L’Oréal Professional Products Unveils Flagship Academy in Hudson Yards

New York City, NY – January 31, 2026: L’Oréal Professional Products has officially opened its much-anticipated flagship L’Oréal Academy in the Hudson Yards neighbourhood of Manhattan a state-of-the-art education hub designed to elevate professional hair artistry and salon education in the United States.

The sprawling 13,000-square-foot facility, situated at Hudson Yards, replaces the former Redken Exchange on Fifth Avenue and centralises L’Oréal’s professional salon education programming under one roof. With the addition of this new flagship and its counterpart in El Segundo, California, L’Oréal now claims the largest professional education footprint in the U.S., reaching up to 400,000 stylists and colourists annually.

A Cultural Hub Built for Hair Professionals

L’Oréal positions the Academy not as a traditional classroom, but as a cultural and creative hub where artistry, innovation, technology, and education converge. The grand opening was marked by an immersive launch event featuring a runway show, multimedia installations, and a symbolic ceremonial haircut – signalling a fresh chapter in professional hair education.

“This state-of-the-art Academy dedicated to the professional is another strategic step in building long-term growth for this amazing profession,” said David Greenberg, Chairman of L’Oréal USA, emphasising the company’s long-standing commitment to professional education in the beauty industry.

Designed for Future-Ready Learning

The Hudson Yards Academy blends metropolitan style with intentional design, fostering an environment that inspires creativity and supports mastery. According to Leslie Marino, President of L’Oréal Professional Products Division in the U.S., the space is a birthplace for tomorrow’s trends, created to help stylists expand their skills, prosper professionally, and achieve career fulfillment.

Through a mix of foundational and advanced curriculum, the Academy offers:

• Specialised pathways and elite certification in key skills such as French Balayage, advanced colour theory, design techniques, and more.

• Programming led by a roster of 750 expert educators, including well-known industry figures such as Sam Villa, Min Kim, and Michelle O’Connor.

• Hybrid global masterclasses accommodating both in-person and virtual participation.

• Influencer partner initiatives that combine education with content creation and brand visibility.

Course pricing ranges from approximately USD 150 for basic classes up to USD 5,000 for elite certifications, allowing flexibility for professionals at different stages of their careers.

A New Era for Professional Beauty Education

The launch of the Hudson Yards Academy underscores L’Oréal Professional Products’ broader ambition to champion professional stylists and colourists while adapting to evolving industry needs. With high-tech features, immersive spaces, and a focus on community and creativity, the Academy aims to not only train but connect and inspire beauty professionals from across the globe.

As the beauty industry continues to embrace innovation, spaces like the L’Oréal Academy are expected to play a critical role in shaping the next generation of salon professionals combining education with creative expression and technology in fresh, engaging ways.