Dutch Coiffure Award 2024, Winner Men’s Hair category South of the Netherlands
EDITORIAL
BARBERING’S ROCKSTAR REBEL
The Layrite Legacy of Donnie Hawley
BARBERSOCIETY LIVE 2024 REPORT
Check the BSL photos and more!
BARBERSOCIETY WINNER OF THE YEAR 2024
Q&A with Salih Baris
BARBERSOCIETY YOUNG TALENT
WINNER OF THE YEAR 2024
Q&A with Nebiyu Kinfe Berhane
TRENDS
Yvonne Kok, Judith Jager, Ivonne Martens-Opdam, Stefan Hogenes, Henry Gijzen, Shah Hosseinpour, Jos van Asten, Mariël Meijer-Neulen, Melvin Bakhuis, Louise Vlaar, Mercedes Paginton
GROWN BY STAYING SMALL
Yvonne Kok wins the Dutch Coiffure Award
Men’s Hair category!
BBQ SPECIAL
Tips & Tricks from a Weber Grill Master CAMPINGAZ® 75 Years of Innovation and Cooking Pleasure BBQ recipes
PRODUCT NEWS
Lifestyle, Grooming, In Shop
AN INSPIRING LIFE STORY
Interview with Nero de Boer
WILL AI BECOME A MODERN NECESSITY?
Column Chris Foster
BARBERS & THE CITY
Barbershops & Hotspots in Las Vegas
HOW TO ATTRACT TOP TALENT TO YOUR BARBER SHOP?
Column Dennis van Lierop
BARBERS ON RECRUITMENT
CREATIVE WAYS TO RECRUIT BARBERS
Column Cor Bouw
ALL IN THE FAMILY
Interview with Irish barber Sam Donnelly
BARBERSRIDE: THE RIDE OF A LIFETIME! Q&A with riders J’roen and Andrew & Gilly
THIS
IS TRAVELLING TO Dutch Coiffure Award 2024 (NL)
at its best Originality
It’s a mindfuck
“It’s a mindfuck.” That’s how national newspaper ‘De Telegraaf ‘described the frizzy-hair hat that Nebiy, winner of the BarberSociety Young Talent Battle, created for his model. The hat was almost indistinguishable from the real thing! It’s amazing that participants in the battle come up with such an original idea. I’ve never seen anything like it before.
Read more about Nebiy in the interview in this edition, as well as about German Salih Baris, winner of the BarberSociety Battle. He travelled with his team from southern Germany to the Netherlands on Sunday, April 14, and it paid off; his colleague Aron won the Freestyle category. I continue to love the fact that barbers from home and abroad meet at BarberSociety Live. And what a super line-up we had this year!! I saw amazing shows from top talents on the BSL stage. But there were also talents cutting on the floor in the main hall, like Yvonne Kok. She won this year’s Dutch Coiffure Award Men’s Hair category, region South of the Netherlands, a wonderful
achievement. One of her winning photos graces our cover. In this summer edition, you can read her story, as well as the impressive story of BarberSociety Battle jury member Nero de Boer and that of the rock star of the barber profession, Donnie Hawley. He honored our event this year with a visit along with his Layrite Band of Barbers. As an American pomade pioneer, he has influenced many others.
BBQ-special
To stay in the American spirit, in this edition you will find barbershops and hotspots in Las Vegas and a BBQ special. You can find delicious BBQ recipes, tips & tricks, and more.
Find your new Master Barber!
A serious topic in this edition is finding top talent for your barbershop. Not only in the Netherlands but worldwide, barbershop owners struggle with recruiting the right staff. Business coaches Cor Bouw and Dennis van Lierop provide useful
tips, as do Nero de Boer and Sam Donnelly, owner of six barbershops in Dublin. Be sure to read his Irish ‘All-in the family’ story.
Dutch talent in the spotlight Finally, special attention to Dutch talent! On the trend pages, you will see a selection of the winners and nominees of the men’s hair category of the Dutch Coiffure Award 2024. Wonderful collections the Dutch can be proud of!
Hopefully, you can enjoy a well-deserved holiday this summer. And if you fancy a cool motorbike ride as barbers among yourselves, join this
year’s BarbersRide through the Netherlands and Germany in early August. More information on page 100.
Enjoy the summer & happy reading!
Marc van de Hare FounderBarberSociety Owner Van de Hare Amsterdam Barbers
PS Make a note of the date of the 8th edition of BarberSociety Live in your calendar: Sunday, April 13, 2025!
Were you not at BarberSociety Live and would you like to watch some educational and inspiring grand finale shows from top barbers on stage? Check them out on our YouTube channel:
BARBERING’S ROCKSTAR REBEL: The Layrite Legacy of Donnie Hawley
In the world of barbering, few names carry as much weight and cultural cache as Donnie Hawley and his iconic Layrite Deluxe brand. From humble beginnings mixing pomade in his bathtub to becoming a global phenomenon, Hawley’s story is one of passion, perseverance and an unwavering commitment to reviving the fading traditions of true barbering.
The birth of a pioneer It all started with the rockabilly scene of Hawley’s youth.
“You couldn’t get a good pompadour anywhere. Through high school, after high school, I just cut my friend’s hair on the regular,” he recalls. Operating out of his grandfather’s garage amongst classic cars, the young rebel began sculpting the slick pompadours that launched his barbering infatuation.
But it was his creation of Layrite’s Deluxe pioneering water-soluble pomade that truly ignited the barbering renaissance. “I really wanted to put in my patrons here, friends, and be able to wash it out so I can cut their hair and reapply,” Hawley explains of his initial formula. “From right out of the barbershop, holds like wax, washes out like a gel, was my whole thing.”
Building the Layrite brand experience
In 1999, Hawley inaugurated his first professional Layrite Deluxe barbershop, Hawleywood’s Barber Shop & Shaving Parlor, providing the only authentic male grooming experience for miles. It was the start of his mission to revive the fading ‘mythology of the barbershop experience’ and the intimate barber-client relationship ‘that will outlast friendships and some of the strongest marriages.’
“You didn’t want to see a girl before or during your haircut, you know? No one looks cool in the middle of a haircut” laughs Hawley, recounting how his early ‘gentlemen only’ policy led to legal battles from the competition. “It was the only place like it.”
Through hot towel shaves, a secret speakeasy entrance for VIP clients, and a proudly un-PC vibe with beers and Playboy magazines galore, Layrite Deluxe tapped into a retro fantasy world that resonated with disaffected rebels worldwide. Even the brand’s pin-up girl logo oozed vintage cheesecake allure.
Yet what brought Hawley’s vision full circle was his stubborn refusal to let the traditional barbershop experience fade away entirely.
As he bluntly states, “Barber colleges were closing. They were running everything together to call it unisex. And they were going to do away with the separation of the barber license and the cosmetologist license to two different trades.”
For the Layrite Deluxe founder, it was nothing short of a cultural demolition that needed to be stopped at all costs.
A barbering rock star is born Soon, Hawley’s perfectly sculpted cuts and larger-than-life rockabilly persona were in such demand that he started taking
his barbershop on the road, performing live cuts on stage to raucous crowds. “Whenever I would show up to perform live haircuts on stage, people would ask ‘What band are you in?’
And I’d have to tell them, ‘No, I’m not in a band - I’m a barber.’”
This innovative barnstorming turned Layrite Deluxe into a culture-defining brand that transcended mere styling products. As Hawley puts it, “It was like my brand embodied that whole rockabilly, antiestablishment vibe.” His passion for old cars and rock & roll mystique fused into Layrite Deluxe’s intoxicating brand persona. “People saw me as this kind of rock star barber figure, especially overseas. It was foreign to them.”
Suddenly, Hawley was like a real-life rock star shredding guitars with shears, drawing screaming fans and magazine profiles wherever he took his “Layrite Band of Barbers” crew. He recalls the surreal experience of arriving in Japan to be greeted by throngs of supporters:
“I was just coming out of customs, through the gates and doors, heading to get a cab or car. There were people with signs, screaming, and asking for autographs. I ended up being featured in a few big magazines in Japan.”
The Layrite Deluxe empire expands
As Layrite’s popularity soared globally, Donnie Hawley faced imitators mimicking his products. “They mocked up every single product I put out,” he says, referring to competitors like Suavecito, which he humorously calls “SuaVeCheatJoke.”
Suavecito managed to outdo Layrite Deluxe in distribution, opening the door for many others to create their own pomades.
Hawley’s relentless hands-on approach to product development solidified Layrite’s reputation. “Years in my R&D process as a barber ensured performance was number one,” he explains. This commitment helped Layrite Deluxe succeed in challenging markets like Japan, where the humid climate and thick hair require superior
There’s always room for a little more chaos and a lot more pomade
Innovations like the patented dual chamber cans, allowing customers to mix different pomade “flavors,” exemplify Hawley’s inventive spirit. He also has an unreleased pink can called “Layrite Deluxe Soft Shine” in the works. Despite new products, he remains a proud pioneer in the pomade world: “I was the pomade pioneer that everyone was influenced by.”
The resurrection of traditional barbering Hawleywood’s Barber Shop & Shaving Parlor in Costa Mesa remains his home base, now located across the street from its original location. He showcases a living museum of vintage barber chairs, awards, old magazine profiles, and his signature 1950 Ford Shoebox. The space will soon offer scalp micropigmentation services, providing the “illusion of a buzzcut” via semi-permanent hair tattoos.
Despite personal and professional setbacks, Hawley’s barbering journey continues to reach new heights. He recalls career highlights such as cutting hair at the Playboy Mansion, being the first barber in a century to get his own signature Wahl clipper line, and performing on live television in Indonesia. “Leo J. Wahl started Wahl Clipper. And like Layrite Deluxe, performance is number one, man,” he says, referring to the iconic clipper brand honoring him just before its 100th anniversary. “They had the grandson of Wahl, the founder, present those clippers to me.
I was the first barber to be on a Wahl package globally ever.”
Hawley at BarberSociety Live Recently, Hawley sponsored and performed at the BarberSociety Live event in the Netherlands with his hand-picked ‘Layrite Band of Barbers’ all-star team. Reflecting on the experience, he says, “The event was amazing for us. I think the way I set up my booth, with the colors and everything, really made the show fun.” He also raved about the “amazing” margaritas served at the event.
Hawley’s young son has become an adorable mascot of sorts for Team Layrite, already accompanying his dad on the non-stop touring circuit through Japan, Germany, Austria and The Netherlands at just one-year-old. “His little vest has patches of every country flag. He’s been around.” When looking at the future of Layrite Deluxe and his other upcoming projects like the 10th annual Traditional Barber Battle Festival in Tokyo, rockabilly events and motorcycle shows, Hawley
seems recharged and brimming with new creative pursuits. This Rockstar Rebel doesn’t plan on putting down his barber shears anytime soon.
The empire strikes back
In fact, Hawley is doubling down on expanding the Layrite Deluxe brand and experience. He’s developing new “flavors” and variations of the original pomade to cater to evolving styles, including a soft shine formula contained in a pink can, similar to the first Hawleywood’s Pink Pomade from 25 years ago. This pays tribute to the brand’s history while also looking ahead.
There are also plans for exclusive barbershop services, including the scalp micro-pigmentation treatment he’s introducing in Costa Mesa. “It’s a full-on surgical room,” he explains. “We’re really changing lives. It’s such a lifechanging experience for people.”
Much like how he carved out the barbering renaissance decades
ago, Hawley is determined to push boundaries and provide the ultimate insights into authentic men’s grooming. His upcoming 10th Traditional Barber Battle in Tokyo celebrates the very cutting and styling skills he helped re-popularize worldwide.
Unapologetically vintage Throughout Layrite Deluxe’s success and cultural shifts, one thing has remained constant: Hawley’s devout appreciation for traditional barbering’s celebrated heritage. “There’s a certain mythology about the Barber Shop experience that is quite beautiful. Once a patron and a barber forge a relationship, it will outlast many friendships and even some of the strongest marriages,” he says, waxing poetic about the sacred barber-client bond.
