MB Storefront Shopping Guide January to March 2018 by Modern Barber Magazine

ModernBarber

STOREFRONT GUIDE Brands to buy . Services to shop . Stuff to see. january - march 2018

FRESH! SPRING INTO 2018

Contents Issue 17 | January - March 2018

Newsroom

eeping it fresh for 2018, we are looking forward to a fabulous year at MB! Who knows if the barber boom is still booming? Who cares? It's business as usual for the hard core professionals that form our dedicated readership. The entries for the MOBAA’s - Modern Barber Awards are rolling in and fave categories so far are Best Shop Interior sponsored by Takara Belmont and Best Photographic sponsored by American Crew. There are lots more categories to choose from so get going before the competition closes at the end of February...it's really easy to enter just go to mobaawards. co.uk and fill in the online forms, upload your images and you're done! (Don't forget to press submit.) See page 8. If you are planning on expanding in 2018 then check out Lilly Dillon's tips on recruitment on page 18. There is shopping inspiration on page 28 and if you are a left handed barber then you can find a helping hand on scissor shopping on page 14. For the full Modern Barber Magazine experience you can subscribe online at modernbarber. co.uk/subscribe.

Rachel Gould

6 Snippets and stories from in, around and on the industry. 8 You deserve recognition: Enter the MOBAA’s – The Modern Barber Awards.

Features 14 Southpaw: Left has rights. 18 New Recruits: expert Lilly Dillon shares experience. 23 Barber Barber Thinks Big!

Shopping 28 Storefront: Stuff you need and gear you want.

Social 30 The Shaw Thing: home of Simon Shaw’s regular column. 32 Wining Ways: The MR Barber Awards. 34 One out, one in: The incoming and outgoing Wahl Barber of the Year. 38 Hard Grind helps out: pioneering support for mental health sufferers.

Top Tips 40 Take the lead: NHF members on great leadership habits. 42 Love thy neighbour: Courage Noble on local support. THE SHAW THING. PAGE 30

Editor

Roll Of Honour Your industry title wouldn’t happen without the advertising support of the brands and companies below – they know just how valuable you are! American Crew, Andis, Barber Barber UK, Barber Blades, Barber Equipment Centre, BARBER PRO, Coolblades, Denman Professional, Edwin Jagger, Fine Fettle Grooming, Fudge, Gents of London, Kent Brushes, Kipa, Moda, MR Barbers, Paul Mitchell, Q Junkie, REM-MEN, Salon Services, Shortcuts, Takara Belmont, The Barber Agency, The Bluebeards Revenge, Wahl UK Modern Barber’s circulation has been independently audited and verified by the Audit Bureau of Circulations (abcstandards.org.uk) and reaches over 10,000 independent addresses.

Editor and publisher: Rachel Gould rachel@modernbarber.co.uk Design and Production: Annie Bartley design@anniebartley.co.uk Advertising: Kelly Hindley kelly@modernbarber.co.uk Contributors: Simon Shaw, Lilly Dillon, Cole Palmer, Luke Beaumont , Lucy Wood, Ebony Hargrave Cover Credits: Photography: Lucie Johnson (@ luciejohnsonphotographer). Cover Star: Cal Newsome @ cal_newsome of Bull & Co (@bullandco).

Find us online: modernbarber.co.uk Twitter/Insta: @modernbarbermag, FB Modern Barber Magazine Call on: 01295 533755. For all online and print advertising enquiries, please contact rachel@modernbarber.co.uk Modern Barber Ltd is registered in the UK. Registration number: 06084337. VAT number: 178993237 Registered and correspondence address: Three Acre Barn, Thorpe Road, Upper Wardington, Oxon OX17 1SP. Subscriptions can be securely purchased through modernbarber.co.uk/subscribe

BAS. PAGE 10

LILI JACKSON FOR THE MOB

UK subscriptions: 1 year, 4 issues £20 post paid. Intl subscriptions: 1 year, 4 issues £40 post paid. Printed by Pensord Press Ltd. www.pensord.co.uk © Modern Barber Magazine accepts no responsibility for damage or loss, however caused, to any material submitted for publication. While every effort is made to ensure facts are correct at time of going to press, no reponsibility can be accepted for incorrect product descriptions or facts. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publishers.

MIKE TAYLOR AND THE AWESOME ALICE

Stories on, in and about the industry… Share your thoughts with us @modernbarbermag

Ruger on tour

lan and Reece Beak and the Ruger team are bringing something fresh and new to the education industry (don’t they always) by creating an exclusive unique creative tour. Just a handful of participants can sign up for secret locations in six cities – Manchester, Newcastle, Birmingham, London, Glasgow and Cardiff – starting in February. Participants get immersive modern barbering education and their work captured by professional photographer Liam Oakes (@liamoakesphoto). Price per place £260. Contact @ruger_barber.

6 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK

Raising funds for Childhood Eye Cancer

ike Taylor of Mike Taylor Education (miketayloreducation. com) and college educator Alison Scattergood (FB Alison Scattergood) are teaming up with the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust (CHECT) during Barber UK at the NEC 20-21 May to raise funds to support families affected by retinoblastoma (Rb) - a rare form of eye cancer that affects young children, mainly under the age of six. Alison lost an eye to the disease as a baby and is Charity Ambassador, she has been actively helping the charity for many years and is working with Mike Taylor whose young daughter Alice was recently diagnosed. Barber UK has donated two education stages where Alison and Mike will host a range of guest educators and demonstrations along with raffles and opportunities to welcome donations. Make a date to

Heads up! The American Crew All Star Challenge 2018 closes end of Feb. americancrew.com/ allstarchallenge. $10k and global recognition up for grabs. The UK region has won two years in a row!

visit the stages and if you would like to donate get in touch with Mike or Alison or contact the charity direct on diane.emery@chect.org.uk. MB is donating back issues and 100 annual subscriptions, so make drop by!

Automatic hit

evin Vorley of K Barbers Emporium (kbarbers.co.uk) has just opened his largest business yet in Billericay. The seven chair shop will also house an academy soon and just like Kevin’s other shops he has used an iconic vehicle as a centrepiece. This time Kevin chose a VW Beetle and had a barn find transformed into a reception desk by local firm JD Welding & Fabrication. Kevin says “Everything about our shops express attention to detail, which we reflect in our service. The Beetle is a real eye catcher, people were stopping and taking photo’s even before we got it off the truck. It’s all finished in signature paint colours and sits in the window. When it’s all lit up at night, it’s a real Gobsmaker!”

