BarberEVO UK & Ireland Issue 39 (July/August 2023)

THE SHAVE FACTORY SEA SALT SPRAY

The Shave Factory Sea Salt Spray is a great way to add texture and volume to your clients hair. The salt in the spray helps to thicken and define your hair, giving it a natural, beachy look. Sea salt sprays are perfect for achieving the coveted "surfer hair" look. They add texture and movement to your hair, making it look naturally windswept and tousled.

£7.00 // 250ml

WAHL 5 STAR VANISH FOIL SHAVER

Upgrade your finish with the new Wahl Vanish Shaver! Packed with industry leading innovations to bring the smoothest shave without bumps or irritation. The 5 Star Vanish features individual pop-out foil cartridges that can be easily replaced or rotated, which means you can cut costs by replacing single foils instead of the whole shaver head.

£130.00

CLASSIC POMADE

This delectable hair styling Pomade adds extraordinary shine and effortless definition to fine, medium and curly hair without weighing it down. Gleaming with old school panache and vintage glamour, the Classic Pomadeworks really rather well for adding a pert polish to Pin-Up kiss curls. The fragrance is subtle and sophisticated, combining verdant wood notes and warm spice sharpened with citrus.

£12.50 // 100G

OSTER CORDLESS FAST FEED

Oster Cordless Fast Feed is an adjustable blade hair clipper which features automatic adaptive speed control. That means you get constant power regardless of hair type.

It's fitted with a blade coated in Black Diamox which resists corrosion for longlasting sharpness. The blade can be adjusted between 000 and 1 via the ergonomic taper lever for easy blending and fading.

£190.00

SIBEL EYE-VAC HAIR BUSTER VACUUM

With the Sibel Eye-Vac Vacuum, it’s easier to sweep up floors and keep your barber shop clean all day long! To use, simply sweep hair up to the base of the unit, infrared sensors will detect the debris and activate the vacuum. All the debris will be vacuumed before shutting off automatically.

£170.00

THE SHAVE FACTORY BLACK NECK STRIPS (500)

Black self-adhesive strips which are strong and stretchable, hygienic, disposable and so soft! Perfect for the prevention of hair going into your clients clothing.

£8.00

POWERFUL, PROFESSIONAL TOOLS. NOW IN GOLD.

Powered by advanced lithium technology for the ultimate cordless cutting performance. Our heavy-duty Super Motor range of professional grooming tools are now available in a gold finish. Featuring ultra-sharp Japanese Steel blades and a high-torque brushless motor for consistent fast blade speed, even through longer, thicker hair. And the Titanium Foil Shaver gives exceptional crisp fading and blending.

BABYLISS.COM

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SHAPES & MOLDS HAIR INTO ANY STYLE

Hair// Adriana Fournier, Ian Harrold, Paul Wilson.

Creative Direction// David Raccuglia, Phoenix Thomson.

Clothes Stylist// Mark Anthony Bradbury.

Make-up// Ciara Maccarthy.

Production// AKAcreate.

Location// Castle Gibson.

Photography// David Raccuglia, Andrew Gilbert, AKAcreate.

SAM PHILLIPS.

ISLAND HAZE COLLECTION

Hair// Sam Phillips. Models// Louis Travis, Blake Carre. Photography// Sam Phillips. Tools// Gamma +.

EXSTUDIO.

EXTREATMENT COLLECTION

Hair// Exauce Imbo, Martin Desta.

Photography// Odoom Brothers.

SUMMER HAS BEEN INCREDIBLE. WE’VE FLOWN TO SHOWS ACROSS THE GLOBE (LITERALLY), FROM LIVERPOOL AND LONDON TO ORLANDO, NYC,

CONNECTICUT AND MANY MORE. AND WE HOSTED OUR FIRST EVER EDUCATION EVENT IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BABYLISS PRO. HERE’S MORE...

EVO is an ever-expanding enterprise. Our impressive, innovative 104-page print BarberEVO and SalonEVO publications are our bread and butter – print is where this journey began and it’s a medium that you guys have come to know and love just as much as we do. But we are a business built on big ideas – and we’re making every one of them a reality. EVO is officially going multimedia! Think Esquire talking head interviews – EVO style. I.e., bigger, better, and ALL about barbers. We’re blown away by the talent in the UK, Ireland, and North America. We believe you all deserve recognition beyond our pages now. Which is why we’ve been filming bespoke interview content at every event in partnership with ULTA Beauty, Barber Strong and Collins – huge thanks to these guys for supplying the barber’s chair interview setup, complete with a backdrop of the finest hair products and tools. Also, our friends at

Booksy for providing our Out the Box quick-fire games too. AND our photobooth, which makes you the next BarberEVO coverstar.

More big news – our first ever education event EVO on the Road, powered by BaByliss PRO, was a sell-out! Our hometown educator Pete Cranfield and the talented Tariq Howes shared some super valuable work. We’re buzzing to do more of these next year!

Watch out for in-depth interviews with big names from the teams at BaByliss PRO, Dyson, American Crew, Wahl, Reuzel, Captain Fawcett, our BarberEVO columnists and so many more. We have an incredible bank of video content for you to feast your eyes and ears on. Advice, news, behind the scenes, red carpets, announcements, and lots of fun guaranteed. You know where to find us! @barberevo // barberevo.com // YouTube coming soon…

ANDREW BREWSTER & DAVID FOSTER | CO-FOUNDERS

JENNIFER PAXTON | EDITOR

WELCOME TO ISSUE 39 OF BARBEREVO! IT’S FINALLY SUMMER AND WE ARE FEELING THE SUMMER VIBES. THIS ISSUE, WE HELP YOU TAKE ON THE LATEST TRENDS, OFFER BUSINESS ADVICE TO MAKE THE MOST OF THE NEXT SEASON AND RULE YOUR RETAIL.

We had a blast at Barber Connect this year! It is always such a blast reconnecting with all of our friends in the UK and Ireland at this mega show.

Congratulations to Kyle Rowland, Wahl Barber of the Year, Anthony O’Connell, Wahl Rising Star, and Eighty8 Love to Create, Wahl Barbershop of the Year.

Also, we are so proud to have just hosted our first EVO on the Road event, Powered by BaByliss PRO, in Liverpool. Huge thanks to everyone who attended, and to columnists Pete Cranfield and Tariq Howes for being there as educators. Now, onto this issue. We kick off with a huge issue on summer, showing that there can be much more to a summer hairstyle than a quick buzz cut. We cover all the latest trends, tools, products and business advice to help you make the most of this busy season.

Are you making the most out of your retail potential in the barbershop? It is not something that all barbers are passionate about, but with the potential it can bring you and your shop’s income, it should be!

These days, there is more than one route to success as a barber. In fact, there are countless different ways you can take charge of your business, and adapt the word ‘success’ to your own definition. In our barber business feature, we talk about many different barbers who have found their success, and their advice on how you can plan your next steps.

Is it time to level up your barbershop? Well, swapping out the furniture or giving it a little TLC is one of the best ways to do that! Check out some shops that are killing it in the interiors game.

TAKES OVER

A STANDOUT EVENT POWERED BY STANDOUT PEOPLE. THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY BARBER CONNECT TRADE SHOW OPERATED OUT OF TELFORD, ENGLAND, GIVING A GLOBAL AUDIENCE INTIMATE ACCESS TO THE BEST BRANDS, COMPETITIONS, AND EDUCATION IN THE BUSINESS. HERE'S HOW IT WENT DOWN...

Europe’s largest barber exhibition hosted a thousands-strong crowd of budding barbers, trainee barbers, legendary brands, and industry icons. In our media zone, (comfortably supported by our friends from Takara Belmont) we heard from Matt Brice, who is the founder of Barber Connect and Barber Blades, the one stop supplies shop for the barbering world. “It’s mad how

many people travel for this show. From Europe to the USA. I spoke to someone who came from South America. We have exhibitors from Japan who even travelled 24 hours to get here, too.

"The massive support from the UK market is very exciting – makes me proud of what we’ve done as a team. I’m also proud of how the event has grown over the last 10 years. Even after

the pandemic, people have always supported the show. This is a playground for a barber. I’ve been speaking to guys all weekend who say that the education and competitions make them feel excited to start boosting their skills and maybe enter next year. That’s what it’s all about, reigniting that passion.”

Industry titans like Wahl and Andis made a huge impact at Barber Connect this year, with the British Barber of the Year and Battle Royale competitions respectively. "It’s definitely challenging bringing these titans into one room and creating cohesion between the space as a whole, but education is a huge part of Barber Connect, so the year-long prep is 100% worth it,” Matt said.

All visitors to the BarberEVO booth were enthralled to engage with our bespoke front cover photo booth activation - powered by our friends at Gould Barbers. The opportunity to step into your very own unique front cover is always great fun, and the professional photos taken were sublime! It was a great way to celebrate the recent Gould Barber of the Year contest and to promote the exciting career opportunities provided by Gould Barbers.

Our very own columnist and Wahl legend (aka Global Artistic Director), Simon Shaw, shared why he makes an appearance on the Wahl stage

every year: “For us, it's about showing off what you’ve got – products, merchandise, education… Whatever it is, Barber Connect and industry tradeshows are where you get your message out there. The crowd has been incredible this year.”

Alan Beak needs no introduction. The BarberEVO columnist, Ruger founder, and master educator said: “From a brand and educator’s point of view, Barber Connect is about being as inspiring and as motivating as possible. Education is so much more accessible now, which means that we’re churning out hugely talented barbers in all aspects of the industry. We’re here to connect with everyone and reaffirm our commitment to making this industry one we can be proud of – and we’re excelling at that.”

Richie Finney is the man behind Captain Fawcett. We catch him all over the world boosting his brand, whether that’s on his motorbike in Spain or with his suitcase in Orlando, Florida. “I’ve been to every Barber Connect show, so you can trust me when I say that this is a special event – and it’s really grown over the years. I reckon that if you ain’t here, you ain’t shit! This is where you meet the right people to elevate your career. Don’t miss out.”

“I’VE BEEN TO EVERY BARBER CONNECT, SO YOU CAN TRUST ME WHEN I SAY THAT THIS IS A SPECIAL EVENT. I RECKON THAT IF YOU AIN’T HERE, YOU AIN’T SHIT! THIS IS WHERE YOU MEET THE

KYLE ROWLAND

WAHL BRITISH BARBER, BARBERSHOP, AND RISING STAR ANNOUNCED

AT BARBER CONNECT 2023, WAHL PROFESSIONAL UK ANNOUNCED THE NEXT GENERATION OF BARBER LEADERS: KYLE ROWLAND, BRITISH BARBER OF THE YEAR, EIGHTY8 LOVE TO CREATE, AS BRITISH BARBERSHOP OF THE YEAR, AND ANTHONY O’CONNELL AS WAHL PROFESSIONALS BRITISH RISING STAR.

After being awarded the Wahl British Barber of the Year Trophy last year at Salon International, it was time for former BBOTY, Charlie Baker to hand over his trophy, to the next in line, after of course educating and presenting on the Wahl Pro stage throughout the weekend.

As Wahl Professional UK Global Artistic Director, Simon Shaw always says, with great power comes great responsibility. At Barber Connect, Wahl Pro didn’t just hand out trophies, they changed the path of the winners’ careers.

First, to be announced, Kyle Rowland (@bk_barber_) was handed the trophy for Wahl British Barber of the Year.

Having been in the barbering industry for over 15 years, Kyle is an undoubted expert in his field. His specialisms go beyond just cutting and styling; he’s also a passionate educator and just launched the first-ever Barber Expo Wales in April in Narberth, Pembrokeshire this year. We learned a little bit more about how it all started: “I got into the industry back in 2007 after doing a college course in hairdressing. I wanted to do stage work, which is why I went into hairdressing initially. The barber side hadn’t caught up yet, so the opportunity to cut and educate onstage was minimal. However, my passion was always men’s hair.”

Kyle admitted that YouTube was a big part of his education: “I was watching a lot of 360Jeezy and Chris Bossio… it’s Lee Handford, Barber Josh OP, Cal Newsome, and Simon Hairground who inspire me now!”

The barber-educator extraordinaire is also the founder of two Fade Barbershop locations in Bournemouth and Southbourne, running these two locations in between his creative work between stages, social media, and personal clients. He told us that Fade came out of nowhere: “I walked into my local cafe and the owner asked if I wanted to rent his space. I wasn’t looking at opening my shop but I didn’t even think; I just said “YES!” We didn’t have much time to figure out the name, so Fade it was. It’s a bit cliche, but it seemed to stick and now we’ve

made a successful brand out of it. Most of our clientele are aged between 16 and 32, so a lot of our haircuts are skin fades and taper fades, so it lives up to its name!” Kyle laughed.

Shortly after his win, Kyle sat down at the EVO Media Zone, to share his thoughts and feelings on his win. He told EVO Director David Foster: “This just feels unreal. I am still speechless. This is my third time as a finalist, and so to actually win, feels unbelievable. I have learned a lot from the Wahl Artistic Team members throughout my career, and a lot of what got me this trophy, I learned from them. Ever since I started entering the competition, I have seen a huge boost to my business. Since the first time I finalised, I have been six-weeks fully booked. So, winning this now, I can’t wait to see what happens next. To win something like this from the biggest clipper brand out there is just unbelievable. I can’t imagine what is going to happen in the next year of my career.”

After being named a finalist for BBOTY two years in a row, it was the third time lucky for Kyle, just like his predecessor, Charlie. Simon Shaw said: “This is a sign for all you barbers out there to never give up! If you were one of the finalists this year, or you apply and make it to the finals in 2024, you’ve got to remember that consistency is key. Both Charlie and Kyle showed that their work can be consistently good three years in a row, and they have the perseverance and determination to try again. And I’ll say, this year, seeing Kyle’s work and his performance on stage, he was more confident and relaxed, so that made a difference.”

Simon continued: “I am so proud to say that winning Wahl British Barber of the Year will change the path of Kyle’s career. This competition is not just about entering a photograph, you have got to get to the final and turn up and play 90 minutes. You have got to stand on that stage, present well, work with your model well, and have confidence up there. And these are all things that we will help the Wahl BBOTY work on and improve on throughout the year.”

Next up, Wahl British Barbershop of the Year. Another hotly contested category, and life-changing award for barbers and barbershop owners.

For this category, Simon explained: “When looking for a shop worthy of this title, we look at every aspect. We look at staff development in terms of what kind of training plans they provide for staff. We want to know what they do in their local communities. What kind of marketing strategies do they deploy? The variety of services they offer. The variety of retail products they sell. The barbershop that wins needs to be ticking all of those boxes. It's not just about your shop looking nice, it’s got to be deeper than that.”

Simon continued: “When the team got on stage, you could tell how badly they wanted it. It was their second time being a finalist, and I could tell they were more nervous this time around than last year because I think they could tell it was so

BBOTY FINALISTS

close within reach. Their response to winning was really special, Joey’s dad was there, and Joe’s dad was there, and it was an emotional moment. I told them when they were up there, ‘You are going to become legends in this industry.’”

In response to their win, Co-Owner Joe Sloan said: “I can’t even express how my me, my business partner, Joey Power, and our team are feeling right now.

“When we entered last year and became finalists, we were given a lot of great feedback from Simon Shaw and the Wahl team. Although it was a little blow to the ego, but we took it all in, picked it all apart, and didn’t leave a stone unturned. Coming into the competition this year, I felt so confident (I even bought a bag for the trophy), but I also felt the nerves a lot worse too. We feel so ecstatic, and it shows that all of our consistency, hard work and effort has paid off.” 

“WHEN WE ENTERED LAST YEAR AND BECAME FINALISTS, WE WERE GIVEN A LOT OF GREAT FEEDBACK FROM SIMON SHAW AND THE WAHL TEAM. ALTHOUGH IT WAS A LITTLE BLOW TO THE EGO, BUT WE TOOK IT ALL IN, PICKED IT ALL APART, AND DIDN’T LEAVE A STONE UNTURNED.”

JJ SAVANI

RISING STAR FINALISTS

“I AM SPEECHLESS. THIS MEANS THE WORLD TO ME. IT IS GOING TO CHANGE MY CAREER, AND I DIDN’T EXPECT IT AT ALL. THERE ARE SO MANY TALENTED BARBERS OUT THERE. IT MEANS SO MUCH, IT’S GOING TO CHANGE EVERYTHING. ALL MY CLIENTS AND FRIENDS BACK HOME ARE GOING TO BE SHOCKED, AND SO HAPPY FOR ME. IT IS GOING TO MOTIVATE ME SO MUCH MORE, AND I WANT TO PUSH MYSELF AND ALSO ENCOURAGE OTHER YOUNG BARBERS TO PUSH THEMSELVES, AND I JUST CAN’T WAIT TO TAKE MY CAREER AS FAR AS I CAN.”

Finally, the winner of the newest category in awards for Wahl was announced: the Wahl British Rising Star. The finalists of this category were chosen due to the impact they are projected to have in shaping the future of barbering.

As a collaboration with BarberEVO, The Rising Star award honours barbers who have demonstrated exceptional talent, ambition and star quality through the standard of their work and online presence.

Simon Shaw said: “It has been so great launching this new category in conjunction with BarberEVO, because it is showing we care about the next generation of barbers, encouraging them to uplift the industry, step up their game, and become tomorrow’s platform artist.”

The winner of the Wahl British Rising Star 2023 is the brilliant Anthony O’Connell.

David Foster, Director of BarberEVO said: “Anthony is only 20 years of age, and already owns his own barbershop, O’Connell’s Barbershop. He is certainly on the right track in his barbering career, and now with the

relationship with a brand like Wahl Professional, and all of the ambassadors and educators around the brand, the possibilities for where his career might go are endless.”

For the next year, Anthony will be working closely with Wahl Pro and Simon Shaw, being given opportunities such as well as shadowing the Fellowship Project Men team, 12 days of education, and the opportunities to attend events with Wahl Pro and get up on stage. We can’t wait to see where Anthony will take his career.”

In the EVO Media Zone, Anthony said: “I am speechless. This means the world to me. It is going to change my career, and I didn’t expect it at all. There are so many talented barbers out there. It means so much, it’s going to change everything. All my clients and friends back home are going to be shocked, and so happy for me. It is going to motivate me so much more, and I want to push myself and also encourage other young barbers to push themselves, and I just can’t wait to take my career as far as I can.” •

Kyle Dodson Martin Desta Sam Minns SB

A WORD FROM THE BARBERS...

NEWS FROM SPAIN:

CAPTAIN FAWCETT'S GREAT EXPEDITION

THROUGHOUT 2023, CAPTAIN FAWCETT’S INTREPID RIGHT HAND MAN, RICHIE FINNEY, IS UNDERTAKING AN EPIC SOLO MOTORCYCLE ROAD TRIP

THROUGH EUROPE, SHOWCASING THE BEST OF BRITISH GENTLEMAN’S GROOMING IN A NUMBER OF HOST BARBERSHOPS ACROSS 24 COUNTRIES. PART ONE KICKED OFF IN MAY — WHAT’S THE LATEST NEWS?

What are your hopes from a business POV?

To deepen friendships, present Captain Fawcett products and make new acquaintances – barbers, customers and distributors alike. Why Europe? As an exporter, Brexit means we’re no longer dealing with a single set of EU rules, but 27 individual countries. I believe it’s vital to make the effort to meet people where they are, on their home territory, not least because Captain Fawcett is hugely proud to be named a Department for Business and Trade (DBT) Export Champion for four years in a row. Just as the barbershop experience is hands-on by nature, tangible moments of connection are the heart and soul of honest trade. So I hopped on my old BMW F650 GS and took to the road!

How did you plan the Spanish leg? We had invaluable assistance from Captain Fawcett’s esteemed Spanish distributor Juan of El Mirall Distribuciones. Juan met me on a rainy morning, just off the boat in Bilbao, and got the show on the road with an excellent breakfast. Superb! Juan, Lorena and Allie were absolutely fantastic every step of the way.

Why start in Spain? In truth, because I love Cervantes’ classic story of Don Quixote and his Right Hand Man Sancho Panza! I relate to the way it’s about being true to your dreams, however absurd they seem! The fantastic Spanish phrase 'El momento para viajar es ahora', means 'the time to travel is now'. And that’s what I’m doing.

Any memorable moments? In truth every single barbershop has been an absolute joy from Bilbao’s La Barbería del Norte for a stylish first night to Brothers Barbers who were fantastic eleventh hour hosts on the last night. And it was wonderful to spot a photo of Fawcett Ambassador Russell Bristow

on the wall of Luis Villa Barbería in Zaragoza! Everyone has made me feel very welcome –fabulous shops and lovely people! Thank you Spain! You rock! I’m hugely looking forward to meeting more of Europe’s magnificent barbering community as the journey continues. I must mention Tian, of Tian Stil Home in Vinaròs. I was in big trouble when my bike lost power on a sleepy Saturday afternoon 4.5 hours from Valencia. Tian, a previous BarbersRide participant, was an absolute hero. Not only did he lend me a bike so the show could go on, I was also the guest of honour at his splendid Bikers, Beers & Beards seafront gathering in Alcossebre. Tian exemplifies the generous spirit of the Biker/ Barber Brotherhood. What a guy!