Even as trends and fads have come and gone over the decades, Hawley has steadfastly upheld barbering’s vintage traditions and
attention to detail. From hot towel shaves to meticulously executed hair sculpting and time-honored cuts like the ducktail, Layrite Deluxe remains an oasis of classic men’s grooming.
“I was talking about flattops with fenders and old ducktails, like the feathers of a duck’s back. Pin-up styles and pompadours,” Hawley says, referencing the range of vintage styles he helped resurrect. “All my cuts, all the traditional cuts that I did back in the day when nobody was doing them.”
This fundamentalist approach is partly what allowed Layrite Deluxe’s barbering revival to spread like wildfire across the globe. As Hawley puts it, “The barbers you see now, they first sat in my chair. I’ve totally influenced tons and tons of people.”
By romanticizing barbering’s past and its fading traditions, Hawley made the craft intriguing and aspirational for a new generation.
His travels and live performances brought the mystique of the old-school barbershop experience to the masses in an electrifying way.
The renegade’s legacy
After 25 years of pushing boundaries, rewriting rules, and elevating barbering into a counterculture movement, what’s next for Layrite Deluxe’s iconic founder? According to Hawley, there’s still plenty of rebelling left to do.
“I’m going to keep doing what I do best - innovating, creating, and spreading the gospel of traditional barbering,” Hawley says. “There’s always room for a little more chaos and a lot more pomade.”
Indeed, Layrite Deluxe’s 25-year odyssey has elevated barbering from a fading trade into a thrilling global subculture of charismatic personalities, vintage vibes, and perfectly groomed manes. Hawley’s spirited rebellion was
just what the industry needed to reignite its creative spark and cultural relevance.
As he continues to tour the world with his Band of Barbers, develop cutting-edge products, and push the boundaries of what a barbershop can be, one thing is certain: the Layrite Deluxe legacy is far from finished. The future of barbering may be uncertain, but as long as there are pompadours to sculpt and traditions to uphold, Donnie Hawley will be there, leading the charge with shears in hand.
The Layrite Deluxe revolution is here to stay, and it’s only just getting started.
A melting pot of talent and inspiration at BarberSociety Live!
From the pomade king of California to British modern barbering, French precision work, Polish craftsmanship, Romanian barberlady vibes, Australian business insights, Dutch fireworks, a hat made of frizzy hair ánd a beard competition, it was all on show at the 7th edition of BarberSociety Live on Sunday 14 April 2024. Over 750 visitors from home and abroad came to Amsterdam, the Netherlands, for this annual event aimed at the barber scene. The programme offered barber shows, demos, product discoveries and two competitions. A highlight was the show by British barber Josh Lamonaca & the MENSPIRE artistic team, where hair styles with a twist from the past, present and future were showcased by no fewer than 13 models. Donnie Hawley, a US icon known for water-based pomade, also took to the stage with his Layrite Band of Barbers and demonstrated some perfectly executed pompadour hairstyles.
Not only was the level of creativity high in the on-stage shows, but also in the two battles where barbers competed and demonstrated their skills in front of a live audience. The winner of the BarberSociety Young Talent Battle, 21-year-old Nebiyu Kinfe Berhane from Dutch Drenthe College, had made a hat out of frizzy hair to go with his model. By using two colours in the hairstyle, the hat was almost indistinguishable from real. A mindfuck, a Dutch national newspaper called his hairstyle. German Salih Baris from Deggendorf became Europe’s best barber and was awarded the title ‘BarberSociety Winner of the Year 2024’ in the international BarberSociety Battle. The pleasure of seeing each other and exchanging experiences brought a positive vibe!
REPORT
Top creativity
The creativity on display was of a high standard, visible in both the battles and the hair creations of the barbers on stage. There was an impressive line-up of national and international barber talents: British barbers such as the aforementioned world-renowned Josh Lamonaca & the MENSPIRE artistic team, Phil Jarman (on behalf of GAMMA+) and the Great British Barber Bash Team. Donnie Hawley and the Layrite Deluxe team with Vito Skeen and Simon Harvey represented the US, Italy and the UK, and in addition, barbers from Romania (barberlady Sofycuts on behalf of GAMMA+), France (Le Coupeur on behalf of Mashiro), Poland (Adam Szulc and team) and the Netherlands (Darios Barbers) gave educational and inspiring shows. Australia’s One-Zero-One education team, Eoin & Leigh, highlighted the business side of the profession. As always,
Chris Foster was the host who led the event in his characteristic way: with humour, self-assurance and an infectious energy.
Trends spotted Longer hair styles are gaining ground among men. We also see the burst fade frequently, often combined with a mullet. Additionally, punk influences and 90s-inspired Britpop hairstyles could be seen. Organiser Marc van de Hare: “Barbers who are mostly used to working with clippers need to get the real thing with scissors back into their fingers.’”
The BarberSociety Battles Brave students and barbers from home and abroad competed for honours and great prizes at the BarberSociety Battles. Twelve barbers and 18 students participated in this seventh edition. In the BarberSociety Battle, with an international jury, Salih Baris from Germany won
first prize. Ruben Grosan from Romania and Dimitris Liberis from Greece followed in second and third place.
The BarberSociety Young Talent Battle, in cooperation with Dutch barber schools, was won by Drenthe College with Nebiyu Kinfe Berhane. Second place was for Best Barbers Academy with Renzo van de Sandt and third prize went to Barber School Amsterdam with Sam Doornenbal. Interesting fact: for the second year in a row, Drenthe College with practice supervisor Hakan Kanal of Kapsalon Straq in Coevorden delivered the Young Talent winner! Winners had a chance to win prizes from a super prize pool worth €9,000! Cash prizes, hair care products, hair clippers, scissors, Jack Daniel’s whiskey and a fully catered two-day barber camp in Hungary.
Miranda Vlas and Marc van de Hare, initiators and organisers
“What a fantastic day we experienced on 14 April, a super vibe! The creativity splashed off, both on stage and during the battles. The line-up was really impressive this year and we are proud that the latest men’s hair trends were shown on the catwalk of BarberSociety Live by national and international barbering talents.
We were also delighted to see wonderful brands from home and abroad showcasing the latest men’s hair care products and tools. It was a motley crew of old acquaintances and new relations. Together with our visitors, they created a fantastic and intimate atmosphere at the event. The location certainly contributed to this as well.
It is extraordinary that our event is gaining increasing international
Presenting the silver BarberSociety pin to Marco Koot of Wahl Benelux.
appeal. We even welcomed visitors from the United Arab Emirates and Qatar for the first time. The cultural exchange between barbers is a huge source of motivation for them, and it is great that through BarberSociety Live we can contribute to this. Moreover, the presence of many new visitors enriched our barber community and brought new insights.And of course, we love the fact that at this edition, no fewer than 25 visitors got a tattoo of our logo, in the form of a barber pole! This year, we presented our prestigious silver BarberSociety pin to Marco Koot, Wahl sales manager for the Benelux. We are extremely grateful to Wahl for their support of BarberSociety and their belief in the barber community. We would like to thank everyone who supported our event in any way, including our sponsors. BarberSociety Live 2024 was a day full of inspiration, craftsmanship and fun!”
Miranda Vlas (l) and Marc van de Hare (r), initiators and organisers
UNIQUE EVENT
SO MUCH FUN
TOP SHOWS
SOURCE OF INSPIRATION
GREAT VIBES
Germany’s Salih Baris became the BarberSociety Winner of the Year 2024! He convincingly won the BarberSociety Battle on Sunday 14 April during BarberSociety Live. Besides the main prize, he also won the categories ‘cleanest fade’ and ‘Old School Scissor Cut’ which earned him €1,500 in prize money as well as product packages from sponsors worth €5,000! He competed against contestants from Germany, Greece, the Netherlands and Romania. Romanian Ruben Grosan (Men’s Crown) ended up in second place and Greek Dimitris Liberis (V&M Liberis Barbershop) in third. The jury members included Alan Findlay (UK), Donnie Hawley (USA), Simon Harvey (UK), Vito Skeen Calo (IT) and Nero de Boer (NL).
Salih is manager of Barbershop BRAINWASH, located in Deggendorf, in the German state of Bavaria in southern Germany. He employs three full-time barbers, including Aron Adorjan who won the Freestyle category and came fourth. So, it was party time at Barbershop BRAINWASH! Read more about this winner of the BarberSociety Battle.
What do you like most and least about the barbering profession?
“There is nothing I don’t like. But what I really like is that it is in my hands to turn men into real gentlemen.”
What can you tell us about Barbershop BRAINWASH, what makes it unique?
“Every customer who comes to us leaves with the BRAINWASH feeling. The perfection and passion in our work, combined with wellness and massages, give our customers confidence and we love them like our own family.”
What is it like being a barber in the German state of Bavaria?
“I believe Bavaria is generally one of the most difficult states as far as our profession is concerned, but I won’t let that stop me and will do my best to be not only the Best Barber in Europe but in the whole world!”
Your colleague Aron Adorjan also won an award, what is the secret of Barbershop BRAINWASH?
“I teach my guys perfection and give them a lot of confidence, which always pays off.”
Dad, you’re the best and you can do it
You have won several awards in competitions, including in Germany, what motivates you to participate?
“I don’t enter to win first place but to measure my cutting skills against others. Entering a competition shows how good you are at your craft. For me, it’s about my own growth and perspectives.”
In 2023, you also wanted to compete in the BarberSociety Battle but cancelled, this time you came and won! Why did you decide to participate in this BarberSociety Battle?
“Because of the atmosphere and I think the people in Holland are fair, just like the judges, so I felt right at home. We made it a party together!”
How did you prepare for the competition?
“I prepared mentally by believing in myself.”
How did you get inspiration for your hairstyles?
“By just letting my mind run wild.”
Were you nervous before the BarberSociety Battle?
“I am very nervous to cut on stage or during a battle but two days before the battle, my son Ilyas said to me, “Dad, you are the best and you can do it.” That took away my nervousness and gave me even more confidence. Without him, I probably wouldn’t have made it.”
Were you satisfied with your hairstyles during the competition?
“More than satisfied, I was surprised by what you can achieve if you really want it.”
Jury member BarberSociety Battles Alan Findlay
What did you think of the BarberSociety Battle?
“Since being involved in the battles, I thought this year’s competitors were some of the best I’ve seen! And it was nice to see some of the Young Talent contestants come back and compete in the regular Battle now.”
Why did you think Salih Baris was the winner?
“I think Salih was a deserved winner as his all-round skill set, consistency, and creativity won him the overall competition.”
Was there something that caught your eye in the battle?
”I was very impressed with some of the overall styling choices, where competitors complemented the hair with great clothes and accessories, particularly some of the Greek guys.”
Any tips?
“Really good models with great hair and clever style choices are crucial for success in this competition. And judges will always respect competitors who challenge themselves with difficult technical cuts.”
What went through your mind when you found out you were the 2024 BarberSociety winner?
“I got goosebumps all over my body and realised that from that day on, I am officially the Best Barber in Europe.”
What was it like when you got back to Deggendorf with all those awards?
“Because we had four cups with us, people really asked everywhere what they were for, even at the airport. Stewardesses wanted to take photos with us, it was really fantastic, I was SO happy!”
What are your plans for the coming years?
“To become World Champion and make our barbershop the best and biggest in Europe!”
Do you have any tips?
“Always keep going, whatever you want to do, because the choice is yours. Believe in yourself and don’t let it stop you.”
@nebiy7k @kapsalon_straq
If one hairstyle stood out during the BarberSociety Young Talent Battle on 14 April this year, it was the hair hat created by Nebiyu Kinfe Berhane (21 years old) from Drenthe College for the freestyle category. This creation earned him the title ‘BarberSociety Young Talent Winner of the Year’. His striking and original hairdo even caught the attention of a journalist from national newspaper ‘De Telegraaf’, who wrote an article about it even before it was known that Nebiy had won the first prize. With this and his Old School Scissor Cut, he beat 18 other students from schools across the country. Besides the honour and the cup, he also received nice product packages from sponsors. The jury of this 7th edition consisted of Alan Findlay (UK), Barber Birdman (NL), Dennis Kil (NL) and Nero de Boer (NL).
