What Labour’s election win means for the UK beauty industry

After Labour’s landslide victory in 4 July’s general election, beauty industry bodies have commented on what it may mean for the sector…

Labour has committed to introduce legislation for its ‘New Deal for Working People’ within the first 100 days of being in government, writing on its website that it plans to ‘boost wages, make work more secure and support working people to thrive – delivering a genuine living wage, banning exploitative zero hour contracts, and ending fire and rehire.’

The British Association of Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology (BABTAC) has analysed Labour’s manifesto, noting that there is a focus on small business growth and stability. Labour has pledged to cap corporation tax at the current level of 25% and retain the annual investment allowance for small businesses.

Apprentices are considered in the party’s manifesto, with plans to introduce a growth and skills levy, to replace the apprenticeships levy.

The party has also pledged to create publicly owned company, Great British Energy, designed to tackle the impact of soaring energy prices on homes and businesses and put in place tougher regulation for existing energy companies.

Lesley Blair MBE

Lesley Blair MBE, CEO of BABTAC and the Confederation of International Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology (CIBTAC), comments: “While a change of guard can bring uncertainty, it also presents the perfect opportunity to align and offer our extensive expertise and experience.

“We will ensure we offer our support to the incoming Labour government to assist them in delivering on their manifesto promises – especially those identified as being beneficial to our industry and members – as well as advising them on additional important matters affecting our sector directly.”

Victoria Brownlie MBE

Victoria Brownlie MBE, chief policy and sustainability officer at the British Beauty Council (BBCo), adds: “As leaders in legislative change, the BBCo is looking forward to collaborating with policy makers, civil servants and industry representatives to support growth, influence and resilience of all sectors.

“As the organisation enters its next phase, with a new roadmap imminent, we are committed to working with the government to secure policy change that is in the best interests of businesses within our dynamic industry and those who work within it.”

Labour has assured the British Beauty Council of its intention to engage on skills and vocational education, the apprenticeship levy and reviewing business rates policy. Before the general election, the Council set out key policy objectives for the next government.