How is the hairdressing market doing?

The hairdressing market is going through a pivotal period. Between national economic challenges and changing consumer habits, it remains one of the key sectors in the service industry. In France, with more than 100,000 businesses across the country and an estimated 3% increase in revenue for 2024, hairdressing continues to attract a diverse clientele. Every year, millions of clients walk into a salon for a haircut or premium hair treatments.

Yet, despite being an essential sector, hairdressing is not immune to economic and societal realities. How is this market evolving, and what opportunities does it present for major players like DESSANGE?

 

Overview of the hairdressing market in France

Despite the economic situation in France, hairdressing remains a cornerstone of the service sector. With over 85,000 establishments, it ranks as the second-largest trade in the personal services industry. The market generates an average annual revenue of nearly 6 billion euros, highlighting its economic significance.

Hair salons are diversifying according to the services they offer:

• Traditional salons
• Franchises
• Barbershops
• Beauty services (facial treatments, nails, makeup, etc.)
• Mobile/at-home hairdressers
• Booth rental (some independent hairdressers rent a booth in an independent salon)

Traditional salons hold the majority market share at 90%, especially among loyal clients, particularly those who seek premium services such as those offered by DESSANGE.

 

DESSANGE Hair Salons

The DESSANGE group embodies French elegance and expertise. With a network of over 1,100 salons (DESSANGE, Camille Albane, and Fantastic Sams) in more than 35 countries, the brand positions itself at the high end of the market, backed by recognized expertise.

DESSANGE salons offer a true client experience marked by excellence and innovation. This positioning allows the group to meet the expectations of even the most demanding clients, 50,000 women get their hair done in a DESSANGE salon every day.

 

Key Trends in Hairdressing

The hairdressing market is evolving under the influence of strong trends that are reshaping consumer expectations and professional practices:

• Digitalization has transformed salon operations. Today, nearly 50% of salons use digital tools to manage appointments or communicate with clients.
• Mobile apps and online booking platforms are becoming more common, simplifying life for both hairdressers and their clients.
• Social media is integral to salon life and their communication strategy (building brand awareness, customer loyalty, client acquisition).

 

Growing Demand

Clients are increasingly seeking personalized services tailored to their needs (coloring, reparative treatments, custom solutions for their hair type, etc.).
This demand for premium services pushes salons to innovate and offer more advanced products and treatments. DESSANGE meets this demand with an exclusive range of treatments and products specifically formulated to address all needs and hair types.

 

Eco-responsibility: Going Natural

Environmental concerns are influencing behavior and consumer awareness, which in turn affects the hairdressing sector. Natural, organic products and sustainable initiatives are winning over clients who are increasingly mindful of the impact of their choices.

At DESSANGE, this commitment is reflected in the effort to reduce the environmental footprint of its salons through three key areas:

1. Promoting equipment that uses less water and energy: LED lighting and water-saving devices.
2. Sourcing eco-designed materials: 80% eco-designed wash stations and chairs, and wooden tables and brushes from sustainably managed forests.
3. Improving waste sorting in salons through the recycling of color tubes, oxidant bottles, aerosols, and cut hair — in all company-owned salons and over 50% of franchised salons.

 

Challenges and Opportunities for Hair Salons

Despite its strengths, the hairdressing market faces several challenges:

• Rising costs, particularly for energy and raw materials, are impacting salon profit margins.
• The growth of mobile/home hairdressing continues, attracting clients with limited mobility.
• Customer retention is becoming a crucial issue in a context where the customer experience is increasingly important.

 

Franchise development remains one of the main opportunities for entrepreneurs, as the advantages and support of a network help minimize the risks associated with starting a business. Innovation in services and the emergence of niche markets also open up new prospects.

 

How Does the DESSANGE Group Address Market Challenges?

Thanks to strong strategies and a vision centered on excellence, the DESSANGE group overcomes market challenges while standing out with its unique positioning:

• Ongoing training: Developing the skills of its hairdressers and staff to ensure impeccable service. Every franchisee receives full support from the moment they join. This training ensures service consistency across the network and compliance with brand standards.
• Service quality: DESSANGE has built its reputation on an uncompromising commitment to quality. This attention to detail is evident in everything, from services offered to personalized salon greetings.
• Premium positioning: In a highly competitive market, DESSANGE’s positioning is a major asset — embodying elegance and luxury, offering a true moment of well-being and beauty.
• Innovation at the heart of the strategy: Whether through salon digitalization, the development of new products, or eco-responsible practices, the group positions itself as a pioneer in its field.
• International reach as a growth lever: The group establishes itself as an ambassador of French expertise abroad.

 

Changing Consumer Expectations and Behaviors

Consumption habits are evolving, with clients increasingly attentive to quality, service, and the experience provided. Several criteria influence the choice of a hair salon: brand image, reputation, geographical proximity, and price transparency.

 

Most In-demand Services

Balayage, coloring, hairstyles for major events (weddings, etc.), and targeted hair treatments continue to be top-requested services. These are more than just services,  they are areas of expertise requiring high technical skill.

At DESSANGE, these services are delivered by qualified, passionate hairdressers who possess uncompromising expertise.

 

Adaptation is Essential to Stay Competitive

Salons must understand evolving client expectations and trends, but also anticipate market developments, with the goal of adjusting strategies to meet demand.

DESSANGE offers a unique client experience, a successful blend of innovation, personalized service, and a luxurious setting.

This commitment to quality enables the group to strengthen its position as a market leader and continue to inspire trust and loyalty.