Consumers in Germany are facing noticeably higher costs for hair salon visits compared to previous years. According to recent industry surveys, the average price for a standard women's wash, cut, and blow-dry is approximately 54 euros, while men typically pay around 33 euros. Simple haircuts often come at lower prices, but more complex treatments such as highlights and coloring have experienced the largest price hikes.

Recent data from the Federal Statistical Office indicates that, since 2020, prices for women's hairdressing services in Germany have risen by over 28 percent. For men and children, the increase is close to 31 percent. The price range for haircuts remains broad, with 28 percent of respondents to a nationwide survey reporting they usually pay between 15 and 29 euros. Another 20 percent spend between 30 and 49 euros, while 14 percent pay more. Only 8 percent manage with less than 15 euros, and approximately a quarter of those surveyed reported not spending any money on haircuts at all. The survey also highlights that men typically pay less than women for similar services.

Factors Driving Rising Prices

The primary reasons behind these rising costs are attributed to increased personnel expenses, higher energy and material prices, and general inflation. Personnel costs alone account for 55 to 60 percent of a salon's total expenditures, making staff wages a significant factor. Additionally, the industry continues to be affected by a shortage of skilled workers, leading to further financial pressure on salon owners.

Industry Sentiment and Customer Behavior

Many hair salons report that customers have become more sensitive to price increases, resulting in reduced client volumes. Industry data suggests that overall revenue growth in the sector is largely due to increased prices rather than a rise in customer numbers. Last year, the total revenue for German hairdressers was estimated at 7.67 billion euros, with a slight decline expected in the current year due to lower demand.

The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to influence consumer behavior. During temporary salon closures, many individuals purchased hair clippers, increasing sales of such devices by nearly 40 percent between late 2019 and 2021. Although sales have since declined, many households remain equipped for home haircuts, reducing the frequency of professional salon visits.

Structural Changes in the Sector

The number of hairdressing businesses in Germany has been decreasing for several years. In 2024, there were just over 80,000 registered salons, with about one-fifth identified as barbershops. The sector currently employs around 150,000 people, a slight decrease from the previous year. The ongoing economic challenges threaten the sustainability of many businesses, and a recovery is expected only if broader economic conditions improve.

Growing Competition from Barbershops

Traditional salons are experiencing increased competition from barbershops, particularly in urban locations. Barbershops, which originally specialized in men's haircuts and beard grooming, often offer services at significantly lower prices. In some areas, new barbershops quickly replace closing traditional salons. Many barbershops have also expanded their offerings to include women's haircuts.

The rise of barbershops has prompted concern within the industry regarding pricing practices and qualifications. Some industry representatives argue that low prices in certain barbershops may not cover operational costs and could reflect differences in staff training, particularly for specialized services such as coloring or perm treatments.

Workforce and Training Trends

The sector is also grappling with declining interest in hairdressing as a profession. The number of apprenticeships in Germany fell from over 23,500 in 2014 to around 13,500 by 2023, although there has recently been a modest increase. Another notable trend is the growing proportion of men entering the field, now accounting for roughly a third of all apprentices.

Overall, the combination of rising costs, changing consumer habits, and increased competition is reshaping the landscape for hair salons in Germany. Both business owners and employees are adapting to these evolving challenges as the industry looks for stability and growth opportunities in a dynamic market.