There’s an adage in the business world that says: “Real leaders are ordinary people with extraordinary determination.” 

Those words of wisdom certainly apply to the hairdressing salon professionals who were recently named winners in the first-ever Global Salon Business Awards in London, England.  “The Awards pay tribute to entrepreneurial salon and spa owners around the globe whose business acumen and notable business accomplishments have had a lasting and positive impact on their local communities as well as their bottom lines,” explains Paula Kent Meehan, the program’s founder.

From May 30 to June 1,2004, winners, judges and other industry icons assembled in London for the official awards presentation plus some, networking, sightseeing and just plain fun!  Using the themes of leadership, structure, creativity, and consistency, the 3-day event featured a stellar lineup that kicked off with a special, Award Winners Welcome Reception at London’s Houses of Parliament. On day one, the Global Salon Business Forum was in high gear with top-drawer business-building presentations held at The British Museum, followed by an evening dinner cruise on the River Thames.

Day two shone a spotlight on creativity, with presentations on the art of Visual Merchandising at Harrods Department Store, a networking session at the London Hilton and an evening champagne and dessert reception at The Design Museum. The education and networking seminar culminated on the last day with additional business-building presentations and a lavish Global Salon Business Awards Banquet hosted by Hollywood TV Personality, Leeza Gibbons. At this gala event, the 81 GLOBAL SALON BUSINESS AWARDS winners were recognized and honored for their entrepreneurial achievements in the following salon services categories:

ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR – Single/Multi Unit
For outstanding performance in all five areas of judging criteria including entrepreneurial spirit, team and client philosophy, marketing and promotional programs and financial productivity. 

MARKETING AND PROMOTION
For branding, image, position, a defined target market and offering the services and products that will appeal to that target consumer. 
 
CLIENT PHILOSOPHY
For outstanding and innovative methods for guaranteeing client satisfaction and loyalty.

TEAM PHILOSOPHY
For strong leadership, and typically warm and rewarding cultures, rich in trust and mutual respect along with a defined process for career development. 
 
FINANCIAL PRODUCTIVITY
For extraordinary financial performance, including a strong return on investment, sales, profitability and the demonstration of continuous growth increases year on year.

ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT
For demonstrating outstanding skills in operating their successful business with entrepreneurial flair and a unique and enthusiastic spirit.

Photography by Alan Diekman.

Click on the individual images to check out the happenings!   

Then visit the GSBA website for the complete list of winner’s and winning categories.