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ndy Willis of Andy’s Barbers in Bicester is planning further expansion to top his newly relocated shop by transforming his old premises into North Oxfordshire’s first gentlemen’s grooming room. Andy says “More and more men are making the effort to look after themselves and there is nowhere locally for them to go, so we are creating The Gents Groom Room. Initially it will offer facials, massages, pedicures, manicures, threading and we will shape further services around the needs of our customers. It really is ground breaking for the area and we are really looking forward to welcoming new staff and getting it open.” gentsgroomroom.co.uk.

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MOBBAS

BEST INNOVATION This wildcard category can be anything from a marketing promotion to a barber invented gadget. It just needs to make the judges go ‘wow’. Thanks to category sponsor Shortcuts. BEST SHOP INTERIOR Handsome, fit-for-purpose, interesting and enjoyable. A category that celebrates the best in high impact barbershop interiors that customers don’t want to leave. Thanks to category sponsor Takara Belmont. BEST APPRENTICE The learner that is on track for greatness and on fire for their industry. Any barber trainee or student can enter. Thanks to category sponsor Wahl. 100 WARDOUR ST, SOHO, LONDON: MOBAA'S VENUE

YOU DESERVE RECOGNITION… ENTER THE MOBAA’SMODERN BARBER AWARDS Entries for the very first MOBAA’s – Modern Barber Awards are rolling in! Entry is all online and takes less time than finishing a pint, so go to mobaawards.co.uk to showcase your brilliance.

he online forms are easy to navigate and can be done straight from your phone. (Make sure you press Submit!) ENTRY CLOSES 28th February and the classy Awards Event takes place Sunday May 13th 1-6pm at 100 Wardour Street, London. So choose one or more of the categories on offer and get your thinking cap on. BEST TEAM Many barbershops refer to themselves as a ‘barber family’. This category will showcase the unbreakable bonds and the unified strength that together make a successful business that supports and delights a community and clientele. Thanks to category sponsor Aston & Fincher.

8 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK

BEST ‘BODY OF WORK’ (4-6 examples of client haircuts from the shop floor) This category celebrates day-to-day brilliance from the shop floor. Any barber with a smartphone and a will to win can enter their work. Criteria will include variety, technical excellence and skills on show. Thanks to category sponsor American Crew. BEST CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE The glowing reviews, the high customer retention rates, the well planned customer service – this category welcomes entries from barbers and shops that love making customers top priority. Thanks to category sponsor Salon Services.

BEST BUSINESS LEADER Leadership qualities can manifest in the leaders of businesses both large and small. This category will celebrate the barbers with vision, purpose, commitment, tenacity and commercial strength. Thanks to category sponsor the NHF. BEST TRAINING It all starts here! This category is about highlighting the training either of an Academy or a shop that best delivers superior standard skills into the hands of new and experienced barbers. Thanks to category sponsor Jack Dean. BEST PHOTOGRAPHIC ENTRY The single show stopping image that captures brilliant barber work. Great quality photography is a must but a professional model is not required. Thanks to category sponsor American Crew.

Enter Now Easy online entry mobaawards.co.uk. 9 categories. Closes 28th February. Awards event Sunday May 13th, Soho, London.

Apollo 2 Icon, the diamond-quilted Apollo with contrast piping.

MOBBAS

Come and listen to Lili Jackson

Emerging young talent Lili Jackson doesn’t just have the face of an angel, she has the voice of one too. MB heard this girl’s beautiful voice on IG and tracked Lili down to book her for our Awards Event. Her easy listening blend of jazz, modern soul and more will be accompanying celebrations for our guests. Come and listen! Just search MOBAA’s or Modern Barber on eventbrite.co.uk to buy your ticket.

Prizes already announced!

longside coverage in the July issue of Modern Barber and a shelf worthy trophy to show off in your shop the following category prizes have been announced:

GET YOUR TICKETS FOR THE AWARDS EVENT! When: Sunday May 13th 2018 1-6pm Where: The Club at 100 Wardour, 100 Wardour Street, Soho, W1 Tickets: £45pp. Just search MOBAA’s or Modern Barber on eventbrite. co.uk to buy your ticket.

What’s included:

elcome drink, live music by Lili Jackson and photographic finalist’s gallery courtesy of American Crew. Finger food to soak up the drink! A handsome goody bag to take away. WIN £200 of vouchers for The Great Frog London (thegreatfroglondon. com) – every ticket you buy to the MOBAA’s is a raffle ticket for this great prize. T&C’s apply and you’ve got to collect your prize at the event in person to qualify.

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The MOBBA’s Timeline Now: Complete the online form for your chosen category and don’t forget to upload evidence and imagery in the right format. If you are submitting camera phone images set your camera to high quality resolution! Enter multiple categories…don’t hide your brilliance! February 28th: Deadline for entrys on all categories. March: Judging and finalists announced. May 13th: Come and celebrate, come and support your peers and above all…make sure you come to the MOBA Awards event!

• An all-expenses paid trip to Barcelona to join the American Crew Global Conference 3rd/4th June 2018. • A Lomond Barber Chair from Salon Services. • A personalised engraved Wahl Clipper and a spot on six Wahl Academy courses in Herne Bay. • A brand new iPad from Shortcuts. • A premium hot towel cabinet from Takara Belmont. • A year’s free membership to the NHF. • A Panasonic GP80 clipper valued at £210 from Jack Dean/Denman.

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F E AT U R E

SOUTHPAW Every left hander has rights and right handers have left them behind.

pproximately 10% of the world’s population naturally leads with their left. It’s a little rarer to be a female lefty but either way the lefty is in the minority which puts them at a disadvantage in a world shaped around the needs of the right handed. History is littered with discrimination against the left handed. Even language takes a dim view…the word sinister, meaning evil once meant unlucky in old English and is drawn from the Latin word sinistra or ‘left’. In French it’s gauche which means awkward in English. Even skateboarding or snowboarding terms aren’t that kind… riding left foot forward is riding ‘goofy’. MB thought it was high time that the common right hander copped a feel of what it’s like to be a lefty in a nation dominated by the right. We spoke to a

handful and this is what they said...

