In terms of geographical distribution of hairdressing salons, there are no known national or regional variations, other than those linked with density or structure of population (e.g. African Caribbean hairdressing tends to be concentrated in London, Liverpool, Cardiff and Birmingham).

There may also be travelling difficulties affecting distribution of salons in remoter parts of the UK and in these areas salons and hairdressers may be less likely to have entries in the trade directories.

However, there are differences in the weekly expenditure on hair and beauty treatment. The highest expenditure is in South-East England and London (£3.20) and lowest in the North-East (£1.90). This, combined with the higher density of population in the South-East of England, leads to the conclusion that a high proportion of the turnover for hairdressing and beauty therapy is located in London and the South-East.

Wages in this sector are considerably higher in London and South-East England and generally higher in cities than in rural areas.

Source: HABIA 2002