Any chance of a Spanish BarbersRide? As I rode Spain’s spectacular high mountain passes BarbersRide, 2024 may well have crossed my mind… Watch this space!

Where are you going next? The Great Expedition Part Two is in June/July and Part Three in September/October.

I plan to visit Amsterdam, Hamburg, Copenhagen, Malmo, Gothenburg, Oslo, Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga, Vilnius, Gdańsk, Poznan, Berlin, Luxembourg and Antwerp. Then in Part Three you’ll find me somewhere in Germany, Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland and France.

A special free gift to celebrate the Great Expedition: all purchases of two items or more from Captain Fawcett’s ‘Expedition Reserve’ Signature Series will include a free souvenir Great Expedition Sticker and Badge – while stocks last. Huzzah!

‘CAPTAIN FAWCETT PRODUCTS OFFER EXCEPTIONAL PERFORMANCE FOR BOTH HAIR AND BEARD CARE. AND WE’RE PROUD TO CONTRIBUTE TO OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY, HEAR CUSTOMERS’ STORIES AND BUILD LASTING RELATIONSHIPS, SO IT WAS REALLY FANTASTIC TO HOST CAPTAIN FAWCETT’S GREAT EXPEDITION HERE IN MADRID.’

- DANIEL PERALES FROM CHAMBERÍ 5 (MADRID)

‘TIAN'S BARBERSHOP IS A LOCAL LANDMARK FOR BEARDED MEN. EVERY YEAR WE HOLD A FANTASTIC EVENT SPECIALLY FOR BEARDED MEN, SO IT WAS INCREDIBLE TO WELCOME THE RIGHT HAND MAN AS OUR GUEST OF HONOUR! MY BARBERSHOP IS A MEETING PLACE, YOU CAN FIX YOUR BEARD AND HAVE A BEER OR A BARBER’S GIN WHILE LISTENING TO LIVE MUSIC. IT’S ABOUT FRIENDSHIP. CAPTAIN FAWCETT TOTALLY GETS THAT.’

- TIAN OF TIAN STIL HOME (VINARÒS)

‘WE USE CAPTAIN FAWCETT’S FULL RANGE OF OILS AND BALMS. WE’RE ALL ABOUT THE ATMOSPHERE FROM THE MOMENT YOU ENTER…GOOD VIBES AND GOOD BEER! THE GREAT EXPEDITION IS A BRILLIANT IDEA FOR BRINGING US ALL TOGETHER!’

- DANIEL ORTEGA, OWNER OF URBAN BARBERSHOP (GRANADA) ‘OUR CUSTOMERS DESERVE THE BEST… SO IT WAS A PLEASURE TO HOST CAPTAIN FAWCETT!’

- DANY OF LA BARBERÍA DEL NORTE (BILBAO)

How can readers follow the Great Expedition? Simply scan this QR code for regular updates. On the Captain Fawcett website, barbershop hosts are highlighted on a special map.

®

ANDIS BATTLE ROYALE WINNERS

AT THE BARBER CONNECT 10TH ANNIVERSARY EXPO, ANDIS CLIPPER COMPANY HELD A LEGENDARY COMPETITION CALLED THE BATTLE ROYALE. THREE BARBERS HAVE BEEN AWARDED WITH THE COVETED TITLES, CREATIVE FADE, FASTEST FREESTYLE, AND STUDENT.

A world-leading manufacturer of barbering, styling and grooming tools, Andis remains at the forefront of innovation and education and was the main sponsor of Barber Connect, which took place at the International Centre, Telford on June 11-12. This year Andis debuted the Battle Royale – a new barbering competition format designed to celebrate originality, technical precision and creativity.

With three categories; ANDIS Creative Freestyle Barbering, ANDIS Fastest Fade and ANDIS Student Barbering, the competitions brought together the most talented barbers from around the world to showcase their skills and creativity and compete against each other to win in their chosen category.

“Ultimately, Battle Royale was an exciting and dynamic event that celebrates the artistry and skill of barbers,” says Andis International Artistic Team Lead, Kevin Luchmun. “It provided a platform for barbers to showcase their talents, connect with other professionals in the industry, and push themselves to reach new heights of creativity and

excellence. We were so excited about presenting this competition on our impressive stage at Barber Connect.”

The competition was judged by a panel of leading industry experts, including Andis International Artistic Team Lead Kevin Luchmun, Andis UK Education Team Lead Baldy and Andis International Platform Artist Hayden Cassidy. Each contestant’s work was closely evaluated based on criteria such as technique, style, and overall presentation.

Joined by judges, Joseph Goss from Rum Barber, Andis Educator Sid Sottung and Bonds Barbershop owner and educator Mike Taylor, the winners received a range of prizes, including Andis tools, a cash prize and the opportunity to be featured on Andis Social Media channels. The competition is a highly respected and soughtafter accolade and winning is considered a significant achievement in the industry.

All contestants received an Andis tool assortment valued at £500, just for competing.

Congratulations everyone! We can’t wait for the next BATTLE ROYALE

To keep up with Andis® Company, follow us on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook.

Creative Freestyle

First Place: @Danez_Barber

Prize: £500, Andis beSPOKE Trimmer, post on Andis Instagram

Second Place: @iam_bladecutbarber

Prize: Black reVITE Clipper and taper blade, plus a post on Andis Instagram

Third Place: @witchfades

Prize: Grey reVITE Clipper and fade blade, plus a post on Andis Instagram

Fastest Fade

First Prize: @designercutzz

Prize: £500, Andis beSPOKE Trimmer, post on Andis Instagram

Second Prize: Louis Turner

Prize: Black reVITE Clipper and taper blade, plus a post on Andis Instagram

Third Prize: @masclutterbuck_jarreds

Prize: Grey reVITE Clipper and fade blade, plus a post on Andis Instagram

Student

First Prize: @jaiden_mccarthy £250, beSPOKE Trimmer, plus a post on Andis Instagram

Second Prize: @alfie_thornton_ Black reVITE Clipper and taper blade, plus a post on Andis Instagram

Third Prize: Bradley Hemmings Grey reVITE Clipper and fade blade, plus a post on Andis Instagram

SHORT CUTS.

10 YEARS OF CUT & SEW BARBERSHOP

Leading Irish barber brand Cut & Sew Barbershop are celebrating their 10th anniversary. The brand, which now houses teams in five barbershop locations across Ireland, started with one chair in the basement of a record shop... One decade later, and they’re far more than just chairs on a shop floor.

The multi-prongued brand offers education classes, in-shop cuts, and advice for beginner barbers and barbershop owners. Ranging from online sessions and one-day seminars to classes suitable for people with up to two years of experience. For example, barbers looking to improve their scissor work and longer hairstyles –the Advanced Long-Hair Course in-depth clipper work and styling class is for you!

Earlier this year, the team held a celebration of not only Cut & Sew but for everyone who is out there grafting it out trying to better themselves. Hosted by Hayden Cassidy, the event featured a day of barbering and a show in the iconic Sugar Club, with a host of guests from all over

Ireland sharing the day and night to discuss the barbering industry. Over 30 barbers attended to celebrate this moment with the team.

Sean Bryan, Owner of Cut & Sew and Business Coach said: “We curated an industry show unlike any other – specifically executed with Cut & Sew, and our clients and teams in mind. The day featured a talk from 6pm to 8pm, with a screening of our documentary and interviews with some global industry leaders.”

The owner continued: “We wanted to discuss how our brand has impacted the industry and celebrate those who have come through our doors – and we’ll continue to do so moving forward. There’s lots more to come on the back of this event! It brought value to every guest that attended and it’s motivated us to continue nurturing Ireland’s place in the barbering industry at large.”

Find Cut & Sew online at cutandsew.ie or on Instagram as @cutandsewbarbers

FELLOWSHIP IMAGE AWARDS OPEN FOR ENTRIES!

Entries for one of British hairdressing’s most prestigious awards are now OPEN! The 2023 Submissions for the Fellowship Image Awards must be produced between the entry period of May 31th 2022 to September 30th 2023. All images and content submitted and referenced must have been created during this awards period.

All images should be taken in a professional environment, apart from the Snapshot Image. Now’s the time to show off your creative direction skills too – go ahead and source that incredible location for your nature-inspired collection or play with colourful lighting in the studio to make a statement with your gothic hair story. This is your chance to showcase the depth of your creativity and the passion that comes with it!

Commenting on the launch of the awards, Barry Stephens CEO of the Fellowship for British Hairdressing, said: “We are delighted to announce the launch of our 2023 awards, including the brand new 2023 Spotlight Award. There are awards to suit everyone – whether you are a creative with beautiful collection imagery that would be suitable for the Image of the Year Awards, or more business focused with our Art & Commerce Awards. We also have our Honours Awards, which allow us to reward our Fellowship Team Members for their hard work and dedication to The Fellowship.”

SCRUMMI APPOINTS KY WILSON AS CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Scrummi, the B-Corporation certified salon and spa towel company, announced the appointment of their new Creative Director, Ky Wilson. Scrummi prides themselves on working with inspirational, passionate individuals who embrace the Scrummi core values.

In his new role as Creative Director, Ky will work closely with the Scrummi team to deliver educational content and continue to drive their core messaging around sustainability and liberating the planet. Rob Cooper, Founder and Managing Director at Scrummi, said:

“We’re looking forward to working closely with Ky. He represents everything that Scrummi stands for and we’re excited to work with him on educational content and emphasise the importance of sustainable practices in the hair industry.

“We remain passionate about liberating the planet from laundry and believe our partnership with Ky will firmly enhance our core message.”

All submissions should be digital, via the entry portal at fellowship.awardsplatform.com with a declaration that every photographic submission is your own work and meets all criteria in entry requirements!

All image award categories will have a maximum of six finalists each. These finalists will be announced at the end of October this year. The WINNERS will be announced at the Fellowship’s annual Luncheon & Hair Awards on December 4, 2023.

The six Image Awards categories are:

• Fellowship Image of the Year Award

• Colour Image of the Year Award

• Men’s Image of the Year Award

• Afro Image of the Year Award

• Snapshot Image of the Year Award

• International Image of the Year Award

Judging is done anonymously by a carefully curated panel of some of the industry’s most talented and respected hairdressers, hair artists, and educators. step to becoming exactly that!)

Entries for the Fellowship’s Image Awards CLOSE on October 2, 2023. Good luck

Ky himself added: “Becoming the Creative Director for Scrummi is a career highlight for me. I’m excited to start working closer with this brand, which I’ve used and loved for over 10 years. I’m looking forward to having a direct effect on how Scrummi will develop. Together, we’ll not only be helping hairdressers and their salon businesses grow but dramatically reducing the negative impact our industry has on the planet. The Scrummi towel itself is the best of its kind. I know this through personal continuous research, having tried similar product lines. I’m always on the hunt to improve my service for myself, my clients, and the freelancers within our community at The Social.”

Find Scrummi online at scrummi.com and on Instagram as @scrummitowels. Keep up with Ky at @kycutwilson

CREATE YOUR WAY SABRA CLARK

ANDIS COMPANY HAS ANNOUNCED A FEW NEW ADDITIONS TO ITS GLOBAL EDUCATION TEAM, INCLUDING SABRA CLARK . WE CAUGHT UP WITH SABRA

ABOUT HOW HER NEW ROLE FITS INTO HER BUSY SCHEDULE.

Sabra is a dual-licensed cosmetologist and barber, an educator, the owner of Straight to the Cut Barber Studio, and the Creator of the SoCal Lady Barber Expo in San Diego,. First and foremost, though, she is a single mom of four. She said: “I have been in the industry since 2007, and an educator since 2012. My journey has been a rollercoaster of inspiration and creativity and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

I asked Sabra to give us a little insight into what her day-to-day looks like, and how she balances her many roles. She said: “After taking my children to school, depending on what day it is, I will either head to my barber studio to take clients or I go to Bellus Academy, where I work as an Educator of Cosmetology and Barbering. After working at either job, I go home and it’s back to mom mode and thinking of ways to grow the SoCal Lady Barber Expo. Rinse, repeat.”

Sabra has been using Andis tools since she was in Cosmetology school. She said: “I tried other clippers afterward, but not for long. The sound of the corded Andis Masters is what drew me in. There’s a hum that is unmatched when you turn them on, it’s ASMR at its finest!” she laughed. “Every tool is sleek, they work on every hair canvas, Andis clippers fit better in my hand, and they allow me to get the best results for each of my clients every time.”

I asked her to tell us a little more about what her position as Global Educator entails. She explained: “Starting off, I’ll be doing education in Barber and Cosmetology schools in order to get our future industry introduced to quality and diverse tools for their growth in the industry.

I’m really excited to work with Andis as a Global Educator because I’m very passionate about educating. Speaking to and inspiring people in this industry has always been a dream of mine. Combine that with being able to travel and teach is the ultimate career move.”

It's clear Sabra is truly passionate about being an educator. She said: “My favourite moment in teaching is watching the students take a step back, look at their work, and smile because it looks how they envisioned. The understanding of why things happen and the progression of the beauty school student to the licensee is very fast-paced. Being able to create an impact on the students’ growth inspires me to be my best self as an influencer and as a professional.”

What are Sabra’s must-have Andis tools? She said: “My go-to tools are always my Andis Masters and my GTX-Exo Trimmer However, with the new release of the Re-VITE clipper, I find myself being drawn to it more and more every time I use it. Having two clippers in one is a game-changer. It’s lightweight, the charge lasts longer, doesn’t overheat, and the ease of changing from fade to taper blade and back is awesome.”

Sabra’s takeaway advice for the next generation of professionals? “Slow down, trust the process, never stop learning, and Create Your Way.”

ANDIS GLOBAL EDUCATION TEAM MEMBER, OWNER OF STRAIGHT TO THE CUT BARBER STUDIO, AND THE CREATOR OF THE SOCAL LADY BARBER EXPO

SUPRA ZR II CORDLESS DETACHABLE BLADE CLIPPER

This pomade’s slick waxbased formula slicks and shapes your hairdo without weighing it down. An allpurpose pomade ideal for classic slicked back styles.

£295.00 // andis.com

BROSH ORIGINAL FIBER POMADE

A water-based pomade with a creamy, light texture that spreads easily. Gives a soft hold that allows hair to be brushed. With a pure, citrus and woody hint scent. broshpomade.com

CAPE GANG NEW SNAKE GREEN CAPE

Cape Gangs original Snake Cape has evolved, goodbye to the purple (for now...) and HELLO Green! Cape Gangs new features for 2023 are bigger capes, stronger with more durable necks and they now come in a reusable drawstring bag.

£30.00 // capegang.com

A CUT ABOVE

BABYLISS PRO PRIMA 3100 SLIM

Strong and lightweight, this hero straightener is engineered with floating titanium plates and five heat settings up to 230°C. Suitable for all hair types. Heated curved metal casing makes for truly limitless styling.

£115.00 // babyliss.com/uk-en

LOVEMORE CASUALS

Introducing the ultimate unisex sweater crafted with organic cotton. Love More logo in elegant gold. Choose from four stunning colours. Perfect for any occasion!”

£119.00 // lovemorelifestyle.com

AMERICAN CREW® DEFINING PASTE

Work a small amount evenly through damp or dry hair for shine and pliable hold. It softens hair and adds volume, making styling easy.

americancrew.com

GAMMA+ ABSOLUTE ZERO SHAVER

Ideal for shaving at zero level. Its’ ultra-thin and hypo-allergenic gold titanium foils don’t irritate skin. Staggered head shaver blades offer a closer and more uniform shave.

£93.78 // psagroup.co

WAHL 5 STAR VANISH FOIL SHAVER

Upgrade your finish with the NEW Wahl Vanish Shaver! Packed with industry leading innovations to bring the smoothest shave without bumps or irritation.

RRP £114.99 // wahl.co.uk

ARTERO OIL PEN

Lubricating brush for scissors and blades

Ideal for removing hair between blades and teeth Lubricate the surfaces after the bristles are saturated with oil while turning the piston.

£4.31 // artero.co.uk

CAPTAIN FAWCETT STRONG POMADE

For strong hold with a high gloss finish this is perfect for medium to thick hair. Provides sculpted definition and a brilliant finish. The fragrance is subtle and sophisticated combining verdant wood notes, warm spice and a spike of citrus.

£19.00 // captainfawcett.com

SUMMER HAS FINALLY LANDED HERE IN THE UK AND IRELAND AND ALTHOUGH IT MIGHT NOT BE AS LONG (OR AS WARM) AS MANY PLACES, WE SURE KNOW HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF IT. BARBERS TELL US ALL THEIR TRICKS AND TIPS ON HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF THE SEASON IN THE SHOP.

RYAN LEWIS IS THE OWNER OF HOUSE OF BARBERS IN HULL, AND THE SOON-TO-OPEN CLUB 13 BARBER AND COFFEE SHOP IN SEAHAM. HE IS ALSO AN AMBASSADOR FOR THE NEW-TO-THE-UK STMNT GROOMING AND AN AMBASSADOR FOR HAIR REPAIR CLUB AND MATAKKI SCISSORS. WE SPOKE TO RYAN ABOUT HOW HE MAKES THE MOST OF SUMMER IN THE SHOP.

MAKE A STATEMENT

THIS SUMMER

It was a search for summer holiday pocket money when Ryan was 14 that led him to what is now a very successful career in barbering. He told us: “I remember one summer, I was about 14, and I was dying to go somewhere like Wet ‘N’ Wild Waterpark with my friends. So, I went up whinging to my dad asking for some cash. I remember our neighbour Davey, who owned the local barbershop saying, ‘Why don’t you get your own money?’ He then offered to give me the cash, and in return, I would go to his shop on Sundays to sweep hair and fold towels.

“Within six months, I found I was getting a bit bored, and I was spending most of my time watching Davey cut. One day, he turned to me and said, ‘Okay, if you come in here after school, I will teach you how to cut hair.”

Ryan did just that. He spent the last few years of high school going to the barbershop after school and learning the tricks of the trade. But when it came to graduating, Ryan went off to university. But he just couldn’t shake away his love of

barbering. So, after a year at uni, he headed back to Davey’s shop to embrace his life as a barber.

Since then, Ryan has moved around and out of Newcastle. He was living in Hull when he took over House of Barbers and made it the successful barbershop it is today.

For Ryan, all of his brand partnerships are thanks to being “in the right place at the right time” He explained: “One day, I was cutting in the shop and the director of Matakki Scissors just walked in – because they are based over here. So, she walked in and said, ‘You’re good aren’t ya?’ I looked at her a bit like she was a crazy woman as she had just walked in from the street, and I said, ‘Uh yeah, thank you.’ She then went, ‘You don’t know who I am, do you?’ From there, I realised she was from the brand that made the scissors I had in my hand. She got my number and asked if I had done any stage work, and then I got a call about two weeks later asking if I wanted to cut on stage at Salon International. And I have been part of the education team ever since!” 

Ryan is not only a wiz when it comes to cutting, but he also specialises in applying hair system replacements too. He explained: “I started offering hair systems after I had completed my training, but I just felt as though there was more that I could do. So, I signed up for a course with Hair Repair Club, and everything just clicked. Since we have been growing and growing our clientele for systems and having great results. The brand reached out, saying how much they were loving our work, and asked me to become an ambassador for them as well!”

When Ryan found out that STMNT Grooming was launching in the UK, he was one of the first to jump on board and bring their products into the barbershop. He said: “What I like about STMNT’s approach is that the products aren’t just stocked in any barbershop. They will approach you and your shop if you meet their standards in consultations and cuts etc. The entire client experience and service are really important to the brand, so it was an honour when their rep came into our shop.

“I heard so much about STMNT and their products, and I thought, no way these products are that good. But the rep dropped off the samples, and honestly, they are the best products I have used. I think the beauty of it is that our clients appreciate the products as well. We have sold a lot of retail since we began stocking STMNT.”

After seeing the success Ryan and House of Barbers had with the products, STMNT reached out to Ryan to become a brand advocate, working on content creation, and education to even represent the brand at Barber Connect in 2023. “I am looking forward to getting to work with STMNT, and I am so grateful for the opportunity!”

Okay, let’s talk about what hair trends Ryan is loving for this summer. He said: “To be honest, this year has been really exciting for me. In the past, there have always been two or three leading trends, but this year I feel like people are being a lot more explorative with their hairstyles. I have been doing everything from the longer ‘90s Leo DiCaprio hairstyles to shags, mullets and buzz cuts. It’s the ‘90s looks that I am personally very excited about. I was a ‘90s kid myself, so I loved that wet gel look, and I am loving those middlepart styles this summer.

“SINCE I HAVE INTEGRATED THE STMNT HYDRO SHAMPOO, AND STMNTS CONDITIONER, AND THEN FOLLOW UP WITH THE SERUM, I CAN JUST LEAVE THE HAIR TO DRY NATURALLY, AND IT LOCKS IN THE MOISTURE, BRINGING THE NATURAL CURL OUT WITHOUT TURNING IT INTO RINGLETS, AND IT KEEPS THE HAIR FROM GETTING FRIZZY.”