Famous Left Handers Jimi Hendrix (his dad forced him to learn guitar right handed) Winston Churchil | Barack Obama Prince William \ Eminem Julius Caeser (the Roman one, not the US barber) | Sylvester Stallone 14 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK 14 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK

I’m Elliott Bryant and I’m a Barber at Bell Street Barbers in Reigate. One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my career is being left-handed. Even at the start of my journey, the educators struggled to teach left-handed juniors. More left handed educators are needed in this industry! Buying the right tools for the job has also proven difficult, thankfully I found Spencer Scissors, a local family run business who only want the best for the industry. Spencer introduced me to my first pair of left handed scissors five years ago and I’ve never looked back. I now use the BK King, 6.5”, great for any haircutting techniques. IG @elliott.bryant

“I’m Ross Webb. I think for me TOOLS are the biggest challenge. About ten years ago I was introduced to a pair of left handed 5.5in Passion scissors. They revolutionised the way I worked. My cuts became smoother and I found there was less stress on my whole body. About a year ago I met Dan Wild of Quartered Steels. He and his team made me a wonderful pair of 7” and a pair of 10/10 texturisers. They for me are the bench mark. I feel the industry’s manufacturing companies are catching up in regard to us lefties but I don’t see why we need to pay more for our tools for being different. I would love to see a pair of left handed clippers though!” FB Ross Webb. I’m Karen Todd. Being a lefty during training left me lost and frustrated and I ended up teaching myself on a lot of brave family. All the angles are back to front and round the wrong way, when being taught, so it’s hard. The teachers in class didn’t know what to do with me. One girl in the salon was a lefty too, so she took me under her wing which really helped me to be where I am today. I have no problem teaching a right hander, so why is it so different teaching a left hander? It also gets to me that the hairdryers and sockets are always on the right! FB Karen Todd.

“Most barbershops are fitted out for right handed barbers and in my last job I had to work on the end on the far left, so I had the elbow room and was able to keep my trolley on the left. ” “I’m Andrea Tierney. I have had to adapt my own techniques which I’m sure to right handed folk look cack handed - which has been mentioned more than once! Trying to find scissors is also an issue. I actually have a secret scissor fetish, so am always on the lookout for lefty scissors. Most barbershops are fitted out for right handed barbers and in my last job I had to work on the end on the far left, so I had the elbow room and was able to keep my trolley on the left. Thankfully in my current job I’m at an independent station and have invested in both cordless Super Tapers and Seniors, so I don’t have to have wires trailing from the right handed plug sockets! I love being different and as being a lefty isn’t the norm I’m proud to be one!” FB Andrea Jayne Anastasia Tierney

F E AT U R E

Spencer Dudman from Spencer Scissors (spencersscissors.co.uk) knows a lot about the challenges of left handed hair professionals and says “Left handers used to have to learn to cut right handed or use right handed scissors in their left hand. There is really no such thing as a ‘universal scissor’ these are usually level set with holes drilled in both handles to take finger rests. Barbering scissors are designed to have a stationary blade and a moving blade and these are different for righthanded and left-handed scissors. Using scissors in the hand, other than the one they have been designed for is never a good idea. If a right-hand scissor is used in the left hand any pressure applied pushes the blades apart. Whilst lefthanders are good at adjusting to these sorts of things, there is an impact in doing so. To get the scissors to cut, there is a necessity to squeeze the handles to bring the blades together, leading to unnecessary strain on the muscles in the hands, arms, and shoulders.”

1 2 3

Hikari B-Dry Lefty Designed for dry hair to create effortless, textured styles. 5.6”/6.1” RRP £1,020/£1,090 spencerscissors.co.uk

Akito Zenith Japanese Hitachi 440C steel, ergonomic offset design, 100% convex blade, adjustable tension screw. 7” RRP £180. akitoscissors.com

Akito Chi High quality 440C titanium finished Japanese steel, offset ergonomic design, semi-convex hollow ground blades, adjustable tension screw. 5.5”/6” RRP from £170. akitoscissors.com

“There is really no such thing as a ‘universal scissor’ these are usually level set with holes drilled in both handles to take finger rests. Barbering scissors are designed to have a stationary blade and a moving blade and these are different for right-handed and left-handed scissors.” The wrong tools put left handed barbers at a disadvantage for comfort, health issues and even with some techniques. John Allen of Akito Scissors (akitoscissors.com) says “Many left handed barbers that use right-handed scissors have difficulty with certain cutting techniques such as cutting close to the skin and around perimeters, slide cutting and slicing and scissorover-comb. If a left-handed barber uses a right-handed scissor, the scissor cannot work at its best because it is not working as it has been designed to, making it more difficult and less comfortable.” So give a thought to your Southpaw colleagues, they’ve had a lot to deal with! 16 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK

4 5 6

Hikari Koryu Cosmos High performance metal alloy precision cutter for stress free comfort. 5.5”/6” RRP £700/£740. spencerscissors.co.uk

Hikari Left Anatomic Cosmos Lightweight feel, slim blade design and ease of cutting. 5.5”/6”/6.5”/7” RRP £450/£510/£600/£670. Level set also available. spencerscissors.co.uk

Hikari C-Evo Flagship thinning scissors in the Cosmos range. 6” in 4 models taking out different percentages: 1015%; 20-30%; 40-50%; and 70%. RRP on all models is £1,090. spencerscissors.co.uk

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F E AT U R E

NEW RECRUITS 4

commission only, some self-employed only, some part wage and part commission, some rent a chair and pay a rate per service to the shop, or pay a day rate renting a chair. Assessing the expectations of financial remuneration early will save time and disappointment.

The key challenge faced by shop owners is from the newly trained barbers. The ones that are doing it because it’s now seen to be a cool career and the passion isn’t really there. Some barbers expect to walk into a new shop and expect to be earning without putting the leg work in or having the experience. There are new graduates out there that are committed and just need to be getting as much experience as possible. Encourage them to get more experience by cutting as many friends and family for free and do some free hours in barbershops to build up that social media profile. They may not be ready yet but offering some support will make them more likely to be a future employee.

Finding staff is tough enough, recruiting the wrong ones can be a costly decision. MB spoke to Lilly Dillon founder of The Barber Agency (thebarberagency.com) to share her gen on recruitment.

inding staff is the beast that never dies. In today’s competitive market, shops are competing not just for customers but staff too. As a barber, qualified trichologist and ex-barbershop manager Lilly Dillon is keenly aware of the issues. Lilly has created The Barber Agency as a kind of matchmaking service that will help barbershop owners alleviate the pain of staff recruitment and retention. Here’s Lilly’s top tips on how shops can have a positive recruitment experience that will support their financial success. 18 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK

You need to match the right attitude, skillset and personality for a happy house! Placing the wrong type of barber can be detrimental to any business. They often won’t stay long which affects staff turnover and can be disruptive to the rest of the team and barbershop reputation.

In recruiting you need to look into the barbers work history…why they left their last job, what wasn’t working for them previously and where they see themselves in the future. Some barbers look for just a steady income and routine, they aren’t interested in moving up the chain to become managers or educators. Some are all about learning and progressing. I’ve noticed that most barbers are just looking for the right team to work with and a happy work/life balance.

