The IHF issued a bold 5-point plan to the government, advocating for:

1. Reinstatement of the 9% VAT rate.
2. Extension of Warehouse Debt Repayments.
3. Energy and wage supports.
4. Enhanced training and hiring supports.
5. Actions to combat the shadow economy.

This plan was supported by numerous interviews across radio, TV, and print media, bringing national attention to the challenges faced by the hairdressing and barbering industry. Additionally, the IHF engaged in a forum organized by IBEC, addressing the shared struggles of small businesses reliant on service delivery.

 The Federation empowered members to take action, launching a grassroots campaign to connect salon owners with local representatives. Members were provided with templates, guidance, and resources to articulate the urgent need for the reinstatement of the 9% VAT rate and other sector concerns.

The IHF joins the Save Jobs Campaign, joining forces with an alliance of organizations representing small businesses across Ireland. This collaborative effort amplified calls for government intervention to protect jobs and stabilize industries impacted by rising costs.

The Federation participated in meetings with other organizations to:

• Develop an action plan for sustained lobbying efforts.
• Draft multiple letters and formal documents submitted to the government, urging immediate reinstatement of the 9% VAT rate.

These months marked a period of strategic coordination and preparation, setting the stage for intensified advocacy efforts.

In the lead-up to local elections, the IHF:

• Assisted members in engaging with local representatives, encouraging them to advocate for the industry’s needs.
• Raised awareness of critical issues, including VAT, minimum wage increases, and rising business costs

The IHF reignited its grassroots campaign, helping members emphasize the following concerns:

• The urgency of reinstating the 9% VAT rate.
• The impact of minimum wage increases and changes to employee benefits.
• The financial strain caused by energy costs and the rising cost of living.

In parallel, the IHF submitted its pre-budget submission, outlining actionable steps the government could take to support the sector.

The IHF continued holding meetings with other member organizations, strengthening alliances and maintaining pressure on policymakers to prioritize the industry's needs.

The Federation joined the SME Alliance, calling for:

• Reinstatement of the 9% VAT rate.
• Immediate changes to minimum wage and taxation policies.
• Proper representation of SMEs in discussions at the Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF) and on the Low Pay Commission.

The IHF, alongside industry colleagues, organized a protest outside Leinster House on October 15th. The demonstration highlighted the detrimental impact of the VAT increase and the lack of government support. Lisa Eccles, IHF President, delivered an impassioned speech, rallying attendees and emphasizing the industry's critical needs.

Watch her speech here

The IHF attended a Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment meeting, representing members’ concerns about the financial strain caused by statutory sick pay since its introduction. This meeting further solidified the Federation's role as a vocal advocate for salon owners.