“It is also all about the individual and the consultation. I think guys feel more confident expressing themselves through their hairstyles and trying something different. Not just being the same as everyone else.”

Unlike other places where the seasonal climates dictate trends in hair, Ryan explained that Hull doesn’t get to see too much of the sun. However, the change in season does make a difference in client behaviour. Ryan explained: “In the summer, clients are a lot more likely to make it into the shop every two weeks religiously. They have a lot on, between music festivals, holidays, weddings, and going out with friends. I think we are all culprits of letting things slide a bit during the winter, but with the weather being nicer, people’s social lives get busier, and guys want to keep up their appearances, making the barber shop a busy place!”

What products fly off the shelf fastest in the summer? Ryan said: “I think people are looking for products that are very workable. In summer, because people are out doing more throughout the day, maybe going straight from work to a

night out, they want something they can just rework and go. The STMNT Matte Paste and Dry Clay have been big sellers this season. We don’t sell a lot of hairsprays or stiff products in the summer, because if you are hot and sweaty, it makes the hair hard to rework.

“I think the key to selling retail is always in the consultation. I think we can all get into a habit when we have frequent clients to just go ‘same again?’ But when you make the time to have a conversation with the client, maybe suggest a change or a new style, that’s when you create opportunities to sell retail products and to get your clients excited about their hair again!”

STMNT have also just launched a new STMNT Hydro Shampoo and Serum. Ryan said: “Again, these products are game changers. I have got very curly, textured hair and that hair type is very susceptible to becoming dry and frizzy. That is the last thing you want because it makes your hair just look like a mess. But since I have integrated the STMNT Hydro Shampoo, and STMNTS conditioner, and then follow up with the Serum, I can just leave the hair to dry naturally, and it locks in the moisture, bringing the natural curl out without turning it into ringlets, and it keeps the hair from getting frizzy. I have also always had a sensitive scalp that easily gets irritated by-products. Whereas the Serum cools and calms the scalp. It is a game changer and I think it is going to be a huge hit with our clients this summer, who want that healthy ‘I just woke up like this hair’ without having to reach for any other styling products.”

Finally, I asked Ryan if he has any tips for elevating the client experience, especially during the busy summer days. He said: “Really, it is all about the little things. You’d be surprised by how many clients seem surprised when you just offer them a cold drink, whether that’s a soft drink, a beer or a whisky. Also, we are introducing a hair wash to every service in the shop. I just feel that that elevates the client’s experience, it helps them relax and cool down as they come in, and it’s a chance we can use products like the STMNT Hydro Shampoo and Serum, for a refreshing addition to their service. It’s all about the small gestures to make a big difference.” •

“I THINK PEOPLE ARE LOOKING FOR PRODUCTS THAT ARE VERY WORKABLE. IN SUMMER, BECAUSE PEOPLE ARE OUT DOING MORE THROUGHOUT THE DAY, MAYBE GOING STRAIGHT FROM WORK TO A NIGHT OUT, THEY WANT SOMETHING THEY CAN JUST REWORK AND GO.”

TARIQ TALKS TRENDS

BY TARIQ HOWES

TARIQ HOWES IS OUR STYLISTBARBER-EDUCATOR EXTRAORDINAIRE – AND NEWEST BARBEREVO COLUMNIST. THIS MONTH, THE BABYLISS PRO AMBASSADOR TALKS SUMMER TRENDS, FROM BUZZES TO BOLD COLOUR. YOU HEARD IT HERE FIRST!

I see a mixture of trends happening in 2023. Styles are becoming less about male or female looks and more about how the person feels. That means being open to what your clients want and thinking not about whether they should have a certain style, and focus on how you can make them feel good. First up, we have the classic of all classics: The Buzz Cut. The legendary buzz cut is always going to be a go-to for a lot of people – especially those who’ve had longer styles and want something more low-maintenance for summer. There’s a lot of upkeep with hair in hotter weather, from fizziness to dryness, so just buzzing it all off is an easy option! This is popular for all genders these days and I love to see it. In the shop, I’m seeing people coming in with bleached hair and I’ve been doing a lot more bleached designs, using the artistic side to create stuff that’s really unique and specific to the person you’re styling.

I see the Taper making its comeback again. Even though a taper usually means longer on the sides, there is a stark contrast between that and clients wanting shorter looks like the buzz cut. Tapers are slightly longer but still very tight on the sides and nape area, so are a good option for those looking for less weight around the head but don’t want to sacrifice the style and shaping that a longer style gives them. To sum up: usually, the taper is a popular choice for the clients with really long hair and want to go shorter and cleaner but not too much skin on show like with a fade.

The main tool I use to create buzzes and tapers is the BaByliss PRO LoPro FX Clipper, and the BaByliss Pro Lo-Pro FX Skeleton Trimmer for fading, cutting, and line ups. I just love the power, run time, and cutting or fading ability all round. It’s an absolute beast and must have in my kit (and yours!).

I always reach for my scissors for cutting the length on top of the taper and refining my fade on the buzz cut. Sheers give a nice extra bit of freedom to add depth and layers that clippers don’t really allow for – keep them for the sharpest cuts and fades.

Half the battle of anticipating and making trends is staying creative. I recommend watching what other barbers are doing in different parts of the industry. For example, if you're a barber on the shop floor, watch what session stylists are doing and the other way around.

I also recommend just looking at what’s going on in fashion and follow brands or photographers or stylists for constant inspiration and changing styles. Then, use it to arrange a shoot yourself –find a photographer locally and some clients, and even a local stylist in fashion school and come together and create your own shoot. It’s always inspiring and creativity helps with motivating you behind the chair, in my opinion!

I also have some advice for how you can equip yourself as a barber with the skills you need to tackle any trend that comes your way. With education, social media, magazines… We are running out of excuses for not being in-the-know anymore. Plus, all the education we have at our fingertips, from social media to online learning, we literally have all the tools and means to learn and and grow – take advantage of that!

We are lucky enough to have great events like Barber Connect or Salon International, and now the brand new EVO on the Road, which showcases valuable education and great places to network to open up even more doors for ourselves. The event was incredible – so cool to mentor so many of you. Can’t wait for the next BarberEVO education event! Catch me on Instagram as @tariqhowes

“I’M SEEING PEOPLE COMING IN WITH BLEACHED HAIR AND I’VE BEEN DOING A LOT MORE BLEACHED DESIGNS, USING THE ARTISTIC SIDE TO CREATE STUFF THAT’S REALLY UNIQUE AND SPECIFIC TO THE PERSON YOU’RE STYLING.”

INSPIRATION AND ADVICE FROM OUTSIDE YOUR CURRENT COMMUNITY CAN BE VALUABLE. THE BARBERING COMMUNITY IN LATIN AMERICA IS BURSTING WITH TALENT, AND THERE IS A LOT THE UK AND IRELAND CAN LEARN AND APPLY.

GASPAR TORRES ESTAY, A BARBER AND ARTERO EDUCATOR BASED IN MENDOZA, ARGENTINA, TELLS US A BIT ABOUT THE CURRENT LANDSCAPE IN ARGENTINA.

Learning FROM ACROSS the Globe

Celebrating 20 years in the industry, Gaspar is Director of Education for S&M and Brand Ambassador for Artero. Gaspar said: “My passion for hairdressing starts from education. I always loved taking courses, training, and perfecting my technique. This eventually drove me to become an educator, and to travel through Argentina and other countries training barbers.”

Education is central for Gaspar. It is what inspired him at the beginning of his career, and has been his passion throughout the last two decades. “I was always very interested in hairdressing education, the possibility of training people, and transmitting all the information and techniques I learned over the years. Helping others develop their skills is beautiful and very rewarding.”

Gaspar continued: “I've always been very curious. I love to investigate and dive deep into topics. In addition to helping me develop perseverance and discipline, it made me want to start training as an Educator. Education accounts

for 95% of my work today, with the remaining 5% being dedicated to working with clients.”

Artero has been Gaspar’s go-to tool brand for years. Here’s why: “Artero has an incredible versatility of tools, with unique details for each hairdresser in the world. From the different types of scissors and their steels, all the way to their clippers. I don't know of any other company that takes all these details into account like Artero does.”

Gaspar’s love for the brand eventually led him to him becoming an educator and Brand Ambassador for the brand two years ago. He said: “Thanks to the Distributor S&M Estilo. I work as a Brand Ambassador for Artero from Argentina to the rest of the world. It is a gratifying experience that I take with a lot of responsibility and discipline. Working at events and giving courses representing Artero is incredible.”

What are Gaspar’s must-have Artero tools? He said: “My favourite Artero tools are the Samurai Clips, the Poker+ clipper, and the Heritage and Moreto scissors.”

We want to hear about the trends that are currently taking the reins in Argentina. Gaspar explained: “Argentina is a great consumer of the European and Latin trends. It's a fusion of styles, hair types, and densities, which forces us to adapt constantly. In men, haircuts like the Mullet or the Crop, are very common today. In women, the Bob and the Shag are super trendy as well.”

Weather climates in Argentina can vary from hot and humid, to snowy and cold, depending where in the country you are. Being based somewhere with more extreme temperature –especially when it comes to heat, I asked Gaspar if he had any advice for barbers cutting during the hot days of summer. He said: “We work with a variety of products that help us improve hair moisture levels. Controlling the humidity of the hair is very important in the day-to-day of our clients, even more so when they have long hair.”

Finally, I asked Gaspar, “What do you think barbers in the UK and North America could learn from the barbering scene in Argentina right now?” He explained: “In Argentina and Latin America, we have very different hair types and density from Europe and North America. We adapt the education to our daily lives, which can be a great challenge. It would be great for barbers to live that experience and be able to grow further in the industry as a result.”

can follow Gaspar and all of his education on Instagram at @gthaireducation

The precise lubricating tool for all your scissors and blades

“

ARTERO HAS AN INCREDIBLE VERSATILITY OF TOOLS, WITH UNIQUE DETAILS FOR EACH HAIRDRESSER IN THE WORLD. FROM THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF SCISSORS AND THEIR STEELS, ALL THE WAY TO THEIR CLIPPERS. I DON'T KNOW OF ANY OTHER COMPANY THAT TAKES ALL THESE DETAILS INTO ACCOUNT LIKE ARTERO DOES.”

You

THE BEST OF THE BEST

FROM THE SHOP FLOOR IN TONI&GUY TO WINNING

BHA AND TRENDVISION CROWNS AND WORKING WITH AMERICAN CREW – GEORGE SMITH HAS DONE IT ALL.

HE TOLD US WHAT TRENDS HE PREDICTS FOR SUMMER 2023.

George’s training with iconic Men’s Hair Specialists Charlie Cullen and Dexter Johnson empowered him to invest in his own creativity, refine his craft, enter competitions, and eventually start educating.

In the years since, George has worked with and educated for some of hair’s biggest brands and organisations, including American Crew, BaByliss, The Fellowship for British Hairdressing and many more.

George has ended up with one of the UK’s most impressive editorial portfolios, each piece of work embodying what it means to be masculine in the modern age. We wanted to know what trends he predicts for summer 2023. He told us: “There’s always a percentage of guys who go for a buzzcut. Some client say it’s because they’re too hot, but most of the time they come into the shop asking me to clean up a botched shaving job they got from their mates after a few beers at a BBQ,” George laughed. “In the modern male grooming sector, it’s not embarrassing for men to care about their appearance anymore, so these guys who buzz their hair come to me later for what I call an ‘expensive buzz’. They get a number two on the top connected into a high fade which ends up looking really cool.”

Short mullets will be popular with kids, he reckons. “This is mostly teenagers who, again, got a botched at-home job from their mates. Their mums see the chop and come to me to transform it into something a lot cooler,” George laughed again. “I give it a cropped top with a bit of length at the back, which kids can pull off.”

George said guys in their 20s and 30s should steer away from short mullets and go for messy,

undone texture. “2008-2009 styles that aren’t long hair, but aren’t cropped. Think: Bradley Cooper at the Met Gala this year.”

Next, we looked behind the scenes at George’s most recent American Crew shoot, which throws a curve ball at traditional men’s barbering and explores the versatility of American Crew’s grooming range. “This was my first brand shoot, which was intimidating. A lot of barbers can feel intimidated or worry that they’re not going to deliver what the brand wants. But you must remember that the brand has already seen your work! They know what your style is – and they want it. Go on set with confidence and add your own flair to the brief. Be bold with how you’re using their products and experiment a little.”

What products did he use? “I used the American Crew Matte Clay, alongside the American Crew Matte Clay Spray to create texture for short to long hair.

“For the slicked back look, I used the American Crew Light Hold Texture Lotion with the Cream Pomade, which is the red puck, to create a sleek finish and a sheen.”

What sets American Crew apart?

“American Crew have an incredible range of products that allow you to achieve absolutely any style. My advice for barbers shopping for American Crew is to message other pros (message me on Instagram @georgexsmith) for advice. There’s a perfect AC product for everyone, you just need to understand its capabilities in relation to the look you want to create.”

Based at Byrd’s Nest Barbershop in sunny Newport Beach California, Nichole Taylor is one of Byrd’s star barbers. We spoke to her about the summer styles her clients are loving, and how she creates them! What are the styles that are dominating this summer? “I’m seeing a big uptick in messier, lived-in styles. Guys are embracing their curls and shaggy mullets. It seems the shift is moving

towards less maintenance but more fun haircuts.”

Mid-length scissor cuts are taking over right now, according to Nichole. She said: “My books are filled with them! People are embracing the summer flow and looking for more of a fun style versus a clean-cut approach. Summer means more sun and more fun over here in Newport Beach. Luckily those are my favourite haircuts to do!”

Byrd free as a

HERE ARE A FEW OF NICHOLE’S FAVOURITE STYLES RIGHT NOW:

THE VERSATILE FADE

“This client wanted a more disconnected haircut where multiple styles could be used depending on how he was feeling. We did a zero mid fade with a clipper over comb blend and a lot of point cutting up top to keep the length and maintain texture. This was styled with Byrd Clay Pomade for a strong matte hold that will last all day.”

What are some of the hottest sellers of Byrd retail products this time of year? Nichole said: “Honestly, less is more these days. It’s all about the texture and waves lately. I can’t keep the Byrd Texturizing Sea Salt Spray on the shelves. Whether it’s used as a primer for volume to blow dry into the hair or sprayed on dry hair for a messy tasselled look – it works for every hair type and style. Women or men! I like to finish it with the Matte or Clay for a little bit more hold depending on the style. A little Byrdie told me a new Matte Spray is coming out that will be a game changer for all of the above…”

I think they might get slightly better weather out in California

than we get here in the UK and Ireland… But, for those solid five or so days of beautiful weather we get, I asked Nichole for her best advice on improving the client experience during the hot days of summer. She said: “Luckily our shops are a mile from the beach in a surf town but there’s a reason our motto is ‘Built on good hair, good company and good times.’ Whether it’s you come for a good haircut and stay for the laughs, or you can even pop in for a cold beer and good tunes. We pride ourselves on the relationships and community we’ve built in the neighbourhood. When you love what you do it’s second nature to love your clients and make it your second home.”

SUMMER IS A SEASON ALL ABOUT ADVENTURE; WHETHER YOUR CLIENTS ARE RIDING WAVES OR CATCHING PLANES, IT’S ON YOU TO HELP THEM MAKE SURE THEIR HAIRSTYLE IS UP TO SCRATCH, AND THEY HAVE THE PRODUCTS TO HELP THEIR HAIR LOOK GOOD, NO MATTER WHAT THEIR ADVENTURE HOLDS.

“IT’S ALL ABOUT THE TEXTURE AND WAVES LATELY. I CAN’T KEEP THE BYRD TEXTURIZING SEA SALT SPRAY ON THE SHELVES.”

THE MID-LENGTH SURFER

“One of my favourite haircuts to do, and one we get a lot of here by the beach are surfer style mid-length cuts. Guys embrace their post-Covid long hair and it’s easy to maintain coming in every six to eight weeks to keep the shape. I use a traditional square layer technique cutting the base length first and then pulling each section of the hair at 45 degrees to create layers, add volume and create a messy tousled look. This was styled with Byrd Texturizing Sea Salt Spray to accentuate waves and have grit for a messy wake-up and go look.”

ALL HAIL THE MULLET

“These days guys are moving towards messier and more fashionable and less 'Joe Dirt'. They don’t exactly want it to blend and the messier the better. He asked for extra dirt on this one. I used a number 2 guard on the sides and clipper-over-comb to overdirect a blend. I pulled the hair up at 90 degrees to create weight for a disconnected textured style he could slick back or push to the side given the mood. Lots of point-cutting! This was styled with Byrd Matte Pomade since his hair is thick it’s easy to pull through with the creamy consistency for hold with flexible movement.”

Shades of Summer

BASED ON THE BEAUTIFUL ISLAND OF GUERNSEY IN THE BRITISH ISLES, SAM PHILLIPS IS A BARBER MENTOR, EDUCATOR AND GAMMA+ AMBASSADOR. ALWAYS WANTING TO PUSH HIMSELF OUT OF HIS COMFORT ZONE, HE BROUGHT TOGETHER SOME MEMBERS FROM HIS SMALL COMMUNITY, AND CREATED A SUMMER-INSPIRED COLLECTION CALLED ‘ISLAND HAZE’. WE SPOKE TO SAM ABOUT HOW HE BROUGHT IT TO LIFE, WITH THE HELP OF GAMMA+.

17 years ago, Sam turned his hobby of haircutting into his full-time career. He said: “My passion for hairdressing began as a hobby of cutting my friends' hair after a night out drinking. This hobby soon turned into a serious interest, and I found myself wanting to learn more about hairdressing techniques.”

Knowing his tipsy techniques weren’t going to cut it in the real world, Sam reached out to some pros for advice. “I spoke with professional hairdressers to gain more knowledge about the art of hairdressing and became fascinated by what I heard. My mother's hairdresser helped me secure an apprenticeship in a salon that was partnered with Vidal Sassoon. It was here that I was introduced to the Vidal Sassoon philosophy, and I knew that this was the career path for me.

“I specialised in hair cutting as opposed to colouring because I loved the thought process and planning that went into cutting hair. After a short time of working and improving my skills in London with Sassoon, I decided to move back to Guernsey. However, I quickly realised that the standard of men's hairdressing on the island was not as high as I would have hoped. This frustration inspired me to create my own salon and provide precision men's hairdressing to the islanders. This venture was extremely successful for five years and our team raised the bar for the standard of hairdressing on the island.”

Recently, Sam decided to take the next step in his career, to sold his company so he could focus on mentoring and helping achieve success in the barbering and hairdressing industry: “My goal is to lead others to a rewarding and satisfying career in hair cutting.”

While incredibly experienced in the industry, there is still a first for everything. And this was Sam’s first time creating a collection on his own! He said: “As a first-time solo collection creator, I am thrilled to present my latest

work inspired by the summer season. Rather than incorporating picturesque scenery, I chose to focus solely on the hair to highlight the true essence of this season. When considering the perfect seasonal match for my photos, I always pay attention to the colours and hues that evoke a particular emotion. For this particular collection, I've created a unique look that I call Island Haze. By lowering the contrast, I've been able to capture the models' essence and vibe."

We asked Sam how decided on the location and set of the shoot. He said: “I watched in a TV show called America's Next Top Dance Crew years ago, where a talented group known as Jabbawockeez was discovered. The members wore matching outfits and face masks to ensure the audience's focus remained on their dancing rather than their individual features.

“When creating a hair/fashion collection for summer, I typically associate it with holidays, beaches, and swimming. However, I wanted to keep the focus solely on the models' hair and essence. With the Jabbawockeez’ approach in mind, I chose to shoot the collection in a studio setting with a consistent background, lighting, and setting for each model. This approach allowed me to emphasise the fashion without any distractions."

As an ambassador for Gamma+, I asked what he loves about working with the brand, and why he trusts their tools most. He said: “My attraction to Gamma+ stemmed from their innovative approach to solving common problems that barbers faced, such as issues with weight and power, which had been neglected by other companies for years. I purchased their clippers and was so impressed with their game-changing performance that I reached out to the company to express my gratitude. This led to a conversation, and ultimately an invitation to join their team.

“What stood out to me about Gamma+ was their commitment to working with individuals who possessed a strong work ethic, passion, and a genuine desire to support others. They didn't just seek out the most talented or experienced individuals but were more interested in working with people who were dedicated to making a difference.”

Sam said: “If I had to choose my top desert island tools, I would definitely go for the Gamma+ Boosted Clipper and the X-Evo trimmer. Although, there are some new releases that might just give these two a run for their money. But, for now, I will have to keep you waiting to find out what those are.”

“IF I HAD TO CHOOSE MY TOP DESERT ISLAND TOOLS, I WOULD DEFINITELY GO FOR THE GAMMA+ BOOSTED CLIPPER AND THE X-EVO TRIMMER ALTHOUGH, THERE ARE SOME NEW RELEASES THAT MIGHT JUST GIVE THESE TWO A RUN FOR THEIR MONEY.”