You can waste a lot of time interviewing and trade testing only to find out that the pay structure that you offer is not the pay structure they were looking for. There are so many variables - some

Once you get the right person on board then the next challenge is keeping them! The best way to retain staff is to listen to what they need in order to progress. Have quarterly meetings with individual goals set, shared and agreed. Some barbers want to push themselves to editorial work, management, shows, training or education. Some barbers are just happy to be hitting targets and reaping the financial rewards. The point is that both types of barbers deliver value to businesses and creating a bespoke plan for each of them is important to keeping them.

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SPECIAL F E AT U R E

BARBER BARBER THINKING BIG Four years ago Johnny Shanahan built a barbershop, now he’s building an empire.

t takes balls to start a business, guts to get it to its second year and vision to go big. Thankfully the founder of Barber Barber, Johnny BaBa, has all three and he’s building a thriving future for his brand and his 100 plus dedicated staff too. Barber Barber opened in Manchester in 2013 and has since added Leeds, Liverpool, Birmingham and London shops plus the 20 chair Barber Barber Academy opening in Manchester this January. The state-of-the-art Academy represents a significant investment in the future expansion of the brand and will primarily train current team members and potential new recruits. The brand is styled for old world manly glamour and welcomes ‘scoundrels & gentlemen’. Johnny says “In our shops every client is a VIP. I don’t care who they are, if they have the price of a haircut or shave then they get VIP treatment.” Johnny has poured every detail of a traditional shop experience into the brand, where customers can wait at

JOHNNY BABA

the bar with a glass of Whiskey or relax in the company of other men to enjoy their service. While appointments are available in the London shop at £42 for a cut, the other shops dominate with a walk-in service from £24 - £34. It’s a price that Johnny feels reflects value thanks to the premium environment and skill standards shared by each team. Johnny says “Our barbers are trained to the highest standards of wet shaving and cutting and have extensive knowledge of what it takes to craft the perfect look. Training is the bedrock of our service. A member of our Barber Barber teams is part of an exclusive club of skilled hair professionals that have

access to a complete system of cutting. It’s a system that will arm them with a true understanding of how hair works, how technique builds style and how to tailor every look to send our customers out the door feeling and looking handsome.” It’s that true depth of knowledge that Johnny feels is limiting growth for the business and for the industry as a whole. As a man that never rests on his laurels Johnny has built an Academy shaped around the Barber Barber cutting system called ‘Systemik’. The system has been created by Johnny and Head of Education, Dale Ted Watkins, to deliver core techniques and knowledge into the hands of barbers committed to a career not just a job. “If you work at Barber Barber you learn to cut hair this way. Systemik breaks down cutting and styling into core techniques and these are the skills that can feed a barber for life. It means that we have a consistent approach and a consistent standard. Systemik isn’t a creative straight jacket either, it’s a launch pad. It gives our barbers the confidence to be creative and deliver the best style they can for every client,” says Johnny. Systemik is available at the Barber Barber Academy from January 2018. Follow IG @barberbarberuk/@mrjohnny_ baba. Online barberbarberuk.co.uk. Email johnny@barberbarberuk.co.uk. WWW.BARBERBARBERUK.CO.UK / 23

SPECIAL F E AT U R E IMAGES: ANDREW GILBERT

This January Barber Barber Academy in Manchester opens its doors with a pioneering cutting system.

24 / WWW.BARBERBARBERUK.CO.UK

SPECIAL F E AT U R E

DALE TED WATKINS

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hy Systemik? Johnny BaBa is building big business and has created Systemik to raise skill standards and a level of consistency that would delight any serious employer or learner. The Barber Barber Academy will deliver true ‘shop ready’ barbers that will contribute to raising standards for the future of the industry (and the international future of Barber Barber!). What is it? It’s a six month full time course that teaches a system of classic techniques that strip cutting back to its purest form, exposing a foundation of skills that, if learned correctly, will open the door to EVERY haircut. Through keystone skills and the basic techniques of layering, graduation and refining Systemik quickly builds into a portfolio of eight styles. Johnny says “These eight haircuts start with the longer variations and then go on to shorter proportions. It gives the learner the ability to hold hair correctly, to be aware of hand position and body position. This approach embeds the skill of being able to tailor a cut and create a bespoke style for the customer. The shorter variations are the barbershop staples that any professional barber should be able to deliver in a barbershop environment. In the beginning I learned barbering the old fashioned way. I learned how to cut hair off, not how to cut hair. It’s the worst thing in the world to see a head of hair come into your shop and feel fear. Systemik gives

the learner the confidence to manage any length and any texture and know that they have the skills to deal with that.” The Systemik course doesn’t just stop with technical skill but embraces everything from social media and business systems to great phone skills.

Where and when does it start? The Barber Barber Academy is a state-of-the-art dedicated academy at the heart of Manchester. First intake starts January 2018. For further enquiries contact johnny@ barberbarberuk.co.uk.

Who should attend? No previous experience required. Price for six months of full time tuition and full kit is £5995. Finance is available.

Sign-up for a great career. Signon with Barber Barber. Barber Barber is looking for staff to be a part of the growing team, so every top scoring Barber Barber Academy graduate is GUARANTEED A JOB with benefits including ongoing education for a minimum of two years.

How does it work? There are 20 places available with an intake of 10 every three months. There is an interview and application process. The Barber Barber Academy represents a commitment to creating future team members for planned company expansion. Every top scoring graduate is GUARANTEED A JOB with Barber Barber on an initial two year contract.

Follow IG @barberbarberuk/@ mrjohnny_baba. Online barberbarberuk.co.uk. Email johnny@barberbarberuk.co.uk.

WWW.BARBERBARBERUK.CO.UK / 25

SPECIAL F E AT U R E

MY BARBER BARBER STORY Josh Grocutt found a job with Barber Barber three years ago – these days he’s enjoying a career.

I have been in the hair industry for 24 years on and off. I spent time living in the US as an Ice Hockey and Roller Hockey coach, mostly at schools. I was living in Spain four years ago and after 12 years there the economic situation meant it was time to move back. My wife’s job took us to Manchester and I was scouting around for work and spotted Barber Barber on the day it opened. It looked like the kind of place I would love to work in. To ease back into it I went and worked in a smaller shop for a while but then I bit the bullet and applied.

