Paula Kent Meehan, founder of industry giant Redken Laboratories, will be honored by Intercoiffure America/Canada on June 10, 2007 at its annual Spring Educational Symposium at The Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas. President Lois Christie will present Meehan with Intercoiffure’s “Visionary of the Year” Award, in recognition of her seminal influence in the beauty industry.
The “Visionary of the Year” Award recognizes extraordinary individual achievements in influencing business or creative trends in the beauty industry. “This award is presented by the best and most successful salon owners in America and Canada,” says Christie. “It honors individuals who helped to change and raise the standards in the industry as a whole.”
Paula Kent Meehan pioneered the “Scientific Approach to Beauty,” developing products compatible with the basic chemistry of hair and skin. Under her leadership, Redken trained hairdressers in the chemistry of hair and introduced them to the benefits of retailing professional products in their salons, at the time a break-through in distribution channels.
In 1993 Meehan sold Redken Laboratories to L’Oreal, who moved the company from its California roots to its current home on Fifth Avenue in New York. Today Redken remains a global leader in professional haircare products and services. Redken products are now available in professional beauty salons in more than 50 countries.
The presentation of the Award to an influential figure in the color industry coincides with the launch of Intercoiffure’s newly formed Hair Color Council, to be headed by creative director Gina Khan. Notes President Lois Christie, “For the first time Intercoiffure colorists will be able to pool their talents and share knowledge with the industry. We will promote the business of hair color and set trends in techniques and products. We will combine our creative vision with a mission to mentor hairdressers who want a career in hair color.”
Intercoiffure is the most exclusive organization of independent salon owners in the world. Intercoiffure America/Canada represents more than 300 of the best salons in North America and is part of Intercoiffure Mondial, the only global beauty association, representing 44 countries and 3,300 members worldwide.