Then I also ended up in a national newspaper, which was really cool!
Remarkably, for the second year in a row, Dutch Drenthe College, with practice supervisor Hakan Kanal of hair salon Straq in Coevorden, delivered a winner. Indeed, last year’s winner, Temie, is a good friend of Nebiy. Like Nebiy, he is from Eritrea and they work together in hair salon Straq. We spoke to Nebiy to unravel their secret. Later, Hakan also joined the conversation. Hakan has now been in the hairdressing business for 23 years and is celebrating his hair salon’s 10th anniversary this year.
Could you share some information about your background?
“At the age of 12, I fled from Eritrea with my parents and siblings for a better future. When my eldest brother was thirteen, he fled ahead on his own and joined a foster family in Coevorden, a town in the east of the Netherlands. That is why we ended up in that place. I remember from that trip that we had to walk for hours and wait in various refugee camps in Ethiopia for months before we could finally fly to the Netherlands via Dubai because my brother had arranged it. Once we arrived in the Netherlands, it took some getting used to. Here you have everything you had never had
yourself! But I also found it very busy with so many people, you don’t speak Dutch, you don’t have friends, that was quite difficult. Once I went to school and to football, I was able to make friends, play football and chat in the football locker room. In Eritrea I had to walk miles to go to school, here I was there in no time, that was also very nice.”
When did you get interested in the barbering profession?
“I was friends with Temie and very early on we cut friends’ hair. His father tried to teach us.
A year before me, Temie started hairdressing at Drenthe College in Emmen while I was doing retail training. He did an internship
at Straq hairdressing salon and I would often drop by and watch. I also sometimes went to see him in class, there were nice teachers. That’s when it started itching for me. Once I completed the retail training, I then started taking the hairdressing course there too.”
Last year, you grabbed next to the prizes and your friend Temie became the big winner. This year, you walked away with the win! How did that feel?
“It’s really wonderful! I was really happy when Temie won last year and of course it’s incredibly nice that I won now. And then I also made it into a national newspaper, which was really cool!”
What all came your way after winning the award?
“Because I had been in a national newspaper, people came up to me in Coevorden who had seen that and congratulated me. I also featured in a regional newspaper and door-to-door newspapers. That generated a lot of new appointments and customers.”
Why were you so keen to take part in the BarberSociety Battle?
“I really like competitions, you learn a lot when you take part in them and you can develop yourself. Also, it’s good to know what level you’re at.”
How did you prepare for the battle this year?
“By searching a lot on the internet to get ideas and training a lot! I really trained for months in the salon, on average two days a week for both Freestyle and Old School Scissor Cut. The model for Freestyle was one of my brothers and he was fortunately always available. So, I worked very hard and I am glad that I won. It has not been in vain!”
You made your model a hat out of frizzy hair. By using two colours in the hairstyle, the hat was almost indistinguishable from real ones. How did you come up with this idea?
“We have seen so many hairstyles on the internet, but none of them included a hat. That idea just came up, something we hadn’t seen before.” His boss Hakan adds: “But what kind of hat then? At first, we thought of a sort of Peaky Blinders vibe, with a suit with a pocket watch and a bowler hat. But we couldn’t really find such a suit. Many jury members wear a hat and then we came up with the idea to make that kind of hat.”
Nebiy: “We then also received that red suit and it matched very well with the hat. When we started practicing with it, it really stood out. We thought that with this, we had a chance to make it into the top 3.” Hakan: “Nebiy really did his best, kept training constantly, he really deserved it!”
How did you feel on the day?
“I was a bit tense at the beginning, but that went away when I was 5 minutes into it. I was very focused and totally absorbed in my work. I didn’t even realise I was being photographed.”
You work at hair salon Straq and have been mentored by Hakan there, how important has his guidance been and what have you learnt from him?
“His guidance is very important, not only for the hairstyles for the battle but also for the barber profession in general. At school, the focus in the first year was on cutting and blow-drying women’s hair, and with Hakan, I learned to cut men’s hair. In the second year, I could also start cutting men’s hair at school, but by then I had already mastered the basics. For the competition hairstyles, he gave me many tips on how to improve the hairstyle. We experimented a lot with the hat. Should the hair go straight or diagonally backward or forward? It turned out to be
better to keep the front a bit lower so that it looked more like a hat.
Immediately the day after the BarberSociety Battle, I had to do another exam component, shaving with a straight razor. I passed that then which meant I graduated. When I came to school that Monday, of course they congratulated me and took photos of me for the hallway. After that, I got a permanent position with Hakan.”
Hakan, you now have two talents working in your business, how is that?
“Yes, I am of course super happy with that! When Temie started working with me, it was already a relief. I recognized a lot of myself in him, so motivated and driven. And Nebiy is even more of a go-getter, he just keeps going. I consider myself lucky with them, they are fully committed to the profession, they are interested, they always have new ideas and think about how they can do better. They are also on social
Nebiy (l), Hakan (m), Temie (r)
media which brings more people to the salon, customers come from everywhere. They both recently went to a radio station, which was also about cutting hair and TikTok. Earlier they were interviewed by regional TV channels and even a national newspaper.
And now?
Nebiy: “Working together a lot, learning, growing together.
The three of us can achieve a lot.” Hakan: “In fact, they are already giving barber courses to salons! Besides Nebiy and Temie, I employ
another barber and a chair renter. Since the barber’s salary isn’t a fat lot either, eventually the idea is for everyone to rent a chair and develop themselves. And who knows, we might start two or three more salons later. I really want them to grow with us. I also want to take them to the World Championships in Paris, OMC Hairworld, so they can also experience that once and maybe get inspiration there. After winning the Young Talent Battle last year, Temie competed in the regular BarberSociety Battle this
Jury member BarberSociety Young Talent Battle: Dennis Kil
What did you think of the Young Talent Battle?
“A-ma-zing! Anyway, I think it’s f*ckin’ cool that these young professionals have the guts to participate in this competition at such a young age. Some with only a few months of experience. A live battle is something entirely different from a photo contest where your experienced colleagues can still put the finishing touches on your model or a photographer can retouch the imperfections for you in post-processing on the computer.
During the Young Talent Battle, you’re completely on your own. By yourself, with your modest experience, the sweat on your back from the nerves, and the pressure of a time clock. I enjoyed every brave, talented young contestant and all those spectators who came to cheer them on.”
Did you notice anything else?
“Extraordinary, how much togetherness and passion there was during this event. Whether you participated in a battle, stood
year. He has only been in the profession for 3 years, so that is admirable and he even took third place in the freestyle category. He had some bad luck with models but I see he is already working on that, so I expect him to participate in the BarberSociety Battle again in 2025. If Nebiy also participates, they will be competitors, haha! They’re both promising guys, so I’m curious to see what the future holds!”
on stage, were a visitor, were part of the organisation or had a stand. Everyone was bursting with passion and belonging. A society as a society should be.”
Why do you think Nebiyu became the winner?
“He was clearly well-prepared and therefore confident in his approach. Technically and conceptually, it was well thought out, allowing him to cleverly earn points from the jury on every aspect. His fade was super tight, he had a good model whose hair color matched the outfit, his workspace was tidy, his time management was good, and his final result... Well, as a jury, you just lingered a bit longer looking at it. He managed to surprise me.”
Any
tips?
“Approach every competition as top-level sport. Develop a strong concept, including a plan of action. Find a model that fits your concept, train for speed, train your skills, train on styling and finishing, ensure good materials - both tools and products, train your aesthetic eye and train for perfection. So, come prepared! Train, train, train...”
YVONNE KOK
Hair & Styling: Yvonne Kok (NL)
Photography: Ivo de Kok
Makeup: Niels Jansen
Hair & Styling: Yvonne Kok (NL)
@mr.handsome.nl
Photography: Ivo de Kok
Makeup: Niels Jansen
Hair & Styling: Yvonne Kok (NL)
Photography: Ivo de Kok
Makeup: Niels Jansen
Hair: Judith Jager (NL)
Photography: Sanne Grasdijk
Makeup: Sita Koning
Styling: Annet Veerbeek/ass Chanel Pauw
@judith_jager, @capaldikappers
JUDITH JAGER
Hair: Judith Jager (NL)
Photography: Sanne Grasdijk
Makeup: Sita Koning
Styling: Annet Veerbeek/ass Chanel Pauw
@judith_jager, @capaldikappers
Hair: Ivonne Martens-Opdam (NL)
Photography: Ivo de Kok Makeup: Anouk van Emmerik Styling: Annet Veerbeek
HOGENES STEFAN
Hair: Stefan Hogenes (NL)
Photography: Richard Monsieurs
Makeup: Mariska de Jong
Styling: Femke Huiberts @stefanhogenes
Hair: Stefan Hogenes (NL)
Photography: Richard Monsieurs
Makeup: Mariska de Jong
Styling: Femke Huiberts @stefanhogenes
HENRY GIJZEN
Hair: Henry Gijzen (NL)
Photography: Richard Monsieurs
Makeup: Juliette den Ouden
Styling: Dominique Verwijmeren @gekniptathenrys
Hair: Henry Gijzen (NL)
Photography: Richard Monsieurs
Makeup: Juliette den Ouden
Styling: Dominique Verwijmeren @gekniptathenrys
Hair: Shah Hosseinpour (NL)
Photography: Martijn Senders
Makeup: Vito Armando
Styling: Sato Okoro @hairbyshah
Hair: Shah Hosseinpour (NL)
Photography: Martijn Senders
Makeup: Vito Armando
Styling: Sato Okoro @hairbyshah
Hair: Shah Hosseinpour (NL)
Photography: Martijn Senders
Makeup: Vito Armando
Styling: Sato Okoro @hairbyshah
JOS VAN ASTEN
Hair & Styling: Jos van Asten (NL)
Photography: Arjan Bevers
Makeup: Mireille Bevers-Brunt @avantikappers
MEIJER-NEULEN MARIËL
COIFFURE
Hair & Makeup: Mariël Meijer-Neulen (NL)
Photography: Ingeborg Lukkien
Styling: Marleen Veenhuis @mariel_hairstyling
Hair & Makeup: Mariël Meijer-Neulen (NL)
Photography: Ingeborg Lukkien
Styling: Marleen Veenhuis @mariel_hairstyling
THE NETHERLANDS
MELVIN BAKHUIS
COIFFURE AWARD 2024 NOMINEE
Hair: Melvin Bakhuis (NL)
Photography: Ingeborg Lukkien
Makeup: Mariël Meijer-Neulen
Styling: Marleen Veenhuis @melvinbakhuis
Hair: Melvin Bakhuis (NL)
Photography: Ingeborg Lukkien
Makeup: Mariël Meijer-Neulen
Styling: Marleen Veenhuis
@melvinbakhuis
Hair: Melvin Bakhuis (NL)
Photography: Ingeborg Lukkien
Makeup: Mariël Meijer-Neulen
Styling: Marleen Veenhuis
@melvinbakhuis
LOUISE VLAAR
Collection: SPECTRUM Hair: Louise Vlaar, Pro-Solo (NL)
Photography: Ivo de Kok Makeup: Angelique Stapelbroek Styling: Ed Noijons
Keune Hair Cosmetics
Collection: SPECTRUM
Hair: Louise Vlaar, Pro-Solo (NL)
Photography: Ivo de Kok
Makeup: Angelique Stapelbroek
Styling: Ed Noijons
Products: Keune Hair Cosmetics @louisevlaarhair
Collection: SPECTRUM
Hair: Louise Vlaar, Pro-Solo (NL)
Photography: Ivo de Kok
Makeup: Angelique Stapelbroek
Styling: Ed Noijons Products: Keune Hair Cosmetics @louisevlaarhair
Yvonne Kok wins the Coiffure Award Men’s Hair category region South!