SCISSORS FOR THE SEASON

SID SOTTUNG IS YOI SCISSORS AMBASSADOR, MASTER CUTTER AND EDUCATOR, AND OWNER OF THE SID SOTTUNG HAIRDRESSING & BARBERING ACADEMY IN EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND. HE TOLD US HIS TREND PREDICTIONS FOR SUMMER AND HOW YOU CAN USE SCISSORS TO ACHIEVE THE BEST RESULTS.

We launched straight into Sid’s trend predictions for summer 2023: “Barbershop classics like skin fades and full fades come back in summertime, when everyone wants to feel cool and look sharp. We’re seeing more perming for men. It was happening about six years ago but it’s really taking off now – I think it’s amazing. We also have a variety of different lengths, trying to move away from the mullet.” He continued: “Guys are growing out their mullets – especially on the sides – and bringing the length back up. We’re switching to more balanced looks with shoulder to mid-length hair.”

Sid told us that a lot of trends are dictated by financial and economic situations. We’re going through difficult times right now, so men’s hair has grown out as they’re maybe spending their money elsewhere. “When the economy is doing poorly, we see barbershops offer more affordable haircuts like skin fades. Clients are looking for ‘quick fixes’ to help them feel better during tougher times.”

Consumers still spend money on small indulgences during recessions, economic downturns, or when they personally have little cash. “Exactly,” Sid said. “Women might spend £20 on a

MAC lipstick; a guy’s equivalent is paying for a short fade or trim. Just to go to the barbershop and enjoy some peace for half an hour. They leave with more confidence.”

With summer comes warmer weather and a lot of trends for the season can be centred around cooling guys down. A lot of longer styles – and perms – will need trimmed and tidied up using scissor work. Refining those skills is something of a new phenomenon in the barbering world, where men’s and women’s techniques are blurring into one.

Scissors Wings Tiger 5-inch

Why? “These are ideal for texturizing and precision work on all hair types. The cobalt steel is spot on for cutting through thicker, curlier hair.”

How many pairs of scissors does a barber need to be able to execute ever-changing trends? He explained: “Nowadays, we need scissor designs that have a slimmer blade for precision work – at five to 5.5-inch sizes. Barbers who are doing a lot of scissor over combing will need a longer pair, from six to 7.25 inches.

cover both clipper and scissor work. There’s nothing like the 1-to-1 training for holding scissors properly and working with the ergonomics to find the pair that suits your hands and enhances your work, instead of hindering it.”

In July, Sid will launch a dedicated showroom with Yoi Scissors at his academy in Edinburgh so that barbers can come in to test the scissors and combs for themselves. Keep watch on @sidsottungacademy

“I’M CONSTANTLY USING MY YOI SCISSORS WINGS TIGER 5-INCH SET. THEY’RE IDEAL FOR TEXTURIZING AND PRECISION WORK ON ALL HAIR TYPES.”

BARBER AND DIRECTIONS EDUCATOR, NICKIEY WALLER IS ALL ABOUT ALTERNATIVE AND VIVID LOOKS. IN PREPARATION FOR PRIDE, NICKIEY AND DIRECTIONS PARTNERED UP TO CREATE A MASTERCLASS CALLED PUNK PRIDE, FEATURING A STRIKING RAINBOW MOHAWK WITH LEOPARD PRINT SIDES. HERE’S HOW SHE DID IT…

Nickiey said: “I set up Clifford’s Barbershop in 2014 on a mission to deliver great hair for my clients and in particular, follow my passion for alternative hairdressing. Having used Directions' hair colour on my own hair since I was a teenager, I was so excited to introduce them to my barber shop and start delivering the bold bright hair my clients dreamed of.

“For this look. Using eight directions hair colours, we're going to create a fantastic rainbow Mohawk and leopard print sides. This is Punk Pride.”

I got started with my client Colin. We have been friends for almost 30 years and he is someone who has been using Directions for a long time now. We had already lifted Colin's hair using Directions, and we achieved a great lift. As with all hair colours, it is really important to do a patch test 48 hours prior to application. Now let’s get Colin’s hair washed.

We're back from the basin and Colin is all ready to go. We've washed his hair with Directions Pre Colour Shampoo . This is a great product that really prepares the hair to receive or remove any product. At this point Directions also recommends that you do a strand test just to make sure that you're going to get the kind of results you’re after.

Now we are moving on to the colour work. But to get our rainbow sections on the Mohawk, we are going to section out the hair. I am sectioning it into eight sections and using eight Directions colours: Apricot, Atlantic Blue, Bright Daffodil, Dark Tulip, Flamingo Pink, Neon Red, Spring Green and Violet. These are just eight, out of Directions’ 46 colour options! They are all super bright and vivid, so they are going to work really well with the canvas we have got.

We're going to get into the colour application now. I'm going to take section by section, applying the colour to the roots of the base first carefully around the part, and then bringing it through the lengths.

The great thing about selected hair colours, is that they are ready to go, so no mixing is required, no developer needed! However, they are fully customizable. So, you can mix two tones together to create your own personalised shade. To reduce the intensity of the colour or to lighten it, you can add conditioner or directions white toner.

Now we're moving on to Colin’s side. My approach is starting with the inside of the leopard print spots, then adding in our blue background before returning to define the spots. The reason we do that is that if we just apply the solid blue base, any colour we put on top of that afterwards would take on that blue hue.

Now that all the colours are on, we just need to let it sit and develop for 20 minutes. Once it has developed, it’s time to rise. Over to the basin, we go.

Once the colour has been rinsed, it’s time for styling. I am going to use some strong hold gel, and a hairdryer, to create that striking rainbow mohawk. And there you have it!

The Directions Masterclass is available free to watch on YouTube, just go to Directions Hair Colour’s page and look for: We Like to Call This: Punk Pride.

“HAVING USED DIRECTIONS HAIR COLOUR ON MY OWN HAIR SINCE I WAS A TEENAGER, I WAS SO EXCITED TO INTRODUCE THEM TO MY BARBER SHOP AND START DELIVERING THE BOLD BRIGHT HAIR MY CLIENTS DREAMED OF.”

Key Reminders

• Perform a patch test & strand test

• Wear protective clothing & gloves

• Apply colours in neat sections and rinse with cool water, to lower the risk of colour bleeding.

Don't wait any longer. Join the trendiest scene with a Punk Pride-inspired look: Shop Directions Full Range or get more expert advice at directionshaircolor.co.uk

Want to be in the chance of doing a Directions masterclass of your own?

We're always on the lookout for passionate hair colourists, so if like Nickiey, you'd love to demonstrate a favourite technique or trend of yours, make sure to share your work with us on socials! Simply tag us @directions_hair_colour in your posts or #directionshair in your captions.

Ruling the Summer Routine

ALL YEAR-ROUND MALE CLIENTS SHOULD BE LOOKING AFTER THEIR HAIR, PROVIDING IT WITH TLC AND LOCKING IN MOISTURE WITH GOOD QUALITY MOISTURISING PRODUCTS, BUT PARTICULARLY IN SUMMER WHEN THE SUN CAN ZAP AWAY MOISTURE FROM THEIR HAIR. JIM SHAW, DIRECTOR OF TONI&GUY BILLERICAY AND MULTI AWARD WINNING MEN’S HAIRDRESSER TELLS US HIS TIPS FOR CLIENTS TO HELP THEM RULE THEIR SUMMER ROUTINE.

“...EMBRACE NATURAL AND EFFORTLESS HAIR LOOKS THAT ARE SO ON TREND”

“ WHEN IT COMES TO STYLING YOUR HAIR IN THE SUMMER MONTHS, LESS IS MORE ”

Beach/textured waves are a great look for men in the summer, particularly if they already have naturally wavy/curly hair and want to enhance it further. A salt spray can simply be spritzed through damp or dry hair and scrunched in for a ‘just off the beach’ inspired look.

Sleek styles are also incredibly on trend at the minute and as well as creating a more polished look, the products used to create these hairstyles can also give hair an added dose of moisture and hydration. Hair oils, serums and shine sprays are three products that are great for creating sleek styles and these can be distributed with a comb, slicking

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americancrew.com

the hair back off the face or to one side to create a sophisticated and well-groomed finish.

For men with longer hair, ponytails, half updos and buns often make a comeback during the summer season, and they can look incredibly stylish. We are also seeing a more contemporary way to wear this trend with men teaming their man bun/ponytail with a haircut that’s short at the sides and the length kept longer on top. With this look, using a gel/pomade with a soft shine to it will help bring all of the hair out of the face whilst keeping it free from frizz and flyaways for a slick, smooth and shiny finish.

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SLEEK STYLES ARE ALSO INCREDIBLY ON TREND AT THE MINUTE AND AS WELL AS CREATING A MORE POLISHED LOOK, THE PRODUCTS USED TO CREATE THESE HAIRSTYLES CAN ALSO GIVE HAIR AN ADDED DOSE OF MOISTURE AND HYDRATION”

IF YOU WANT TO CREATE A SUSTAINABLE AND SUCCESSFUL BARBERING BUSINESS, FINDING THE RIGHT RETAIL PRODUCTS AND BRANDS IS KEY. WE TALK TO EXPERTS IN RETAIL WHO SHARE THEIR TIPS ON THE BEST SALES METHODS, AND THE MUST HAVE PRODUCTS TO KEEP ON YOUR RETAIL SELF.

RETAIL

RESPECT THE RETAIL

DANNY ROBINSON STARTED HIS CAREER IN THE WORLD OF HIGH-END SALONS. NOW, AN OWNER OF MULTIPLE SUCCESSFUL BARBERSHOPS AND A MARKETING WIZARD, DANNY KNOWS THAT RETAIL CAN BE A KEY ELEMENT IN A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS, ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS GET A LITTLE CREATIVE WITH IT!

Running a barbershop business is not all fun and games, we all know that money makes the world go ‘round. And with the cost of living as high as it is, barbershop owners must be doing what they can to support their business, while continuing to support their community of clients. What is one way to increase profits, without increasing the amount of cuts you do in a day or raising prices? Retail.

Danny explained: “Retail is an art form. If you play your cards right, you can pretty much cover all of your overhead costs, from rent, water, and electricity, just from your retail sales alone. However, when you open a barbershop, you’re not given a manual. So, there is a lot of trial and error. When it comes to being successful in retail, I have learned the key is finding a balance between a product that is high quality for your clients, and also cost-effective for your shop.

“There are a lot of brands out there that have great products, but if the initial wholesale price is too high, the margins won’t be good enough to make a difference in your shop, especially if you take into consideration the products that you use during the service and on the back bar. The keys to retail are: be consistent, be conscious, be creative, and maybe be a little controversial.”

To stock his barbershops, Danny relies on Chris & Sons based in the UK, Classic Barber Products based in LA, and then a combination of branded merch and products. Danny said: “Having the right distributors that you can count on is essential when it comes to retail, and that’s where consistency comes in. With Chris & Sons, I have a great relationship with the team, and I know I can trust them. Whenever I need something, I can just jump on Chris & Sons’ website, and whatever I need, I can get by the next day. The guys just take

care of us, and the customer service is next level. I know that I can always count on them to have what I need and get it to us on time.

“No matter how fun and flash your business is, consistency is key. If a client comes to you once and gets a product they love, but they come back for it and it's always out of stock, they might just give us and find another place to get it – whether that be online or at another barbershop. So, it pays to be dependable.”

If you know Danny, you know he likes to do things a little differently. So, it was natural for him to want to carry products you couldn’t get anywhere else. “My goal in Danny & Co is to stock products that aren’t easily found everywhere else or on Amazon. So, when I started working with Brian from Classic Barber and formed a close relationship with him, it meant that I could bring in brands and products that were difficult to get in the UK. For example, I bring in a lot of Exotics by Curtis Smith. They have a lot of innovative hair and skin care products that my clients fall in love with during their service, and often go home with a product or two too.”

Danny has built quite the brand for himself over the years, and a lot of that comes through his cheeky (and at times controversial) sense of humour, even when it comes to his Danny & Co-branded merch. Danny said: “When you are creating your white label products, it is great because you can put your personal touch on the products and the branding. I started working with the company to create products that were customised by fragrance, ingredients, hold, and all sorts. But for me, marketing is where I like to shine, and I like to be unique with it. So, I called our powder spray Devils Dust, which turned some heads. And then for our matte clay, I called it 'Kushty' and took pictures of it with cannabis leaves around it. I am all about guerrilla marketing and trying to stand out from the crowd and catch people’s attention.” 

But you don’t have to stop at hair products. Danny explained that there are plenty of creative merchandise items you can retail, not just to bring in revenue, but to get your brand out there too.

“Branded barbershop merch can be a brilliant element to your retail section. Whether it be T-shirts with your logo on them, caps, or cutthroat razors. You can be clever with it. I have seen barbershops do car air fresheners; I have even seen barbershops make custom condoms! It’s all about getting creative.

“When you are creating your own branded merch, the markups can be profitable. Depending on how much you order in bulk, a Continental t-shirt can cost you a couple of pounds to get made up, and you can charge £20-£30. I have done jumpers in the past as well, which were popular. If you have a loyal following of clients, and you put some thought into the design, it’s an easy sell. Plus, it’s something your barbers can wear to work as a sort of uniform. Not to mention, when you get your brand out there, whether it be on t-shirts, car air fresheners, or whatever else you want to smack your logo out onto, that’s free marketing! Your clients and your barbers are promoting the shop just by going out to the gym or the shops.”

Now, the more merch you bring into your shops, while you can increase your profit capacity, you could also give yourself quite the headache trying to keep track of all the inventory, especially if you have more than one location. Danny uses Squire to ensure he is conscious of all of the incomings and outgoings, and on top of everything, right from his phone or laptop. Danny said: “Not only is Squire a great system for managing bookings and our schedules, but it makes retail a lot easier too.

“Whenever you get a shipment of products, you can easily input the numbers into the system. Then, as products are sold, it will count down, so once you are down to five or so products, you will get a reminder to order more. As Danny & Co has multiple locations, it is so helpful for me to get these email notifications from Squire, because before, I often wouldn’t find out until it was too late. This also means that there is no need for doing daily or weekly stock counts or inventory checks, which can be dull and time-consuming, especially if you carry a wide variety of products.”

Danny also is a big fan of Squire’s reporting features, so that he can easily keep track of what is selling well, and who is selling well too. “On Squire, you can see the stats of what products are most popular and which ones are taking up shelf space.

“As well, with Squire, you can see which barbers are selling the most, and how much. I find this a helpful tool because if you feel like your staff needs a bit of encouragement to sell, you could run a friendly competition in the shop, and the barber with the most sales could get a bonus or a dinner or something. Which not only increases sales but can encourage staff enthusiasm and bring a buzz to the shop.”

Finally, what’s Danny’s advice for closing the sale? He said: “I think at the end of the day, it’s all about recommendation, explanation, and education. Throughout the service, ensure you are talking the clients through the products you are using, and why you’re using it for them. Get them to smell the product, maybe even feel it in their hands, and then place it down on the station throughout the cut. With all that, all you need to do once the client gets to the til is say, ‘All these products are here for you whenever you need them.’ They might buy the product then and there, they might come back the next day and decide they need it, or their girlfriend might come in and buy it for them as a gift. I have always found, the more pressure you put on selling, the less likely the client is to buy.” •

“ON SQUIRE , YOU CAN SEE THE STATS OF WHAT PRODUCTS ARE MOST POPULAR AND WHICH ONES ARE TAKING UP SHELF SPACE.”

Image by Alan Beak// Danny & Co Collab for Wahl Pro

THE FOUNDATION OF THE AMERICAN CREW LINE INCLUDES 10 STYLING PUCKS, 10 DIFFERENT FORMULAS, ALL FOR DIFFERENT LOOKS, PERFECT FOR EVERY HAIR TEXTURE. AMERICAN CREW KNOWS HOW AMAZING THEY ARE, BUT HOW DO THEY SHOW THE VERSATILITY OF THE COLLECTION? EASY, THEY TAKE IT TO WHERE CULTURE IS BEING INFLUENCED – THE TUNNEL WALK.

We talk to Kenny Duncan, celebrity barber and American Crew partner, about taking the grooming show on the road to the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NYC, to style an awesome mix of hair types and looks using a combination of American Crew products.

Why head down to the Barclay Center to stage this exclusive styling event?

“I’m a barber that started in the west Philadelphia area predominantly grooming individuals with textured hair. I now have 18 years of being an educator and that has exposed me to individuals from all walks of life.

“The idea to do the tunnel walk resonated with me, it’s more of who I am because I service a large number of athletes, specifically NBA athletes, so this American Crew campaign and the brand itself is already in line with my vision and values.

“I was already aware of the whole idea of the American Crew 10 pucks, with each puck being designed specifically for individuals with all different hair textures. I especially enjoyed the idea of showing what you can do by layering the products, it just aligned with who I am and what I can do for my clients.”

Tell us about the tunnel walk. Kenny said: “Athletes are certainly influencing fashion and culture during their tunnel walk. From the NBA Fit Pages and all the different things that go into how they are styled prior to, we can’t leave out the hair.”

Kenny helped American Crew launch its latest Join the Crew campaign with tunnel walk styling sessions and photos at Barclays in March this year.

“This opportunity allowed American Crew to focus on the hair of individuals with different types of hair texture. We wanted to replicate the influence that takes place through the tunnel walk, and there’s no

better way to create an authentic experience than being at Barclays Center. But instead of focusing on the clothes, there was an emphasis on the hair.

I particularly liked that David Raccuglia, Founder of American Crew, was the photographer for the tunnel walk moment. The fact that he had the vision to do it himself was legendary for me.

“At the event, I was supposed to be doing two or three individual’s hair, but I ended up doing more because I was so in the moment. There were individuals with 2C hair up to a 4C, so I was able to demonstrate a large amount of versatility of how the products can be used.”

For example, Kenny told us about one of the individual’s hair that he was styling who was convinced that his hair would not curl. (You can watch this transformation on @kduncangrooming).

“He told me that he likes to keep his hair neat because it does not curl. One of the other influencers was championing me and saying it’s gonna happen. He believed in the product, and he had the experience of knowing that it could happen. I wet his hair, mixed the American Crew Whip and Cream Pomade together and started to define his curl pattern.

“Instantly, in front of everyone the curls started to form, he turned from a non-believer to a believer. The look on his face when I handed him the mirror was priceless.”

In general, what does Kenny need to know before he starts the layering process? “I layer depending on the person’s needs and lifestyle. A lot of the individuals that I service are athletes, and they may sweat a lot because of that.

“The first thing I focus on is to hydrate and then I want to focus on styling and holding the style. I’ll typically go for a product that gives the right amount of moisture, give them advice on how they should be shampooing their hair and whether it should be a stronger shampoo like Detox Shampoo, or the Daily Cleansing Shampoo, and then focus on what product is going to hold their style. Whether it is designed for quick styling or helping to find a curl, that’s what is going to determine what hold is necessary.”

With athletes in mind, Kenny told us why American Crew is the perfect choice for people who are high performing physical specimens.

“American Crew blends perfectly with the grooming needs of professional athletes, and the main reason why is that some of the pucks are water soluble. The athlete’s lifestyle creates issues in and of itself. They can’t have anything that’s too heavy, clogging the pores and the cuticles, they need something with hold but will easily wash out and is not sitting on the hair.”

Taking the American Crew education team to a sports arena adds credibility as it shows the finished hair outside of the barbershop.

“Typically, a barber or stylist is judging what the hair looks like in the barbershop, but this emphasis was to show what it looks like in the actual tunnel with a high-profile photographer capturing the individuals at their best.”

Are there particular challenges when taking the grooming show on the road?

“If I was a rookie, I would say there could be some challenges. But because I spend most of my time grooming out of the barber shop, there's certain things that have become normal like not having the same lighting or the same type of chair. But when it came to styling at Barclays on the day, I'm not gonna say it was a challenge.

What would have been a challenge would be not having great products to work with. There was nothing but great energy in the building.”

Even though there are 10, everyone has a favorite! Kenny told us that he has two… OK, three, that he loves. “The Whip puck (the rookie and American Crew's newest puck product) is perfect for straight or wavy hair and creates a subtle texture and a lot of control for a relaxed look. You can also layer it on without feeling heavy while creating a patina finish on the hair. It creates a subtle texture and a lot of control for a relaxed look.

“I also love the Forming Cream. It's an easy-to-use styling cream that works well with all hair types. It's great for anyone new to products like this. It also works well with all hair types, has excellent pliability, and helps the hair to appear thicker.

“I know it’s not a puck, but another favorite is the Boost Powder, which a is a volume powder to add grit to the hair with matte finish. That’s something I appreciate for my textured hair clients.”

The tunnel walk event shows how influential athletes are leading the charge as far as men’s style is concerned. It was the perfect opportunity to highlight the range of American Crew pucks and how versatile they are for so many different hair types and desired results."

