Matrix national conference arrives in tenerife

  The crème of Matrix distributors and educators arrived at the Hard Rock Hotel on Tenerife for the brand’s National Conference. Over two sun-drenched days, delegates were introduced to the new Biolage R.A.W. natural haircare range, the concept of colour as the new make-up and received an update on how Matrix has performed over the past year. There was also plenty of time for socialising, with drinks and dinner by one of the hotel’s many pools on the first night and a James Bond themed gala dinner on the final night of the Conference. The launch of Biolage R.A.W. was the biggest news of the conference, with representatives from Matrix’s education, marketing and research teams introducing delegates to the range, which boasts up to 97% natural origin formulas. The range was heralded as being kind to clients’ hair and the environment. The range includes salon-only treatments, designed so that stylists can offer clients a bespoke backwash services using clay masks mixed to meet each client’s hair needs. And for retail there are three sets of natural shampoos and conditioner – Nourish, featuring Quinoa husk and honey for dry, dull hair; Recover, containing yucca and Goji berry for stressed, sensitised hair; and Uplift, featuring black sesame and grapefruit to give fine hair increased body and weight. The Matrix team were also keen to convey the importance of colour to its Matrix family, stressing that salons needed to use their expertise to sell colour services in a trend-led fashion, in the same way that make-up is marketed. Commenting on the initiative, Matrix art team member, Ashleigh Hodges said: "Hair colour has advanced so much and clients are starting to really embrace this. It's now not just about covering greys or having a few high lights to give you a lift, there is so much we can do and it really is a form of self-expression. When I look at trends I think about how they are going to influence my clients, how will they be wearing these colours, not just in their hair but in their homes and with their clothing. Colour trends relate to everything that inspires us and it's about the 'vibe' of the look and trend now and hair colour is the crown of that 'vibe'. Clients are embracing colour so much now, as a hairdresser we can be so creative and our colours become our palettes. Hair colour is the new make-up, and what's even better clients never take this make up off.” The event’s gala dinner gave Matrix the chance to thank all those who contribute to the success of the brand with its annual awards. Taking home winners’ trophies on the night were: Jasper Dormer, Barker: New Business Sales Consultant of the Year Nicola Murray: Educator of the Year Mike Connolly, Alan Howard: ISMS Sales Consultant of the Year Elaine Swann: Craft Educator of the Year Joanne Halfpenny, Trade Hair: Sales Consultant of the Year Barkers: Distributor Education Supporters of the Year of the Year Trade Hair Supplies: Sales Team of the Year Barkers: Distributor of the Year