Bunschoten, located in the heart of the Netherlands, has a new local hero. Yvonne Kok, the talented barber behind Mr. Handsome, has won the prestigious Dutch Coiffure Award in the highly coveted Men’s Hair category region South of the Netherlands. Her victory caused a wave of excitement and pride among her clients, as congratulations and gifts continue to pour in. It is a moment of pure triumph for Yvonne, whose craftsmanship and dedication are finally receiving the recognition they deserve.
Yvonne was featured in the very first edition of BarberSociety Magazine in 2017 and remains true to her roots, working from her shed. She shows that with craftsmanship and perseverance, you can go far. She hopes her success will inspire other barbers to also participate in this prestigious competition.
A
triumphant victory
Yvonne: “I’m floating on cloud nine! My clients are proud, flowers and gifts are pouring in, wonderful! Did I expect this? I hope for it every year! But I thought my series this year was fantastic; I simply couldn’t do better. Normally, you have two good photos and two less good ones. This year, I thought they were all great.” And that was rewarded with the Coiffure
confident, but I’m as insecure as can be. I always think I can’t do it. My best friend always helps me with the photoshoot, and she was sick this year. I felt like crying. In the afternoon, I luckily got support from a friend, Brian. I work alone and with a small team; a makeup artist and photographer. I did the styling myself, my makeup artist Niels Jansen helped me dress the models that day. This
Award. When Yvonne heard she had won, her reaction was: “Damn!”, a statement that host Nikkie de Jager (@NikkieTutorials) labeled as her favorite. Yvonne says: “During the ceremony, I was quite nervous, so much goes through your mind. At the moment I accepted the award, I was shaking so much that I couldn’t hold the microphone. Because of the nerves, I even forgot to thank my friend Jantine van Luttikhuizen, who played a crucial role in the process for the Coiffure Award. It’s really fantastic that I won!”
She continues: “I’ve only done a photoshoot five times in my life, and that was for the Coiffure Award. I also send this series to other award shows abroad, such as the British Hair Awards, Men Shot, and the IBI Awards in New York (editor’s note: it is now known that she also won an IBI Award). So, this is my 5th year participating. I may seem
Terri’s collection; the simplicity, the simple styling, the use of white, the headshots, I found that really beautiful. I’m chaotic myself, but I actually don’t like that at all. My work is the opposite of who I am. I find peace when I work, then I have my focus. That’s why I chose headshots, not the easiest, but I just want to show technical cutting. This is always tricky with models, certain
year, I actually wasn’t going to participate; it’s quite an investment for me. With models and all, it quickly costs €5,000, a whole vacation. I’m very proud that I won an award in my 5th year, others sometimes take 11 years!”
Inspiration and aspirations
Why does she participate every year? “I just want to, it’s a personal challenge because I find it terrifying. I want to push my boundaries. There’s also a bit of a need to prove myself. There’s a barber here who thinks ‘barber sheds’ like the one I work in are ‘so 2016.’ I’m proving now that you shouldn’t underestimate barbers from barber sheds, haha! The location where you work doesn’t matter. It’s about your craftsmanship.”
For inspiration, Yvonne searches the entire internet. The most beautiful shoot she’s ever seen is by hairdresser Terri Kay (@terri.a.kay). “I was inspired by
hairstyles are not allowed on all models. Fortunately, you can also use wigs, which I did with 2 models. The day of the photoshoot is incredibly intense, and then at the end of the day, you have to select 6 out of about hundreds of photos. That’s not easy. After the Coiffure Award, I always feel a bit depressed. You spend half a year on it: the preparation, the shoot, the nomination, the gala, and then you fall into a black hole, except this year, haha!”
“Now that I’m in the spotlight because of winning the award, I hope other barbers are also encouraged to participate. I even hope there will be a separate category for barbers at the Coiffure Award, where you see the real cutting work, sharp lines, fades. That kind of hairstyle is not seen enough at the Coiffure Award is my opinion, of course it is at live competitions like the BarberSociety Battles or the Great British Barber Bash.
But it would be nice if the barber section got more attention at the Coiffure Award.”
Looking back
Yvonne looks back on her career: “I just work in a shed, I used to be ashamed of it, but that’s completely gone. I work six days a week, around the care of my eleven-year-old son Kay, and still work alone. I find it important to have a half-hour private conversation with my client. I was once busy renting a property. It was then a choice between divorcing or renting a property, so I chose to divorce, and then came the coronavirus. I saw that as a sign that there shouldn’t be a property. My clients don’t mind either; they feel at home in my shed. I always think: ‘grow by staying small.’ I live in a village, I started Mr. Handsome in 2016 as a joke, but everyone in the village knows where to find it, parking is very easy. You don’t see vacationers at my place, but I wouldn’t have time for that either because I’m always booked three weeks in advance. I just raised my prices a bit. Additionally, I also give training for the Mr. Finnley’s brand, where I’m an ambassador. I could give more training, but I do what I enjoy. I drive a small car, I don’t need an expensive bag, my son comes first and lacks nothing, so I’m just a very happy person.”
You were featured in our very first issue of BarberSociety Magazine in 2017, we are now 7 years later, how do you view the profession? “In 2016, when I started my barbershop, it was mainly the ten hairstyles of Schorem that drew attention. Now there are more unique technical aspects, you see different lines, square, round, triangular. Pivot Point and sectioning really come to the fore, something men didn’t really do. What developments have I gone through myself? Overcoming fear, not thinking but doing. I remember posting a photo on Facebook in
the beginning, and a top barber I looked up to commented: ‘wow, it’s barber magic.’
Then I thought: ‘could I do this?’ And that’s how the ball started rolling. I developed myself by experimenting with hairstyles. I really try to make sure no one leaves my shop with the same haircut. By adding unique details to a hairstyle, you train yourself and reach a higher level. You also stimulate that process by participating in the Coiffure Award.”
Highs and lows
What has been the best moment in your career so far? “That I made something out of nothing. I didn’t get a euro and did everything myself, renovated my shed with my own money. And of course, the moment I won the Coiffure Award is also one of the best moments.” Your biggest blunder? “Maybe that I once cut a Dutch celebrity in the ear. And I never say ‘damn,’ I pay particular attention to proper language use with my son!”
Future plans and ambitions
What is the most challenging aspect of the profession?
“You’re never too old to learn. I keep participating in competitions, attending events. I’ve never missed an edition of BarberSociety Live. I even remember once coming straight from the plane, getting a hotel in Amsterdam to attend the event the next day. As barbers among each other, you speak the same language, and it’s nice to see and talk to everyone at BSL. The location was fantastic this year too, the event is so well put together, everything just fits.” What are your plans for the future? “I would really like to win a One Shot Award at Behind the Chair!”
Yvonne leaves a message: “Keep challenging yourself, and you’ll enjoy the profession for a long time. It’s up to you whether you bring about change.”
The Dutch Coiffure Award
In mid-May, the winners of the Dutch Coiffure Award were announced. Yvonne Kok of Mr. Handsome in Bunschoten went home with the Coiffure Award in the Men’s Hair category region South of the Netherlands. During this 32nd edition, both national and international jurors reviewed the entries. Yvonne presented a powerful series of wearable trends, portrayed through simplicity that touches you. ‘Tough men whose androgynous hairstyles make them look like 80s rock stars with a modern twist to 2024. Less is more, technically very well executed, simple but strong concept with focus on the hair. Pure craft with a clear vision, guts and craftsmanship go hand in hand here,’ the jury report on the winner read. In addition to the award for Yvonne Kok, 12 other Coiffure Awards were presented. Rozan Zonneveld was named ‘Dutch Hairdresser of the Year,’ and Judith Jager received the award for the Men’s Hair category region North of the Netherlands.
Weber Head Grillmaster Jurre Zwagemakers, together with his partner, offers a unique barbecue experience at Grill Academy Haaglanden in the Netherlands. Here you can enjoy the ultimate barbecue experience all year round, with various local ingredients and a warm fireplace in autumn and winter. Read his BBQ tips & tricks and discover his favorite dish.
One of the latest trends in BBQ is... the use of accessories like planchas. Many people are tired of simple barbecuing with hamburgers and satay and are looking for a challenge in a more complete experience. We are moving away from large pieces of meat on the BBQ and heading more towards a 4- to 6-course dinner with smaller dishes that are nicely flavored, possibly with a nice piece of meat.
The most common mistake during barbecuing is... that in the Netherlands, we don’t barbecue meat, we cremate it! In an hour and a half, we work through chunks of baguette, herb butter, and satay sauce, which is actually more than we can stuff ourselves with. Then white smoke comes out of the garden, as if the pope has arrived. Unfortunately, it turns out that a pork belly is blackened on the barbecue, cremating. By the way, barbecuing is not just about putting a nice dish on the table, but also about enjoying each other’s company. The person barbecuing should be part of that and not just stressing behind the BBQ.
My BBQ tip is... calm, cleanliness, and regularity. A good BBQ starts not only with the right materials and ingredients but also with good preparation. Make sure the items you use are within reach and clean. It’s a shame to have a perfectly cooked steak and then discover that your cutting board and knife are still dirty. While you’re cleaning them, your steak can suddenly become well-done instead of mediumrare. For beginners, my best tip is: always barbecue indirectly. That means heat on one side and the dish on the other side. This way, the dish can develop more flavor. The ‘grilling off’ is
done at the end, not at the beginning. With a charcoal BBQ, you place the coals on the left side and the meat on the right side. With a gas BBQ, you determine which side the heat comes from. So you turn one knob on and leave one off, where you place the dish.”
Good meat you get... in any case not at the supermarket. You can recognize a good butcher by the fact that there is little marinated meat there. Many butchers marinate their meat to prevent spoilage or to tenderize bad meat.
My favorite BBQ recipe is... grilled scallop with asparagus and Parma ham! A small and delicious recipe that I prepare on a plancha barbecue.
I recommend a workshop to... actually everyone! Sometimes it’s just nice to get inspiration and sometimes it’s important to master the basics. If you don’t know what you’re doing right or wrong, you can never improve yourself. In my workshop, you learn about cutting, flavor, and BBQ techniques and presenting the dishes. For example, if you cut a perfectly tender piece of meat incorrectly, you eat with the grain and it tastes like shoe leather! So serve it in such a way that your guest automatically cuts against the grain. In my workshop, I teach my participants to do everything themselves and I teach them to prepare a 6-course dinner.
A favorite BBQ during a workshop is... there isn’t one! People think that one type of barbecue is the best, but it’s about choosing the barbecue that best suits your use. If you think on a Thursday evening: ‘Nice weather, I’m going to barbecue,’ then you prefer
a different BBQ than someone who has the time to smoke a nice dish like spareribs all day on the weekend. Ultimately, you can barbecue anywhere, dig a hole in the ground and put chicken wire over it, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best way for the dish. My personal favorite BBQ is the Weber Summit Kamado. You can work with both briquettes and charcoal, and the temperature is easy to control. Unlike stone kamados, it cools down quickly. A stone kamado often has one setting: ‘warmer,’ and personally, I like to control this more myself. For easy use and if you don’t have much time, I prefer the Weber Genesis. A BBQ that is super stable at both low and high temperatures and belongs to the highest segment of the market due to the use of durable materials. After all, you want to use your BBQ for at least 15 years.
You keep the BBQ clean by... not cleaning it but burning it clean. A greasy grill doesn’t rust, and bacteria grow on the grill instead of in it, and you can easily burn them off. You do this before you start barbecuing. Heat up the barbecue and let it burn until no more smoke comes off, run the BBQ brush over it, and you’re ready to go.
A tip for a successful BBQ party is... to prepare everything well and ensure that your guests can easily grab things themselves or that you outsource it to a caterer who takes care of the drinks, snacks, including the staff. As a BBQ caterer, we bring everything fresh and prepare and cook it on-site. I travel all over the Netherlands, and we often see that the host or hostess is too busy with the peripheral conditions of the party, such as cleaning glasses, etc.
of Weber Grill Master Jurre Zwagemakers
Grilled scallop with asparagus
Ingredients (per person)
1 Scallop
1 Slice of nice dried ham
3-5 Green asparagus
Pistachios
Spicy BBQ spices
1 Lime
Preparation
White balsamic vinegar
Cocktail stick
Spring onion
Roasted sesame seeds
Cut the dried ham lengthwise to a width that is the same as the thickness of the scallop. Then wrap the ham around the scallop and secure it with a cocktail stick. Sprinkle both sides of the scallop with a nice spicy rub. Grate some of the lime zest and set aside. Finely chop a piece of the green part of the spring onion at a 45-degree angle and set aside. Finely chop the pistachios and put them in a bowl.