THIS OPPORTUNITY ALLOWED AMERICAN CREW TO FOCUS ON THE HAIR OF INDIVIDUALS WITH DIFFERENT TYPES OF HAIR TEXTURE.”

TRADITIONS OF THE TRADE

DAN AND ROBERT RIX OWN THE COMPANY OF MASTER BARBERS, THE MULTI-AWARD WINNING FAMILY FIRM DEDICATED TO HAIRDRESSING AND FINE GROOMING FOR THE MOST DISCERNING OF GENTLEMEN. NOT ONLY ARE THEIR SERVICES MASTERFUL, THE FATHER AND SON PROVE THEIR COMMITMENT TO CLIENT SATISFACTION WITH A SUPERB SELECTION OF RETAIL GROOMING PRODUCTS – INCLUDING THE CAPTAIN FAWCETT COLLECTION.

With perhaps the largest and best selection of retail grooming and haircare products in the UK, Dan and Robert know the importance of retail when it comes to the overall client experience and satisfaction, and don’t take the process of selecting brands lightly. That’s why Captain Fawcett was an easy choice to bring into the shop. Why is retail so important, anyway? Dan said: “Firstly, it helps to build a comfortable surrounding, and it highlights the standard a customer can expect from our establishment and the products that we are going to be using.

“The other thing is every service client is a potential retail client, and vice versa. So, with every client that comes in, you have an opportunity to gain additional revenue. If you miss these opportunities, you are doing a disservice to your business.”

Rather than just having one shelf in a barbershop, The Company of Master Barbers features an entire retail store within the barbershop, making retail a distinctive feature, not just an additional option. Dan said: “We have a lot of customers who come to us first to purchase products, and then their curiosity gets

the better of them, and they become regulars in the barbershop as well.”

Retail is just one of the ways The Company of Master Barbers stands out from the crowd these days. Dan said: “In this social media centred world, retail is something that people tend to undervalue. But we are traditionalists who want to keep the high street alive, therefor our focus is about the service we give our clients and the quality of the products they go home with.” Robert said: “Retail is not something to be frightened of it is something to be embraced.

The Company of Master Barber's Favourites from the Captain

Ricky Hall Booze & Baccy Oil

Maharajah Eau de Parfum Maharajah Beard Balm Booze & Baccy Oil & Wax Gift Set Double Edged Rockwell Razor

Photography// Dave Brown

It can help you build a more financially sound, sustainable, and multi-faceted business.”

How does the Company of Master Barbers select the products that make the cut for the retail area? Dan said: “If you can buy a brand or product on the high street or in a supermarket, you will not find it in our shop. We make sure that we carefully select products that haven’t flooded the market, so our selection is curated in a very intentional and thoughtful way. We need to believe in the brand, believe in the products and their results, and cover a variety of client needs and budgets. It is about understanding who your clients are and creating an experience that fits them individually.”

While The Company of Master Barbers carries a wide selection of retail products, Captain Fawcett is one of their favourite and most popular brands. Why? “We initially started stocking Captain Fawcett Moustache Wax, which is what the brand originally started with. And then as the brand grew and evolved, we brought more and more of their products in.

“I got to know the founder, Richie, through doing the charity BarbersRide, and got to know more and more about the story behind the brand and how it was growing. We were really drawn to the design elements of Captain Fawcett, but we also loved the products and their fragrances, and we just really liked Richie and the direction he was taking the brand. At that point, we decided to go the whole hog and bring in the whole range.

“Lately, the Beard Balms have been a huge seller, so we have been stocking the whole range. Then usually, once a client gets

hooked on the Beard Balm, they come back for the Moustache Wax, the Eau De Parfum, and the Beard Oil. And then from there, clients start buying Captain Fawcett’s hardware, such as their brushes and razors. Clients become as loyal to the brand as we are.”

While Dan and Rob love the efforts Captain Fawcett has put into the brand image and all of the marketing and packaging, as it helps to catch clients’ attention, it is the quality of the product that gets clients hooked. “With Captain Fawcett, all the stuff works well. They have done their research and they get the product right before they put it out. So, you know that what's inside the products is just as impressive as the packaging.

"Then, having unique labelling and containers makes them all stand out on your retail shelf. Plus, all of their products are at a very reasonable price point, which is another important element. Price, look and quality, are the three most important elements when choosing a brand to retail.

“The personal touch with Captain Fawcett goes a million miles. As you lift the little tin of pomade, there’s a little text inside the tin that says, ‘stiff upper quiff.’ It’s all about these nice little touches, and the story and personality behind the brand, that draws you in. Knowing who Richie is, and how and why he created the products, and listening to all of his folklore, just makes the products so much easier to sell behind the chair–when you truly believe and love the brand you are working with.”

Check out The Company of Master Barbers' selection of retail at themasterbarber.co.uk

“WITH CAPTAIN FAWCETT, ALL THE STUFF WORKS WELL. THEY HAVE DONE THEIR RESEARCH AND THEY GET THE PRODUCT RIGHT BEFORE THEY PUT IT OUT. THE CONTENTS ARE JUST AS GOOD AS THE PACKAGING.”

Photography// Dave Brown

TRANSFORM YOUR BRAND

ERIC LOVEMORE IS EXPANDING INTO THE WORLD OF FASHION, LAUNCHING AN INCREDIBLE CASUALWEAR COLLECTION TO MAXIMISE HIS BRAND. THIS IS HIS ULTIMATE GUIDE TO RETAILING AND MERCHANDISING – SHOWING HOW CREATING MULTIPLE REVENUE CHANNELS CAN BOOST YOUR BRAND AND BUILD THE SUCCESS OF YOUR SHOP!

Prior to his barbering years, Eric was a celebrity fashion designer. After a 15-year hiatus, he’s making a grand return with a fresh twist to his designs. Instead of focusing on ladies’ occasion wear, he is venturing into the realm of luxury unisex casual daywear. The upmarket aesthetic, refined design, and ultimate comfort is perfect for barbers working 10-hour days in the shop.

Eric continued: “Our clothing brand is a luxury high-end casual unisex brand that caters to individuals who appreciate both style and comfort. Inspired by the fast-paced, dynamic, and expensive lifestyles that people lead today – especially barbers – we sought to create a brand that embodies these qualities.”

The garments and accessories that the Lovemore brand promotes are crafted with the utmost attention to detail, using only the finest fabrics. “We prioritise organic materials,” Eric said. “Ensuring that our clothing is not only luxurious but also environmentally friendly. By adhering to veganfriendly practices, we aim to provide options that align with the values of conscious consumers who seek ethical and sustainable fashion choices.”

As a barber himself, Eric understands the importance of maximising revenue on retail offerings and even brand merchandising in a shop. Eric explained the benefits: “Customers visiting the barbershop can not only receive grooming services but also learn how to use products to maintain their styles at home. Exploring additional offerings such as clothing, accessories, or grooming tools expands your retail section further, creating a onestop destination for everything a customer needs.”

Furthermore, diversifying retail offerings can boost revenue and profitability for the barbershop: “By introducing complementary products, the business can tap into additional streams of income during slower periods or at seasonal times when people are looking for gift options or grooming essentials.”

Expanding retail offerings also allows the barbershop to establish stronger brand loyalty. By curating a selection of highquality products that align with the barbershop’s image and values, customers are more likely to associate the brand with excellence and trust. Eric continued: “This can lead to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth referrals, ultimately contributing to long-term success,” Eric said.

The prospects of merchandising for barbershop brands as well as personal branding for mobile barbers can be highly beneficial in strengthening their brand image and credibility. In Eric’s expert opinion: “Introducing clothing lines or merchandise can serve as a powerful marketing tool, creating a cohesive and recognisable brand identity. This further generates revenue by turning customers into brand ambassadors, as they wear or use the merchandise in their daily lives, effectively advertising the brand to others!”

For mobile barbers engaged in personal branding, merchandise can play a crucial role in establishing a professional image, too. Eric has many collaborations live in the industry right now, from onboarding new barbers with Head Quarters Academy, promoting new tool innovations with Artero, and Ambassador work with The Bluebeards Revenge UK to refining his own lifestyle brand and launching a brand-new fashion line. If anyone knows about personal branding, it’s Eric Lovemore! He recommended: “Branded clothing, grooming tools, or accessories can create a cohesive and polished appearance, enhancing credibility and trustworthiness.” He continued: “When people wear clothing or use merchandise with a brand’s logo or design, they essentially become walking billboards for that brand!

“Barbershops and mobile barbers will leverage the power of word-of-mouth marketing and brand exposure through clothing and merchandise. They also create a sense of exclusivity and belonging among customers. This emotional connection strengthens brand loyalty and encourages customers to promote the brand organically to their friends, family, and social circles.”

To summarise: “When customers purchase and wear your items, it serves as a constant reminder of the positive experience they had at the barbershop or with the mobile barber. This strengthens the overall brand impression and encourages repeat business.”

The Lovemore collection will be available worldwide, so people from various corners of the globe can access and enjoy the designs! This global availability allows for a diverse customer base, bringing together individuals with different styles and tastes. More information is on the Love More Lifestyle website: lovemorelifestyle.com

“Moreover, offering retail beyond just products can serve as a marketing tool. Unique or exclusive items can generate buzz and attract new customers to the barbershop. It presents an opportunity to showcase the brand’s style and taste, further strengthening its identity in the market.”

“BY INTRODUCING COMPLEMENTARY PRODUCTS, THE BUSINESS CAN TAP INTO ADDITIONAL STREAMS OF INCOME DURING SLOWER PERIODS OR AT SEASONAL TIMES WHEN PEOPLE ARE LOOKING FOR GIFT OPTIONS OR GROOMING ESSENTIALS.”

THE EX TREATMENT.

BARBER AND EDUCATOR EXAUCÉ IMBO, AKA EXTHEBARBER, IS THE FOUNDER OF EXSTUDIO, CEO OF EXTREATMENT, AND PREVIOUS BARBEREVO COVER STAR. HE TOLD US ABOUT HIS NEWEST COLLECTION.

I wanted to make a collection of creative, fun images that reflect the EXSTUDIO Treatment products, ethos, and style. I wanted lots of diversity and different ages, different textures,

different lengths, and different styles all to appear using the products to show that we do cater to everybody. We worked with Black hair, Caucasian hair, Asian hair, and various kinds of curls.

The inspiration just came from our products, which came out of being inspired by other products. Just the fact that we can do all hair types for all kinds of people.

The main product I used to create the looks was the EXSTUDIO Treatment Volumising Dust – we call it magic dust. It's great for the hair, because it's light and doesn't leave any residue. Sometimes, when you use a wax, you can tell on camera that there's a wax in the hair, but the magic dust just vanishes into the hair adding volume and texture. The best part is that it looks really natural, too.

I gave my client a mohawk-slash-mullet type of look. It's a collaboration between two of my favourite styles, essentially. I freestyled it as well, so didn't have a plan – I was just cutting and going with the flow. For example, sometimes I'd go, okay, I should take a little bit more off, or I shouldn't take as much off. I was just making it up in my mind. I think that having that kind of freedom is when you create your best work.

That was also a reason to home in on the inclusivity and diversity of the models. I thought, if I'm going to do this, I need to make sure that as many people as possible see the work and see themselves reflected in it. I think that's key in generating clientele and engaging customers.

I had been planning this collection for a while. This is a campaign I want to run through into the future as a building block for the product brand, so I can make sure my creative work is still cohesive with the brand and with the services I can offer to my clients, which is a unique range from skin fades and facials to traditional hot towel shaves.

I visualised it in a multi-media setting as well, so wanted to make something that is transferrable across YouTube, Instagram, maybe TikTok – stuff like that.

“I VISUALISED THE EXSTUDIO COLLECTION IN A MULTI MEDIA SETTING AS WELL, SO CREATED STYLES THAT ARE TRANSFERRABLE IN VIDEO ACROSS YOUTUBE, INSTAGRAM, AND TIKTOK.”

BANG WALLOP! Where did the last month go? It has been non-stop here! Each year, you set yourself targets and goals, and each year you want to get better than what you were the last year. Some of these goals may be financial, some of them professional, and some are just to be kinder, and do more good deeds. To me, those goals are the most important. You don’t need to go completely out of your way, but whether you are donating to charity, volunteering your time, or just doing something thoughtful and kind for a colleague, friend or family member, trust me it’s worth it. Good things always come back around.

Just back from Barber Connect 2023, and I am buzzing. Huge congratulations to Kyle Rowland, the new British Barber of the Year, Anthony O’Connell, the Wahl British Rising Star, and Eighty8 Love to Create Barbershop, Wahl British Barbershop. The barbering industry sometimes gets a bad rap for big egos, but at Barber Connect '23, I didn’t sense any of that. Everyone got on well, had each other’s backs and cheering each other on. I love to see it. Going into summer, I think the industry is in a good state, and we're going to see a nice busy season. I hope you have some nice vacations, and enjoy the sun while it lasts!

IF PEOPLE AROUND YOU SAY IT’S IMPOSSIBLE TO DO THINGS, REMEMBER IT’S ONLY IMPOSSIBLE FOR THEM, NOT YOU! SHAW SAYS

SHOP SHOUT

BBOTY PROJECT: MEN

DIARY

AUGUST 5TH-10TH: BARBERSRIDE, IRELAND

SEPTEMBER 24TH – 25TH: PRO BEAUTY NORTH MANCHESTER

The team has been so busy as of late! We did some presentation courses with Wahl in May. They also had an introduction to our new sponsor, Leaf Scissors. Next month, the team will get a day with Charlie Gray from Leaf Scissors. Then they are gearing up for their photoshoot in August. The team also performed live on stage for Wahl and for Captain Fawcett.

PROJECT DROP

Barber Dryer from Wahl's styling range

This 2200W tool is ideal for any busy barbershop. I was handing these stylish designs out for free on the Wahl stage at Barber Connect. Love the retro-chrome colour – feels as good in the hand as it looks on your station.

£51.59 // wahl.co.uk

EIGHTY8 LOVE TO CREATE

Congratulations to the winners of Wahl British Barber of the Year. This is one well-deserving group. I am so happy Joey Power’s dad was able to be there to see them accept their award.

Location // Rayleigh,England Services // Cuts, fades, beards, kids, hair colour, straightening, black mask eighty8lovetocreate.com

The passing of the crown! Charlie Baker worked all day on stage at Barber Connect, educating, announcing, and cheering on his fellow barbers, including Kyle Rowland, the latest winner of BBOTY. We can’t wait to see what he will make of his role this year!

OCTOBER 14TH-16TH: SALON INTERNATIONAL

DECEMBER 4TH: FELLOWSHIP

LUNCHEON AND HAIR AWARDS LEICESTER

DROPPIN' LIKE IT'S HOT

FENDI TRAVEL SHADES £380.00 // fendi.com

COMPETITION WIN SIMON FOR A DAY ANNOUNCED!

Congratulations again to Lee Glover, the winner of the “Win Simon for a Day” competition. We will be seeing you in the academy soon for some one-on-one education and mentorship.

Love these classic shades. You’ll have seen me wearing them all weekend at Barber Connect.

Les Asolus d'Orient EAU DE PARFUM £160 // guerlain.com

MIND YOUR BUSINESS! THERE IS AN ART TO BECOMING A 'SUCCESSFUL' BARBER, AND THERE ARE ABOUT A MILLION DIFFERENT DEFINITIONS OF WHAT IT MEANS TO BE SUCCESSFUL. IN THIS FEATURE, WE EXPLORE SOME OF THOSE DEFINITIONS, AND OFFER ADVICE ON HOW YOU CAN ELEVATE YOUR BARBERSHOP BUSINESS.

BARBERSHOP BUSINESS

ONCE UPON A TIME, YOU MIGHT HAVE THOUGHT A COMMON CAREER PATH OF A BARBER WOULD GO AS FOLLOWS: APPRENTICE, JUNIOR, EXPERIENCED BARBER, BARBERSHOP OWNER… AND THEN THAT’S IT. HOWEVER, THESE DAYS, THERE ARE A MILLION DIFFERENT ROUTES AND AVENUES YOU CAN GO DOWN… LIKE STARTING A PODCAST PERHAPS. WE SPOKE TO SIMON BUTCHER, WHO DID JUST THAT.

WELCOME TO THE HAIRGROUND

Having gotten quite used to being the interviewer for his video podcast, Simons Hairground, Simon got a taste of what it was like to be one of his interviewees during his chat with BarberEVO. This time, it was Simon’s turn to tell his story.

Simon first became interested in the idea of barbering as a career when he was 15, nearly 25 years ago. He told: “I got into hairdressing first, because, well, my best friend’s cool older brother was a hairdresser, and I remember thinking that he was the coolest thing ever. I did alright at school, but I felt academia never really came naturally to me, I always was more fascinated with working with my hands, creating things, and being more visual. The expectation in my family was to go to college and university, but that never rappealed to me. When I raised the idea of going into the hair industry to my parents, they were quite dubious about my plan. They thought it sounded like a nice idea but were worried about my career stability. But I was determined to prove them wrong.”

Simon was so determined that he wrote a handwritten letter to Vidal Sassoon in Covent Garden asking to become an apprentice. “It must have caught their attention because they invited me to London for an interview at head office.”

Simon got the position at Vidal Sassoon, and progressed until they offered him a full-time apprenticeship. However, Simon’s parents were still unsure of the idea, and wanted him to still go to college. But the rebellious Simon was not having it. He said: “I had already decided school was not for me. So, I would pretend to go off to college, and then either spend the day in the salon or out skateboarding. After about three months, the jig was up, and I was faced with a bit of an ultimatum. If I was going to do hairdressing, I was going to do it right.”

IN

I HAVE LEARNED THROUGH RUNNING THIS PODCAST IS THERE ARE SO MANY DEFINITIONS OF SUCCESS. YOU DON’T HAVE TO WORK IN A SHOP OR OWN A BARBERSHOP TO BE SUCCESSFUL.”

So, Simon went on to complete his NVQ level two and three. He said: “When I got to the point where I had to choose my specialisation between being a stylist or technician, I knew that cutting was where my passion lay. As much as I liked working with colour, it was a bit messy, and I am quite a neat freak. So, shorter hair and more precision-based cutting always appealed to me.”

As Simon went through the Sassoon academy, he found himself drawn to men’s cutting. He explained: “Sassoon had their own barbershop where we could complete our barbering module. It was quite traditional, no use of clippers, just scissor over comb. I really enjoyed doing men’s cuts and I could bring my friends into model for me (saving myself from the dreaded laps around Topshop trying to find a model), while also getting to put a creative spin on such a traditional skill.” 

“I HAVE SPOKE TO SO MANY HEROES

THIS INDUSTRY, AND I THINK THE BIGGEST THING

After qualifying, Simon went on to work in various salons, until he had a bad skateboarding accident and broke his wrist and hand. “It was a really difficult time because I was newly qualified and was just building my confidence up, then it all stopped in a matter of moments. For the best part of six months, I couldn’t even hold a pair of scissors. I watched all my friends who I had gone through the academy with quickly begin escalating their career. I felt like I had missed the boat.”

Simon’s dad owned a luxury watches and fine jewellery store, so to earn some extra cash over the holiday season, Simon worked at the shop. He was surprised at how much he enjoyed it, and how many similarities he found. “It was all about the customer service and the experience you give the client. While I wasn’t cutting hair, I was still having to assess them, consult with them, and help them find something that suited their style and individuality. So, what was supposed to be a holiday job, turned into a two-year stint.”

After a while, Simon regained full mobility in his wrist, and was offered a position at a barbershop in his hometown. Simon was transparent about the hesitation he had had, going from the start in his career at high end London salons, to a suburban barbershop. “I remember worrying that it would be a big step down. But I learned very, very quickly, that that was not the case. In other words, I got my ass handed to me.

“These guys were cutting a lot faster than me, they were so efficient and skilled with clippers and technology, where I was all analogue. It was like I was

using a Nokia and they were all working on iPhones. “There was also so much more diversity in the shop than I had previously experienced, and I got to learn how to work with a lot of different textures and skills that I had never encountered before. It was a very humbling experience, and it made me completely fall back in love with hair and fall in love with barbering.”

Back in the swing of things, Simon found his groove in barbering, cutting everywhere from neighbourhood shops to high end London shops and unisex salons. And it was all rolling along… until Covid hit.

“It had a big impact on my mental health, and I was feeling really low. I had been talking to one of my friends about starting an interviewbased podcast, and it was something I had thought about for a long time. So finally, I just thought, why not? So, I got a friend of mine who has a great story, come for a chat, and I just live streamed it on Instagram Live, and it went incredibly well. It also meant that viewers could interact and ask live questions. And from there, I just kept growing the project.”

