DAY TWO: THE WORKING LUNCH #SalonSmart19

Brains full of the morning’s words of absolute wisdom but bellies in need of a topping up – it was time for The Working Lunch, 90 minutes of non-stop networking with leading hair and business brands, with a side order of tasty food to devour during discussions…

L’Oréal Professionnel introduced their recently renovated iconic styling collection TECNI.ART (who could miss the jumbo sized Pli and new production innovation Ring Light!). The brand’s heavily revered app Style My Hair Pro was there to be experienced and enjoyed – a 100 per cent colour consultation tool dedicated to salons and set to transform the salon experience.

Drawing a crowd was Salon Success’ GIF booth with selfies in full swing but that’s of course not all they had to offer – on showcase was their plethora of professional brands including Unite, Matrix, Kenra, #MYDENTITY, Celeb Luxury, Paul Mitchell and OLAPLEX. 3·6·5 was also on hand with some business coaching advice on team retention, increasing profits and working on your business instead of in it.

There was a prize draw to win front-of-house training and an iPad, worth over £1,000 at Mutu’s stand – which went to Liz Bailey from Pruners in Haywards Heath! The brand demonstrated Salon Call Manager, which ensures you never miss a client call again – software trusted by the biggest industry names from Nicky Clarke to Trevor Sorbie and Charlie Miller.

Unveiling two global debuts at Salon Smart, INNOluxe V2 was introduced to delegates alongside INNOluxe Platinum, setting a new standard in toning shampoos, conditioners and masks. In an exclusive sneak peek, they also showcased a new in-salon treatment that provides phenomenal repair…but sorry as the first rule dictates, we can’t talk about it…

The Mindbody team were on hand to discuss salon management and how their software handles day-to-day tasks so the salon team are free to focus on clients. Demonstrations were given including all new marketing features, reporting suite and the Mindbody app.

Drawn to the beautiful packaging and brushes on display, at Kent Salon’s stand, delegates had the opportunity to see the impressive range of 19 designs crafted especially for professionals plus could take advantage of an exclusive offer – a free retail unit and acrylic stand with the purchase of 36 brushes.

There’s was never a quiet moment for team Prostyles. Live demos on how to blend colours and perfect near invisible bonds drew a crowd, as did the wide array of human extensions and speciality after-care products on display.

Building reputation with verified customer reviews was the order of the day on the Treatwell stand. Delegates could get started with a system demo, free consultation and no-sign-up fee package that has the potential to grow business by 44 per cent.

SalonIQ showcased why their marketing and management system is trusted by the UK’s best salons, They discussed transformative features including multi-site and group technology, mobile and online booking, automated email and text, marketing and lost client reactivation.

NHF/NBF provided priceless advice covering employment, tax support, VAT and payroll – identifying why joining their organisation can aid in running a professional and success business plus benefits like exclusive discounts on insurance, guides, training and coaching.

Lunch over and leads to last way beyond the event sorted, it was back to the Ballroom to kick-off afternoon sessions with team Trevor Sorbie…