Nail Expos in the UK

The UK nail scene is creative, competitive and full of talent, and its events go well beyond shopping. Nail expos here mix trade floors with education, competitions and awards, so there is something for new techs and seasoned educators alike.

Nailympia London is the highlight, usually in early October at ExCeL London, with free entry, international competitions and a nail trade area. Professional Beauty London each October and Tones of Beauty Expo at the start of summer bring large nail sections to the same venue. For a smaller, community feel, Niche Nail Network fills a day in Solihull each April and Nailtopia comes to Sheffield each September, both with trade and education. Young techs can aim for the nail element of the WorldSkills UK Beauty Therapist National Final in Cardiff each November. Nail talent is also recognised at the Scratch Stars Awards, the Professional Beauty Awards in February and the CEW UK Beauty Awards in March.

Every nail expo in the UK is listed below with dates, venues and who can attend, so you can plan your year of learning, buying and competing.

Getting around

ExCeL London is on the Elizabeth line and the DLR, which makes it easy to reach from anywhere in London and from Heathrow. Solihull sits next to Birmingham, with Birmingham Airport close by, and Sheffield and Cardiff both have direct trains from London.

Where to stay

Royal Victoria Dock hotels are next to ExCeL and handy for an early start. For the regional events, a city centre hotel gives you easy access to restaurants and the station.

Tips for nail techs

• Pre register for free trade tickets where they are offered.
• Bring a wheeled case and a budget for show offers.
• Watch a Nailympia competition to see top level technique up close.
• Book classes in advance at the smaller expos, as places are limited.