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Industry, nails and everything in-between
Industry, nails and everything in-between
Cosmoprof is one of six premier business-to-business beauty events held annually around the globe. These events serve as crucial platforms where manufacturers, distributors, and industry professionals converge to connect, innovate, and bring some of the most cutting-edge products to market, products that salons utilize daily.
Hosted in Las Vegas, Nevada, Cosmoprof North America is a truly international affair, attracting attendees from 47 countries. The 21st edition of this event showcased over 1200 exhibitors, with 114 dedicated to nails, alongside 50 speakers and 20 educational sessions focusing on trends, beauty retail, and supply chain management. The event’s significance is highlighted by the fact that 73% of attendees are brand owners, retailers, distributors, or manufacturers, with one in five attendees coming from international backgrounds.
This year, Alisha Rimando and Sebastian Campos of GlossaryLive had the opportunity to explore the event, discovering both newly launched products and upcoming innovations. Their experience included exclusive interviews with notable nail brands such as Artistic, Cuccio Professional, Morgan Taylor Nail Lacquer, Gelish, Gotti Nails, KUPA Inc, Aprés, Medicool, Chisel Nail Art, and Urawa.
A standout moment at this year’s Cosmoprof was when Richard Hurter, owner of KUPA Inc., was honored with a gold-plated MANIPro Passport e-file in celebration of KUPA’s 40th anniversary. Featuring a gold control box and handpiece, the demand for this luxurious machine was evident from its initial announcement. Industry insiders are eager to see if KUPA will release a limited edition for those looking to join in the celebration.
Adding to the event’s excitement was the annual Vietnamese concert held in honor of the nail industry at Zouk in Resort World. Sponsored by leading manufacturers, this concert was a highlight of the Cosmoprof experience. The night was filled with networking, cocktails, dancing, and a sense of camaraderie as various brands came together for an unforgettable evening of celebration and fun.
Cosmoprof North America continues to be a beacon of innovation and collaboration in the beauty industry, providing a vital space for professionals to connect and shape the future of beauty industry.
See the show and the interviews now
Stay ahead of the curve with Nail News from Cosmoprof North America and get a sneak peak the newest nail products launching in 2024! This exclusive video features insightful interviews with top industry brands like Gelish, Cuccio Professional, and KUPA Inc.
In the early 1980s, Richard Hurter’s journey began in a seemingly unrelated field—working in a machine shop in Simi Valley, California. However, fate had other plans, leading him to work in a beauty supply store where he started stocking shelves and taking salon orders. This humble beginning marked the start of an illustrious career in the nail industry, a field where Richard would leave an indelible mark.
Richard’s deep dive into the nail sector began when he purchased the nail segment of the beauty supply store. Immersed in an emerging industry, his path took a dramatic turn after a devastating earthquake destroyed his business. This setback, however, became a pivotal moment when he was offered a job at KUPA by then-owner Robert Upshaw. Thus, Richard’s historical journey with KUPA commenced.
Founded by Robert Upshaw and Kito Ochi in 1984, KUPA pioneered the first e-file machine specifically designed for nail technicians. This innovation set a new standard in the industry. Richard’s arrival at KUPA coincided with their collaboration with Keystone Industries to manufacture acrylic liquids and powders, becoming a leading distributor of acrylic nail products to the burgeoning market.
As the growth of the e-file emerged, Richard & KUPA partnered with renowned industry educator Vicki Peters to bring formal education on the safe and effective use of e-files in salons in 2003. This partnership filled a crucial gap in the industry, establishing e-files as essential equipment in every nail salon.
Richard’s vision extended beyond distribution, dreaming of branding the products KUPA distributed. After the death of Bob Upshaw in 2012, Richard bought out the remaining partners, becoming the sole owner of KUPA Inc. This move marked the beginning of a new era of innovation and product creation under the KUPA brand. The introduction of the Manipro Passport marked Richard’s first foray into product creation and branding. Inspired by the growing pedicure market, this portable e-file was designed as an entry-level machine for new nail technicians and one that could easily go from nail table to pedicure station.
Richard’s passion for innovation drove the development of state-of-the-art e-files and salon equipment, culminating in the creation of the “eko system.” This innovative concept offered all KUPA machinery and equipment at a nail station a color changing option, creating a harmonious look and feel that matches the salon’s decor, personality, or mood.
Over the years, Richard has collaborated with numerous industry educators to ensure his innovations met the needs of nail professionals while providing extensive education. His unwavering passion for creation and improvement has kept him at the forefront of the industry. This year, as KUPA celebrates its 40 years in business, they mark the milestone by launching a new innovation—the Manipro Passport NEXT. Featuring a large LED display, a backup battery system in the docking station, and multiple color-changing options, this next-generation e-file is set to turn heads and reinforce KUPA’s legacy of innovation.
Richard Hurter’s journey from a machine shop worker to a leading figure in the nail industry exemplifies how passion and vision can transform a side job into a lifelong pursuit of excellence. As KUPA Inc. looks forward to the future, Richard’s insatiable passion for innovation continues to drive the company toward new heights, ensuring its place as a trailblazer in the nail industry for years to come.