Cooking
Set the BBQ to direct heat, about 175 degrees Celsius, and place a cast iron griddle on the hot zone. Test if the griddle is hot by dripping a little water on it. If it is, you can place the asparagus and the scallop on it. Cook the asparagus until they become somewhat limp. The scallop can be cooked for 2 minutes on each side until it has a nice brown crust. Remove the scallop and asparagus and optionally roast the pistachios briefly.
Presentation
Place the scallop in the middle of a plate and sprinkle with some lime zest. Lay the asparagus crosswise over it and sprinkle with some spring onion and sesame seeds. Sprinkle some pistachios around the scallop and drizzle the balsamic vinegar around the plate. The dish is now ready to serve, enjoy!
CAMPINGAZ® 75 YEARS OF INNOVATION
Which camper doesn’t know them, the blue cylinders of Campingaz? Enjoying the outdoors, cooking a delicious meal on your single gas burner in front of your tent, usually a one-pot dish. Since the invention of this iconic refillable gas bottle in 1949, Campingaz has not stood still. They have dedicated themselves to developing products to make outdoor cooking as pleasant and safe as possible.
In the 1990s, they introduced a range of gas barbecues and planchas. Now, 75 years later, Campingaz offers everything a barbecue enthusiast could wish for. Read their special story and check out the recipe from Fire&Food magazine’s BBQ chef Bastiaan.
Campingaz celebrates a remarkable journey of 75 years of adventures, memories, and innovations in the outdoors. From the iconic blue cylinders to the revolutionary gas barbecues, Campingaz has transformed the way people live and cook outdoors. The diamond jubilee reflects not only a period of growth and success but also the strong bond the brand has built with generations of campers, outdoor enthusiasts, and adventurers around the world.
In 1949, three engineers from Lyon, France, invented the first portable, refillable gas cylinder, the ‘bidon bleu.’ It was launched
across Europe under the brand name ‘Camping Gaz’ and revolutionized outdoor cooking. In 1952, the Campingaz factory and headquarters were opened in Saint Genis Laval, Lyon, and the first two-burner stove from Campingaz was developed. After years of focusing on transforming the way campers cook outdoors, Campingaz invested in closer-to-home outdoor cooking and developed a range of gas barbecues and planchas in the 1990s.
The production of Campingaz gas cartridges and cylinders, as well as the refurbishment and refilling of the latter, still
takes place at the brand’s headquarters. Product development, testing, and certification also occur internally, allowing the R&D team to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation. All with the aim of providing maximum convenience for campers while ensuring the highest possible safety standards.
Today, Campingaz offers everything a barbecue enthusiast could wish for, from portable grills perfect for picnics and camping to large barbecues that take backyard grilling to the next level. Campingaz’s mission is to enable as many people as possible to cook outdoors safely.
bbq-recipe Fire&Food
Barbecue chef Bastiaan Schlosser from the Dutch magazine Fire&Food shares one of his favorite bbq recipes, rotisserie prime rib, prepared on the Campingaz Onyx barbecue.
1 Trim the meat all around. Remove excess fat, membranes, and attachments.
2 Rub the meat with oil and generously sprinkle with the barbecue rub.
3 Tie the meat with butcher’s twine.
4 Prepare the barbecue for indirect heat (120°C). Remove the grill grate.
5 Slide the meat onto the rotisserie spit until it is centered. Gently press the meat onto the prongs of the fork prongs until they are deeply embedded. Now place the other fork and press the prongs firmly into the meat. Put on barbecue gloves and place the rotisserie spit in the barbecue. Tighten the nuts securely.
6 Turn on the rotisserie motor. The meat is done when an internal temperature of 50°C is reached.
7 Remove the rosemary and thyme from the sprigs and finely chop them along with the sage and garlic. Melt the butter in the pan over low heat and add the chopped herbs. Ensure the butter does not brown. Regularly baste the meat with this butter mixture.
8 Remove the meat from the barbecue and let it rest for 10 minutes. Loosely cover it with aluminum foil. Carve the meat into nice slices and serve immediately.
CAMPINGAZ - 4 SERIES ONYX S GAS BARBECUE
A complete cooking experience in the garden! This 4 series Onyx S barbecue from Campingaz is equipped with 4 powerful stainless steel burners with the efficient Blue Flame Power System, ensuring efficient and even heat distribution. The stable enameled cast iron grill grate on this barbecue is designed so that fat does not easily drip onto the burners, preventing flare-ups.
It also features a thermometer on the lid and a warming rack. Side dishes can be prepared on the side burner, and on the other side, the barbecue is equipped with a handy foldable side table.
Thanks to the innovative InstaClean Aqua System, cleaning the barbecue is very easy. The drip tray, which you fill with water, collects debris and grease, keeping the barbecue clean and eliminating the need for scrubbing.
Accessories
But that’s not all. The Onyx also features a cast iron ring that can be easily replaced with one of the accessories. It is compatible with Campingaz’s versatile Culinary Modular system. The accessories, including a Rotisserie Kit, Paella Pan, Wok, Poultry Roaster, and Pizza Stone, are each sold separately, allowing everyone’s cooking experience to be personalized. This way, that garden party will be a hit.
Outdoor cooking
Campingaz has been a trusted brand in outdoor cooking for 75 years, and this barbecue continues the brand’s tradition with robust, high-quality designs built to last. Whether you’re cooking for a small group of friends or a large family gathering, Campingaz has the perfect gas barbecue for everyone. Experience the ultimate pleasure of outdoor cooking!
An anti-odour roll-on deodorant that regulates intense sweating. Enriched with avocado oil, cocoa butter and mango butter, it smoothes the skin and leaves a wonderful scent with a fresh, woody and spicy note.
information www.depotmaletools.com
Never lets hair go out of style
Strong hold with a great matte finish. An extreme high hold, water-based styling clay that delivers a clean matte finish that lasts all day. Washes out easily with water. All day incredible high hold without weighing hair down. Thickens & texturizes. Clean matte finish. Doesn’t dry, never flakes. Reworkable (no water required). Signature mild cream soda scent.
Works Best for these hair types
Fine to medium thick hair
Short to medium lengths
Available in 1.5oz & 4.25 OZ
GRAHAM HILL HANGAR ROUGH PASTE
Style me
casual looks | matte textures | natural styles
Matt effect for casual looks. Hangar Rough Paste is a volume hair paste for particularly natural styles. Very suitable for making fine hair look fuller and adding light texture. Gives natual hold and a matt finish for all short cuts.
NOW IN A CONTAINER
A new look, but with proven content: Due to the more practical handling, HANGAR is now offered in a container. The formula is unchanged
More information www.grahamhill-cosmetics.com/en
WAHL PROFESSIONAL 5-STAR A.LIGN
User-friendly and extremely precise!
With the A.LIGN, Wahl Professional sets a new standard for barbers, as the new 5-Star contour trimmer offers the perfect combination of ease of use and excellent precision. With the special A.LIGN cutting blade, this trimmer delivers ultra-precise cutting lines and defines impeccable contours or beard lines. The remarkably narrow shape of the T-Blade is absolutely unique. It guarantees ease of use while also allowing users to experience the exceptional precision level of a T-Blade. With its impressive battery life of up to 3 hours and particularly light and balanced ergonomics, the A.LIGN meets the most demanding needs of hairdressers and barbers. The A.LIGN trimmer comes with an extensive range of accessories.
If things go well for me, I can also take care of others
Nero de Boer:
Inspiring Life Story
Nero de Boer (44 years old) is no stranger to the Dutch barber scene. He has always supported BarberSociety and has been nominated twice for the Entrepreneur Award of the Dutch Hairdressing Association (ANKO). Nero is very socially involved and a true connector. He tirelessly dedicates himself to his fellow man, adding a special and inspiring touch to his entrepreneurship. In 10 years, this ambitious barber has established 5 barbershops in the Netherlands, provides education, runs a charity foundation, and is also a city council member. This busy man takes us through his impressive life story, revealing the drive behind his success.
The beginning
Nero was born and raised in Kurdistan. Until he was 15, he lived there with his parents, brother, and three sisters. Nero says, “I call myself a traveler. In my life, I have moved no less than 46 times. My father was a contractor, and every time he had to build a house somewhere, we moved with him. Sometimes up to three times a year. As a result, I attended three different primary schools in one year. This nomadic life means you don’t get attached to anything. As a child, you don’t know any better. The advantage is that you can easily adapt. Wherever I am, I make it my home. My father also had a restaurant; he was very entrepreneurial, just like his 12 brothers and sisters. So, I learned from the best, haha! My father went bankrupt three times in Kurdistan due to the war, so besides prosperous times, I also experienced the other side of the coin there.”
He continues, “When I was 15, I was allowed to go on a two-week summer vacation to my uncle and cousin in Germany. Those two weeks turned into two years. I went to high school there and eventually never went back. When I had been in Germany for two years, my parents fled to the Netherlands because of the war in Kurdistan. I then moved to the Netherlands and ended up in Ermelo.”
The barber profession
Nero explains how he ended up in London from the Netherlands:
“In Ermelo, I met my wife, Monique, and completed my hairdressing training. I quickly discovered that coloring and perming were not for me, so I decided to focus on the barber profession. Many men in my family are barbers, about 18! When I got the chance to work in my uncle’s barbershop in London, I moved there. A few years later, Monique joined me, we got married, and had our children Calantha and Ermano. That time in London was fantastic, and I gained a lot of experience in barbering. After 9 years, we decided to return to the Netherlands in 2009.”
Nero Barbershop
With all the experience he had gained, Nero wanted to start his own barbershop. “While I was exploring that, I had various jobs: in construction, at a poultry company, as a garbage man, and finally at a barbershop in Apeldoorn. There, I learned how a barbershop works in the Netherlands. In 2013, a small property became available in Ermelo, and I started the first Nero Barbershop there.” Nero Barbershop has now been around for over a decade, and he has also started ‘Nero Education.’ Nero says, “When people follow a training with me, you can shape and hold them in order to expand.
I also give training sessions at hair salons or for the brand DEPOT, where I am one of the educators. I also provide management training on entrepreneurship, based on my own experience. Through DEPOT, I also receive training in Italy, allowing me to continue developing.”
The biggest challenge in expanding his business was on a personal level. Nero: “I have had to sacrifice a lot when it comes to my family, friends, and household. I now have 5 barbershops, and 18 people work there. Something happens every day, and you can’t be everywhere at once. You shortchange people because you are busy with your business. COVID-19 was also a difficult period. I always try to think ‘around’ problems. During the first lockdown, I moved the barbershop in Ermelo to a new location; in the second lockdown, I opened a shop in Amsterdam, and in the third, one in Laren and Bussum. I must not have ‘nothing’ to do, as you can hear, haha!” Fortunately, he has found a good right-hand man in Jeroen, who takes care of many things for him, such as administration, social media, and human resources. Nero: “Jeroen gives me so much peace; we know what we mean to each other.”
The core values
Nero Barbershop has three core values that clearly define what they stand for: character, home, and courage. Nero explains, “’Character’ because we are quirky, caring, patient, and occasionally a bit rebellious. ‘Home’ because customers feel at ease with us and can feel at home. Customers, for example, help themselves to the fridge or make coffee. ‘Courage’ translates to the bravery needed to cut hair, both for the barber and the customer.” Concluding, Nero says, “If you feel at home, you dare to take steps, and for that, you need character.”