Since, Simon has interviewed some of the biggest names in the industry, from Hayden Cassidy, Alan Beak, Paul Hewitt, Lici Lady Barber, Baldy, Andy Fischer, Ky Wilson… we could go on and on. Simon said: “I really never thought it would become what it did. It was never my intention to use this to leverage my career or anything. I have just done it all on my own back because I enjoy it. There have been weeks where

“THE BRANDS I DO WORK WITH, CAPE GANG, GAMMA+ AND MATAKKI, ARE ALL SO ENCOURAGING OF THAT I AM DOING, AND ARE SO ENCOURAGING OF THE INDUSTRY IN GENERAL, THEY SAW VALUE IN SUPPORTING THE CAUSE, REGARDLESS OF THAT, AND THAT MAKES THESE BRANDS ALL THE MORE ADMIRABLE IN MY EYES.”

I have spent hours and hours editing and planning and scheduling, and sometimes it feels like too much, but then I will get a message from someone on Instagram saying how much they love what I am doing, and how grateful they are for the insight it gives them, and that means the world.”

Because of the platform Simon has now built, he has been given opportunities for sponsorship, but authenticity is his priority. “I am so grateful of the relationships I have been able to build with people and brands since I started the podcast, and it has led to amazing partnerships with brands like Cape Gang, Gamma+ and Matakki Scissors. But transparency is really important to me, so when other brands approached me with sponsorship deals, but wanted to control the content and topics of the podcast, I turned them away. The brands I do work with, Cape Gang, Gamma+ and Matakki, are all so encouraging of that I am doing, and are so encouraging of the industry in general, they saw

value in supporting the cause, regardless of that, and that makes these brands all the more admirable in my eyes.”

Although Simon’s Hairground podcast has only been running for a few years out of Simon’s long career, it has changed the way he views the industry. He said: “I have spoke to so many heroes in this industry, and I think the biggest thing I have learned through running this podcast is there are so many definitions of success. You don’t have to work in a shop or own a barbershop to be successful. Solo studios are on the rise, you can be a session stylist, an educator, a Youtuber, a content creator. There isn’t one right answer. However, I would caveat that by saying, if you go out in this industry just for fame, to become an ambassador or influencer, that’s not going to give you a sustainable career. So, you still need to learn your foundations, continue that passion, and find your niche. Once you have found that, then you can find out what your personal definition of success is.” •

NHBF OFFERS REFER AND EARN BENEFIT TO SALON PROFESSIONALS

SUPPORTING THE HAIR, BEAUTY, AND BARBERING INDUSTRY SINCE 1942, THE NATIONAL HAIR AND BEAUTY FEDERATION (NHBF) FOCUSES ON HELPING ITS MEMBERS RUN SUCCESSFUL AND PROFITABLE HAIR AND BEAUTY BUSINESSES BY PROVIDING ADVICE, SPECIALIST SUPPORT AND TAILORED SERVICES TO MEET THE UNIQUE CHALLENGES OF RUNNING A SALON.

The NHBF believes in the power of spreading something good, and is aiming to encourage beauty professional to share the news about the organisation with your fellow salon barbershop owners, because it knows how it can help transform their hair or beauty business.

To show its gratitude for your support, the NHBF has announced an exciting offer – for every friend and family you introduce to the organisation, the NHBF reward you with a fabulous £25 high street voucher. In addition, you friend or family will also receive £25 off their first year's membership fees when they pay in full.

So, are you ready to refer and earn? It's super easy! Here are two simple ways to do it:

1 Refer and earn online: Just complete a quick online form by visiting www.nhbf.co.uk/ refer/* Remember to have your membership number handy for a smooth process.

2 Refer and earn by phone: Simply ask your friend or family to give us a call at 01234 831965. They just need to mention that you recommended them and provide your NHBF membership number. Once they join and pay their membership fees in full, they'll instantly receive a £25 discount. And within 30 days, you'll receive your well-deserved £25 high street voucher!

Have any questions about introducing a friend? Don't worry, you can check out the NBHF’s helpful FAQs at www.nhbf.co.uk/membership/faqs/

*By entering your friend's contact details, you confirm that you have obtained their consent.

Rest assured that when the NHBF contacts your friend, it’ll mention you as the person who recommended. The NHBF will only use the shared details to discuss NHBF membership and the amazing Refer and Earn scheme.

DENMAN AMBASSADOR

MIKE TAYLOR OF MIKE

TAYLOR EDUCATION

LOVES RETAIL, HERE’S WHY!

SMART SELLING

Done right retail revenue is like having an extra employee; one that’s never sick, never goes on holiday and is never late. Perfect, right? Mike Taylor has spent years working on his retail formula across his shops and now feels that he has hit the sweet spot. Mike says “It’s never been so important to retail. Men want to look after themselves and often feel embarrassed loitering in the aisles of Boots. Their barbershop is the perfect place for them to get the right advice and their barber can show them which products and tools are just right for their hair.”

Mike has thought carefully about the clientele across his nine barbershops and Academy and worked with his teams to select product and tool brands that will suit the target market. In the Academy Mike sells his own product range and Dapper Dan, in Winchester he also sells American Crew but in Bournemouth he sells Upper Cut plus of course Jack Dean by Denman brushes and combs which sell well in all the shops. “There are two really

important factors when choosing which brands to retail. The first is that if the barbers won’t use it, they won’t sell it. I recommend working with the team to find brands they really love and use which makes the retail conversation a natural extension of the service. The second factor is the cost of the haircut. It’s so much easier to sell product now that the average price of cuts has gone up. Men found it hard to justify paying more for the product than they did for the cut or service,” says Mike. His retail areas make it easy for clients to browse and the extra revenue has been a welcome addition to the bottom line especially during the energy price hikes! Mike offers his staff a commission on sales of 15% and dedicates retail space which he keeps well stocked and clean. He also seizes upon opportunities such as Christmas and Father’s Day. Mike makes up gift boxes and bundles of product which gives customers an opportunity to pick up a gift while they are there. Sounds like an opportunity not to be missed!

Jack Dean by Denman Hot Sellers

Club Brush RRP £18.50

Fantail Comb RRP £5.00

Skeleton Vent £9.00

For Jack Dean by Denman retail opportunities contact customerservice@denmanbrush.com

MENTORING THE BEST

KARL FOSTER,

DIRECTOR FOR MR.

SKILLS FOR RUNNING A BUSINESS, AND THE BENEFITS OF MR. BARBERS MENTORING AND RECRUITMENT.

Transferring from the barbershop floor to actually running a business has huge behind-the-scenes responsibilities. “Being a good barber," Karl said, "Is not the same as being a good shop owner. Just because you have your clients and your name above the door, doesn’t mean you’ll have flocks of customers coming into your shop.

Understanding the intensity of the task at hand –and visualising the journey to success – is the first step to understanding how to run a business.

“At MR. Barbers, we want every single barber under our banner to excel in their chosen paths –that’s why we offer personalised mentoring and recruitment programmes. The more seasoned barbershop owners in our teams help newcomers tackle those more technical aspects of running a business and managing a team.”

So, what key skills does a business owner (and budding mentor) need to run a successful business? Karl broke it down for us: “I’d separate this into three sections: basic understanding of the behind-the-scenes of running a shop (budgeting, team management, recruitment strategies, appointment strategies), discipline (commitment to the process), and understanding technical aspects like percentages, books, spreadsheets and payment systems.”

The bulk of the MR. Barbers mentoring programme is going through these key elements

step by step. “Essentially, we go through absolutely everything,” Karl said. “Your work ethic and attention to detail as a barber are strong transferrable skills to running a business, but there are a lot of other aspects to develop and thrive in. MR. Barbers mentorship gives all these key skills. We make the mentorship accessible by promoting flexibility – each mentor works in a way that is suitable for the barber. We list everything they need to know and take it from there.”

Dylan Ponty (@dylsthebarber) is one of MR. Barbers’s mentorship successes. Karl said: “Dylan has done pretty much exactly what we want to achieve with our barbers. We want them to succeed off their own backs. My name has never been part of the MR. Barbers brand because I believe all the focus should be on the barber and enhancing their career. We’re a platform that barbers can jump on, franchise, and develop through that personlised mentorship.” Dylan has just bought himself into his first MR. Barbers shop in Sudbury with co-owners Mark and Tom. He’s been cutting for just over eight years and told us that he wouldn't have been able to enhance his career without the help of the MR. Barbers team. "This is the place to build your own skill and help others develop too. Everyone cares about the professional development of the team. It's this vibe that attracted me to MR. Barbers in the first

place, and the reason that I'll be staying for years to come." What sets this incredible mentorshipfocussed barbershop apart from the rest? Karl revealed: “I believe that there aren’t any other platforms in the UK that offer completely barberfocussed programmes like we do, with the single focus of helping the barber grow so that they can actually part own their own MR. Barbers.”

The key to success here is engaging every member of the team. To do this, MR. Barbers mentors will invest in the shop so they can take on the heavy-weight strategies and let the barber do the groundwork and day-to-day running of the shop. Karl continued: “Part-ownership offers a kind of freedom, letting the barber be safe in the knowledge that they can experiment and know the shop and their teams will be OK. They have the confidence to execute their work with that support network. As soon as the mentor and barber start to gel, we can see the number boost and real success starts happening.” When it comes to recruitment, Karl told us that when looking for barbers to fill your chairs, look for people who will match your shop culture. They could be the best barber on the market, but not gel with you and your vision. Anyone can be mentored to be better at what they do, so start with people who align with your goals and ethos, then take it from there."

MANAGING

BARBERS, GAVE US THE LOWDOWN ON HOW BARBERS CAN REFINE TRANSFERRABLE

“AT MR. BARBERS, WE WANT EVERY SINGLE BARBER UNDER OUR BANNER TO EXCEL IN THEIR CHOSEN PATHS

– THAT’S WHY WE OFFER PERSONALISED MENTORING AND RECRUITMENT PROGRAMMES.”

GETTING A JOB AS A BARBER IS PRETTY STRAIGHTFORWARD ISN’T IT? SELF EMPLOYMENT OR EMPLOYMENT, WHAT’S THE BEST OPTION FOR YOU? I’VE WORKED BOTH OVER THE YEARS BEFORE OPENING MY SHOPS AND IT’S DEFINITELY BEEN A LEARNING CURVE. AFTER YEARS OF HELPING MY STUDENTS WEIGH UP THE BEST OPTION FOR THEM, HERE'S WHAT I’VE LEARNED...

BY VIKKI HARRISON-SMITH

SELF-EMPLOYMENT: IS IT FOR YOU?

There are pros and cons to both, and I think depending on how well-established you are as a barber can determine what would suit you best. Do you want regular pay security, holiday pay, or sick pay or do you want to do it all independently? Both options can be beneficial when in the right shop.

Self-employment is huge within the industry at the moment, so the first question is: How busy is the shop you are going to? Is it a case of paying the chair rent and building your own mini business from within that shop? Or is the shop booming, just waiting for staff? Are you busy in your own right and have clients ready to follow you?

I’m very realistic with people and they sometimes can’t see where I’m coming from. An initial offer can seem fantastic but once you delve deeper there can be flaws. I’ve heard “I’ve been offered a 70/30% split and the other shop is only offering me employment on an hourly rate. I’m going where I’ll make more money.” What people don’t realise is if the shop you are going to is brand new and has no business yet and you are fresh in the trade, there could be a huge wait before you even start earning. Paying chair rent without any clients waiting to sit in the chair can see barbers massively out of pocket. The last thing you want to be doing is sitting around earning nothing. What is the shop owner going to do to help promote you? I advise people to work a plan out for promotion and bargain for a free or reduced rate in that situation for a set period while they get going if this is the route they want to take. It’s also a sign of a good business owner if they offer you some incentive especially if you have to build your own clientele from scratch.

The trouble is a lot of people want to be selfemployed straight away because they think they will make more money, set their own working hours and that’s sometimes not the case.

If you go into a busy shop the shop owner may need you to cover set hours to accommodate the clients and also put a rule in place for booking holiday time in advance. A lot of people see this as unfair if they are self-employed as they think it

should be a perk to just rearrange clients and have a day off when you please, but at the end of the day, an owner might have worked years to get the shop to a stage where they are busy enough to rent out chairs. Imagine this, you own a shop and are expecting a set amount of clients in that week and three of your self-employed barbers decide to take a last-minute holiday. What do you do? How will you accommodate those clients? As I touched on earlier, if you have your own clientele and manage your own booking system and simply use the space this would probably be okay with the shop owner. It just depends on who’s clientele you are cutting as to run a successful business it can’t be a free for all. I do know shops where the barbers get their own set of keys and can come and go as they please, but it’s a rarity and it’s usually the case where barbers bring their own clientele to the business so they are renting the space and not dipping into shops clients. You have quite a lot of responsibility being selfemployed. Paying your own liability insurance, tax, accountants fees, and saved holiday pay ready to compensate money lost when you take holidays. Employment also has its good and bad points. Yes, you have guaranteed income, it’s very safe but then your earnings are capped. It’s the safest option if you need set wages and it’s great to

get payslips if you need approved for any finance including mortgages. Lots of companies need a year or longer in books if you are self-employed. There is no stock to buy, guaranteed holiday pay, liability insurance, tax, PAYE, accountants etc all covered too. You don’t really need to worry about much as the company takes care of all that.

Employment by a shop/company can be strict, you have little freedom meaning you can’t come and go as you please or set your hours, and you can only take holidays if it doesn’t clash with others leaving the shop short.

It’s their rules, the clients are the business's clients which isn’t bad if you are planning to stay there, as if it goes quiet at any time the worry is on the owner and they take the financial hit.

This route very beneficial for new barbers within the industry, as they have a constant supply of clients, no financial worries and are more than likely to be mentored by the owner.

You have to weigh up many factors when choosing the right option to suit your needs as a barber. What will suit one, might not suit another.

Write a list of pros and cons and chat with other barbers or mentors to find what works best for you.

“YOU HAVE TO WEIGH UP MANY FACTORS WHEN CHOOSING THE RIGHT OPTION TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS AS A BARBER. WHAT WILL SUIT ONE, MIGHT NOT SUIT ANOTHER. WRITE A LIST OF PROS AND CONS AND CHAT WITH OTHER BARBERS OR MENTORS TO FIND WHAT WORKS BEST FOR YOU.”

“I’M VERY REALISTIC WITH PEOPLE AND THEY SOMETIMES CAN’T SEE WHERE I’M COMING FROM. AN INITIAL OFFER CAN SEEM FANTASTIC, BUT ONCE YOU DELVE DEEPER THERE CAN BE FLAWS.”

BROSH: GOING GLOBAL

YOU KNOW WHEN YOU MEET A BUNCH OF GUYS AND YOU JUST CLICK? THE BARBEREVO TEAM HAVE GOTTEN TO KNOW THE TEAM AT BROSH OVER THE YEARS, LEARNING ALL ABOUT HOW THEY TOOK THEIR JAPANESE BRAND AND EXPANDED INTO THE AMERICAN MARKET. NOW... WATCH ON AS BROSH TAKES OVER THE UK TOO.

BROSH is a Japanese brand, launched off the back of Mr. Brothers Cut Club (MBCC) barbershops, but the products have been so successful that their market is now worldwide, and they are wholesaling to barbershops globally.

We thought it would be a great time to talk to the men behind the brand, and how they have taken their concept of traditional, yet quick punk rock barbershops in Japan, expanding into LA, and bringing their iconic products along too.

With five locations in Japan, this is a wellestablished brand in Asia, offering old-school precision grooming with ultra-modern techniques by some of the most stylishly presented men in the trade. And they have a good story to tell.

Before MBCC began, the Japanese haircut scene for men was not great. It was far from anything masculine; instead, an extension of women’s haircutting techniques. Tomoya Nishimori (MBCC president) was not a fan of this style of men’s hairstyling, and up until very recently, Japan was far from accepting of tattoo culture and the concept of American style old-school barbershop culture.

Enter CEO Daisuke Komatsu and he and Tomoya started talking about opening a shop, even though Tomoya was advised many times that opening this style of barbershop with tattoo culture, would never be accepted in Japan.

For the first few years that the shop was open, Tomoya immersed himself into the business and within three years he could see the change in society, the shop was now being frequented by women, which meant it was penetrating the mass market. It showed approval from the public that they could see that tattooed barbers were not something to fear.

The MBCC shops succeeded off the back of the intense training that each barber undergoes. Practicing morning and night, they are employed not just for their fashion sense, but for their skillset and their desire to communicate with the customers, perfect their presentation, and, of course, show superb cutting skills as expert barbers. 

“Vidal Sassoon invented the current blueprint, which people nowadays still use,” says Tomoya. “In the UK and US, this blueprint existed in the 90s, while in Japan there was nothing. All the barbers did here was to invite co-workers after work and teach each other. We were so far behind. MBCC is changing that through its training and international courses.”

The MBCC has created a work environment that the staff love, even on their days off the staff are around, it’s a dedication borne from Tomoya’s passion for this industry. He connects to people with a similar level of passion and the more he rises in this industry and gains better skills, the more high-level barbers he has been able to meet.

Back in the day, Tomoya was always a huge fan of good old America. He even has a Ford tattoo and loves the culture of the 1930s. That idea of having a lot of tattoos and riding a hot rod made him feel mischievous as a kid and as he grew up, he gradually became surrounded by people with the same tastes and passion; people from different industries…. fashion, art, cars,

music, they all love the same genre of things. The way for Tomoya to get connected more with these people was to cut their hair and by being a barber, his dream was becoming a reality.

Having admired the famous Schorem barbershop and academy for a while, Tomoya and Daisuke did a Japanese tour with this renowned outfit. This also offered the chance to meet Donnie, the founder of Layrite at a Mizutani Scissors event. Tomoya was so inspired by the way Donnie was so straight up for his passion and his products, and it wasn’t long before he met Masa Kawakami, the legendary barber Apache in Hokkaido, which resulted in a collaboration between Masa, Tomoya and Daisuke and the birth of the brand BROSH.

“The barbershop side of things was established, and it was a natural progression to launch a brand, after all, we needed our own pomade!”

That brand, that we were lucky enough to try out (it’s an incredible mix of products), has a full line of hair products to suit every barber’s needs.

A whole range of pomades to suit all styling

needs is available, as well as a selection of styling sprays, as well as shampoo and conditioners, and hair balms. Specially formulated for Japanese hair quality, BROSH pomades give a strong hold for your traditional barber styles. The products each undergo thorough trialling and testing, and ingredients are expertly chosen for the perfect results. The scent is reminiscent of a high-brand perfume, which is completed by mixing raw materials. BROSH also offers sets that can be ordered together. The product line is now available wholesale with shipping overseas on offer.

So, what’s next for this passionate group? Tomoya believes that when you achieve one dream, there is always a new dream to chase. Expanding into the UK is the next mission for BROSH, as the demand for the product from the UK has grown more and more over the years. Having attended one of the UK’s biggest barber expos, Barber Connect, the team at BROSH are even more excited about sinking their teeth into the industry here, and getting their brand name out there! •

“IT WASN’T LONG BEFORE TOMOYA MET MASA KAWAKAMI, THE LEGENDARY BARBER APACHE IN HOKKAIDO, WHICH RESULTED IN A COLLABORATION AND THE BIRTH OF THE BRAND BROSH.”

“THE BARBERSHOP SIDE OF THINGS WAS ESTABLISHED, AND IT WAS A NATURAL PROGRESSION TO LAUNCH A BRAND, AFTER ALL, WE NEEDED OUR OWN POMADE!”

BUSINESS SPRING CLEANING YOUR

BARBER, NICK ROMERO, IS THE CEO OF THANK MY BARBER! ASSOCIATION AND AN AMBASSADOR FOR VAGARO. NICK SHARES HIS TIPS

ON HOW VAGARO CAN HELP TIDY UP YOUR BARBER BUSINESS, AND HELP IT FLOURISH.

Originally from Miami, Florida, Nick started cutting hair in his backyard, cutting kids' and neighbors' hair for free. He got his first job at a barbershop at 16 and at 18, he left for the Marine Corps, but he continued to cut hair everywhere he went: “From the barracks to backyards, tents in Kuwait, and van pads in Iraq, I cut hair everywhere!”

And he continued to do so once out of the Marines. From opening a barbershop in San Diego with his wife in 2011 to becoming BuzzFeed’s official barber in 2017, to moving back to Florida to work as the Head Barber Instructor in Fort Myers and launching his business

ThankMyBarber!. Barbering has been Nick’s passion, no matter where in the world he is!

Today, he is cutting and managing at a TwinCutZ barbershop, while running his ThankMyBarber! Association, and educating for Vagaro.

What is the mission behind ThankMyBarber!?

Nick explained: “ThankMyBarber! was initially created as a T-shirt company for barbers. I had noticed a bunch of barbers at events, creating T-shirt brands and selling to other barbers. But the issue was, barbers are extremely competitive. You ain’t selling much!” he laughed.

“I thought out of the box. Who am I selling to? Who are we reaching daily? The clients! And what do we want these clients to say when they leave our shop? “ThankMyBarber! I’m lookin’ fresh today!” Right there I did my research and looked everything up, saw the availability, and created the company.

