Amazon is to branch out into hair technology through the opening of a UK salon.

Amazon Salon, which is to be situated in London’s Spitalfields, is to offer traditional services including basic cut and blow dries to both adults and children when it opens to the public “in the coming weeks”.

But the group – best known for its massive online delivery operation and TV streaming services – said it would also be at the forefront of trials for the latest industry developments from augmented reality (AR) hair consultations to point-and-learn technology.

There are no plans to expand the operation or even open abroad.

Styling and hair care services are to be provided by the established London salon Neville Hair & Beauty – run by Elena Lavagni.

Amazon said the aim of the project was to support the professional beauty industry and innovation through a new kind of customer experience.

It included, the company said, new point-and-learn technology where customers can point at a product they are interested in on a display shelf with the relevant information, including brand videos, appearing on a display screen.

No details on pricing for services was released.

John Boumphrey, Amazon’s UK manager, said: “We have designed this salon for customers to come and experience some of the best technology, hair care products and stylists in the industry.

“We want this unique venue to bring us one step closer to customers, and it will be a place where we can collaborate with the industry and test new technologies.”

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