With over 40 years in the hairdressing industry and more than two decades running her own salon, Marlene Lamont has learned that success isn’t just about technique or trends…
“It’s really about people, consistency, and thoughtful leadership,” she explains. As the owner of Urban Hair & Beauty in Auchinleck, Ayrshire, she has focused on creating a salon where staff, clients, and training all work together to maintain high standards and sustainable growth.
Marlene’s approach to business is straightforward: “Invest in your team, maintain quality, and always make sure your services meet real client needs.” She believes hair extensions, for example, shouldn’t be treated as a luxury service reserved for occasional use. “Extensions are a core part of what we do; they can make a real difference for clients dealing with thinning hair, hair loss, or lifestyle changes,” she says. Offering extensions as a standard service requires careful consultation, thorough training, and attention to quality principles she applies across every area of the salon.
Education plays a central role in maintaining these standards. At Urban Hair & Beauty, training is ongoing and tailored to each stylist’s level and goals. “I encourage my team to experience as much of the industry as possible,” Marlene says. “Whether that’s assisting on photoshoots, entering competitions, or learning new techniques, it all builds confidence and consistency. If your team feels supported and capable, clients notice the difference.”
Leadership is practical and people focused. “I take the time to understand my staff’s ambitions and adapt working arrangements to support them,” she explains. From mentoring and skills development to introducing a four-day work week, Marlene believes that providing stability, clear expectations, and opportunities for growth is just as important as technical training in building a successful salon.
Marlene also places a strong emphasis on processes and client experience. “Every service begins with a consultation,” she notes. “We make sure each style is tailored to the client’s lifestyle, face shape, and preferences.” The salon uses client feedback systems to monitor service quality and make improvements over time. This combination of personalised service, professional standards, and operational discipline underpins the salon’s long-term success.
Ultimately, Marlene’s perspective on building a business is grounded in steady, thoughtful growth. “Investing in people, maintaining consistent quality, and offering services that genuinely meet client needs, these are the pillars that have allowed our salon to thrive for more than 20 years,” she says. “Success in this industry comes from focusing on the fundamentals. If you get the basics right, team, training, standards, and client care, the rest follows.”