Socially engaged
In addition to his work as a barber, Nero has been a city council member in Ermelo for over two years. This takes him about 15 to 20 hours a week. Nero: “I have always been socially involved, but I never felt the need to be in the spotlight. Still, I always found politics interesting. In a small municipality, you can really make a difference. When I was asked to be on the election list, I hesitated for a long time. Can I do this?”
Although Nero speaks good Dutch, he wondered if his language skills were sufficient for the role of city council member. Nero: “If you want to achieve something in a society you are not from, you must speak the language well to integrate. I have lived here for 13 years and have gained a lot of trust, allowing
to help everyone. However, I do notice that I sometimes need to be able to say ‘no’ to protect myself. You have to be careful not to overextend yourself.”
Does he have any further political ambitions? “I was approached last year for national politics, but in consultation with my children, I decided not to go for it; they already see so little of me. However, I do wish to do something for Kurdistan someday.”
Cocky Foundation
“If things go well for me, I can also take care of others,” says Nero. That’s why he founded the Cocky Foundation. A foundation that is locally involved and means something to the local community. Last year, they were also able to help victims of the earthquake in Turkey and Syria
I call myself a traveler
me to create opportunities. But is my Dutch good enough to read and write council documents and speak publicly? I believe you should challenge yourself, so I went for it and was elected. This has made me grow enormously, and I have been able to do a lot for Ermelo. My goal is to bring politics and citizens closer together. That’s why I am available for a conversation every Saturday at a fixed spot: a bench in a square in Ermelo. Residents now know where to find me. Sometimes I can help, sometimes not.” This involvement was instilled in him from a young age. “The door was always open at my parents’ house; they were always ready
with a fundraising campaign that raised 10,000 euros.
Nero notices that this involvement also reflects on the barbershops: “If you’re good to people, people will be good to you. I don’t do it for that reason, but it always comes back. If you are involved in the community, you gain a goodwill factor. The managers in the other barbershops are all great guys who understand our core values well and therefore also have a goodwill factor.”
Balance
Nero has to juggle a lot of balls. He says about this: “As long as you do things you enjoy, you can
achieve a lot. You have to ensure there is balance. I like to go into nature, run a bit, cycle, walk on the heath. Those are the moments when I recharge my battery.”
He sometimes struggles with all the rules in the Netherlands.
“The straitjacket we are all in, the many ‘musts.’ So many rules have been devised here to ensure no mistakes are made. Let’s make mistakes; we learn from mistakes!”
In Kurdistan, there is more of a laissez-faire mentality. “If it
recognizes entrepreneurs who stand out in the industry and show extraordinary dedication in running a hair salon. How was that for you? “When the chairman of the Dutch Hairdressing Association called me to say that I had been nominated multiple times for the Entrepreneur Award, I was honored. There were more than 200 hairdressers nominated, so if you end up in the final seven, that says something. When I also
doesn’t get done today, it will be done tomorrow, no problem. The atmosphere is so relaxed, and there is also a lot of involvement between people. I hardly dare to touch anyone here because my well-intentioned pat on the shoulder might be misinterpreted. When I return from Kurdistan, I sometimes feel like a robot.”
Nominated for the Entrepreneur Award
You have now been nominated for the Entrepreneur Award of the Dutch Hairdressing Association (ANKO) for the second time in three years as the only barber. This award
ended up in the final three after interviews with the jury members, it felt like a piece of recognition. It makes you aware that you are doing well, and you reflect on where you come from, what you have done, and what you have achieved.”
Innovation
One of the criteria for the Entrepreneur Award is innovation. How does that play a role in your barbershops? “Besides the fact that I built my own booking app ten years ago, I am currently exploring AI and how I could apply it in marketing. I see opportunities to use AI for my schedule, where AI ensures that quiet moments
are filled with customers through links with Google and other apps. This can increase your turnover by 20%. That is, of course, very interesting.
I would also love to be the first barbershop in the Netherlands to work with robots. I don’t believe robots will take over cutting; it’s people work, and our profession revolves around contact with your customers, the conversations you have. A robot can’t do that. But robots can add value, think of welcoming people, serving coffee, sweeping, etc.”
Nero Franchise & the future
“Because I want to give young, enterprising people a chance to start their own barbershop, we are now working on a franchise formula for Nero Barbershop. They can also use a different name and add ‘by Nero,’ as long as the core values are upheld. It would be great if there were ten Nero Barbershops within five years. I am a true entrepreneur and I’ve got the hang of it. Our profession is beautiful, and I want to show more people how wonderful it is. I want to expand in a fun and good way, with high-quality service. That is also good for the industry.”
Finally, Nero says, “Anyone in the industry can always come to me with business questions or other matters. I am here for you. And I urge everyone to support BarberSociety! Let’s cherish the only barber event in the Netherlands. Whether you are a brand or a barber, be part of BarberSociety Live.”
Jury member at the BarberSociety Battles
Embracing AI in the Barbering Industry… Will
Embracing AI in the Barbering Industry… Will AI Become
a Modern Necessity?
AI Become a Modern Necessity?
Recently, I had the opportunity to talk a conference of Salon owners about using AI in their business. In my column, I would like to explore a few insights for that talk on how AI can shape or reshape the barbering industry. Just as the barbering industry has embraced booking technology for clients to book their appointment. Today, we embark on an intriguing journey into the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and its transformative impact on our beloved industry. Over the past year and a half, I’ve had the pleasure of integrating AI into my work as a freelance creative, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer.
For many of us in the barbering world—whether you’re a shop owner, a freelance barber, or a mobile barber— the administrative side of things can often feel like a cumbersome weight. Booking appointments, handling enquiries, and managing client communications are essential, yet time-consuming tasks. Enter AI, the tool that’s set to revolutionise our workflows.
Client Communications with AI
One of the most significant ways AI can assist us is by managing our client communications. Imagine having a virtual assistant that reads your calendar, understands your availability, and books appointments for you. This isn’t science fiction…it’s the reality of AI-driven scheduling software. By integrating such software with your calendar via an API key, you can automate the entire appointment process.
But AI doesn’t just stop at booking slots. It can engage in preliminary conversations with clients, asking vital questions like whether they have allergies to certain products for instance. This pre-screening ensures that your appointments are well-prepared, and your clients feel cared for even before they step into your barbershop.
Social Media Management Made Easy
In today’s digital age, a strong online presence is crucial for attracting new clients. However, creating and managing social media content can be daunting, especially for those of us who prefer scissors and clippers to keyboards and screens. AI can step in as your very own social media manager, generating engaging content tailored to your brand and audience.
Imagine having posts, stories, and even ad campaigns crafted
without lifting a finger. AI can analyse trends, suggest content ideas, and even schedule posts at optimal times to maximize engagement. For busy barbers, this means more time to focus on what we do best—providing top-notch haircuts and fades.
Overcoming Skepticism and Embracing Growth
It’s understandable that some might view AI with skepticism. Will it take our jobs?? (well that’s a No). Change often brings uncertainty, and there are concerns about how AI might reshape our industry. However, it’s important to remember that AI is merely a tool, one that can be used for both good and ill. In the right hands, with the right information, AI can help our barbershops flourish and grow.
personally, I’ve used bots to help some of my clients systemise their processes (like digital Junior assistance) scale their education with bots to support their learners after they have finished a training course. That’s admin staffing problems solved…And all this for the price of a coffee per month.
By automating administrative tasks and enhancing our online presence, AI allows us to dedicate more time and energy to our craft. It provides us with the means to respond to clients swiftly, manage our schedules efficiently, and attract the right clientele through compelling content.
The Road Ahead
As we navigate this new landscape, it’s crucial to stay informed and open-minded about
the possibilities AI presents. Rather than fearing the unknown, let’s embrace AI as a powerful ally in our journey toward growth and success.
I run an AI-driven agency specialising in helping barbers scale and grow their businesses. Feel free to reach out to me for advice or assistance build your digital profile. You can contact me via email info@theprofileguy.com or find me on Instagram @theprofile.guy. Let’s fade away the doubts and trim down the fears, AI is here to help us shape the future of barbering
Chris The Profile Guy
www.chrisfoster.hair
BARBERS & THE CITY
We showcase a different city in each edition of BarberSociety magazine as a source of inspiration. In this edition, we’re spotlighting bustling Las Vegas, the largest city in the American state of Nevada. Check out Las Vegas’s amazing barbershops and the hotspots local barbers say you really shouldn’t miss when visiting their city.
The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails
The Cosmopolitan, main casino floor at the Las Vegas Boulevard entrance
3708 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
+1 (702) 698-7434
https://thebarbershoplv.com @thebarbershoplv
The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails located within The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas at Boulevard Tower,
is an upscale men’s grooming salon unlike any barbershop you’ve ever met. Not only offering high-end haircuts and amazing whiskey cocktails but also an incredible speakeasy featuring electrifying nightly live music performances seven nights a week including ‘All Request Sundays,’ ‘Wild West Wednesdays,’ and ‘Faded Karaoke’, a night for guests to take the stage and belt their favorites while backed by a live band. With previous surprise
celebrity appearances from names including Bruno Mars and Anderson Paak, Zac Brown, Dave Matthews, Machine Gun Kelly and Travis Barker, you never know who might be taking the stage. The Barbershop offers stylish cuts, facials, a hot lather shave and beard and more, paired with the full bar menu. An experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Our top hot spots in Las Vegas would have to be Mijo Modern Mexican and Bottiglia Cucina & Enoteca. Both of these off-Strip hotspots offer gorgeous dining spaces complimented by exquisite menus.
of coastal Mexico through an unconventional lens. Favorites include the charred octopus, sea bass ceviche and the fresh grilled ten-ounce carne asada skirt steak.
Bottiglia Cucina & Enoteca
Green Valley Ranch Resort
Spa and Casino 2300 Paseo Verde Pkwy Henderson, NV 89052
+1 702 617 7191
www.bottiglialv.com @bottiglialv
Bottiglia boasts sophisticated Tuscan-style fare in a bright and lively setting, indoors and out on a spacious, picturesque patio. Favorites from the menu include the caprese salad, lobster ravioli and wood-grilled salmon.
CliQue Bar & Lounge
The Cosmopolitan 3708 Las Vegas Blvd S Las Vegas, NV 89109 +1 702-698-7939 www.cliquelv.com @thecliquelv
CliQue Bar & Lounge, located just a stone’s throw away from The Barbershop, within the heart of the luxurious casino floor of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. The chic space makes for an ideal location to enjoy the best drinks The Cosmopolitan has to offer, with enticing options like the ‘So Fresa, So Clean,’ made with Tres Genraciones blanco, Aperol, watermelon juice,
strawberry syrup, agave and lime juice. CliQue stands out through its ‘Tableside Mixology’ menu which features master mixologists preparing overthe-top cocktails from the comfort of your table. The ‘Color Spectrum’, made with Grey Goose vodka, white cranberry juice, lime juice and Solern, boiled and distilled back through an assortment of flavorful fruits, is an absolutely stunning presentation and testament to the skilled mixologists behind the bar.
Feature, best men’s shop 2 branches: The first (original) Feature in Chinatown: 3735 W Spring Mountain Rd UNIT 205 Las Vegas, NV 89102
Feature at the Wynn Plaza: 3131 S Las Vegas Blvd Suite 206 Las Vegas, NV 89109 www.feature.com
Our top men’s shop in Vegas is Feature, hands down. All around, you won’t find a better place to shop for men. From sneakers to clothing, everything is top tier and ranges from casual to high end. We could literally talk all day about how great the store is, it’s our go to!
Owner Zach says: “We started bluebird barbers as a solution to what we thought was broken in the barber industry. Things like poor customer service, low wages for barbers and high turnover, getting the stare down when you enter a barbershop with no greeting, quick and cheep cuts, and feeling like getting your haircut was a chore. Our goal was to get amazing barbers and sell amazing experiences in our shop, not haircuts. The objective in the shop interior was to create a masculine but welcoming vibe, something unique, surprising and unexpected. When you step foot into the shop there is a bluebird dropping
a nuclear bomb, gives homage to our state of Nevada because the bluebird is our state bird and Las Vegas used to do atomic testing of nuclear bombs not too far outside the city limits. All of the art in the shop is all Nevada themed, even our mural of a rattlesnake has ‘battle born’ tattooed under his eye which is our state motto.”
