Industry titan David Taylor has passed away at the age of 84, leaving behind an enormous legacy with his role in founding pioneering business Dateline Importas, as well as his larger industry reputation built in his passion, work ethic, business excellence and vision in the hairdressing community.

“On May 2 2023, the world truly lost an amazing human being, David Taylor,” said a statement from Dateline Imports. “At the ripe age of 84 we all expected him to live forever as he was such a strong, healthy and fit man. We find comfort knowing he passed away peacefully although prematurely in our eyes.”

Dateline was founded in Australia in 1977 and later expanded to New Zealand. As per David’s wishes, the company will continue to be led by David’s business partners in Australia, Michele Kannis and Voula Karmichael, as well as Troy in New Zealand, carrying a 180+ strong staff, affectionately titled “the Dateline Family”, through these difficult times and beyond.

“Those lucky enough to have known him would feel honoured to have been in the presence of such a remarkable man, with an unrivalled work ethic, unsurpassed determination and passion which inspired us all,” the statement continued.

“Also known as the Godfather of the Hairdressing Industry, he was considered a visionary and contributed to many businesses on a professional level and touched so many lives on a personal level, in Australia and around the world. His vision for Dateline was to continue to lead the industry with new products, innovation, new haircare trends, and services to excite the Australian and New Zealand markets. David’s memory will remain in our hearts forever and the legacy he started 45 years ago will continue in his honour.”

We join the industry in remembering this prolific figure and send our condolences and thoughts to the Dateline family at this time.