attention of a host of industry judges with its all-round brilliance, securing a place as one of six companies in the UK now in reach of winning the Salon of the Year 2 award, sponsored by L’Oréal Professionnel. The category celebrates a single independent venture with an annual turnover of less than £350,000 that is excelling in all aspects of business.

Showing strength across the board, NOCO stood out for its proven business growth, customer care and marketing strategy, as well as its understanding of how to deal with complaints. Further setting them apart was the salon’s training policy, and their eye for assessing performance and making improvements.

HJ’s British Hairdressing Business Awards, now in its 22nd year, promote professionalism, innovation and excellence, while recognising those individuals and teams who work tirelessly to raise the profile of the hairdressing industry and make it attractive to new entrants while keeping it at the forefront of the mind of the consumer.

Noel Halligan and Corey Taylor who run NOCO Hair impressed a host of industry judges with their business plan, and how aims and objectives translated into evidenced success after the company’s inception.

Commenting on the announcement, Jayne Lewis-Orr, executive director of HJ’s British Hairdressing Business Awards said; “This year has required hair salon owners to adapt, think creatively and showcase tremendous amounts of resilience. For new businesses, I can only imagine how nerve wrecking the last few months have been, but to be named as a finalist in both the Independent Salon - Business Newcomer of the Year and Salon of the Year categories confirms just how exceptional NOCO is.

They have clearly poured their heart and soul into building their business from the ground up, a mark of incredible entrepreneurial flair. It is no wonder that NOCO Hair attracted so much attention with their entry because it was full of individuality founded on brave and brilliant business structure and marketing ideas. We wish them the best of luck.”

On hearing of their success, Noel and Corey say: “Opening a salon has been one of the most challenging things we’ve ever done. But seeing our ideas pan out to the point of reaching the finals of these awards just makes our achievements feel that much greater. It’s been an incredible journey of seeing what we are capable of creatively and practically, and I’ve grown so much as a leader.”

NOCO Hair will find out if they have achieved the top spot at an awards evening on Monday 25th January at the London Hilton on Park Lane.

Currently there are now more than 43,000 hair and beauty businesses in the UK, following a 45% increase over the past five years. It is reported that hair and beauty businesses also have higher survival rates after five years than many other sectors.* It’s easy to see why the appointment books of UK salons are now full for the next few months following the nationwide lockdown and it is clear that the value of a professional service is held in high regard.

For a list of all finalists visit: https://www.hji.co.uk/british-hairdressing-business-awards/british-hairdressing-business-awards-2020-finalists/ and for further details about the awards please visit www.hji.co.uk/hjs-british-hairdressing-business-awards/