Alberto has visited a long-standing Blaby hair salon to meet with salon owner Sue Davis and discuss the mounting pressure being placed on the hairdressing industry by the Chancellor’s latest tax reforms.
Sue Davis, a respected figure in the local business community, has worked in the hairdressing industry for over 30 years and has run several salons in Blaby. Her current salon remains a much-loved fixture in the town.
During the visit, Mr Costa heard first-hand how the Chancellor’s tax increases are impacting small businesses like Sue’s—particularly when it comes to hiring new staff and supporting apprenticeships.
“Hairdressers across the country are facing the increase in prices, the increase in all our taxes, affecting our ability to be able to employ young members to grow their futures and get their careers going,” Sue explained.
The visit comes in the wake of growing national concern from hairdressing professionals and industry bodies. A recent report warned that hairdressing apprenticeships could face extinction under Labour’s new tax proposals, with salons hit by higher costs and reduced VAT refunds.
Alberto committed to raising these concerns in Parliament by calling on ministers to reconsider the impact of these policies on vital local businesses.
“We want Sue Davis and good businesses like hers across the country to stay in business and keep bringing in apprenticeships.” Said Mr Costa.
Alberto continued: “The government must stop piling pressure on small businesses with blanket tax hikes that threaten jobs, training opportunities, and the local economy.”
Sue Davis recently joined fellow hairdressers from across the UK at a protest outside Parliament, calling on Chancellor Rachel Reeves to scrap the reforms that could see many salons forced to close their doors.
