Lynden Mason, the co-founder of New Zealand’s largest hairdressing group, Vivo Hair Salons, has made the decision to exit the company in order to pursue philanthropic and consulting interests. His departure marks the end of an era for the nationwide Vivo group, which now generates over $50 million in annual revenue and employs over 600 staff across 83 hair studios.

In 2010, Mason founded Vivo along with co-founder James Carlisle. Together, their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to success have been crucial to the growth of Vivo Hair Salons. Under their leadership, the group has expanded rapidly, with up to 27 branches opening each year at its peak.

“The work I am most proud of at Vivo is having been an actual ‘in the trenches’ owner with people as the main focus – working with individuals and teams across NZ, developing strategy and implementing tactics that address challenges and cultivate opportunity,” says Mason.

Vivo Hair Salon. Source: LifeStyle Architectural Services

While Mason’s exit from Vivo Hair Salons signifies the end of one chapter, it also signals the beginning of another. He is now focusing on charitable initiatives, including a health care and education program aimed at identifying and treating vision conditions among vulnerable tamariki. As someone who grew up in South Auckland, Mason is passionate about giving back to his community and improving access to healthcare services.

In addition to his charitable work, Mason is also looking ahead to new business ventures, including the formation of a consulting firm for retail and other industries. He believes that the lessons learned from his time at Vivo Hair Salons, particularly in fostering a culture of empowerment and growth, can benefit other New Zealand businesses.

Lynden Mason with his wife Tereze Taber

As we bid farewell to Lynden Mason and his wife Tereze Taber, who has also left Vivo Hair Salons, we commend him for his dedication and hard work in building one of the Southern Hemisphere’s most successful hairdressing groups. We wish them all the best in their future endeavours and look forward to seeing the positive impact he will continue to make in both business and the community.