JOSH GROCUTT

“From day one we all learned that every customer gets the VIP treatment, there are no exceptions. Consistency in technique and how we treat customers is really drilled into us. ”

I discovered how to really cut men’s hair correctly. From day one we all learned that every customer gets the VIP treatment, there are no exceptions. Consistency in technique and how we treat customers is really drilled into us. There is no room for slack because we only have one chance to give a great first impression to our customers. Johnny has an incredible work ethic and a firm but fair approach. He really leads by example and that’s helped me learn how to lead too. I am now Regional Shop Manager…I am based in the Liverpool shop but travel to the other locations and oversee the day-to-day running. At Barber Barber what you put in, is what you get out and the rewards are worth it.

thing that helps an applicant stand out. I look for a great attitude, an open mind, a willingness to learn, positivity and the ability to be a team player. We work constantly on making sure the shops are running like a well-oiled machine and as we grow that need for applicants with a great attitude only grows too! I’ve loved every minute of my Barber Barber career so far and with the new Academy I can’t wait to see where it takes us next.”

One of my biggest tasks is interviewing for new staff. We have a lot of training on offer and lots of opportunities but attitude is the one

Follow IG @barberbarberuk/@ mrjohnny_baba. Online barberbarberuk.co.uk. Email johnny@barberbarberuk.co.uk

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The Barber Barber Application Process Contact the shop you are interested in or email your CV and a covering letter to josh@barberbarberuk.co.uk. Once the application is received there is a phone interview. Next is the face-to-face interview and trade test. Barber Barber allows applicants to choose any cut and style for the test. A model can be brought by the applicant or provided by Barber Barber. If the first cut is successful, Josh will require the applicant to create two to three more. After the trade test is a trial day to find out if the shop environment and service ethic of the applicant is a good fit for them and Barber Barber. The successful applicant will receive a formal job offer, great training and the chance of an amazing future. For information please contact josh@ barberbarberuk.co.uk.

PRECISION FADE BLADE

ADJUSTABLE THIN PROFILE BLADE FOR PRECISION FADES, WITH A FLAT BOTTOM THAT ALLOWS FOR CLOSER CUTTING.

POWERFUL CORDLESS MOTOR

POWERFUL MOTOR THAT GENERATES A HIGHER BLADE SPEED WITH INCREASED TORQUE FOR MORE CUTTING POWER.

HEAVY DUTY

ALUMINIUM METAL BOTTOM HOUSING PROVIDES A STURDY, ROBUST GRIP WITH A WEIGHTED FEEL FOR PRECISION AND CONTROL.

AVA I L A B L E AT A L L G O O D R E TA I L E R S wahl.co.uk

Wa h l P ro f e s s i o n a l U K

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PRODUCTS

GENTS OF LONDON CARBON CLAY Enhances texture with a matt finish, helping to create separation with a musky mature fragrance 85g. RRP £12.99. gentsoflondon.com.

Clubman Pinaud Whiskey Woods After Shave Combines Tobacco Leaf and Bergamot with Whiskey and Woods to finish each shave on a smooth smoky note. 177ml. Price £7.50. barberblades.co.uk

Andis Professional Fade Clipper

rovides outstanding performance, durability and versatility. Powerful magnetic motor perfect for wet, dry, thick or thin hair. Price: £39.99 plus VAT Nearest stockist call 01227 713311. www.andis.com

Edwin Jagger Grooming Conditioning Beard Oil

atural beard care, conditioning Lime & Pomegranate Beard Oil. Sophisticated blend of five oils with an exotic fragrance. RRP £10.00. Stockist contact enquiries@ edwinjagger.com

Takara Belmont Spitfire Chair

nspired by the legendary aircraft for a unique look that also offers luxurious comfort. Price: £1480 ex VAT. takarahairdressing. co.uk.

NEW

HONED RING Hallmarked silver ring created in collaboration with Thy Barber Frank Rimer @thy_barber. RRP £180. thewildnessjewellery.com/ product-page/honed-ring

28 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK

ORIGINAL BRASS CASH REGISTER Lovely old original brass cash register, around 100 years old. Price: £755. Salonequipmentcentre. co.uk. For unique old original barber pieces follow @barbershoporiginals

Jack Dean Fade Brush

great tool to make sure your fades are perfect with extra-soft bristles to gentle remove cut hair. Price £7.50. Coolblades.co.uk

PRODUCTS

Mitch Steady Grip Hair Gel

asily shapes any style with lasting hold. Thickens and adds a natural-looking polish. 150ml. RRP £12.95. paul-mitchell.co.uk

NEW

DARK STAG STRAIGHT BLACK & GOLD SCISSORS Classic set up for barbering. Innovative German design. Removable finger rest. One micro serrated blade ensures a perfect trustworthy cut right to the tip Available in 6.5 & 7”. £38.00 trade ex VAT salonservices.com

KING BROWN MATT POMADE Clay, Petrolatum and Natural Wax based formula. Light-medium dry hold. Matt sheen for use on natural and textured style cuts. RRP £15.00. info@bddistribution.co.uk

Barber Pro Under Eye Mask Fudge Professional Vinyl Pomade Conditions and nourishes with non-stick texture to tame flyaways and medium hold that delivers veneer shine properties. Washes out easily. 75g. RRP: £13.95. fudgeprofessional.com.

evives under eye area to nourish delicate skin and erase fine lines. Lightens dark circles and reduces puffiness using Marine Collagen technology. RRP £4.95 for three treatments.Barberpro.com

Kipa Sea Salt Texturising Spray

edium hold spray for a textured matt finish. RRP £6.50. kipa.co.uk

The Bluebeards Revenge Professional Sea Salt Spay 400ml Premium-quality sea salt spray for a natural look that adds hold, volume, texture and wave. Trade only price: £9.99. bluebeards-revenge.co.uk

The Wahl Style Collection Dryer

nfussy, quiet, powerful and reliable. Variable heat settings to Cool Shot and a choice of two nozzles. Exclusive to barbers. Stockist welcome. RRP £120. wahlstyling.co.uk

AMERICAN CREW FIBER CREAM Fibrous cream with medium hold and natural shine. A styling cream that combines flexibility with control, gives your hair refined texture and a natural shine finish. 100ml. RRP £12.95. americancrew.com/@ americancrewuk. WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK / 29

SOCIAL

Quarterly Update

appy New Year everyone! 2018 promises to be an action packed year with the opportunity for UK barbers to become real stars. As I’ve said on many occasions, everything we do in the UK is better and stronger, we set the standard and the rest of the world follows. At Wahl we have another huge year ahead, upping the ante with new products, new shows and exciting initiatives that will open barbering up to a whole new audience. Last year was by far our most successful Salon International, thanks to the support and buzz that each one of you created around the Wahl stage.

