Vidal Sassoon, the internationally-renowned hair stylists and product specialists, are coming to Cwmbran after entering into a partnership agreement with local hair and lifestyle salon DK Sebastian based at Monmouth Walk, in the town centre.

The business, supported by Barclays, will be the only Vidal Sassoon partnership salon in Wales and will provide access to market leading products, the latest training techniques and the kudos of a bringing a brand leader to Cwmbran.

DK Sebastian currently employs 11 staff and has created another three stylist positions as the business continues to grow with turnover expected to exceed £400,000 this year.

Established in 2012 by Karen Williams, the salon has more than 4,000 clients and combines award winning hair design, make up and nail artists with outstanding customer service.

Karen Williams, director and founder of DK Sebastian, said: “With more than 33 years in the industry and a background in stylist training I have always been able to spot and recruit the very best emerging talent from within the industry and we have these here under one roof. The partnership with Vidal Sassoon continues our growth strategy and builds on our brand strength of providing great service and excellent value for our quality offering.”

Emma King, Barclays business manager, said: “As champions of local business, it is essential that we support local growing businesses such as DK Sebastian. Karen and her team is a great example of an entrepreneur using their experience and skills to develop a successful business.

"By really understanding the business and issues they have faced, Barclays has been able to support DK Sebastian throughout its development. Clients travel from as far as Italy and Canada for the salon experience and the Vidal Sassoon partnership is another endorsement of the quality delivered from the salon.”

Karen Williams said: “Running a business is tough with no rest bite and being tied to the business 24 hours a day but with the great team around me the rewards far outweigh the downsides even after working long hours. The joy of seeing our efforts or simply a compliment from a happy customer makes it all worthwhile. We are a unisex salon and men’s styling has been a significant growth area of the business. We are now planning to also introduce a male grooming service this summer offering wet shaves and facials to compliment the styling services. Our business philosophy is simple, find great staff, pay them well and ensure they value our customers and our business as much as we do.”