Tom Arkell, CEO and publisher of Salon Magazine and producer of Canada’s premier beauty industry awards program, The Contessas, has announced the sale of Salon Communications to Canadian media executive Colin Sutherland.

Sutherland is the owner of Salon Today, Modern Salon, Modern Spa & Wellness, Nails, and Barbering Today media and related events, the Data-Driven Salon Summit, Data-Driven On Tour, and Modern Salon Boot Camp.

“I could not imagine a better steward for Salon Magazine and The Contessas than Colin Sutherland,” says Arkell. “His passion for the beauty industry—combined with his deep experience in media, marketing, and technology—positions him to elevate Canadian creators in meaningful ways. Colin understands the heart of this industry, and I’m excited to work alongside him as Salon Communications enters this next chapter.”

“As a Canadian and a long-time supporter of the beauty industry—from brands to professionals in the salon, from established business owners to tomorrow’s emerging entrepreneurs—I am deeply committed to sharing, inspiring, and helping the Canadian industry navigate a strong path forward. Growth and evolution come from people and partnerships,” says Sutherland. “The Salon Magazine and Contessa teams are incredibly inspiring to me. I look forward to supporting Tom and the Salon Communications team, our valued readers, our social media community, and past and present Contessa nominees and award winners. I am fully committed to supporting and growing our Canadian creators and highlighting a Canadian beauty industry that is truly world-class.

“Salon Magazine and The Contessas will continue to represent Canada first," Sutherland adds. "We will share our Canadian stories nationally and internationally—across print, streaming, social media, and through the annual celebration of excellence at The Contessas.

“To our loyal brand partners: thank you. Your support of Salon Magazine, our digital platforms, and the Contessa Awards has been essential. We look forward to a new year filled with new activations, new opportunities, and even stronger connections.”

About Colin Sutherland
Colin Sutherland began his career in business-to-business marketing in 1990, becoming a trusted consultant within his family’s marketing agency. In 2001, he co-founded a technology company in Oakville, Ontario, which grew to become the largest of its kind globally, building a thriving partner ecosystem and helping customers unlock business value from data.

In 2024, Colin returned to his publishing and marketing roots by acquiring BBM Business Media, a California-based publisher—including Modern Salon, Salon Today, Nails, Barbering Today, Salon 200 Awards, Modern Salon Boot Camp, Modern Salon 100 Awards, and Artist Connective. In the same year, he opened a film studio and produced an unscripted reality series highlighting how social media storytelling is reshaping the role of influencers and elevating creators.

Colin’s mission is to evolve B2B media for every generation through powerful storytelling, creative execution, immersive activations, education, and support for the industry.

Media Contacts
Veronica Boodhan, Editorial Director, Salon Magazine — The Contessas
veronica@salonmagazine.ca

416-869-3131 ext. 102

Anne Moratto, Director of Brand Content Strategy, Modern Salon, Nails, Modern Salon Boot Camp
anne.moratto@bobit.com

213-400-8549