Beauty Trade Shows in Africa

Beauty trade shows in Africa give brands, distributors and salon owners a front row seat in some of the most promising markets in the industry. The calendar is small but strong, with four key fairs spread across the south, west and north of the continent.

In South Africa, Professional Beauty and Salon International Johannesburg is the trade event of the year for salon, spa and clinic teams, held at The Galleria in Sandton each September with competitions, education and a busy exhibition. The Africa International Hair and Beauty Fair, also in Sandton, usually takes place each October and has a strong focus on hair, with competitions and education. Beauty West Africa in Lagos is the main trade fair for West Africa each November, mixing an exhibition with business sessions and conferences. Egy Beauty Africa in New Cairo opens the year each April, connecting suppliers with buyers from Egypt and across the region.

Each beauty trade show in Africa is listed below with dates, venues and who can attend, so you can plan your stand or your buying trip.

Getting to the shows

For the Johannesburg fairs, the Gautrain runs from O.R. Tambo International Airport to Sandton station, close to both Sandton Convention Centre and The Galleria. Lagos is served by Murtala Muhammed International Airport, and Cairo International Airport is the nearest gateway for the Egypt International Exhibition Center in New Cairo.

Where to stay

Sandton is the easiest base for the South African shows, with many hotels near the venues. In Cairo, New Cairo and Heliopolis are convenient for the exhibition centre.

Tips for trade visitors

• Professional Beauty and Salon International Johannesburg is trade only, so register in advance with your business details.
• Bring product samples and price lists if you are exhibiting, as many visitors buy on the spot.
• Plan time to meet local distributors, who know the import and registration rules for each market.