Nail Trade Shows in the UK

For nail technicians, the UK trade calendar is all about getting hands on with products: testing new gels, picking up tools at show prices and watching top educators work live.

The biggest nail moment is early October at ExCeL London, when Nailympia London brings competitions, awards and a dedicated nail trade floor, with free entry. Professional Beauty London, also at ExCeL each October, has a strong nail area within a much larger beauty show, and Tones of Beauty Expo adds another ExCeL date at the start of summer. Two specialist events keep things close to home: Niche Nail Network is a one day trade and education event in Solihull each spring, and Nailtopia brings nail brands and education to The Steamworks in Sheffield each September. Between them, these shows cover everything from builder gel to nail art, with plenty of chances to learn and network.

Every nail trade show in the UK is listed below with dates, venues and who can attend, so you can plan your shopping trips and classes for the year.

Getting there

ExCeL London has its own stations on the Elizabeth line and the DLR, so it is easy to reach from central London and Heathrow. Solihull is next to Birmingham, and Birmingham Airport is close by. Sheffield is on the main rail line from London and the north.

Where to stay

For ExCeL shows, hotels around Royal Victoria Dock keep you next to the halls. For the Midlands and Sheffield events, a city centre hotel gives you the best choice of places to eat after a long day on the floor.

Tips for nail professionals

• Make a shopping list and a budget; show offers are tempting.
• Bring a wheeled case for products and tools.
• Register early for free trade tickets where available.
• Watch the competitions at Nailympia London even if you are not entering; it is a great way to pick up techniques.