Could you win our salon innovation award?

Lisa Shepherd won the salon Innovation Award at HJ's 2014 British Hairdressing Business Awards for her Color Bar concept. The judges called her entry 'truly innovative and something that has shaken up the industry as whole' - but what did winning do for her business? We find out. Why did you enter the British Hairdressing Business Awards? Putting the entry together made me really think hard about what makes me proud, and the amazing new concept that is driving the business forward. My innovation began with a problem which needed solving, when, as a busy mum, I needed a quick root cover-up before a big meeting. I dropped off the kids, dashed into the salon, FLUNG myself in a chair, got the nearest colourist in the salon to bang in half a dozen well-placed foils. Job done, an hour later I’m on my way to my meeting - spruced up and ready to face the world again! If that happens to me, I felt pretty sure it was happening to millions of women up and down the country every day. It got me thinking… What is the value of entering the Business Awards? It definitely makes all the hard work doubly worth it to get an industry seal of approval. Even just getting through to the finals increases awareness of the concept and encourages the debate on the idea. I know not everyone agrees with it, but winning the award gets people talking and thinking about their businesses and that can only be a good thing. How did it feel to win Innovation of the Year? I’m ecstatic. So much hard work, dedication and devotion has gone into the Express Color Bar. Winning the awards just goes to show what can happen if you truly believe in something. It’s all about the client for us and we do everything with genuine love. To be recognised by the most important people in the industry is incredible. What has your win done for the business? Being able to say we offer an award winning, innovative service really give clients confidence in the salon, and most importantly, my business. We can shout about our win which encourages new clients but also keeps current clients loyal, not to mention the boost and buzz it gives the staff. The judges said... "Loved the concept and the bold branding. Clear revenue metrics and national coverage demonstrate its success clearly." "A great example of taking a risk and launching something truly innovative that has shaken up the industry as whole." "This is an idea that has spread nationally and has been a great recession-beater for salons." "So refreshing to see a hybrid of a product and a service. Lisa is clearly serving a client need and a salon need too. It's an idea that can be easily duplicated too." Think your innovation could win the prize this year? Download your entry form today!