“Our collaborations to create high profile stages around the UK at all the best shows will ensure that we bring world class barbers and men’s hairdressers to Wahl audiences.” This year we are setting up our Wahl Ambassador programme. This is a global initiative that will make our associate barbers and testers more official. Each issue I will be announcing who the new Wahl Ambassadors are, so keep working hard as every barber has the potential to be a part of this programme. Our collaborations to create high profile stages around the UK at all the best shows will ensure that we bring world 30 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK

class barbers and men’s hairdressers to Wahl audiences. Those collaborations extend opportunities for more talented barbers to showcase their skills, so keep an eye on the Wahl Professional Facebook to get involved. Next up is HJ Live London at ExCeL on 24th and 26th February where Alan Beak will be our stage host. Don’t miss it! I’m really looking forward to the year ahead but nervous as we want to match the success of 2017. All the best for 2018 everyone. Be kind, stay positive, remain professional and good things will happen.

Product of the Issue: The Wahl Style Collection Dryer

nfussy and reliable, this dryer is quiet yet powerful with Quick Dry Air Flow and a Whispertek™ silencer. With the ability to switch from variable heat settings to Cool Shot and a choice of two nozzles, this dryer would work great for barbers and men's stylists. Exclusive to barbers, you can also be one of the first to stock this. More info at wahlstyling.co.uk

SOCIAL

Barber of the Month Jarred Liddington

alking of opportunities for UK barbers, our Barber of the Month is Jarred Liddington. This year’s Wahl British Barber of the Year competition was the most competitive yet, so to come out on top, you know this guy has some serious talent. He will be working alongside the Artistic Team in 2018, so expect to see him representing Wahl at shows and courses across the country. Follow Jarred @jarredsbarbers.

PETE ILLINGSWORTH

ROBERT BRAID

DAVIE WALKER

Ambassador Shout Out

JARRED LIDDINGTON

ith so much talent in UK barbering, we want to recognise their great work. This programme gives influencers an exclusive first look at new products, testing, involvement in events and taking part in pop-up barbershops throughout 2018. Jim ‘The Trim’ Williams, Pete Illingworth of Savills, Davie Walker and Robert Braid will be joined by other barbers throughout the year.

JIM ‘THE TRIM’ WILLIAMS

WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK / 31

SOCIAL

THE MR BARBERS AWARDS MR Barbers Group is growing fast so what better way to celebrate than an annual awards event.

L TO R: KARL FOSTER, MARIA NOVIKOV, SAM PRIOR

hen the number of barbers in your business tips the 100 mark it’s time to start celebrating. The second MR Barbers Awards took place last November. All the barber teams turned out in their best bib and tucker and MB was there to share their night. Building a brand isn’t just about the branding, it’s about the people that express those brand values each day. MR Barbers (mrbarbers. co.uk) founders Karl Foster and Sam Prior and CoDirector Paul Davenport hosted a handsomely branded function room at a hostelry near Cambridge as the backdrop to dinner and awards presentations. “We like to recognise the skills and hard work our barbers put in. The timing of the event allows us all to feel a bit Christmassy and it’s a great start to the

festive season. Our staff really love it. It gives us a chance to highlight exceptional people like Maria Novikov who won two awards, one for Young Ambassador and another for Young Barber of the Year. Maria always goes the extra mile. Goes to all the events and her passion never waivers. Showcasing those kinds of qualities motivates all our barbers to push for more next year. It gives them a clear goal. The MR Barber Awards are part of our annual calendar now but we will continue to listen to the needs of our staff and tweak the format and categories as we grow,” explains Karl. The night rounded off with roulette and black jack and all proceeds went to the Movember Foundation. Thanks to all the losers over £500 was raised which makes even losing feel good!

32 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK

Shout out to the winners…

Ashton Joseph (IG barberashton) Ambassador of the Year

Charlie Rawles (IG slimfadey_) Barber of the Year

Jayden Bayford (IG jaydenbayford-) Apprentice of the Year

Maria Novikov (IG marianovikov) Young Ambassador and Young Barber of the Year

Mick Phipps (IG mickeybarber) Lifetime Acheivement Award

Phylli Robinson (IG phyllixo) Manager of the Year

MR Norwich (IG mrbarbersnorwich) Barber Shop of the Year

“DO MORE, ENJOY MORe, MAKE MORE” “MR.Barbers are committed to providing the best men’s haircut and we're on the hunt for great barbers who share the same passion about male grooming as us. So if you think you have what it takes to join the MR.barbers team, get in touch with us. info@mrbarbers.co.uk MR.BARBERS | TRADITIONAL BRITISH BARBERSHOPS BRAINTREE | BURY ST EDMUNDS C O L C H E S T E R | C H E S T E R | E LY | IPSWICH CENTRAL | LOUGHTON S A F F R O N WA L D E N | S TA N S T E D | W W W. M R B A R B E R S . C O . U K

INFO@MRBARBERS.CO.UK

@MRBARBERS

SOCIAL

ANDREA JEAN RAYMOND

ONE OUT: Andrea Jean Raymond (@andrea_lynne_hair) has had a roller coaster year as Wahl Barber of the Year 2016/2017.

n October 2016 a nervous Andrea Raymond took to the Wahl Stage at Salon International. The months after taking the title have been filled with a non-stop whirlwind of activity that has seen Andrea join Michael Damiano, Carl Blake and 5ive as a fully fledged member of the Wahl Artistic Team. Simon Shaw, Global Creative Director of Wahl said “What a year Andrea has had from winning Wahl British Barber of the Year to headlining international shows and working every major UK show with Wahl. Everyone now realises what a great choice she was and she has earned her position as a full Wahl Artistic Team member.” Andrea has worked on stages large and small offering education seminars from her home town of Cork to barbershops in Italy. Working along side seasoned educators in a tight knit team has been 34 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK

“I have picked up so many tips and tricks…styling from 5ive, hairlines and hair tattoos from Michael, Carl for technical structure and shape and Simon on presenting.” the perfect masterclass on how to communicate technique and present professionally on stage. Andrea says “I have picked up so many tips and tricks…styling from 5ive, hairlines and hair tattoos from Michael, Carl for technical structure and shape and Simon on presenting. It’s given me the confidence to do my own thing and being on stage with the team encourages you to find your own flair and style. It has been a huge boost and a really positive experience.”

