English
Trade bodies alliance unveils framework to uplift Singapore beauty services industry
THE beauty services industry in Singapore on Wednesday launched an industry alliance and a competency framework to tackle challenges such as attracting local talent and uplifting service standards in the beauty and wellness sectors.
Comprising five trade associations brought together by Enterprise Singapore (ESG), the Beauty Services Alliance (BSA) represents about 6,000 businesses in beauty and wellness, including chain operators, single-store establishments and freelancers. It conceptualises and formulates initiatives that spur growth and development in the industry, like the Beauty Services Competency Framework (BSCF) launched on the same day.
The BSCF provides a framework of career progression pathways for the more than 13,300 employees in the industry, covering 45 job roles across five tracks. It aims to increase job positions for locals by 30 per cent in the next five years.
Employees can refer to the BSCF as a guide in making decisions on employment opportunities, training, career development and progression. Meanwhile, it will help employers identify emerging skills needed to build a future-ready workforce and serve as a guide in recruitment, skills development and talent management.
The framework will also guide education and training providers in designing courses and certifications that fit industry needs.
ESG executive director for lifestyle and consumer Kee Ai Nah noted that the beauty services industry is a large one that grows at a rate of more than 10 per cent year on year.
She said: “While Covid-19 has given rise to challenges for the industry, there remains strong demand for beauty services and leisure activities, which will potentially generate new and attractive opportunities for jobs and skills upgrading for Singaporeans. The Competency Framework will help build a workforce equipped with progressive skillsets, so that Singapore will become one of Asia’s next beauty powerhouses.”
Ten organisations including Jean Yip Group have committed to adopting the BSCF, and the alliance will continue reaching out to authorised training organisations, employers and professionals to raise awareness and drive adoption.
Said BSA representative Simon Lee: “BSA was established to drive efforts that uplift the beauty services industry. As the industry continues its growth trajectory, it is timely for the trade associations to come together to address labour and talent challenges in order to build a future-ready workforce that is prepared to meet dynamic market needs.”
Further plans beyond the BSCF include creating an accreditation system for training providers and an evaluation system for learners.
The BSA was established through a memorandum of understanding on July 30, 2019. The trade associations involved are the Complementary Wellness Association International, Hair & Cosmetology Association Singapore, Nailist Association for International Licenses Singapore, Spa Professionals Association of Singapore, and Spa & Wellness Association Singapore.
Source: https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/sme/trade-bodies-alliance-unveils-framework-to-uplift-singapore-beauty-services-industry