On Friday 30 November, Victoria Prentis MP met Hilary Hall, CEO of the National Hairdressers Federation, and Keith Mellen, Managing Director of hairdressing salon Anne Veck Limited, as part of this year’s Small Business Saturday. She also popped into GB Wrightons Family Butchers in Fritwell to mark the occasion.
Small Business Saturday, which takes place on Saturday 1 December, is a campaign focused on highlighting the success of small businesses and encourages consumers to shop local, particularly in the run up to the festive season. Every year, Victoria takes the opportunity to meet local business owners and discuss any challenges they may be facing.
One of the issues raised during the meeting was the crucial role that apprenticeships play within the hairdressing industry. Hairdressing salons are often particularly reliant on apprenticeships as they provide an opportunity for the business to grow and develop their own talented hairdressers, while also giving young people the opportunity to gain practical experience as they earn.
Speaking after the meeting, Victoria said: “It was great to meet Keith and Hilary to discuss the ways we can continue to support hairdressers and other small businesses in our local community. In the run up to Christmas, I would encourage all of my constituents to support local shops and businesses as much as possible.”