“At first, the goal was just T-shirts, doing events, and selling in the shop, but as I was working on my BA in Organizational Leadership, and going through issues in my shop with barbers, I started to notice a trend within barbershops, the issues barbers and shop owners face, the lack of

education the barbers are actually getting when it comes to business, finances, legal assistance and becoming a true entrepreneur. So, I pivoted, and created the ThankMyBarber! Association, and now I’m focusing on educating every barber in the world on hair, customer service, working within a team, finances, growth and potentially setting yourself up for success in the future. My goal is to create a few outlets through TMB! to reach one barber in every barbershop, everywhere!”

Nick thanked his wife for introducing him to Vagaro’s technology nearly 10 years ago, just after they had launched. He explained: “It was pushed as a salon and spa brand getting into fitness and it was a POS system that helped and allowed businesses to manage clients, appointments, products, and their store. It wasn’t barber related, but my wife said she liked it, it did everything she was looking for and we went for it!

“AFTER YEARS OF WORKING WITH VAGARO, IT HAS BEEN A BLESSING. MY CUSTOMERS LOVE THE APP INTERFACE WHEN CREATING APPOINTMENTS, THEY RECEIVE NOTICES, RECEIPTS, AND THE ABILITY TO REVIEW THE PRACTITIONER AND THE BUSINESS.”

“Going from paper and pen appointments to Vagaro was a game changer. As time went on, they created Vagaro University where we, as consumers, can watch videos on the new features they were coming out with and if we needed to, can call in to ask and learn more about what Vagaro could do for us. After years of working with Vagaro, it has been a blessing. My customers love the app interface when creating appointments, they receive notices, receipts, and the ability to review the practitioner and the business.”

Once Nick’s business got on board with Vagaro, it completely changed their system for the better. He said: “We had client information, so we can give them birthday discounts, emails to send our messages about discounts, holidays hours, events, and new products we may have in store. It allowed me to open an online store selling my products online to my customers. The reports I can create are incredible. Being able to show barbers during our meetings their growth and places they can improve on. With each barber being able to have the app on their phones, they can check the client out at the chair, making it very easy to work with the client, be more personable and allow for a quicker turnaround with the clean-up in between clients.”

Soon after winning Vagaro’s Bad Ass Barber Award at the iconic.22 Awards, he was asked to join Vagaro as a Barber Ambassador. He said he accepted with no hesitation: “My number one favorite thing about Vagaro is the growth of Vagaro and what it stands for. To help promote health and wellness to every person. They do hair, makeUp, spa, fitness, and recently added tattoo businesses! They service the US, UK, CA, and AU. No-one is doing what Vagaro is doing. The features within the app are user friendly, my clients love it, my barbers love it, and as a business, I wouldn’t go with any other company.”

In one of Nick’s Instagram posts, he shares a video of him giving the shop a ‘Spring Cleaning'.

NICK’S BUSINESS TIPS

1 Use Vagaro as your #1 business source to attain and keep client info. Reaching out to your clients, keeping your employees or providers on point, and product management. Being able to let you know when stock is low, and sending out emails to the companies to re-fill on products, I mean, Vagaro is killing the game!

2 Always stay active in your community. Give, give, give! Know that everything you do is a gift and you HAVE to give in order to receive three-fold! I promise you, this should be #1, but you have to have an order. Give to local schools, free cuts for the homeless, work with local organizations, promote in local parks where kids are playing, and get on the back of their jerseys or banners in the fields. GIVE!

He talks about the importance of not only keeping your station tidy at all times but giving everything a deep clean once a week. He told us: “One of the first things a client notices is a dirty station, and it says a lot about the barber.”

A thorough clean-up is not only important when it comes to the visible things in your shop, but also your files and database as well. Nick continued: “Vagaro can help you clean up your client list, find duplicate clients who have made multiple accounts, you can find clients who haven’t been to the shop in a while, maybe they moved or need a little reminder that the best shop in the area is thinking about them. This feature does wonders and helped me find 300+ clients who had multiple accounts or accounts with no phone numbers. All these things help you run your business more efficiently and help you give a professional appearance to your business, just like a tidy workstation.”

To Nick, the key to a successful barber business is order. He said:

“You have to have the order to create any business. But in this service, one-to-one client-based industry, order is very important. From the moment you open the door to the trash that gets thrown out at the end of the night, as a business, order is key. Vagaro doesn’t fall short in keeping order for your business. It helps with appointments and gives multiple alarms to the client (I also use Vagaro for services outside my shop). You can create a report to find clients who haven’t been to the shop in a while and send out an email, to just them, with a discount to get them back in the door. And for my business owners, you can have rent or commission come out your barber's pay automatically! Vagaro sends out 1099’s, W2’s, and helps with all the tax dramas you need to deal with, all on one platform!”

3 Customer Service is key! From the moment the client walks in the door, their time in the shop and greeted on the way out, is very important. It’s said that word of mouth is the #1 promoter for a business. Make everyone feel like they just stepped into your home, offer them a drink, make sure they’re comfortable, maybe a hot towel after the cut, ask them how they’re doing and always engage with your client. Everyone who sits in your chair has something for you to learn. It’s their time to relax and just be, and you are at the wheel. Give them something to talk about.

“

VAGARO HELPS YOU CLEAN UP YOUR CLIENT LIST AND FIND DUPLICATES WHO HAVE MADE MULTIPLE ACCOUNTS. YOU CAN ALSO FIND CLIENTS WHO HAVEN’T BEEN TO THE SHOP IN A WHILE, MAYBE THEY MOVED OR NEED A LITTLE REMINDER THAT THE BEST SHOP IN THE AREA IS THINKING ABOUT THEM.”

SETTING UP YOUR BARBERSHOP PROJECT

BY KEVIN VORLEY

MY 30+ YEAR JOURNEY IN THE BARBERING INDUSTRY HAS BEEN A FULL ONE, AND IN MY 16 YEARS OF TRADING THROUGH K BARBERS, I HAVE MET A LOT OF CHALLENGES AND ACHIEVEMENTS. AT THIS POINT IN MY CAREER, I AM ALL ABOUT SHARING ‘THE K WAY’, TO HELP YOU OPEN AND RUN A SUCCESSFUL BARBERSHOP BUSINESS.

I opened K Barbers Emporium in 2007, with the intention and goal to change and influence the direction of the industry, bringing a new era of British barbering with a twist of maverick vision. After 16 years of trading, the company has broken many boundaries, trained and developed future barbers, reset the pre-misconception of what a barber does and how a barbershop is seen, as well as won multiple awards for business. I feel proud to have created what has been a landmark company that I feel has trailblazed the modern barbershop back then, to where we are now in 2023 and can see today throughout the UK. I have had the privilege and opportunity to present the K Way too many barbers and business leaders via Denman, the MHFED /City and Guilds, BNI and of course, Andis, and other amazing written and online media, such as the wonderful BarberEVO over this time, taking me on a mind-blowing career journey, around the World, allowing me the platform to share and educate and demonstrate the skillset and experience gained to all.

THE EVOLUTION OF THE K WAY

What do I do for a living? Most barbers at the time would respond, ‘I’m just a barber!’ But in truth, it was always more than that for me, it was not only how we made people look, but it was also

more of how we made people feel via the skill of barbering. I pursued the business community via BNI and told the story of the barbershop, its community connection, its educational purpose and career opportunities, and barber education via worldwide platform work, spreading the word of what became the K Way.

THE KEYS TO CREATING A SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS

Always be your original true authentic self and be individual in thought. I have a statement I use –The K Way: ‘Often imitated, never mistaken’ This will reflect in your business model, remember it starts and finishes with you, being maverick whilst remaining current has always been part of my journey, respecting the foundations learnt, but always reinventing my skillsets and forever learning as you progress from the industry developing around you.

Business needs to serve the surrounding community and maintain a connection to their ideal client source, being ahead of the curve will always be the goal for any business that wishes to survive changes that will happen out of your control, as well as planning through the changes needed that you in control of daily.

HERE ARE SOME OF MY TOP BUSINESS TIPS:

HIRING AND RETAINING STAFF:

Firstly, pay their worth. Look at helping barbers in your team to gain the realistic opportunity and lifestyle they aim for, this will always include a reasonable paycheque, and the opportunity to progress forward from this initial payment.

Always remember: if you pay peanuts, you get monkeys! If you employ your staff, (as do I) you must train your barbers to not only connect with the client but to follow the process you implement in your business, and teach them the value of their worth, and how to gain the above, clear, and concise guidance. if for example you work on rebooks, and targets, then teach them how to achieve this set goal. If you again add an incoming barber, then look to their natural gains, and retrain their skill gaps.

If you self-employ your team, then you are not unfortunately in the position to provide training to individual companies/barbers, however, you would encourage them to take additional learning either provided at a charge from your company or pursue external learning as part of their own career progression whilst with you.

RETAINING AND BRINGING IN NEW CLIENTELE

Be consistent in your attendance, performance, and your word. I often gain clientele from barbers that are not consistent, often letting down their client base for personal reasons and sporadic performance behind the chair.

Words are spoken, and actions are seen. Let them down, you will not see your client for dust as there are many other options freely available to them at the click of the fingers on every high street. Retaining clients is key to growth.

New clients can arrive easily enough, from the word of regular loyal clients if you ask them to simply refer and recommend you at every opportunity. Discounting your worth, is a simple race to the bottom, whilst high performance and consistency will always win you fresh faces and a growing reputation for quality first.

RETAIL

Retail allows you to show the client that you are the expert, and apart from the obvious income gained from retail, it allows you an opportunity to connect with that client and become the ‘goto’ for that client's concerns and needs.

It allows you to introduce further services based on the retail sold and a further source of a virtual income to your business (if done well – it will gain the potential income of an additional paid barber- but one that does not require contracted pay, holiday or sickness pay or pension contributions) but adds needed money to your weekly total.

PRODUCTS AND TOOLS

Using quality tools, up-to-date, clean and fit for purpose should be one of the priorities of any barber behind a chair. This is what you are showing your client daily.

This is why I have a strong educational link to my platform work with ANDIS tools and Spencer scissors, I only want to use the very best tools.

I get many comments from clients on the tools I’m using, they notice new ones and the ones you regularly use on them too! So be aware – they are always looking at your station!

Cleaning the tools in front of the client will always give them confidence in your professional attitude to your job and their wellbeing.

Products too, using quality and performancedriven products will always encourage a client to purchase from you and return regularly to you. For this reason, we have always stocked quality products such as our very own brand K Products and Morgan’s pomade products to great success.

ONE PIECE OF ADVICE I WISH I COULD GIVE MY YOUNGER SELF: Plan your own business journey, and do not compare yourself with any other shop- the streets are now saturated with many barbershops the length and breadth of the country, you are unique, so your business too must be unique too, and you must be doggedly true to your ideal model to make it work.

With now 16 years of personal barbershop brand ownership, has been forever challenging and rewarding but it never stops surprising you, so be on the front foot.

Be prepared to work harder than you have ever worked before and continue to learn about yourself and others. Listen to advice from other successful business owners, in every business sector and discover their rules for success and be incredibly organised in all you do. Be brave and set your goals to be achievable, always pushing for the next level.

I always say, work hard, stay true to your word, be humble and be kind to all you meet.

This is a great lesson to learn.In a fickle world, you never know who is listening and you may well become judged by many people. Let their judgement be truthful to how they find you.

MORGAN’S LUXURY BEARD CREAM

A luxurious beard grooming cream that softens, conditions and moisturises your beard. It soothes and hydrates the skin beneath the beard, an important part of growing and maintaining a beard.

£28.00 // morganspomade.co.uk

MORGAN’S GROOMING SPRAY

A medium hold hair spray for men. Holds and styles all hair types including fine or thinning hair. Its ultralight formula won’t weigh fine hair down and brushes out easily.

£9.50 // morganspomade.co.uk

ANDIS SLIMLINE GTX TRIMMER

A combo of the sleek, lightweight body of the Slimline Pro Li to the wider, deep-tooth GTX T-blade from the T-Outliner trimmer series. The Wide GTX blade’s deep-tooth pattern allows more hair to feed faster, without sacrificing precision.

£108.95 // andis.com

MORGANS MATT POMADE

A Firm Hold pomade that achieves a low shine matt look with long natural lasting hold. Water Soluble and easy to wash out With Brazilian Orange oil fragrance. Original vintage style jar.

£10.00 //morganspomade.co.uk

K EXTREME

Follow for more at @kevinvorley @kbarbersemporium

For further info for training opportunities and enquiries contact Kevin at: kev@kbarbers.com www.kbarbers.com

Stronghold cream-based styling wax. Suitable for short to medium length hairstyles.

£12.00 // kbarbers.co.uk

Maximise your potentialgrowth online

Why your website is key to success.

IN THE DIGITAL AGE, MANY BARBERSHOPS HAVE TURNED TO INSTAGRAM AND OTHER SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS TO SHOWCASE THEIR WORK AND PROMOTE THEIR BUSINESS. WHILE SOCIAL MEDIA PLAYS AN IMPORTANT ROLE, HAVING A PROFESSIONAL WEBSITE IS JUST AS IMPORTANT, IF NOT MORE SO. YET MANY BARBERSHOPS STILL DON’T HAVE A WEBSITE, AND MANY THAT DO ARE YET TO USE IT TO MAXIMISE THEIR GROWTH POTENTIAL.

Get found online and boost your business potential. Importantly, your website is your owned space. It’s where you create your online brand identity, position your services and team, and showcase your expertise and creativity. But it’s so much more than just a virtual storefront.

More clients and potential clients are searching online for barbers and grooming services in their area, without knowing the specific name of a barbershop, so being visible on Google and having a Google My Business profile is vital. You can only have a Google My Business profile and show up in searches if you have a website. Google is where people will discover you and ideally book an appointment.

Protect your incomes, generate sales, and achieve marketing success.

In addition to establishing a strong online presence and enhancing your credibility, your website can also schedule appointments, and process deposits and payments (which can also prevent losses from no-shows and late cancellations). It also provides a vital marketing hub to communicate with clients, run marketing campaigns, and even generate additional retail sales.

Social media is a great part of your marketing mix, but all barbers must work within the same platform structures, so it’s harder to differentiate

your brand. Plus, as many of your followers may not be existing or potential clients but a mix of friends, industry peers and competitors, and as social platforms suppress content reach to get you to promote your content by advertising, your website needs to work differently. When people are actively looking online for grooming services, Google and your website will be the first place they look, so having a professional website should be a major part of how you promote your barbering business and engage with clients, while integrating with your socials.

My Salon Website creates stunning, affordable websites exclusively for barbers and salons, with FREE salon software, intuitive marketing features and E-Commerce options to accelerate your growth potential online.

Discover more at mysalonwebsite.co.uk

MY SALON WEBSITE CREATES STUNNING, AFFORDABLE WEBSITES EXCLUSIVELY FOR BARBERS AND SALONS, WITH FREE SALON SOFTWARE, INTUITIVE MARKETING FEATURES AND E-COMMERCE OPTIONS TO ACCELERATE YOUR GROWTH POTENTIAL ONLINE.

BEAK Alan

AB's

BARBER OF THE MONTH

TONY FORREST (@BARBER.TONY.FORREST)

I first met Tony at an education class I did in Norwich. He drove down from Scotland, which is about four hours. He was quiet, chilled and observant. Unknown. Over the years I would keep seeing his face, a big Glaswegian you can’t really miss! But over time he’s applied himself, educated himself, become known and managed to stay incredibly humble. Still with a shop in Scotland but travelling the world and sharing his craft. He epitomises grass roots and I love that.

We can feel guilty about something as simple as a lunch break. Instead, we just stand up to eat whatever is available so we can get back behind the chair ASAP. A sick day is almost unheard of because should you have to take a day off, you know full well that it’s a full day of appointments that you’re going to have to re fit in over the next few days as people are so ritualistic and precious with their hair. I know that if I was in a position of having my haircut regularly then I’d be the same. I've been in a position over the last six months where I've had to rearrange a number of days, even weeks of appointments, and I cannot even begin to tell you how difficult and stressful it has been. It obviously led to an influx of messages and requests which just piles up the pressure. Phone calls at 10pm, WhatsApp about to explode. The person I am and how I like to get back to everyone

and say yes and appease everybody got me to boiling point where I had to put a stop to it. I had to set my own personal boundary. Work messages and phone calls happen now in work time. My thought process used to be that if I'm working and earning I’ll buy my kids the things they want and they'll be happy. But they don't want presents… they want my presence!

I’ve seen a change in my relationship with them since I set this small boundary and absolutely for the better. The loyal and understanding clients will stay, and the ones who aren’t, will go. That’s something I’ve had to learn to live with and I have lost clients… but are they the ones I want in my life anyway? Not when they’re camping out at the boundary trying to burn it down. This boundary is made of stone, and it isn’t going anywhere.

CUT OF THE MONTH

AB's

JOSH O’ MEARA-PATEL (@BARBERJOSH.O.P)

When you look at the aesthetics of this haircut, you automatically assume there’s some serious technicality involved. Like shit, where would you even start with that? Now I didn’t witness Josh cut this, but I did watch him perform recently and he explained his DFS formula which has become a worldwide term in the hair industry. And the simple ethos is that hair doesn’t have to be over complicated, the process is simplistic but massively effective.

BOUNDARIES! SOMETIMES, AS BARBERS AND HAIRDRESSERS, WE CAN FEEL LIKE A SLAVE TO THE CHAIR. CREATING BOUNDARIES WILL MAKE YOU A HAPPIER, HEALTHIER PERSON AND A BETTER BARBER.

“HAIR HAS NO GENDER, HAIR HAS NO NATION, HAIR HAS NO FLAGS, HAIR HAS NO LIMITS. WHEN YOU BECOME FEARLESS, CREATIVITY BECOMES LIMITLESS.” - JOSH LAMONACA

NOW I SUPPOSE THIS IS ALL DOWN TO THE PERSON, TO THEIR DREAMS AND ASPIRATIONS. WHAT THEY WANT TO DO WITH THEIR CAREER AND WHERE THEY WANT TO GO. WITHOUT BEING ARROGANT I CAN HONESTLY SAY THAT I’VE HAD THE MOST INCREDIBLE LUCK, AND TRULY GRATEFUL FOR TASTING BOTH.

INSTA-FAMOUS VS. COMMUNITY-FAMOUS

Years ago, social media was a platform that you shared your work on to entice new clients, to show your community or the world what you could do. It was a CV – it was a look book; it was your personal profile.

Today, it's still the same platform. But with so many different rules of engagement. It’s a game and if you don't play along, then you get lost in the algorithm. Now it's strategy and utter consistency that makes sure to be seen rather than the work you do or content you produce. If you lose pace, then you lose place. No matter how much effort you put into making it. I’ll always be grateful for where social media took my career and I still watch people today who are still massively relevant and who play the game so well that their following and content stands out a mile. I really do have admiration for those who sit for hours editing videos and perfectly honing imagery and videography skills. I'm just starting to show my age and remembering when times were much more simple. I’ll be 38 when this goes out and my hair is showing my age and so are my moaning thoughts… evidently.

I do hope people think differently and oppose that because I want to see people succeed and do well for themselves. If social media is your path forward, then you use the life out of it and prosper.

Recently for me, I’ve seen it negatively effect quite a few people so that’s why I’ve got a bee in my bonnet about it. It can give you a false sense of reality, what’s real and what’s not. Something can seemingly be the happiest and most successful person in the world when in actuality they're fucked. But we look on and congratulate them and feed their ego… a hunger that will never truly be fed because the bar always gets lifted until the meals of external gratification need to become bigger and bigger. Not to mention what it does for sleep. I’ve fallen victim to scrolling endlessly where my thumb has been shiny, but it comes to point when if something is affecting your mental health, thought process and mindset then we go back to boundaries. If something is starting to create social anxiety and false expectations, what do we focus our energy on?

ASK Alan

How did you first get the opportunity to cut some footballers hair…and were you nervous on the first go?

JOSH LAMONACA

ST ALBANS, ENGLAND

The first opportunity presented itself through social media, which completely backs up my main feature on platforms like Instagram. In its heyday was a monumental tool to use and to expose yourself to the world. I’ve never been a massive football fan so what played to my advantage was that to me, it was just another client. One that was usually on TV three to four times a week with the whole world to see. So, meeting the dozen or so footballers over the years was never daunting, that was the easy bit. The challenge was making their hair perfect. The only time I’ve ever watched MOTD was to make sure the cuts looked perfect on the pitch.

HAYDEN_CASSIDY

HACKNEY, EAST LONDON

For me, it’s about diversifying my work. I like to throw myself into new things all the time. It’s like I get a kick out of being uncomfortable… until I'm comfortable doing it. Hair is and will always be my passion but in order to keep that flame lit sometimes you have to make a linear move and explore an avenue that brings new excitement or even fear until you either make it work or fail and learn from your mistakes.

Having been trained in traditional Italian barbering, ladies hairdressing and afro barbering, which would you say you enjoy cutting the most and why?

