Sally Beauty has named Manic Panic and its founders, Tish and Snooky Bellomo, as its 2026 Vendor of the Year. The award recognizes Tish, Snooky, and Manic Panic for their operational excellence, sales and growth performance, and long-standing partnership. 

 The award celebrates not only the success of the iconic hair color brand but also the remarkable journey of two women who transformed a punk rock vision into one of the most recognized names in alternative beauty worldwide. 

Founded in New York City in 1977 by sisters Tish and Snooky Bellomo, Manic Panic began as a small boutique catering to the city’s vibrant punk scene. Nearly five decades later, the company has grown into a globally recognized beauty brand with a presence in over 40 countries and availability in thousands of retail locations. Proudly, it remains independent, women-owned, and minority-owned. 

 “We are deeply honored to receive the 2026 Vendor of the Year award from Sally Beauty,” said Tish and Snooky Bellomo, co-founders of Manic Panic. “What started as a creative expression of individuality has morphed into a lifelong mission to empower people to become unapologetically themselves. We share this award with our incredible team, our loyal customers, and our fabulous partners at Sally, who have been with us for decades.” 

As pioneers of vivid hair color, Tish and Snooky have led the color revolution since 1977 and helped create an entirely new category within the beauty industry long before fashion colors became mainstream. Their commitment to self-expression, inclusivity, and cruelty-free beauty has earned the brand a dedicated global following and established Manic Panic as an enduring cultural icon. 

The Vendor of the Year Award also reflects the decades of partnership between Manic Panic and Sally Beauty, a key retail partner that has helped bring Manic Panic’s bold colors and innovative products to generations of consumers seeking creative ways to express their individuality. 

Beyond product innovation, Manic Panic has consistently demonstrated a commitment to social responsibility. Under the leadership of Tish and Snooky, the company has championed causes supporting LGBTQ+ rights, breast cancer research, animal welfare, and community-based initiatives through the company’s programs, Color with a Conscience™ and Dye for Peace®. Every year, Manic Panic donates more than 15% of its profits to charitable causes. This dedication to advocacy has become a defining characteristic of the brand and reflects the founders’ belief that business can be a force for positive change. 

 As women entrepreneurs in an industry historically dominated by larger corporations, Tish and Snooky have built a legacy of resilience, authenticity, and innovation. Their leadership continues to inspire independent business owners, women founders, and creative entrepreneurs around the world. 

 “This recognition is particularly meaningful because it reflects the power of staying true to who you are,” said Tish and Snooky Bellomo. “For nearly 50 years, we have encouraged people to express themselves without limits. Receiving this award reminds us that originality, passion, and authenticity never go out of style.” 

 With new product innovations, global expansion, and ongoing philanthropic initiatives on the horizon, Manic Panic remains committed to the values that have guided the company since its founding: creativity, inclusivity, self-expression, and fearless individuality. 

About Manic Panic® : Founded in 1977 by sisters Tish and Snooky Bellomo, Manic Panic is a leading manufacturer of vegan, cruelty-free hair color and cosmetics. Available in over 40 countries worldwide, the brand is recognized as a pioneer of creative hair color and a champion of self-expression, individuality, and social activism. For more information, visit www.manicpanic.com.