PBA Board Member and Government Affairs Advocate Renee Shakour of Essential Salon Products in Westborough, Mass., welcomed U.S. Senator Scott P. Brown (R) of Massachusetts last week to talk about the position of the beauty industry in our economy and the need for tax fairness for salon owners. The two toured the Holliston-based distributor’s secondary warehouse and education facility, highlighting the multiple services the independently owned distributor provides to spas and salons throughout New England.

During the Senator’s visit, he met with Shakour’s staff, customers and local media to speak about the successes and challenges that face businesses in today’s economy. Renee spoke about the much needed small business tax credit that the salon industry has been working on in Congress, the Small Business Tax Equalization and Compliance Act (S974/HR1957).

As a member of PBA’s Government Affairs Committee, Renee is passionate about working together with members of Congress, such as Sen. Scott Brown, to advocate for fair small business legislation. Sen. Brown was pleased to see the inner workings of Essential Salon Products and was very interested in learning more about the professional beauty industry.

Jon Shakour, along with Renee, shared the history behind ESP and how the family business has grown despite many changes that have occurred over the years. “It was a very exciting and interesting experience, we enjoyed sharing information about our business, and how the Small Business Tax Equalization and Compliance Act will make a positive impact in our industry” said Renee Shakour. The tour ended with a better understanding of how Congress and small businesses can work together, and how the professional beauty industry makes a tremendous impact on our U.S. economy.

Essential Salon Products is an independently owned distributor that provides quality products as well as education to licensed beauty professionals. Learn more at essentialsalonproducts.com

U.S. Senator Scott Brown was elected by the people of Massachusetts on January 19, 2010, to fill the term of the late Senator Ted Kennedy. He serves on the Senate Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. Prior to his election to the U.S. Senate, Brown served in both the Massachusetts House of Representatives and State Senate. Learn more at scottbrown.com and scottbrown.senate.gov

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