Hair Shows in the UK

The UK is one of the great hairdressing nations, and its hair calendar reflects that. There are big trade shows for stocking up and learning, creative competitions for stylists who want to push themselves, and an awards season that the whole industry looks forward to.

Two shows anchor the year. Salon International at ExCeL London, usually in early October, is a trade only show for hairdressers and barbers with education, competitions and a busy shopping floor. HairCon brings three days of hair and barbering education and trade to O2 Victoria Warehouse in Manchester each June. Tones of Beauty Expo at ExCeL in summer and the Natural Beauty Expo each June add more chances to see hair brands. British Beauty Week fills London with events each October. Then the awards begin: the British Hairdressing Awards in November, the Fellowship Luncheon and Awards in December, and the British Hairdressing Business Awards in March, with the House of Wella TrendVision Award and the L'Oreal Colour Trophy for creative talent.

Every hair show in the UK is listed below with dates, venues and who can attend, so you can plan your learning, shopping and celebrations.

Getting around

ExCeL London has its own stations on the Elizabeth line and the DLR, with direct links to central London and Heathrow. In Manchester, O2 Victoria Warehouse is in Trafford, near Old Trafford, and is easy to reach by Metrolink tram from the city centre. Manchester Airport has fast trains to Manchester Piccadilly. London's awards venues are central and well served by the Underground.

Where to stay

For ExCeL, Royal Victoria Dock hotels are right next to the halls. For HairCon, staying in Manchester city centre gives you a short tram ride to the venue and plenty to do in the evening.

Making the most of UK hair shows

• Bring proof that you work in hair or barbering, as Salon International and HairCon are trade only.
• Book education sessions early; the most popular classes sell out.
• Plan your shopping with a list of colour, tools and styling products your salon needs.
• Stay for the evening events, which are great for meeting other salon owners.