HairCon reveals 2026 Social Stage programme

HairCon has unveiled the full Social Stage line‑up for 2026, with a programme designed to address the commercial, creative and cultural realities facing today's hair and barbering professionals.

Powered by Fresha and partnered by Phenix Salon Suites, the Social Stage will return as part of HairCon 2026 at Manchester's O2 Victoria Warehouse on14th and 15th June.

Moving away from traditional panel formats, the Social Stage focuses on open, discussion‑led sessions tackling topics such as pricing pressures, burnout, sustainability, digital culture and the rise of independent working. Sessions including The Cost of Staying Busy and Money Talks explore the financial and emotional challenges of running a salon or independent business, with contributors including Charlie Collinge, Jamie Brooks and Jayne Lewis‑Orr. 

The shift towards freelance and flexible careers is addressed in The Rise of the Independent Stylist, while Diversify Your Income, Future Proof Your Business looks at evolving business models and additional revenue streams, with insight from salon and business owners including Jack Mead and Mark Woolley.

Digital culture also features prominently. Is Social Media Still Relevant? brings a debate‑style format to the stage, with Rob Wood and Sarah Louise Keane discussing algorithms, audience growth and digital burnout.

Creative Greats Assemble! brings together established artists to discuss longevity and relevance, while The Making of the Legacy reflects on the influence of Trevor Sorbie MBE and his impact on generations of hair professionals. Rising talent is also spotlighted, with emerging names including Ashleigh Hodges, Chloe Swift and Elle Foreman. 

The Social Stage will also address inclusion, education, wellbeing and technology, with sessions exploring textured hair education, barbering standards, mental wellbeing and the role of AI in the industry.