Looking beyond the familiar high street, and training their sights far beyond UK markets, the Rainbow Room International (RRI) made a trip to Japan earlier this year a point of change for the entire team by revising the salon environment for everyone. Let’s explain:
Securing a trip to this most innovative and dynamic of countries, Laura Leigh Kerr, Director of the Howard Street Academy at the RRI had secured funding from the Turing Scheme – a UK Government initiative that supports UK and British Overseas Territories-based education for students and apprentices undertaking international study and work placements. The point is to help UK students gain international experience, boost their employability, and develop new skills.
Thanks to Laura, the trip was not just an opportunity for the eight young apprentices selected to participate; it became a transformative experience for everyone involved. Japan’s meticulous techniques, respectful client rituals, and deep appreciation for the hairdressing profession left a lasting impact.
The RRI company philosophy is based on the Japanese Values of ‘Kaizen’, which means continual improvement. The educational trip reinforced this philosophy by introducing new methods, such as precision cutting techniques, and innovative practices and rituals. Overall, it was a truly life-changing experience for all participants.
“It gave us a completely new perspective”, said Laura Leigh, “The calm, the focus, the discipline, it wasn’t all about technique. It was also very much about intent, and that is something we are incorporating back onto the salon floor here in Scotland”
Japan x Rainbow Room International
Customer Service: Elevating The Client Experience into a more Mindful & Relaxing Journey
Clients at Rainbow Room International are already enjoying the benefits of a subtle yet significant change: adopting a slower, more relaxed pace that fosters a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. The RRI now draws more inspiration from Japanese salons and their unique approach to customer care. The RRI stylists are embracing the idea that every appointment is designed to feel like a relaxing retreat, thoughtful, unhurried and centred fully on the client in the present moment. As a result, the salon group is now focusing on ensuring that every aspect is intentionally refined and relaxing – nothing should ever feel rushed, it’s not just the service itself but also the feeling that it creates.
Suzie McGill – Japanese style!
Suzie McGill, director of Rainbow Room International Uddingston, says: “What we saw in Japan was just the most extraordinary commitment to the overall client experience, it was attentiveness right down to the smallest detail. It was peaceful, tranquil, with details such as reclining backwash chairs designed to help the client fully relax, and no part of the process was rushed. We want our clients to feel that same sense of care”
A key aspect of the experience is the Shiatsu head massage, which is a significant aspect of Japanese culture and has been practised for centuries. While RRI was an early adopter of this practice in the UK, introducing it through Glasgow’s first day spa in 1983, the visit to Japan reinforced its importance.
“It was an extraordinary in-depth learning experience that provided insight into the history and practice of an ancient Japanese technique and its remarkable benefits. When performed with intention, skill, and purpose, this technique can significantly enhance the overall client experience,” Suzie explains.
When performing a shiatsu head massage, the pressure and rhythm of the fingers should be adjusted to target specific pressure points. This approach helps to rebalance the scalp, regulate sebum production, and promote healthy shine. Time and care should always be taken to make the experience feel like a real treat “With this understanding and updated training, we are now incorporating these practices onto the salon floor,” Suzie says.
Training: A Slower Pace, with a Long-Game Approach and Focus on Long-Term Mastery
The RRI Team in Japan
A key difference observed is that the Japanese model employs a slower, more structured approach to training. Stylists in Japan spend years mastering each step of their craft. It typically takes five years to become a fully qualified stylist, with the first two years focused solely on theory, and trainees do not even begin working with hair during this time. Instead, they learn the science behind hairdressing, the foundational skills, as well as health and safety protocols.
“In the UK, there is a tendency to fast-track training,” says Laura Leigh. “However, Japan highlighted that true mastery takes time. We are now focused on enhancing our training pathways to develop not only skills but also confidence and craftsmanship through a commitment to in-depth learning.” Additionally, the profession in Japan is also passionate about specialist training. Laura Leigh adds, “If you want to focus solely on colour, you can dedicate yourself entirely to that and become a colourist. This approach is something we will also consider implementing, allowing stylists to become true experts in the areas they are most passionate about.
Cutting-Edge Precision: Innovative Techniques Where Less is More
A trip wtih great results for all
In Japan, there is a strong emphasis on technique in hairstyling, rather than relying on products or heat tools. This focus on technique extends to cutting, where precision is paramount, and razor-sharp tools are used. Every detail, from using a single pin to secure and shape a hairstyle, is carefully considered and executed.
Riccardo Corvi, Director of Rainbow Room International Ayr, says, “The team returned with a deeper appreciation for their craft and improved discipline in their technique.” He emphasised that achieving great results does not depend on using numerous products and heat tools, but rather on applying a disciplined technique. “It was all about working with the hair, with every movement and detail being carefully considered.”
This minimalist approach was showcased during a live hair-up demonstration, where the group observed the creation of an elegant and intricately structured hairstyle. This was accomplished without heat and with minimal product; instead, a skilled backcombing technique was utilised.
Riccardo explained, “It’s an approach and mindset that we will aim to instil. It’s a perspective that brings everything back to its core. It was refreshing and proved that sometimes, less truly means more. It ensures that every section, snip, and styling technique is carefully thought out and purposeful.“
Going forward
The trip to Japan has set a high standard for what is possible in global education and training.We’re super impressed at how the RRI has pulled this off and now share the experience.
“The Japan experience really emphasised that, as hairstylists, we are always learning; it’s a continuous process. To truly grow, we must look beyond our own experiences. The trip taught us how to evolve while also celebrating what makes us unique.”
Bravo to the instigators and the innovators at Rainbow Room International.
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