The expert assessed the impact of the new GOST on the market of children's hairdressers

The introduction of a new GOST for hairdressing services for children can significantly change the structure of the market and create additional requirements for businesses. Ekaterina Kosareva, Managing partner of the VMT Consult agency, told Izvestia about the possible consequences on March 12.

According to her, the new standards can be a serious challenge, especially for small and medium-sized salons. The increased requirements for security and organization of the space actually increases the threshold of entry to the market for new players.

"The introduction of the new GOST for hairdressing services for children will significantly affect small and medium-sized market players. This is due to the appearance of additional barriers to entry. Some of the salons may be forced to close if costs exceed profitability, or move to other locations," explained Kosareva.

The expert notes that the new requirements may lead to an increase in the cost of services. Salons will have to purchase specialized materials and consumables, including baby cosmetics, as well as upgrade equipment and interior.

Additional costs will also be associated with infrastructure changes. For example, it will be necessary to organize parking for scooters and strollers, expand waiting areas and adapt the space to a children's audience. However, some procedures may disappear from the list of services, as new standards will limit the use of certain practices.

According to Kosareva, an important change will be the rule according to which it will be possible to cut children under 10 years old only in the presence of parents. This will increase the load on the waiting areas and require additional space for visitors.

"At the same time, salons that can adapt to GOST (primarily hairdressers that develop a network or offer a franchise) will gain a competitive advantage and increase their customer base due to market redistribution and increased demand for safe services. Also, such establishments will have the opportunity to increase revenue through events, which will pleasantly diversify the business and attract new customers," the expert concluded.

On the same day, Rosstandart approved a new GOST for hairdressing services for children. The document will enter into force on December 1, 2026 and will apply to clients under the age of 14. According to the standard, such services can only be provided to children under the age of 10 in the presence of their parents or legal representatives. The list of procedures includes not only haircuts, but also skin care for the face, hands and feet, nails, cosmetic makeup, temporary tattoos, earlobe piercing and SPA programs. At the same time, specialized cosmetics designed for children should be used for all procedures.

Prior to that, on February 20, Rosstandart adopted GOST for imported bananas, which will enter into force in March 2026. According to the new requirements, bananas should be about 14 cm long. The fruits should also be green or light green so that they can ripen in Russian warehouses.

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