Impact of Covid-19 and cancelled appointments on hairdressers

Kymmie Richardson launched Classic Cuts in the summer of 2020 but experienced “one of the worst months” for her business at the end of last year, with 18 cancellations and seven no-shows in December alone.

The 47-year-old, from Haxton, has blamed this on fear of Covid-19, rising cases and the latest Omicron variant.

The lack of custom during the festive season has had “a massive impact” on her salon, and Kymmie, self-employed, said this is the same for several other businesses in the hair and beauty sector.

'We've missed our main month'

“As far as the hairdressing industry goes, December is our month, but it has been absolutely terrible. Covid-19 has put the fear in everybody,” Kymmie told the Journal.

“We’ve had immense support from the community, I couldn’t be more grateful, they’re the reason I’m still here, but it has been difficult as we’ve missed our main month. This has in fact been one of the worst months.

“I understand why people have cancelled, but December is usually the month we know we’re alright so in January we can pay the bills.”

Decline in customers 

As well as carrying the business through a quieter January, Kymmie said that profits made in December are used on electricity, products, and the specific requirements of her customers.

The three lockdowns have caused a decline in customers too, Kymmie believes, as clients are unsure of the best times to visit their hairdresser, in case more restrictions are announced, as well as realising their hair can last a bit longer or can be done by themselves.

Hair and beauty businesses 'left in limbo' 

Kymmie now wants the hair and beauty industry to receive more recognition for its work during the pandemic, and more clarity on what’s to come in the new year.

She said: “We previously fought to be considered essential but now we’re back on the back burner.

“There are so many businesses affected by this, it’s not just me. During Christmas my hours used to be flat out but now I find myself doing nothing.

“We’re such a huge part of the community that is affected by this, it is really hard but we love our jobs and love making people feel good.

“What we do is so good for your wellbeing so we need to continue being available to those who need us, just as much as retail and hospitality."

Inside Classic Cuts in Haxton - Picture from Classic Cuts Facebook

“[Hair and beauty] businesses are getting left behind and it’s just really sad to see. We’re left in limbo and we have no idea what will happen in the new year," Kymmie continued.

“It has been a hard few years, and the industry just needs more recognition because of that.”

Keep booking appointments

Kymmie highlighted the support of Phil Collins and the hairdressing community HairUncut for their support throughout the pandemic, and is urging customers to continue booking appointments.

“I will keep going for as long as I can but some people just can’t keep working like this,” she added.

“We’re safe, secure and we do our utmost to offer that lovely but safe experience.”

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