OUR HOTSPOTS
Cleaver
3900 Paradise Road Suite D-1
Las Vegas, NV 89169
+1 (702)-538-9888
www.cleaverlasvegas.com @cleaverlv
One of my favorite restaurants in Las Vegas is a steakhouse named Cleaver. The food is absolutely amazing and the vibe is on point. It’s a dimly lit almost speakeasy vibe that includes portraits of all
the legendary comedians that are about 6 ft tall, and they range from Chris Farley to Eddie Murphy. They have happy hour all day and it’s half off on specialty cocktails and food. The Silver Monk, Tequila. Yellow Chartreuse. Lime. Salt. Mint. Cucumber. The bone marrow is my favorite thing to get on the food menu. Don’t knock it till you try it.
Ski Lodge Superfrico
The Cosmopolitan Level 2, Chelsea Tower 3708 Las Vegas Blvd
Las Vegas, NV 89109 www.spiegelworld.com/ restaurants/ski-lodge @superfrico
My favorite bar is the Ski Lodge inside of the Cosmopolitan hotel. The Ski Lodge is a speakeasy that only holds around 30 people. When you walk in you feel like you’re in a cozy bar at a ski resort,
you’ll feel like you’re in Lake Tahoe or boarding in Mammoth taking a mid-day break from the mountain. It’s relaxing and surprising that it would be located in the middle of the Las Vegas strip.
The Good Wolf Lifestyle Co. 1319 S Commerce St. Las Vegas, NV 89102
www.thegoodwolflv.com @thegoodwolflv
One of my favorite men’s boutiques is the good wolf lifestyle co. This shop has a very unique and diverse selection of clothing that fits my style perfectly and the location is in the arts district in Las Vegas. So, after your shopping you can go to some of the amazing restaurants and brewery located a few doors down. The shop has a selection of unique and highquality apparel, handcrafted
accessories, showcase local artists, and offer distinctive home decor. It’s always a great shopping experience that’s refreshingly different, embracing diversity as its cornerstone.
Mastering the Art of Recruiting: How to Attract Top Talent to Your Barber Shop
In the world of barbering, your team is the lifeblood of your business. A talented, dedicated staff not only ensures high-quality service but also creates an inviting atmosphere that keeps clients
1 Increase Visibility
Boosting the visibility of your job openings is crucial. Use social media platforms and job boards to spread the word. Don’t forget to display your job postings prominently in your shop’s window. High visibility ensures that more potential candidates are aware of your vacancies.
2 Simplify the Application Process
Make it as easy and barrier-free as possible for candidates to apply. Implement a straightforward application funnel that allows interested individuals to apply quickly and easily. Just like in online shopping, fewer hurdles mean more applications.
coming back. However, finding and retaining top talent can be challenging. Here are some strategies, inspired by our Talent Sprint, to help you recruit the best barbers for your shop.
3 Create a Career Page on Your Website
Set up a dedicated career page on your website or at least offer an easy way to apply online through your existing site. A user-friendly online application process increases the likelihood of attracting qualified candidates.
4 Offer Attractive Working Conditions
Ensure your employees work in a pleasant and motivating environment. This includes modern equipment, ergonomic workstations, and a positive team culture. Happy employees are more productive and loyal.
5 Provide Training and Development Programs
Invest in your employees’ professional development by offering training sessions and workshops. Keeping their skills up to date with the latest trends not only improves job satisfaction but also enhances loyalty. Consider this as part of your company’s investment strategy to grow talent from within.
6 Competitive Compensation and Benefits
Offer competitive pay and additional benefits such as bonuses, health insurance, or flexible working hours. Unique perks, like a yearly gym pass, can make your job offer more attractive and show that you value your employees’ efforts. In an employee market where
people have more choices than ever, it’s essential to stand out by offering benefits that matter to them.
7 Highlight Career Opportunities
Show your staff that there are opportunities for advancement within the company. Clear career planning and development prospects motivate and retain talented employees for the long term.
8 Build a Strong Employer Brand
Present your barber shop as an attractive employer on social media and your website. Positive reviews and testimonials from current employees can attract new talent. Use your online presence to communicate your company culture and values. Including video introductions of your management team and staff, as well as glimpses into daily shop life, builds trust and gives potential hires an authentic impression of their future workplace. Authenticity and a strong employer brand can make your shop the standout choice for top talent.
9 Focus on Culture Fit
Hiring the right cultural fit is as important as hiring for skills. Assess whether candidates align with your shop’s values and culture during the interview process. A good culture fit ensures long-term satisfaction and retention, fostering a cohesive and motivated team.
10 Set Up Professional Recruiting Based on KPIs
Implement a structured recruiting process based on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of your
hiring strategies. Track metrics such as time-to-hire, cost-perhire, and employee retention rates to continuously improve your recruitment efforts.
Bonus Tip: Get Professional Help
Balancing daily operations with recruitment efforts can be challenging. Consider partnering with a specialized recruitment agency like Talent Sprint, which focuses on finding the best candidates in the beauty industry. Talent Sprint can help you create a detailed avatar to identify the perfect fit for your team and differentiate your shop from the rest. This allows you to concentrate on serving your clients while professionals handle the recruitment process for you.
Recruiting the right barbers is not just about filling positions; it’s about building a team that will
contribute to your shop’s longterm success. By increasing visibility, simplifying the application process, offering attractive working conditions, and investing in training and development, you can attract and retain the best talent in the industry.
In the end, a strong team of barbers will not only enhance your shop’s reputation but also ensure that your clients receive the best service possible. Invest in your staff, and they will invest in your business.
Dennis van Lierop @halo_edutainment
“The key is staying true to your brand, your product, and your customer”
Sam Sam’sDonnelly, Barbers, Ireland
“Finding and retaining barbers has always been a challenge, even 37 years ago when I started. The key is staying true to your brand, your product, and your customer. We attract people who resonate with our values and vision, like Lucia from Italy, who tracked us down through our social media presence and moved to Dublin to work with us.
Achieving a work-life balance has become increasingly important, so we’ve adapted by offering barbers flexible schedules and options to work weekends or weekdays. Being open seven days a week allows barbers to work four days on, take weekends off, or vice versa.
It’s about respecting their needs while maintaining our commitment to exceptional service.
Ultimately, it’s about leading by example. If I expect my crew to go the extra mile, I must be willing to do the same. Recently, when a receptionist called in sick and the shop was overwhelmed, I stepped in to clean, fold towels, and prepare for the day’s appointments. You can’t ask people to do something you’re not prepared to do yourself.”
Beeldredacteur
Nero de Boer, Nero Barbershop, the Netherlands
“As an entrepreneur, you need to be flexible. Nowadays, people don’t want to work more than 3 or 4 days a week, especially when they are young. I am open 6 days a week. If I have filled 4 days, I have 2 days left. When someone applies for a job, I indicate which hours and days are available. This shows that I am flexible and allows people to choose how they want to organize their work. This helps me retain and attract staff. Additionally, I train people myself. I currently have a few talents from hairdressing schools whom I am teaching the trade. Before giving them this opportunity, I screen and interview them. Only those who are truly motivated can follow a training. If they stay with me for 2 to 3 years, they will receive a partial refund of their training costs.”
“As an entrepreneur, you need to be flexible”
Finding suitable people to strengthen your team is an adventure in itself. A smart and trendy approach to recruitment can make all the difference in the success of your search. In this column, as the proud owner of ‘Dutch Hair’ and ‘Barbershop De Praatkamer’, I share my creative strategies to attract talented hairdressers and barbers. Let’s take a look behind the scenes of my recruitment process.
Social Media Campaign
Nowadays, social media is indispensable, even when looking for new staff. Posting a job vacancy on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok is an accessible first step in finding a new barber.
Make sure your vacancy is creative and original so that the work atmosphere and enthusiasm of your barbershop are palpable. For example, post a look behindthe-scenes or make a funny video showcasing the work and benefits of working at your barbershop. The energy in the post can be
a decisive factor in attracting the younger audience to your open vacancy.
Collaborations with barber and hairdressing schools
By collaborating with local schools, you can offer internships or apprenticeships. Offer guest lectures or workshops to spot and inspire emerging talent. This shows potential employees how fun it is to work with you.
Introduction event; open day or barbershop pop-up
Organize an event in your barbershop or at a busy location like a local festival, market, or shopping center. Let potential employees experience the atmosphere and meet the team. This provides an authentic experience of the work culture and increases the visibility of your barbershop. Additionally, this is a unique team activity for the barbers on your team and simultaneously an original way to increase the visibility of your barbershop.
Announce the event in advance in the shop and via social media. Let people know that you are looking for new team members. During the event, customers can get haircuts at a special price, making it more attractive for people to come to the event. Don’t forget to bring a banner to the event clearly stating that your barbershop is looking for new employees.
Start a referral program for your employees and customers
Encourage your current employees to recommend friends and acquaintances by offering a nice reward for each successful referral, such as scissors, clippers, or a fun training session. This stimulates the team to actively think along and ensures a good cultural match.
Also, involve your customers in the recruitment process by setting up a referral program. Offer rewards to customers who refer new barbers who get hired, such as free haircuts, discount vouchers, or a luxury care package. This strengthens the bond with your customers and makes them feel involved in the success of the barbershop.
In summary, with these methods, you ensure that your barbershop stands out and that you attract the best talents. Good luck finding your new Master Barber!
Cor Bouw @barbershopdepraatkamer
Cor Bouw is founder of salon ‘Dutch Hair’ and the franchise and chair rental formula ‘Barbershop De Praatkamer’. In addition, he is business coach & consultant for Keune Haircosmetics. He has a background as an international educator and started his entrepreneurial adventure in 1993. As a columnist for BarberSociety Magazine, he shares his insights with us. Benefit from his expertise!
Photography:
Harold Meerveld
stands the test of time of Sam’s Barbers in Dublin How four generations
In the heart of Dublin, nestled among the city’s vibrant streets, lies a barbershop steeped in tradition and family legacy. Sam Donnelly, a fourth-generation barber and co-owner of Sam’s Barbers, welcomes us into his world, where the art of barbering is more than just a profession – it’s a way of life. With six barbershops scattered across Dublin, Sam’s passion for his craft is infectious, and his insights offer a glimpse into the ever-evolving world of barbering.
Alongside his brother James, Sam has built a thriving business that extends far beyond their barbershop’s walls. They are the owners of Pomp & Co., the only Irish male grooming product line that exports worldwide. Sam’s involvement in the industry goes even further, as he proudly serves as the Movember ambassador for Ireland, working on global campaigns with the Movember Foundation and collaborating closely with Pieta House, the suicide prevention society in Ireland.
Can you tell us a bit about the history of your family’s barbershop and how long it has been operating in Dublin?
“Our business goes back to my great-grandfather, who would have started it in Northern Ireland back in 1901. He would originally go from barracks to barracks on his pushbike as a barber, cutting hair in different areas. Then, he put two of his sons, including my grandfather Sammy, into a barbershop in Belfast to learn their trade.
Though my grandfather left the barber field for a while, my uncle Tommy stayed in barbering, opening his own shop which he closed during WWII but reopened after. My father Stanley looked up to Uncle Tommy and spent time in his shop before opening the first Sam’s Barbers in Dublin in 1980-1981. My brother and I built it up to seven shops, and now we have six successful barbershops operating in Dublin carrying on the family tradition.”
@samdonnelly5 @samsbarbersireland
Did you always know from a young age that you wanted to go into this profession?
“Initially, I wanted to be a carpenter, but I grew up immersed in the barbering world. After school, I would spend time in my dad’s barbershop, listening to him interact with customers and observing the unique connection between a barber and their client. It wasn’t long before I started cutting my friends’ hair for free, and eventually, my dad encouraged me to start charging a small fee. The rest is history – it just happened naturally.”
What do you enjoy most about your profession? Shaving is your specialty, right?