Wahl isn’t the only thing that has been keeping Andrea busy either as she has joined with a partner to launch Asylum Barbershop (@ the_asylum_barbershop) in Cork. Andrea pulled out all the stops along with a lot of help from her family and friends to strip the old building back to the bare bones and build a fresh, modern four chair shop with brilliant Five Star reviews. As a permanent member of the Wahl Artistic Team Andrea wasn’t too sad to say goodbye to her trophy and was very happy to welcome in new Wahl Barber of the Year Jarred Liddington. Andrea shares the following words of advice for Jarred: “Say ‘yes’ to every opportunity on offer and take everything that is coming your way. Listen, watch, learn and make the most of every second because it will be over before you know it!”

SOCIAL

JARRED LIDDINGTON

ONE IN:

Jarred Liddington (@jarredsbarbers) is the new Wahl Barber of the Year and is wondering what 2018 has in store.

he 2017 Wahl Barber of the Year competition was the toughest yet with every competitor deilvering high standards and creative inspiration. Jarred Liddington pipped them all at the post with a fresh cut accented with a flash of preprepped vibrant colour. It only takes a few minutes to enter the annual competition by sending three to six images of work, a brief biography and info on any highlights that might help the applicant stand out. Jarred applied before the September deadline and by October 15th 2017 he was holding the Cup (a really, REALLY big Cup). Simon says “This guy is a special talent, a much deserved winner. I’m looking forward to working with him throughout 2018, there’s a lot more to come, so the possibilities are massive. Jarred will be working with us across our UK shows next

“I didn’t really look up to see what the others were doing. I was in the audience the previous year so I knew that the stage layout meant that I needed to create something visually striking from every angle, so it didn’t matter which angle the judges were looking from.” year, and will also be working as part of the Wahl Academy.” Jarred has already visited the Wahl Academy and Wahl HQ for a tour and a debrief and is looking forward to proving himself further with Simon and the team. “I am looking forward to progressing as a barber and making that shift

from just working behind the chair to stage and education work,” explains Jarred. The style that Jarred created on stage as a competitor made an impact on all the judges and that was a carefully planned impact too. Jarred says “I follow all the barbers that were competing and I planned every element of the cut, so I was confident I could get it done. I chose not to do lines as I knew I would shake at the beginning. I stuck to the plan, kept centred and concentrated. I didn’t really look up to see what the others were doing. I was in the audience the previous year so I knew that the stage layout meant that I needed to create something visually striking from every angle, so it didn’t matter which angle the judges were looking from.” Well done Jarred, the plan worked! Note: Wahl Barber of the Year Competition opens in early July.

WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK / 35

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SOCIAL

HARD GRIND HELPS OUT Those Hard Grind’ers are big on charity and their ‘Start Talking’ campaign is helping with mental health

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VINCENT QUINN AND RICHARD DAVIES

SOCIAL

ichard Davies, Director of Hard Grind and Abandon Ship Apparel along with Vincent Quinn and the Hard Grind team are working with mental health charity See Me Scotland (seeemescotland. org) and The Lions Barber Collective (thelionsbarbercollective.com). It all began when Abandon Ship (abandonshipapparel.com) was approached by the See Me Scotland charity to help break down the stigma of mental health issues and let everyone know that ‘it’s ok not to be ok’. The campaign encourages everyone to put mental health on the agenda in a bid to stop our friends, team mates, neighbours, customers and family from suffering in silence. Richard says “Barbers are often agony aunts anyway and we are simply putting mental health on the agenda and proactively encouraging people to see the barber shop as a safe place where they can share their thoughts and feelings. It’s really just about listening. The barber doesn’t have to offer a solution and often it’s just about allowing people to feel comfortable enough to vent. There are lots of positive organisations such as See Me Scotland and the Lions Barber Collective that can connect sufferers with structured help.”

“Barbers are often agony aunts anyway and we are simply putting mental health on the agenda and proactively encouraging people to see the barber shop as a safe place where they can share their thoughts and feelings.” Hard Grind and Abandon Ship have been using social media through the #passthebadge campaign to spread the word. They want you to ‘Start Talking’ about mental health using the digital badge. You can do this by finding a photo which means something to you, then heading to www.passthebadge.co.uk where you can upload it and overlay the digital badge. Then share it on social media with a story about why you think it’s important to ‘Start Talking’ about mental health. After that just tag a couple of your friends, family or colleagues, ask how their mental health is and get them to share their own badge picture. Richard and Vince even hosted a live social

Scary Statistics The suicide rate in Scotland for men is

MORE THAN TWO AND A HALF TIMES

that of women (http://www. chooselife.net/Evidence/ statisticssuicideinscotland.aspx)

12.5%

of men in the UK are suffering from one of the common mental health disorders ( Health and Social Care Information Centre)

28%

of men don’t seek mental help compared to 19% of women.

35%

of men wait more than two years or never disclose a mental health problem to a friend or family member. YouGov for the Mental Health Foundation (2016)

65%

of people say that they have experienced a mental health problem. (Mental Health Foundation)

MAJOR DEPRESSION

is thought to be the second leading cause of disability worldwide (Mental Health Foundation) Men with severe mental illnesses

HAVE A LIFE EXPECTANCY OF 20 YEARS LESS than the

Story Shared:

Darren Birch Hair For Men Barbers Warwick (hairformenbarbers.co.uk/ warwick) Darren Birch isn’t just a barber, franchisee and active member of The Lions Barber Collective but he is also a full time policeman. Throughout his 13 year police career Darren has been exposed to some tough experiences that have taken their toll but also given him an insight into and a passion for supporting mental health issues. Darren has kept mental health on the agenda for his police force and helped pioneer a diversionary service for the Leicestershire police – a triage team consisting of a mental health nurse and a police officer that pools resources to help mental health sufferers in crisis and avoid time in custody. Darren says “It means that if a mental health incident comes through the system the police can draw on a pool of information and resources and the team can help divert that individual to the appropriate care. There are now 43 officers involved in the scheme.” After another experience dealing with a deaf potential witness, Darren began learning sign language to break down the communication barriers to the deaf community. That level of panic and isolation experienced by the individual was so traumatising that Darren felt compelled to act. After taking on the Hair for Men franchise Darren contacted the Lions Barber Collective and has since appeared on local and national radio speaking on behalf of the Lions and took part in the Hard Grind/See Me Scotland live social media panel interview. The ‘Start Talking’ campaign is a perfect expression of his continued support of the cause.

Scottish average. (Royal College of Psychiatrists in Scotland, Stigma- A Harm and Safety Issue, Briefing paper 2014.) Thanks to See Me Scotland’s Communications Manager, Nick Jedrzejewski for the stats.

media panel interview with a handful of barbering peers to share their stories and show that ‘it’s ok not to be ok’ and will continue to help address the issues of mental health. WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK / 39

TIPS

TAKE THE LEAD

Not everyone is born to lead but many can learn. What qualities are required for the job?