Want to see your salon featured in an episode of Salon Stopover? We are looking for fabulous salons & unique services to showcase from around the globe. Contact us for details.
Premiere Beauty Shows are a highly anticipated event for beauty professionals. These shows offer a chance to break away from daily routines and immerse oneself in a world of creativity and innovation. Orlando, being the largest of these events, stands out for its sheer scale and the depth of opportunities it presents.
Why Attend the Premiere Beauty Show?
The Premiere Beauty Show in Orlando is a must-visit, featuring over 700 educational classes designed to ignite your passion and inspire new ideas. This three-day event is a goldmine for those looking to update their skills, discover new products, and find ways to enhance their salon services. The energy and excitement at the show can reignite your love for your craft and provide the motivation needed to push your boundaries.
Highlights from the Show
Alisha Rimando, the founder of GlossaryLive.com, kicked off the show with a dynamic Q&A session on Nail Competitions. She was joined by a panel of industry legends, including Alex Fox, Global Director of Nailympia; Kirsty Meakin, Champion Competitor; Michelle Soto, Social Media Influencer and Educator; and Lisa Boone, world champion hand model and veteran competitor. Their insights and shared experiences provided invaluable advice to the more than 70 professionals attending the session.
The event also featured amazing giveaways, including 30 swag bags filled with products from top professional nail brands like GELISH, ARTISTC, MORGAN TAYLOR, LIGHT ELEGANCE, and CUCCIO. Additionally, six grand prizes were awarded, making the experience even more rewarding for attendees. Each participant received a Nails & More Guide packed with special show deals and a complimentary membership to GlossaryLive.com.
Exploring the Show Floor
The following days were spent exploring the show floor, discovering the latest products and techniques from leading nail manufacturers. Highlights included a tour of the newest LeChat products with Mr. Luis, the Nail Guru of Netflix, and a preview of KUPA’s new launches with owner, Richard Hurter. The networking opportunities were plentiful, and the Nailympia competitions added a competitive edge, culminating in the awarding over 70 medals to the top competitors.
Stay Updated with Nail News on GlossaryLive.com
To keep up with the latest in the nail industry and to see more about the Premiere Beauty Show and the newest nail products launched in 2024, be sure to watch Nail News on GlossaryLive.com. This platform is your go-to source for the latest trends, product launches, and industry insights, ensuring you stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of nails and beauty.
The Premiere Beauty Show is more than just an event; it’s an experience that revitalizes and inspires beauty professionals. Whether you’re looking for new techniques, products, or simply a boost in motivation, this show has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the next opportunity to be part of this incredible journey.
Dive into the excitement of Premiere Orlando 2024 with GlossaryLive! Watch Alisha Rimando kick off the show with a dynamic Q&A on Nail Competitions alongside industry legends like Alex Fox, Kirsty Meakin, Michelle Soto, and Lisa Boone. Don’t miss the highlights of exploring the show floor, networking with leading nail manufacturers, and witnessing the competitive edge of Nailympia. Tune in to catch all the action and inspiration from this incredible event!
Known worldwide as an award-winning Fantasy Nail Art champion, Hazel was up to her neck in nappies, AKA diapers, when she was drawn into the world of nails. Seduced by the creative edge that nail styling presents, as well as the ability to stay at home with her three young children, Hazel swiftly immersed herself in everything nails. “I was drawn to the idea of doing nails when I saw an airbrushed set sporting the Nike logo. I’d never seen anything like it before,” Hazel recalls. Her interest sparked and creative taste buds tickled, Hazel looked directly into courses as, she confesses, “I felt it couldn’t be that hard, but boy was I in for a shock!”
Attracted to a schedule of working evenings and weekends around her family, Hazel quickly realized it was more a calling than a quick-fix solution. “I love nails,” she chuckles. “I can explore my creative edge while transforming nails into tiny pieces of art. The buzz I get when I’ve finished a set, and see the client’s face light up, renders me speechless, it’s such a powerful, positive feeling.” Boasting a wide repertoire of nail skills, Hazel admits her strengths lie in both structure as well as all nail art genres including extreme techniques. Entering the world of nails in 2006, she took her initial training with CND and has since taken over 73 different classes with an array of brands including Akzentz, NSI, EzFlow, Crystal Nails, Brillbird, as well as completing an NVQ 3 in nails, and untold trainings with a host of award-winning educators across the world. Hazel cites, “Great education, lots of patience, an immense amount of practice and fantastic ongoing support from educators,” as the secret to her ongoing success.