“A hundred percent, I love shaving and find it quite therapeutic. When you’re giving a shave, everything stops – the music changes, and becomes a marvel. You get into the zone, focusing on the theatre of what a shave is. I believe that if I find it therapeutic, that feeling transfers to the client as well. For me, shaving is the new therapy.”
Can you share some insights on the trends you’re seeing in the barbering industry in Ireland?
“Trends come and go like the tide. Social media has become a significant influence on styles nowadays, whereas music was a major driving force back in the day. However, some things remain constant, like sports icons promoting different hairstyles. While it’s rare to see someone create an iconic style like Vidal Sassoon’s bob, trends will continue to evolve.
One trend that has made a surprising comeback is the mullet, partly influenced by rugby players sporting the hairstyle during the Six Nations tournament. It shows that you never know what styles might resurface.”
What sets Irish barbershops apart from those in other countries?
“In Ireland, traditional barbering is still at the forefront, but Irish barbers have become stylists as well. We create styles and pride ourselves on providing high service and quality standards, which the Irish people appreciate. We haven’t reinvented the wheel, but we respect the traditions of barbering while adapting to modern times.
Irish guys like to keep themselves well-groomed and appreciate good service. That’s what sets us apart – the passion for our craft and the commitment to delivering an exceptional experience for our clients.”
Can you tell us about the Barber Cut Dublin event you founded?
“I felt that we needed an opportunity to showcase the talent of Irish barbers within our own country. So, I organized Barber Cut Dublin, inviting big names from around the world to participate. In the first year, we had a thousand attendees; in the second year, we had about 1,200 people split over two venues. Unfortunately, due to financial constraints and a lack of sponsor support, I couldn’t continue organizing the event after the pandemic, but it was a hugely successful endeavour while it lasted.
Dublin is a great city for such an event, with its lively atmosphere, welcoming people, and rich cultural heritage. Barbers who attended the event enjoyed their time in Dublin and expressed a desire for me to revive the event in the future. While it’s not feasible at the moment, I’ll never say never.”
What motivated you to launch your own product line, Pomp & Co?
“Our grandfather initially created the brand in the 1940s. Fast-forward 70 years, and we decided to revive it by launching Pomp & Co., www.pomp.ie, a complete men’s grooming goods range of premium formulas from Pomades to Aftershaves, Beards, and the like.
A decade later, the brand is now exported worldwide and used by barbers in the farthest-flung places —from barbershops in Bangkok’s side streets to barbershops in Dubai’s skyscrapers.
Our brand attributes its success to its reputation, built on the backbone of our barbershop heritage and, most importantly, the quality of our formulations! Barbers trust our formulas, which, in turn, instils confidence in the end users, too. As a small company, we may not have the marketing budget or PR hype of larger corporate brands, but this allows us to stay true to our core values of focusing on premium formulations, which speak for themselves.”
What are your future ambitions as a barber, and what tips would you give to aspiring barbers?
“My advice is simple: to be a great barber, you must first be a good person. Cutting hair is only 50% of the service; the other 50% is your skill set with clients and colleagues. Respect the client’s privacy, respect the shop you work in, and respect the people you work with. Barbering is not a path to fame or fortune; it’s a passion you must wholeheartedly embrace.
Respect your clients, your shop, and your colleagues, and the rest will follow
As for my future ambitions, sometimes the future requires looking back at the past. Barbering is a traditional trade; we must preserve its essence while adapting to modern times. I continued to uphold the salubrious traditions of barbering when clients were impeccably dressed, and the trade was an art form.
In my grandfather’s time, clients were so salubrious—think Peaky Blinders—with their tonics, colognes, shirts and ties, and pocket watches. They wouldn’t be sitting here in shorts and a t-shirt. That level of sophistication is something I aspire to bring back to the barbering experience.”
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
“Barbering is either in you or it’s not. If you go into it with the sole purpose of making money or becoming famous, you won’t succeed. To truly thrive in this
profession, you need to be passionate about what you do. Respect your clients, your shop, and your colleagues, and the rest will follow.
I could name-drop countless celebrities I’ve had the privilege of working with, but that means nothing if you’re not a true barber at heart. Getting to that level requires passion first and foremost. Embrace the traditions whilst also evolving with the times, and always strive to provide an exceptional experience for every client who walks through your door.”
BARBERSRIDE 2024
The ride of a lifetime through the Netherlands and Germany! Raise money for Make-A-Wish
What is BarbersRide?
BarbersRide was started in the UK by a bunch of biking barbers and industry guys that wanted to combine their love of biking and barbering with a fundraising charity event. In August 2017 the first event kicked off, from Dundee to London over 5 days and was a roaring success, raising over £10,000. Since then, every year has got bigger and better! 2023 took BarbersRide on a stunning ride through the Emerald Isle, on the beautiful roads of Ireland. With close to 30 bikers, it was the BIGGEST YEAR to date, raising over £31,000 for Make-A-Wish. The Make-A-Wish Charity makes dreams come
true for seriously ill children and their families. The crew is proud that 100% of all funds received are donated to the charity and that the BarbersRide team give all their time willingly and completely free of charge.
In August 2024, BarbersRide is thundering through the Netherlands and Germany to raise money for Make-A-Wish UK, the Netherlands & Germany. The BarbersRide starts on Saturday, August 3rd at the shop of J’roen Gelderblom in ‘s-Gravenzande (SET.ON Kappers) and ends at Schorem on Thursday, August 8th in Rotterdam. Experience this unique adventure, be part of it!
Individuals can ride the full route (6 days) or they can take part in legs (£40 per leg). Fuel, food and hotel expenses are not covered by the ride.
The full trip costs £180 per rider and is a donation to the charity to take part.
Including
Full access to all evening gatherings
Five days riding some of Europe’s finest roads, with rider support vehicle 5x Branded Sponsor T-Shirts
Memories to last a lifetime including all imagery and video assets for personal use And the best bit is that all the money is going to charity! Places are strictly limited so book now, and join us on this crazy adventure.
Sign up www.BarbersRide.com @barbersride
I have participated in the BarbersRide 3 times: 2019 through central England (Liverpool, Norwich, Liverpool) 2022 South England along the coast 2023 around Ireland and now they are coming to the Netherlands and Germany!
I have been participating in the BarbersRide for many years because the network of international barbers and barbershops is very inspiring, the motorcycle ride is challenging with beautiful roads, and you also ride to raise money for a good cause: the ‘MAKE-A-WISH’ foundation.
My most memorable moments during the BarbersRide were (besides the Guinness with friends in the pubs in Dublin) Great Britain and Ireland. One moment you are riding along the rugged coast and end up on mountain roads, then you are riding over vast and rolling grasslands with free-roaming
sheep, cows, and horses in Wales. It is very beautiful to ride through this expansive landscape with the group, and it is nice that everyone looks out for each other.
The biggest challenge during the ride was the moment I got off the ferry and had to drive on the left side, which is more difficult than you might think. I was a beginner when it came to teamwork on the motorcycle;
Day 1...
what have I gotten myself into and what were the rules again? Did I understand the English correctly?
Day 2...
getting the hang of it, it’s working.
Day 3...
huge efforts to get all the motorcycles working and to the destination. By far the hardest day for me, but I was up to my neck in ‘teamwork’.
Day 4...
a well-oiled team was present in a good form.
Day 5...
the feeling of accomplishment and helping the guys reach the finish line, that was emotional...!
It was a great life lesson that took me far out of my comfort zone in a very healthy way!
What surprised me most about the BarbersRide was that I went in blindly and knew no one, but something extraordinary happened that week: I became part of a team. This team was different. From the experienced riders who guided the beginners to the vans and cars that safely slowed down traffic for fuel stops. So I may have gone in a stranger but I came out already missing my new friends!
What I appreciate most about the BarbersRide community is that I was warmly welcomed the first time after a tiring and wet ride of 460 km. As if you had been coming there for years, we have become one big family. The barbers and friends help and support you during the ride, you get inspired by the stories about and in the barbershops. Everyone looks out for each other during the ride, and when we arrive at the location, it is a big party with food, soft drinks, or 0% beer (yes, we are driving responsibly).
During the BarbersRide, you visit different barbershops and always
get inspired by the way they build a haircut and work with scissors and clippers. During my first ride, I got into a conversation with hair and makeup designer Laura Schiavo, who designed the look for the Peaky Blinders series. We had a nice conversation, and she came up with the whole history of the haircuts from that time and why.
My favourite place or moment during the BarbersRide was on the motorbike! There are too many beautiful places to mention. My favourite moment is the arrival at a barbershop after a long ride when you are welcomed with the whole group and all those roaring motorbikes enter the street, one after the other, with a whole multitude of enthusiastic riders! The best moment is the last day when the amount raised is shown. And it is emotional too because we will miss other until the next year.
If I could give one piece of advice to future participants of the BarbersRide, it would be: join and raise as much as possible for the ‘MAKE-A-WISH’ foundation. Whether you have a Chopper, Touring, or any other bike, if you want to ride in a group, come along. Everyone can participate, both beginner and experienced bikers, we are happy to help you. It is a big party, and whether you ride one day/leg or several days, everyone is welcome.
I call on all motorcycling barbers to join because you will experience an unforgettable ride with a group of like-minded riding barbers. It’s a fantastic opportunity to network, get inspired or just share what you want and help seriously ill children fulfill their greatest wish and give them a positive boost. I look forward to seeing you at the BarbersRide on August 3-8, 2024!
Q&A with riders Andrew and Gilly, Gilly’s Barbers, UK
Hi, we are father and son duo, Gilly senior (Andrew Gill) and Gilly (Owen Gill) of Gilly’s Barbers, Baildon, Bradford.
Together we have done the BarbersRide now for five years. In 2019 we started at Speakeasy Barber Shop, Liverpool, finishing at Ruger Barbers, Lytham St Annes. Then in 2020 started at The Master Barber’s Shop Southport and finished at our own shop Gilly’s Barbers. 2021 was Scotland, 2022 was the south coast of England (Cornwall to Kent) and 2023 was a full lap of Ireland.
We participate in the BarbersRide for two main reasons. One, it is an amazing thing to do, raising money for such a brilliant charity. And Two, it is a superb five day ride with some amazing people.
Our most memorable moment during the BarbersRide was when we met the 1066 chapter in Brighton and rode to Sykes H-D (multi award-winning HarleyDavidson Dealership) in 2022, says Andrew. We came over the brow of a hill to see a mile long straight stretch of road, with about 70 bikes snaking out in front of us. My son (Owen) pulled alongside of me and we rode that mile side by side. Just epic.
We found the biggest challenge the 2022 Ride, Liverpool to Glasgow. I think everyone who rode this with us will agree. The weather conditions were horrific. Seriously hairy riding.
The most surprising thing about the BarbersRide is something what a lot of people don’t know; that every single penny we raise, we give to the charity. All of it.
What we appreciate most about the BarbersRide crew is that they are one of the most amazing communities ever. A phrase gets bandied around on the Ride: ‘A Band of Brothers’. And it is so true. We have made friends for life through these unforgettable road trips.
During the BarbersRide, we learned that there is such a thing as Monster Munch pizza at Cutthroat Pete’s in Liverpool - and amazingly it was quite nice!
Our favourite place during the BarbersRide has to be riding over the Cork & Kerry mountains in Ireland last year. Absolutely stunning.
If we could give one piece of advice to anyone who is just thinking about doing the BarbersRide, is just do it man! It will be one of the best things you’ll ever do in your life. We will participate in BarbersRide 2024 because now it’s in our blood. All for one, one for all.
We call on all motorcycling barbers to participate because the feeling when you’ve completed the Ride and raised the money, and know how it’s going to help the Make-A-Wish children is one of the best feelings in the world. Nothing better.
@gillys__barbers
LTR: Liesbeth van Dijk and Laura van de Graaf (Schwarzkopf Professional) & Marc van de Hare and Miranda Vlas (BarberSociety)
Entrepeneur
de Boer (r)
Arjan Bevers with the Hall of Fame award and wife & kids