Vision

“Lead by example – the people working for you look up to you for guidance, leadership and inspiration. Always remember that you are their role model,” says Paul. Having a clear vision and direction for the business and sharing it with staff makes them feel included and helps them to support that vision.

he NHF (nhf.info) asked NHF Award Winners MR Barbers and The Master Barber’s Shop their tips on the finest qualities of good leadership. In November MR Barber’s Shop won ‘Best Group of Businesses’ and The Master Barber’s Shop won ‘Best Independent Barbershop’. The NHF is also proud sponsor of the ‘Best Business Leader’ category at the new MOBAA’s – Modern Barber Awards. So if you already have all these boxes ticked and you are achieving greatness then don’t forget to enter mobaawards.co.uk before the end of February. Hot tips for leadership are...

Positivity

A positive attitude is key! Positive language, positive reinforcement, positive eye contact, positive feedback for improvement. The leader is the last person to be a moaner or a visible worrier. Paul Davenport of barbershop group MR Barbers says “An upbeat positive attitude with both clients and staff creates a happy environment.” 40 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK

Respect

Showing respect typically breeds a respectful culture in a business. In all dealings with customers, suppliers and staff a leader must lead by example. “You have to have respect for others. Always treat everyone as you would want to be treated yourself,” says Paul. Robert Rix of the Master Barber’s Shop in Southport highlights the importance of integrity, having a clear vision of corporate goals and even-handedness: “Be firm but fair with your staff, treat them with respect and be aware of their needs and aspirations. Encourage and compliment in an open forum and criticise in a constructive manner – but on a one-to-one basis only.”

Passion

It’s a well-used word in barbering but a valuable quality to express because passion is infectious. Passion invests energy and commitment into the business and breeds confidence and trust in the customer. Paul concludes “Passion inspires and motivates staff and enhances the client experience.”

“Be firm but fair with your staff, treat them with respect and be aware of their needs and aspirations.” Be right on the money

“Keep abreast of the financial workings of your business,” says Robert. “A successful business is not about doing a really great fade, it’s about keeping a close eye on the balance sheet. Run a spreadsheet, do a flowchart, be diligent; that is how a business gets to be successful.” Paul agrees it’s essential to stay disciplined: “Keeping to your bu dgets and forecasts is hard, but having the correct processes in place and having the discipline to stick to them will help to ensure they can be delivered.” Don’t panic, he adds. “If budgets or forecasts start to slip, ask for advice and don’t deviate from the proven business model. If you report to anyone, always keep them informed about how the business is doing against targets and make them aware of any issues. NEVER hide anything. The NHF offers business support for barbershop members with access to advice lines and a rich database of info. Nhf.info.

CL FE OS BR ES UA 28 RY TH .

ENTER NOW TO SHOWCASE YOUR TALENTS MOBAAWARDS.CO.UK Easy ONLINE entry, just choose your category, complete the info, upload pics…you’re done!

BEST APPRENTICE THANKS TO WAHL

BEST TRAINING THANKS TO JACK DEAN

BEST TEAM THANKS TO ASTON & FINCHER

BEST INNOVATION THANKS TO SHORTCUTS UK

BEST PHOTOGRAPHIC ENTRY THANKS TO AMERICAN CREW UK

BEST CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE THANKS TO SALON SERVICES

BEST ‘BODY OF WORK’ THANKS TO AMERICAN CREW UK

BEST SHOP INTERIOR THANKS TO TAKARA BELMONT

BEST BUSINESS LEADER THANKS TO NHF

GET YOUR TICKETS for the MOBAA’s on Eventbrite.co.uk. £45pp inc. welcome drink, nibbles, live music and an excuse to party! Follow FB Modern Barber Magazine/IG and Twitter @modernbarbermag

TIPS L TO R GUY JARRETT, SIMON BULLER,ROB LOXAM PICTURE CREDITS: MATTWILKINSONPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK.

LOVE THY NEIGHBOUR Sharing commercial love strengthens business communities. For Courage Noble Barbershop & Supplies in Norwich that’s core to their company culture. Here’s how…

“We do welcome everyone that shares our ethos of tolerance and kindness so it made sense that any businesses we partner with shares our values too.”

"Our shop has a very positive culture. Bigotry, sexism, racism…any ‘ism… it’s not welcome at Courage Noble. We do welcome everyone that shares our ethos of tolerance and kindness so it made sense that any businesses we partner with share our values too. Right from the beginning I wanted our business to benefit other businesses in the area,” explains owner Simon Buller. Simon found Strangers Coffee, a local independent, multi-award winning coffee roaster that is fiercely ethical. It also helps that they offer REALLY great coffee. Together the barbershop and Strangers collaborate on social media and referral programmes offering a win:win to both businesses and a pool of handsome coffee lovers that feel part of the community’s commercial landscape. For drinkers that want to go from bean to beer Simon offers beer from Adnams. Simon says “We have a great relationship with them and while they are a local company they have sister companies offering beer from small breweries in Europe, like the one we currently have from Norway. They offer us consistent quality product and 42 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK

have strong environmental and social values as a company.” Courage Noble even puts their walls to good use supporting the community by giving local artists a place to showcase their work. There

is a whole gallery space downstairs and more illustrations, paintings and photography around the shop. Customers can buy direct or negotiate through the team but either way 100% of the sale goes to the artist. “There is a well-regarded art school in Norwich and a strong creative community. The only condition is that the piece works with the aesthetic of the shop. We have a reputation now for hosting artists and get approached often. The artist gets the chance of a sale and we get lovely walls. Another win/win!” explains Simon. Let MB know if your barber shop gets involved in local community projects. DM @modernbarbermag. Follow @couragenobleuk

Credit: Mike Taylor for hair and Liam Oaks for photography

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From the diaries of Jack Dean January 1929, Trout fishing on the itchen

‘Nothing quite beats giving a Bentley blower the full beans down the A31 hog back to winchester. But it certainly takes its toll on a chap barnet. Pondering this dilemma, i have decided to invent a range of gentlemen grooming products including brushes...’ For more details on these iconic products visit denmanpro.com

The Jack Dean Collection is a complete grooming system developed in consultation with the UK’s foremost barbers to keep a chap’s hair and skin in tip-top condition. The range includes shampoos, tonics, styling aids, shaving products, brushes and combs – everything a gentleman needs to embrace the golden age of travel and adventure.

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