That brings me to our community. I would spend so much time trying to do the perfect haircut in the shop so then I can take a picture for social media that I forgot to take the time to focus on the clients themselves. I put more value into the picture than I did their worth. And for me, I love being a community barber; I always will be a community barber. Doing what I do now and having a name for myself lets me travel and educate, meet new people, and explore new cultures. The benefits of social media for this are huge. But working where I work and being the person that I am, I’d trade 100,000 followers for 100,000 clients, expand my team and create a whole new community for the brand. A peoples brand: RUGER.

WES STAUCET

CLIFTON PARK, NY, USA

Honestly the best kind of haircuts are the ones that really challenge me to use all aspects of my training and experience to amalgamate the techniques. This is what really helps me be creative and push boundaries beyond what I could do when I was only training in one field. I find there are structures and methods within each discipline but when you can be more intuitive and freer with your cutting that’s when you get the best results.

You're always evolving and pushing yourself, which is something I’ve always admired! What gives you the motivation to keep growing?

“I LOVE BEING A COMMUNITY BARBER; I ALWAYS WILL BE A COMMUNITY BARBER. DOING WHAT I DO NOW AND HAVING A NAME FOR MYSELF LETS ME TRAVEL AND EDUCATE, MEET NEW PEOPLE, AND EXPLORE NEW CULTURES. THE BENEFITS OF SOCIAL MEDIA FOR THIS ARE HUGE.”

BARBER CHAIRS

A BARBER'S CHAIR IS THE BEATING HEART OF THE BARBERSHOP. IT'S WHERE CLIENTS CAN RELAX AND BOND WITH THEIR BARBER AND WHERE PROFESSIONALS CAN GET CREATIVE AND DO THEIR BEST WORK. WE SHOW YOU HOW TO FIND THE BEST CHAIRS ON THE MARKET.

COVE17

the multifunctional barber space

THE COVE17 CONCEPT

COVE17 (@COVE17_) IS A FRANCHISE OF CONCEPT BARBERSHOPS THAT OFFER MORE THAN A CLASSIC BARBERING EXPERIENCE. INTERIOR DESIGN PLAYS A KEY ROLE IN THE REFINEMENT OF OWNER YASSAR (THE JAZZMAN)’S BRAND. HE EXPLAINED WHY HE CHOSE TAKARA BELMONT DAINTY CHAIRS TO BE THE HEART OF EVERY SHOP.

It all began with one single chair on Hoe Street, Walthamstow in 2016… Yassar (also known as The Jazzman) sought to prioritise people over profit in his drive to create spaces where future leaders of barbering are driven to set new industry standards. Each location serves as an event space for spoken word, poetry nights, bands, and DJ movements.

COVE17 stores are engineered to be a work of art. There is a precise artistry to the way each structure is styled to maximise the features of its unique identity from a variety of vantage points, both within and without. “A uniquely designed interior speaks volumes to its community of users,” Yassar explained. “Despite working to accentuate the features of different structures, the COVE17 formula remains the same and the outcome is to create a curiosity about what lies inside from the vantage point of the shop window.”

Yassar continued: “The window into the concept barbershop should speak of an aspirational lifestyle – one that is not elitist. It should frame a friendly environment with connection and wellbeing at its core and should entice a community of people to walk through the door, join the picture and become part of the journey.”

Each COVE17 location was meticulously designed in cohesion with the multi-faceted COVE17 brand. There is a bespoke vision for all stores, each

“AT THE HEART OF THE DESIGN, ARE THE WELLENGINEERED TAKARA BELMONT CHAIRS, WHICH SIT PROUDLY ACROSS OUR FOUR SITES.”

maintaining the integrity of the building and using modern design to fit a contemporary, multi-sensory experience. “At the heart of the design,” Yassar told us, “Are the well-engineered Takara Belmont chairs, which each sit proudly across our four sites, complimented by similarly iconic vintage pieces like the MK2 Raleigh Chopper at Angel Lane, the Faema E61 Legend coffee machine at Wood Street, the 1960’s green factory pendant lights from Japan at Crate: St James Street and the Chesterfield sofa at Hoe Street.” 

Yassar continued: “There is a symmetry and balance to the fixing of shelves and the placement of images or key vintage pieces across the shops, too." Yassar continued: “These were selected to compliment the exact space clients and barbers will inhabit. The vintage pieces add a sense of nostalgia to the setting, often prompting conversation and opportunities to share memories and build connections. Clients who area a little bit more reserved and chatting doesn't come naturally to them, have these visual cues for topics to chat to their barber about. It seems tiny, but it's a really subtle way to improve that client experience without them realising.

The positions of the COVE17 Takara Belmont Dainty chairs, mirrors, and pendant lighting allow each barber and their client to operate in their own spotlight.

“Reflecting each barber station gives barbers a full view of the floor behind them. That means the barbers can all see when each other are busy, which results in an uninterrupted experience for the client.”

A chair is an essential component of the client experience. “The engineering behind a chair must consider the smallest of details to ensure that it will provide the utmost comfort to people of all shapes and sizes. It has to ensure that the barber’s work is as effortless as it can be so that they

LEGACY 95

Its deep cushioned spring-loaded seat, reclining backrest and padded headrest ensure optimum comfort. The iconic stainless steel footplate combines with a wide range of colours making it customisable to complement any interior style and colour scheme.

£3,700-£4,280

MAJOLICA PORTO WASH BASIN

can prioritise their energies for the physical demand of ensuring consistently high customer satisfaction. The Takara Belmont Dainty Chair’s hydraulic system is smooth and responsive and only needs the gentlest of touches to adjust to the perfect height for precision work.”

What drew Yassar to Takara Belmont as a brand? “They set the industry standard for design and quality. They're a classic statement piece and their values as an organisation mirror our own in their commitment to great design, a person-centred ethos, and vigorous pursuit of professional excellence.

“Like them, we wish to provide a service to a community that stirs positive emotions, improves quality of life, and organically inspires loyalty. The Takara Belmont Dainty is a classic example of the brand’s iconic design in a more compact chair, which is both classically stylish and technically robust." Yassar told us there are obvious signs when a client enjoys the comfort of a chair (even if they don’t realise it themselves!).

“It’s the clients who drift off during their experience who actually say the most about the comfort of the Dainty chair! There's a sense of safety there, which helps the client trust in their barber, too!” •

Crafted to ergonomic perfection in high-end ceramic, its gel-filled neck cushion ensures seamless contouring around clients’ necks. Its single tap with thermostatic control and double tap mixer options ensure regulated

DAINTY CHAIR

Attractive, functional and versatile, the Dainty grooming chair features 360º lockable rotation and a reclining backrest to ease your client into the most comforting position for their grooming service.

£1,360.00£1,770.00

takarahairdressing.co.uk

“

TAKARA BELMONT CHAIRS ARE EXPERTLY ENGINEERED AND PERFORM EFFORTLESSLY WELL CUT AFTER CUT, THEREBY MAKING THEM THE PERFECT PARTNER FOR THE COVE17 BRAND ACROSS ALL OUR STORES.”

THE ODYSSEY MALE GROOMING LOUNGE IS ONE OF LONDON’S NEWEST BARBERSHOPS THAT HAS EMBRACED ALL ELEMENTS OF HAIR AND GROOMING. WE SPOKE TO OWNER, HARPS BHOGAL ABOUT THE PROCESS OF OPENING THE SHOP AND HOW SHE CURATED A LUXURIOUS, YET RELAXED AESTHETIC.

THE ODYSSEY OF CREATING AN

OUTSTANDING SPACE

Harps has been in the industry for over 20 years, coming a long way from humble beginnings. She explained: “My journey started firstly in Hairdressing and like anyone, I lacked confidence in my abilities and had some insecurities within my craft. However, gaining experience and surrounding myself with creative, like-minded people allowed me to flourish and develop my skills and I learned a lot from people I met on my journey. I’m a naturally self-competitive person and when I know I am not good at something I focus on that area until I understand all aspects of it.

“Having worked in a variety of salons throughout my career, growth or development is of great importance to me, if I feel I have reached the glass ceiling, I question what’s next, and plan how I can break through it. It’s normal to get drawn into the everyday routine of life and become comfortable with where you’re at, but for me, I always knew I wanted more than being a stylist running a column. I wanted a challenge, something that would push me out of my comfort zone. I decided to take the plunge and work for a major corporate hairdressing chain.”

This is where it all happened for Harps. Shae said: “I was able to tap into education and join the artistic team. Firstly, auditioning for the art team where I earned a place in a mentoring programme! This is where my passion for creativity, education, editorial, runway all took place. At the end of the programme I had to submit a presentation showcasing all that I learned. During this time I was scouted and given the amazing opportunity to become an assessor for NVQ Level two and three qualifications. It was challenging balancing full-time work, running a column, still meeting deadlines for presentations, and studying. I’m not sure how I did it all, but I did and I’m proud to say I’m officially a qualified assessor.

“Although the brand I was working for at the time was more female focused, I cultivated a passion for male grooming, which grew during the time spent there and as a member of the

art team. This led me to make the decision to part ways with the team, to research, gain knowledge and pursue a career in the barbering industry.”

Harps explained that while it was daunting having to start from scratch again, she was determined. “I wanted to work with an independent company and I must admit it was refreshing to go back to just cutting hair! This is when my barbering career started to grow; learning, practicing, and perfecting my craft."

It was during the natural break in the industry due to the Covid pandemic, that got Harps thinking about what her future held. And this is where Odyssey was born!

She said: “Choosing a brand name was probably the hardest thing I have had to do as I wanted something that represents me whilst also reflecting my team and clientele. The meaning behind Odyssey is ‘A long and eventful, or adventurous journey or experience.’ Our goals at Odyssey are to be a creative hub in the heart of London. A space for curated colour and cuts. We wanted to create a space welcoming service, consistency,

REM JUST LAUNCHED THE NEW RANGE OF THE KINGSMAN BARBER CHAIR, AND I WAS AMAZED BY THE QUALITY AND EASE OF CUSTOMISATION, ORDERING FROM CHRIS AND SONS AND DIRECT SALON FURNITURE, THE PROCESS WAS A BREEZE FROM START TO FINISH. THE TEAM LOOKING AFTER ME WERE OUTSTANDING AND GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICES. RECEIVING THE PIECES ON SCHEDULE WAS OUTSTANDING.”

and community relations. This will be their Odyssey.”

What makes Odyssey different? Harps explained: “Odyssey caters to an easy life. I’ve noticed men don’t like too much fuss, they prefer things to be simple and easy. At Odyssey we use Phorest for our booking system. This is linked to social media, google and I have catered in having a built in App on google store and Apple. The app allows client to store their personal information and with a touch of their fingers they can control their booking, rescheduling and cancellation. They have a full history of their visits, services etc. Super simple stuff!

“Odyssey is more a male salon rather than a barbershop. Yes, we offer haircuts, shaves, beards but we offer so much more such as colour and scalp treatments using products from some fantastic high-quality brands. Coming from a hairdressing environment it’s important for me to reflect my experiences and art into my branding. I am happy and honoured to be a part of the Kevin Murphy and Wella

I asked Harps to tell us a bit about the interior aesthetic of Odyssey. She explained: “The aesthetic is one that is open, full of life, welcoming, natural with a hint of an industrial vibe. I kid you not my emotions and feelings towards Odyssey and what I wanted Odyssey to represent is the exact same wording my clients have used so far when getting their feedback so I’m confident the aesthetic encapsulates this. I even had a client leave a review of google saying having his hair washed felt like he was in Bali. I couldn’t be happier that my vision has been brought to life and is providing the experience I worked so hard to build.”

For Harp, the selection of furniture for the space was vital: “Having worked in previous barbershops, I experienced pain and discomfort in my lower legs from having to tip toe when cutting the canvas on top (I’m only 5"4!) so for my long term for health was a no-go. The barber chair is the most important part of the space (it’s where all the magic happens!). I began by researching various brands and did a comparison on measurements from the base to the seat. The one that won me over was from REM. I loved how I was able to customise the fabric and design based on the aesthetic and from there the rest of the interior was easy! I even used REM to supply the separate wash basin unit and reception area as this catered to my colour palette.

“REM just launched the new range of The Kingsman Barber Chair, and I was amazed by the quality and ease of customisation, ordering from Chris and Sons and Direct Salon Furniture, the process was a breeze from start to finish. The team looking after me were outstanding and great customer services. Receiving the pieces on schedule was outstanding.”

Finally, I asked Harp to tell us some of the biggest lessons she learned during the process of planning, designing and opening Odyssey. She said: “I learned a great deal throughout the whole process! I am very blessed to have a circle of good people around me. Odyssey’s platform was built with loved ones, friends, and family. Each person involved has an expertise background in a specific field which made the process for me easier, not having to deal with all the stress by myself. This allowed me to focus on the shop, interior, suppliers, and they handled the back end of things.

“My advice for those who are about to open their own barbershop or dreaming of opening… Dream Big but focus on the journey, what are your end goals? You must be open minded in moving with times and customer demands. You must be 10 steps ahead of the game and not get comfortable and most importantly – look after your team. Without a team, there is no business.” •

“THE BARBER CHAIR IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF THE SPACE (IT’S WHERE ALL THE MAGIC HAPPENS!). I BEGAN BY RESEARCHING VARIOUS BRANDS AND DID A COMPARISON ON MEASUREMENTS FROM THE BASE TO THE SEAT. THE ONE THAT WON ME OVER WAS FROM REM.”

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A PEEK INSIDE THE WAHL BRITISH BARBERSHOP OF THE YEAR

ANNOUNCED AT THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF BARBER CONNECT IN TELFORD, EIGHTY8 LOVE TO CREATE IN ESSEX WAS THE BARBERSHOP TO RECEIVE WAHL PROFESSIONAL’S COVETED TROPHY. COOWNED BY JOE SLOAN AND JOEY POWER, EIGHTY8 LOVE TO CREATE IS A UNIQUE SPACE WHERE JUST AS MUCH THOUGHT HAS BEEN PUT INTO THE INTERIOR, AS THE ETHICS AND ETHOS OF THE SHOP.

Eight8 Love To Create prides itself on offering five-star services, from haircuts, braids, perms, colouring, shaves, facials and more. Their ethos is to ensure that everyone who visits, feels relaxed, inspired, educated and refreshed. Having just celebrated its fifth anniversary, Eighty8 has never stopped reimagining and improving the space and what it can give to the community. In an interview at Barber Connect, Joe explained that since finalising for Wahl British Barbershop of the Year last year, they received feedback from the Wahl team on how they could improve, and took it all to heart, making changes which ultimately led them to win the

trophy in 2023, and to a generally more successful barbershop.

Eighty8 just celebrated their fifth birthday in style, with a day filled with “Wings, trims, gratitude and hope.” For every paying client to come in and get a trim, they were offered complimentary wings from Alton’s BBQ World, with proceeds going to Little Havens Hospices. Joe said: “We will continue working with this amazing charity over the next year and what better way to show our support than to team up with them to celebrate our five years of trading and show them what we can do together with all of our beloved clientele!”

Joe said: “Our community and clientele mean everything to us. Within the team, everyone always likes to say their workplace is like a family, but ours really feels like that. There is no real hierarchy in the shop. We all stick to what we have to do, and we all just encourage and help each other grow. We always hold weekly meetings and keep the communication clear between the 12 of us in the shop.”

What about the interior? Well, what looks like a relatively small high street shop from the outside Eighty8 is a space that just keeps going once you are inside. Joe said: “If we had £1 for every time someone said, ‘Oh wow, I didn’t realise it was this big in here’ we would probably all be able to retire.”

With 10 stations, each kitted out with Takara Belmont Apollo II Barber Chairs, Eighty8 is a narrow, but deep shop with three sections, decked out with funky patterns and neon lights. The back third of the shop even features dinerstyle seating, where clients can enjoy a beer from their licensed bar, or a coffee from their professional barista-quality espresso machine.

The Wahl British Barber of the Year trophy will be the latest addition to Eighty8’s décor. What does that mean to the team? Joe said: “Our consistency, hard work and effort, it’s all worth it. This just means everything to us. We can’t wait to celebrate with our clients and our community. Our clients could go anywhere else, but they come to us. And that is a huge honour, and it is a huge honour to win this award.”

“OUR CONSISTENCY, HARD WORK AND EFFORT, IT’S ALL WORTH IT. THIS JUST MEANS EVERYTHING TO US. WE CAN’T WAIT TO CELEBRATE WITH OUR CLIENTS AND OUR COMMUNITY.”

STRIVING FOR GREATNESS

LEON SOUTHERN IS OWNER OF STRIVE BARBER, AND STRIVE INK , STRIVE MALE GROOMING IN FRODSHAM, ENGLAND. HE GAVE US THE LOWDOWN ON BUILDING YOUR BARBERSHOP FROM THE GROUND UP, AND WHY SELECTING THE RIGHT FURNITURE IS THE KEY TO STRENGTHENING YOUR BRAND.

Success was born from struggle for Leon, who opened Strive Barber just after the first lockdown. A great friend of our very own columnist and very talented barber, Alan Beak, Leon turned to the community of friends he’d built in the industry to help him get on his feet. He told us that the first couple of years were difficult, but business is flourishing for the Strive barbershop, tattoo studio and his male grooming product line.

The aesthetic of both the barbershop and the tattoo studio, Leon said, was built on personal taste and a desire to make clients feel welcome and zen from the minute they walk through the Strive doors. The key elements to achieving this? Plants, pastel colours, and great quality furniture. “Alan actually helped me source some great, sturdy chairs from his Ruger shop in the early days. We refurbed them to create barber chairs that really suited my space and that made customers feel comfortable. I want to give Alan an extra shoutout because he has supported me in the background of me taking on the shop and building it up… Strive wouldn't be what it is now without his advice and encouragement!”

When you run multiple business under the same name, like Leon does, it’s important to create cohesion. Leon achieved this through colour schemes, décor, and the chair and mirror selections between his barbershop and the tattoo studio as well.

The barber chair is the beating heart of a barbershop. What’s the criteria for a really great chair? “The key to a great barber chair is making it easy to use for both the barber and for the client. Obviously, stability is a huge one – the client doesn’t want to feel like they’re going to fall off the seat and the barber doesn’t want to make any mistakes in the hair because the chair moved beneath his clippers!”

Leon said that great quality furniture is essential for giving good quality image to a shop: “You want sustainability. For me, I’ve invested in the best, because that’s the kind of work I strive to execute – the best. I’ve invested a lot of time and effort into the shop, and I spend most of the day here, so it has to be right!”

How do chairs impact client experience? “Being able to lie clients back to do the beard and facial

hair treatments is essential – it has to be smooth; you don’t want a client bumping down during what’s supposed to be a relaxing appointment,” Leon laughed. “You don’t want to have to hold their heads either, so good cushioning is needed. It’s all about client comfort, you don’t want them being in the chair uncomfortable. Chairs I’ve worked with in the past haven’t had those cushions – in previous jobs – and you can see that it’s just a bit uncomfortable for everyone involved. All the client should be thinking about is how much they’re enjoying their time in the shop and appreciating the work that their barber is putting in. Any thoughts of discomfort just shouldn’t even whisper into their brain.”

The products the Strive team uses for every cut and have are from Ruger and my own product range. Chris & Sons take care of our wholesale items and Better Salon Supplies are who we often use for furniture. “We use Better Salon Supplies for Barbercide and cleaning products now. General shop equipment is great from them too, we get clipper cleaners, disinfectant sprays, Hair Blaster cleaning products. The pricing of Better Salon Supplies is what keeps us as customers. The service is always timely and efficient. Don’t have any complaints about them as a supplier or a brand themselves – would recommend other barbers buying from them, for sure.”

According to Leon, the real success of a barbershop is based on the relationships you make and the community that you build around you: “This industry is built on relationships and on the backs of good people. The community you have as a barber is second to none. I came from a different professional background, so when I joined barbering, I was really surprised by how welcome I was made to feel instantly. It’s building those relationships and supporting each other that allowed me to open Strive Ink and Strive Male Grooming. And we’ve been striving for greatness every day since.” Find Strive on Instagram as @strive_barber

Photography// Dan Jardine. Barber Chair// REM Classic Barber Chair.

REM BRITANNIA 2023 BARBER CHAIR

Brand-new design features Classic Diamond Stitched Upholstery with reclining seat system, adjustable headrest, and heavy duty hydraulic base system guaranteeing years of trouble-free use.

£1,525.00 +VAT // rem.co.uk

COMFORTEL BAT MAN BARBER CHAIR

Inspired by the dark crusader, the bat man is a compact barbers chair for the dark knights who love everything black. With all matte black metal details, the design features horizontal stripes upholstery while the comfortable and supportive seat is firm and well supported. £950.00 // comfortel.co.uk

REM KINGSMAN BARBER CHAIR

Traditional Barber fraternity with reclining seat system, adjustable headrest, and heavy duty hydraulic base system, guaranteeing years of troublefree use.

£1,462.00 – £1,525.00 +VAT //

APOLLO 2

The first evolution of the Apollo 2 barber chair dynasty with refined matt or gloss black or white gloss iron works and contrasting piping. Its iconic design is extending its appeal to traditional barbers, male grooming and beauty salons.

£2,400.00 - £2,780.00 // takarahairdressing.co.uk