Pictured above: Carla Thompson (third from right) and some of the Hair Art & Beauty team.
Hair Art & Beauty has established itself as a cornerstone of Christchurch’s beauty landscape for over 25 years. Founded on the principles of exceptional service, sustainability, and community support, the salon has consistently adapted and innovated to meet the evolving needs of its clientele while upholding its core values.
At the root of Hair Art & Beauty’s philosophy is a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and the community in which it operates. Owner Carla Thompson explains that the salon’s dedication to sustainability is not just a marketing strategy; it is woven into the fabric of its operations. “Environmental and social responsibility are core values of Hair Art & Beauty. It is essential for us to have a positive impact on the environment and our community.”
This commitment is reflected in the salon’s exclusive use of La Biosthetique products – a luxury brand known for its ethical sourcing and environmentally responsible practices. With a brand ethos centered around “a culture of total beauty”, La Biosthetique not only ensures that its formulations are scientifically advanced but also guarantees that they are produced sustainably. For example, the company uses 100% green energy in its production processes and adheres to strict ethical standards, including never testing on animals.
Through their partnership with La Biosthetique, Hair Art & Beauty actively participates in the Colour With Care programme, which donates funds to Doctors Without Borders for every tube of hair color purchased. This initiative underscores the salon’s commitment to global community support, further enhancing its impact.
What sets Hair Art & Beauty apart in this quest is its focus on staff involvement and development. Carla says that every team member plays a crucial role in delivering on this mission and an exceptional client experience. “We invest heavily in our staff, from hosting hands-on workshops with top industry educators to sending team members to international seminars.”
This dedication to professional growth not only enhances the skills and expertise of the staff but also fosters a culture of loyalty and connection within the team. With many team members dedicating over eight years to the salon – and one member celebrating more than two decades of service – Hair Art & Beauty has cultivated a consistent and deeply rooted relationship with its clients and community.
Community engagement and support
Hair Art & Beauty’s impact extends beyond the salon’s walls, deeply embedding itself within the Christchurch community. The salon actively engages with local organisations such as Kilmarnock Enterprises, Dress for Success, Avon Hockey Club, and St Albans School, highlighting its belief that a thriving community is essential for sustainable growth.
The salon’s initiatives range from sponsoring local sports teams to providing donations of stationery and uniforms to schools. Additionally, the team participates in food drives and hosts annual events like the Pink Ribbon raffle to support the Breast Cancer Foundation. Carla believes that a business cannot thrive if its community is struggling, and her approach reflects this ethos. “We celebrate our clients’ wins and show support during difficult times.”
As Hair Art & Beauty looks to the future, the salon is excited about its upcoming expansion, which will include a purpose-built beauty facility with multiple treatment areas. Sustainability continues to be a guiding principle in this project, with every detail, from construction materials to waste management practices, carefully selected to minimise environmental impact.
Changing perceptions in the beauty industry
The beauty industry has long faced criticism for its environmental impact and unsustainable practices. However, Hair Art & Beauty is determined to change this perception. Carla acknowledges the industry’s historical challenges, including the reliance on single-use products and harmful chemicals. “By actively working to reduce waste and finding sustainable disposal methods, the salon is setting an example for others in the industry.”
As part of the Sustainable Salons programme, Hair Art & Beauty has achieved remarkable results, recycling over 95 percent of its waste. Initiatives like turning cut hair into booms to absorb oil spills and repurposing chemical waste for construction demonstrate the salon’s innovative approach to sustainability. “We have also provided materials to students at Canterbury University, who are doing exciting research into using hair and recycled plastics to create incredibly durable materials for things like furniture construction. We know if we work together, the future is bright.”
Transparency is also crucial; the salon organises site visits to recycling stations so that staff can witness firsthand the impact of their efforts. This engagement fosters a sense of ownership and accountability among the team, ensuring that everyone is invested in the mission.
Carla is working hard to create a future where luxury and sustainability are seamlessly integrated into the beauty experience. “Many companies choose to utilise products that are cheaper for them to buy, allowing them to maximise profits, but we are unwilling to compromise on our values or on the quality of the products we work with.”
The David Awards 2024 winner
Category: Most Outstanding Social Impact
Company: Hair Art & Beauty
Judges’ comments: “Hair Art & Beauty actively engages with the local community through various initiatives. Its commitment to community makes it a strong winner for this category.”
Finalists: Imagination Station; KiwiBoss; Ponsonby Chambers; Tether; The Cozy Corner
This article was originally published in the October 2024 issue of NZBusiness magazine. To read the issue, click here.
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