British Hairdressing Business Awards

Francesco Hair Salons and FG Apprenticeships, based at Francesco Hair Academy Poole, is celebrating after being named one of the UK’s best Educator of the Year, securing a coveted finalist spot in HJ’s British Hairdressing Business Awards 2025.

Recognised for its Outstanding Ofsted accreditation, family values and hunger for providing students with the very best enriched and full hairdressing education, Francesco Hair Salons is one of just 6 finalists shortlisted for the Educator of the Year, sponsored by Wella Professionals – a category that celebrates outstanding dedication to education, innovation, and the inspiring advancement of skills within the hairdressing industry.

Now in its 27th year, HJ’s British Hairdressing Business Awards shine a spotlight on the professionalism, innovation and sheer excellence of those working tirelessly to elevate the hairdressing industry. These awards celebrate individuals and teams who continue to push boundaries, inspire future talent, and keep the UK hairdressing scene vibrant and influential on the world stage.

On being named a finalist, Ben Dellicompagni, Managing Director for FG Apprenticeships from Francesco Hair Salons, said:

“At Francesco Hair Salons, our training doesn’t just meet industry standards — it sets new ones. We align everything to the real needs of our salons and their clients, creating a pathway for apprentices to grow from promising talent to industry leaders. If you want to be one of the best, this is where you start. Our team is absolutely thrilled to be shortlisted and we can’t wait for awards night!”

Jayne Lewis-Orr, Executive Director of HJ’s British Hairdressing Business Awards, commented:

“Our awards not only celebrate passion, creativity and innovation, but also highlight the vital role salons play in supporting thriving local high streets. In 2025, more than ever, hairdressing businesses are at the heart of our communities — driving local economies, creating jobs, and offering personal, high-quality services that online alternatives simply can’t replicate. Every finalist has demonstrated outstanding business excellence, resilience and dedication to delivering a standout client experience.”

Wella Professionals added:

“We are proud to sponsor the Educator of the Year, a category that showcases those who are not just keeping pace with the industry, but leading the way.”

Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Monday 7th July 2025 at the iconic Royal Lancaster, London – a night that promises to be a true celebration of industry brilliance.

About Francesco Hair Salons
Francesco Hair Salon has been a leader in the hairdressing industry for over 56 years, known for their innovative training, dedication to customer service, and commitment to family values. With 38 salons and academies across the UK, Francesco continues to set the standard for excellence in hairdressing.

Press Enquiries, Interviews, or Further Information Contact:
Carly Roberts, Social Media and Marketing Executive
Website: francescohair.salon

Awards Links
For a full list of this year’s finalists, visit:
https://hji.co.uk/british-hairdressing-business-awards-2025-finalists-revealed

For more information about the awards, go to:
www.hji.co.uk/hjs-british-hairdressing-business-awards/

Awards Media Enquiries
Oonagh Bottalico – oonagh@littlelightpr.com Louise Curran – louise@littlelightpr.com

There are 17 Award Categories in the British Hairdressing Business Awards:

• Assistant of the Year, sponsored by Blonde Solutions
• Barbershop/Grooming Salon of the Year
• Business Director of the Year, sponsored by Hairdressers Journal International
• Customer Service Award, sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional
• Educator of the Year, sponsored by Wella Professionals
• Franchisee of the Year, sponsored by Great Lengths
• Independent Salon/Business Newcomer of the Year, sponsored by Paul Mitchell
• Innovation of the Year, sponsored by GLOWWA
• Manager of the Year, sponsored by KAO Salon Division
• Marketing Campaign of the Year, sponsored by Exo-Grow by Dermaceuticals
• Salon Design Award, sponsored by Dyson Professional
• Salon of the Year 1 (turnover more than £350,000), sponsored by Vagaro
• Salon of the Year 2 (turnover less than £350,000), sponsored by L’Oréal Professionnel Paris
• Salon Stylist of the Year, sponsored by Revlon Professional
• Social Team of the Year, sponsored by Alan Howard
• Social Stylist of the Year
• Sustainable Salon of the Year, sponsored by Authentic Beauty Concept