Happy New Year!
As we stride confidently into 2024, it hardly seems possible that almost a quarter of a century has passed since we were allegedly on the cusp of an international technology meltdown with the “Y2K bug” – the millennium bug. Predictions of national and global computer systems failure fuelled speculation, panic and expensive upgrades. Did it happen? No. Well certainly nothing anywhere close to the Doomsday scenario that many would have had us believe. But this does not mean that the threat was not real.
It is true to say that reports and analyses since have concluded that significant efforts by those behind the scenes genuinely averted disaster. Perhaps we will never know the full extent of what could or would have happened if those with the competence to make the predictions were not listened to. And it is because concerned people took the predicted threat seriously and pushed to do something that we all continue learning and benefiting from that lesson.
This year will see a new era of energy-efficient tanning beds arriving in salons, a realisation of many years of R&D.
For a number of years now, we have seen the perpetuation of myths and sometimes deliberate mis-information used against our industry. Yet, our collective continued growth in professionalism and relentless behind-the-scenes activities to rebut the claims of those who attack us, both nationally and internationally, have undoubtedly helped secure the vibrant and buoyant industry we all enjoy today. The behind-the-scenes work in our industry extends beyond the investment in lobbying and campaigning efforts. Our respective tanning salon associations work hard to provide balance and, most importantly, add much needed nuance and context. We invest in training our salon teams to the highest standards and in operational initiatives that appear seamlessly to help deliver the ultimate experience for our customers.
As an industry, we are consumers of considerable levels of energy and component materials and the topic of sustainability is increasingly becoming a priority for businesses. This year will see a new era of energy-efficient tanning beds arriving in salons, a realisation of many years of research and development that will not only positively impact energy use without sacrificing performance, but also signposts the future of tanning systems with their use of sustainable component parts.
Recent research undertaken with tanning salon owners and operators across the UK has identified that sustainability is increasingly a priority issue. Results show that 43% already have in place or are considering a sustainability strategy and 83% of respondents would welcome further information and advice on the topic.
Anticipating what our customers need or desire, whether as a salon owner or a supplier to our industry, is an essential element of a successful business. Ever-evolving research clearly demonstrates that consumers and employees are more attracted to businesses and brands with sustainable practices and products.
When you consider that 80% of consumers indicate sustainability is important to them and, as such, are willing to pay a premium for goods from environmentally responsible brands, it makes sense that a sustainability strategy should be a business focus. Employees are also increasingly looking at what makes an attractive employer and 71% of employees and those looking for work say sustainability practices in a company ticks this box.
As such, it is becoming increasingly clear that sustainability is a business imperative and should be given serious consideration within the strategy and operations of every business. I suspect this is a topic that may well divide opinion; but I believe it is one we will all be considering further as we progress through 2024 and beyond.
