2011 innovation of the year: cloud nine
With 50 years experience in the hairdressing industry, Robert Powls, founder of Cloud Nine, has firmly established himself as an innovator of revolutionary new creations.
We caught up with Robert to find out about how he made the transition from hairdresser of the year to entrepreneur to winner of the Innovation of the Year at HJ's 2011 British Hairdressing Business Awards.
How did you make the transition from hairdresser to entrepreneur?
Throughout my hairdressing career I was always entrepreneurial, working with the latest products and ideas which came along but it wasn't until I developed the world's first ceramic straightening iron in Korea that things became serious - that was the start of my first company, ghd.
How did you go about making The O a reality?
My initial idea of creating the world first instant heated roller system, The O, took more than three years to develop. I used the best experts in induction technology, design and manufacturing. it was truly ground breaking and we were told by many it was impossible to do but that didn't deter me and here we are today!
Could any hairdresser with a good idea bring their product to life?
Yes, I believe any hairdresser with a good idea could bring their product to life and I know of many examples of great ideas coming out of our industry.
We are the people who truly know hair and what our clients need, unlike some big product companies who only look at what will make them the most money. But you have to be 100% focused on your idea as the vast majority become pipe dreams when the day job takes priority.
What makes The O a great invention?
The O was born in the UK and developed in the UK. It is not a product designed for the mass market so I was able to create exactly what I wanted without compromise. This has allowed The O to be so innovative and achieve the volume and curling results everyone is craving.
What other recent inventions do you admire?
Like millions of others, I love my Apple products and think they are great inventions but I think the way Dyson completely re-invented the vacuum industry is amazing. Twenty years ago we were all happy with mediocre poor performing and out of date products, look at this industry now - hairdressing can be the same.
Have you got any other ideas up your sleeve?
Of course! We are always looking for creative and innovative new products, but for now they are top secret! Stay tuned!
