How To Run a Successful Hair Salon Business
As a motivational speaker and on-camera host, I’m passionate about creating meaningful conversations that inform, inspire, and empower, especially when it comes to spotlighting Black women in business in the UK. That’s exactly what happened in my recent interview with Abbey Osho, the dynamic founder of Salon ABV, one of the UK’s leading Black-owned hair salons.
In this powerful conversation, Abbey and I dive deep into what it really takes to build and sustain a successful salon business, especially as a Black woman navigating an industry where representation is still alarmingly low. With over 35,000 registered hair salons in the UK, less than 1% cater to Afro-Caribbean hair a sobering statistic that speaks volumes about the challenges Black communities face when trying to access culturally competent hair care and professional growth within the industry.
From our very first exchange, Abbey’s warmth and honesty set the tone for a refreshingly transparent discussion. As a seasoned speaker, I know how to guide conversations that bring out the real stories behind success and Abbey delivered just that. She shared candid insights about the day-to-day realities of running a salon, including essential tips on PR and marketing, managing customer service, handling finances, and delivering quality care that keeps clients coming back.
One of the most impactful parts of our conversation was unpacking the emotional and economic weight of being a Black woman in business. Abbey’s journey reminded us that resilience, creativity, and strategy are essential ingredients not only for survival, but for true excellence in an industry that has historically overlooked Black talent and needs.
As the host, my role was to not only ask the right questions but to create a space where honesty and learning could shine. This is why when I’m leading a live audience or facilitating interviews on camera, I bring energy, empathy and clarity making sure the conversation stays engaging, informative and deeply relevant.
This interview isn’t just about hair, it’s about entrepreneurship, leadership and legacy. Abbey’s story is a blueprint for aspiring salon owners, beauty professionals and any woman striving to turn her passion into a thriving business.
If you're looking for real-world business tips, insight into the UK’s Black hair industry or a reminder of how powerful women can be when they lead with both heart and hustle this interview is for you.
Abbey Osho is a formidable award-winning hair entrepreneur with a thriving hair business in South East England. For years she had a successful career as a housing practitioner but knew that it was not her life’s calling. In 2003 she moved to Dartford, Kent an area with little to no services for ethnic minority communities at the time and was inspired by the gap in the market. In 2010 Abbey opened her first Hair salon Salon ABV. The business has been featured by Black Beauty & Hair magazine, Blackhair magazine, Brownbeautytalk online magazine and MelaninMindsoul Blog. Salon ABV has won Chemical Treatment of the year 2014 & kids haircare of the year 2016 at the NoScrunchie Good Afro Salon awards which is a reflection of the level of customer care that the business has developed over the years. The salon regularly hosts hair and wig care seminars and workshops and is becoming a central hub for Afro/Mixed race and curly textured hair in South East England and beyond. Salon ABV is also registered as a L’Oreal Professional salon.This video was made by Visuals by LollyComms.