Irish Hairdressers Federation Join March to Leinster House As Rising Costs Threaten Businesses

Salon owners join other small business leaders at rally calling for government support

by MADDI | INDUSTRY NEWS

Salon owners from across Ireland joined the Irish Hairdressers Federation (IHF) outside Leinster House to protest the financial pressures facing small businesses following Budget 2025. The rally, which brought together SMEs across various industries, voiced concerns over rising costs, impacting small business owners nationwide. 

Timed during the Dáil session, the protest featured salon owners and supporters with placards reading “Save Our Salons”. Lisa Eccles, IHF president, highlighted unsustainable cost increases, from VAT and wage hikes to new statutory demands. Eccles pointed to the success of the 9% VAT rate in 2011, contrasting it with today’s 13.5% VAT rate and additional financial burdens.  

“Past government initiatives like VAT 9, which was introduced in 2011, were proven to be among the most successful measures they had implemented,” said Lisa. “In 2018, the government published their own report showcasing how this initiative increased employment, helped people open businesses, and encouraged entrepreneurship.” 

While the IHF supports enhanced employee benefits, they argue that recent government policies lack consultation with salon representatives or SMEs. The protest underscored the IHF’s call for reforms, such as SME representation on the Labour Employer Engagement Forum (LEEF) and adjusted tax, PRSI and VAT measures. 

The IHF thanked salon owners who attended, emphasising the urgency of supporting small businesses to sustain the economy. As a member of the SME Alliance, the IHF continues to advocate for policies that recognise the contributions of SMEs.