Editor's comment: why we need to protect the future of the beauty workforce

The future of the beauty workforce has been a cause for concern for some time, so the news this month that some schools are putting barriers in the way of pupils taking vocational courses such as beauty therapy has been met with anger. 

Although schools are obliged to introduce learners to all types of course from a young age, many are preventing this from happening in a bid to keep students on in school for A Levels and access the associated Government funding. We'll be revisiting this topic in the March issue of Professional Beauty too, where London School of Beauty & Makeup principal Jo Harris shares her experiences. 

While this is certainly not the only reason fewer good therapists are entering and remaining in the industry, it’s undoubtedly playing a role. However, as we enter February, the focus on retention becomes even sharper. It is widely recognised as the most popular month for job moves, as the impact of New Year’s resolutions take effect, so our feature in the current (February) issue of the magazine explores how both employers and therapists can take advantage of the more buoyant market, holding on to those staff who are worth keeping, and finding new ways to attract good therapists who are looking to move. 

Creating opportunities for career growth is an important route to staff retention and there are more than ever on offer at Professional Beauty London this month. So, be sure to check out our full preview in the Feb issue, where we reveal all the product innovations and business training at the show. From the new Salon & Spa Networking Lunch to the revamped World Spa & Wellness Convention, PB London brings more opportunites to share the challenges you face every day and learn real-life solutions from the industry’s best. 

The February issue is out now. The print edition is just £37 for an annual 12-issue subscription. Make sure you’re always the first to read the news and trends by subscribing online. This month, you can read the digital issue for free here.