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VICTORY FOR EPPING! GEMMA MIDWINTER, HOB SALONS WAS NAMED WINNER AT THE COVETED BRITISH HAIRDRESSING BUSINESS AWARDS 2025!
Celebrations were in full swing last night as Gemma Midwinter from HOB Salons Epping was crowned winner of the Manager of the Year award at this year’s prestigious British Hairdressing Business Awards, hosted at the iconic Royal Lancaster London.
Taking home the top spot in the Manager of the Year category sponsored by Goldwell, Gemma impressed the judges who said:
"Gemma is a dynamic and driven leader whose passion for high standards and team development is at the heart of her management style. Her clear, direct approach - balanced with empathy - has fostered an incredibly strong, stable team culture with impressive financial growth and minimal staff turnover. With a strong grasp of business frameworks and a focus on quality over quantity, Gemma consistently delivers results while championing individual progress and team collaboration. Her hands-on leadership and commitment to continuous improvement make her a standout salon manager and a true asset to the industry."
Reflecting on the win, Gemma Midwinter from HOB Salons said:
‘’I’m beyond grateful and honoured to have received the Salon Manager of the Year award. This recognition means the absolute world to me, not just as a milestone in my career, but as a reflection of the hard work, passion, and dedication I pour into what I do every single day. Leading a fantastic team, supporting our Amazing clients, and growing together has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey, this award is for all of us.’’
Natasha Grossman, CEO of HOB Salons, added:
"Gemma’s win is a brilliant reflection of what strong, consistent leadership can achieve. She has built a culture in Epping that delivers results, retains talent, and provides an exceptional client experience. What stands out most is her ability to drive performance while maintaining the values and standards that matter to our business. We’re proud to see her recognised at this level, it’s a huge achievement and one she’s worked incredibly hard for."
From industry leaders to rising stars, the night brought together the crème de la crème of British hairdressing to honour innovation, resilience, and brilliance in business. The event, hosted by Ben Shephard, featured emotional speeches, game-changing insights, and electric energy from start to finish. This year’s awards were judged by an expert hairdressing panel, who brought invaluable industry knowledge and insight to the process. Winners of the British Hairdressing Business Awards receive not only the industry’s highest accolade – a coveted trophy – but also a year of profile-boosting editorial coverage across Hairdressers Journal International magazine and its platforms, securing recognition both nationally and globally.
Gemma’s victory is not only a personal triumph but a shining moment for the Epping community and local business. Their success highlights the vital role salons play in keeping high streets vibrant, creating jobs, and delivering a sense of community with outstanding service.
Jayne Lewis-Orr, Executive Director of HJ’s British Hairdressing Business Awards, said:
‘’We’re incredibly proud to be part of an industry that blends creativity, resilience, and community impact in such powerful ways. These awards not only honour the passion and innovation that drive our sector forward but also celebrate the essential role salons play on our high streets — creating jobs, supporting local economies, and offering truly personal service that online alternatives can’t replicate. Each winner stands out as a shining example of excellence, showing what’s possible when talent meets dedication. Their achievements inspire us all and remind us why this industry is so special."