Keen to share her entrepreneurial spirit, the highly decorated trophy and medal winner, Hazel, hung up her competition brushes in 2021 and picked up the mentor mantle. With her own nail brand (HD Professional Systems) and academy to run, alongside her salon, Hazel stood down from the competition circuit in order to use her expertise to support others moving in that spectrum. Working one day a week in her salon, Purely Nailz, Hazel’s philosophy steers her into keeping on top of her salon skills while innovating and raising industry standards. She explains, “The HD Nail Artist Academy has several locations up and down the UK where the 10-strong educator team presents a full array of ABT accredited courses plus workshops from total beginners to the most advanced techniques.” Located in the patchwork of pines and heathland that make up Thetford Forest in Norfolk, Hazel’s trinity comprising salon, academy and warehouse is a hive of activity and a thriving family business. “My academy offers something for everyone. Over the past few years I’ve written over 100 classes and workshops, presenting an array of training that best suits individual needs. I offer both in-house and online training, however, it’s my belief that complete beginners should only be taught in-house due to the science that must be covered. I feel it’s so important the educator be beside the student every step of the way.”
With two types of online training on the menu, Hazel is sure she’s got all bases and learning styles catered for. “Online training is packaged as pre-recorded workshops for existing techs with core, fundamental nail knowledge already in their repertoire. I also offer live Zoom training sessions, which are not accredited, but for students that prefer having the educator ‘live’ with them whilst learning.” A boost like no other, a mentoring program offers significant advantages to those who take the plunge. Mentor, Hazel advises, “Find a fellow, passionate nail tech or mentor. Surround yourself with like-minded people that will encourage, motivate and help you through the good and bad times. Having someone you can call or message that ‘gets you’, is so important. I don’t know what I’d have done without the people who keep me motivated on a daily basis.” Hazel also encourages nail pros to, “Invest your time and money wisely. Research the academy properly before taking a course, to ensure it can provide you with the skills and outcomes you’re looking to achieve, then be specific about this, don’t try to ‘learn’ too much, too quickly. Take your time and be sure you’ve successfully learned and perfected each skill before moving onto the next. Choose one that offers ongoing support, as this is so important.” Believing in a ‘practice makes perfect’ work ethic, Hazel concludes, “I don’t get time for hobbies, but I always make time for my husband and family, as well as indulging in retail therapy and dinner dates. Quality time outside of nails is essential to success, for balance as well as to relieve and relax the mind.” Hazel’s mantra sums this up nicely.
“Be happy with what you have, while working for what you want.”
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Driven by a powerful love of the nail industry, the UK’s Hazel Dixon has trained with a vast amount of international nail experts over the years & taken this knowledge to create an inspirational education program.
UK champion & multi-award-winning nail artist Hazel Dixon, demonstrates the delicate & skilled stages of sculpting a dragon-shaped nail. Hazel shares her secrets to styling the nail using an airbrush gun to paint a flush ombré & completes the design by sculpting 3D roses & leaves for a full-blown mixed media nail art sculpture.
Catch a wave & create this chrome effect nail style in 6 short steps crafted by UK nail champion, Hazel Dixon.
Kupa Inc. owner, Richard Hurter solidified his brand in the Japanese market on his most recent trip to Tokyo, Japan with COO Jonathan Ozeretny. The two received raving reviews as they launched the Manipro Glo Duet Lamp at Beauty World Japan. “The Japanese technicians loved the lamp and its dual function,” raves Jonathan. “They were amazed that a small compact lamp could produce such bright light and change to a curing lamp with a wave of the hand.”
Kupa has always enjoyed a stellar reputation for making superior electric files, but its latest innovation was a welcome surprise to the market. Its exclusive distributor TAT has been sharing the Kupa love across the country, introducing its quality e-file machines with first-class education and training. Hiro Matsugi, international sales rep for Kupa Inc Japan, recently introduced the Manipro Passport HANA e-file to husband-and-wife duo Masahiro Matsuura and Keiko Miyajima, owners of Nail X, award-winning nail schools and salons. Upon using, Mr. Matsuura commented on its size, highlighting, “It’s small and perfectly sized for a women’s hands.” He also comments, “The handle is easy hold, it’s lightweight and very well balanced.” Surprised by the feel, he also notes, “After trying out the machine, I saw there was very little vibration and it moved so smoothly across the nail.”
With over 35 years of nail industry experience, the Nail X duo has opened three JNA-accredited nail schools and upholds a policy to only introduce brands they believe in to their students and clients. The latest brand to join their portfolio is now Kupa. As Kupa journeys across Asia, Hiro Matsugi is excited to introduce its impeccable salon products and e-file education into this highly skilled market. Learn more about his amazing journey in an exclusive interview on Life on the Free Edge at GlossaryLive.com.
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Check out this new innovation by Kupa, the Manipro Glo Duet lamp. The first ever UV desk lamp that changes from white light to UV for a hands-free flash cure.
What it is: Created as a substitute for more traditional hand file, the electric filing machine is specifically designed for the nail industry to make nail services quicker and place less strain on the body.
How to use: Used with various nail bits for product removal, maintenance, shaping and smoothing on salon nail services.
How to apply: After proper training with the manufacturer use in professional salon services as directed.
How to clean: Clean according to manufacturer’s direction.
How to store: Turn off machine, remove nail bit from the chuck in the hand piece to store the unit safely.