The latest issue of BarberEVO is OUT NOW!

Grab your copy here or subscribe for the full year here.

This edition is a true celebration of versatility – not just in technique, but in mindset. Barbering has never been a one-lane industry, and the features in this issue highlight just how dynamic the modern barber has become.

BarberEVO issue 49 is out now!  

On the Cover: Rolda  

At the heart of this issue, we’re honored to feature Rolda on the cover – an iconic brand that has made waves across multiple generations. Their journey is a powerful reminder of how legacy, innovation and global vision can come together to shape not just a brand, but an entire movement within barbering.  

In the Chair with El Bori Barber  

We also sit down In the Chair with El Bori Barber, whose story, skill and perspective capture the passion that continues to drive the craft forward. It’s voices like his that keep the culture authentic while inspiring the next wave of talent.  

Traditional V Modern  

Our Traditional v Modern feature explores the ever-evolving spectrum of barbering – from old-school barbershops rooted in heritage to contemporary spaces redefining education, experience and identity. It’s a conversation that sits at the core of where our industry is right now.  

Interiors  

The theme of Traditional carries on into our Interiors feature with an in-depth look at the Gentleman’s Den Barbershop in California. We also look at how Collin’s chairs have become an international sensation in the oldest barbering business around the world, and we touch base in London to see how OS Lifestyle approach sustainability.  

Business  

In our Business feature, we also take a closer look at sustainability, highlighting barbershops and practices that are making conscious efforts to reduce their environmental impact – an increasingly important topic for the future of our industry.  

And for those looking to grow their business, we dive into marketing automation and how streamlining your strategy can create more consistency, efficiency and impact.  

As always, this issue is about informing, inspiring and pushing boundaries.

The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) has hailed its Respect Live event as a major success, bringing together salon owners, educators, industry leaders, stakeholders and media to explore the latest findings from its State of the Sector survey, and crucially, what happens next. Held as a key moment in the industry calendar, Respect Live created a powerful platform for open discussion around the current challenges, opportunities and future direction of the UK hair and beauty sector. 

Sector Taking Stock- and Taking Action

At the heart of the event was the unveiling of the latest State of the Sector results, offering a clear, data-led picture of where the industry stands today. From business sustainability and workforce challenges to education and growth, the findings sparked honest and solutions-focused conversations across the room. 

Crucially, these quarterly survey results are not only vital to the industry, they are also requested by government, making them an important tool in informing policy and decision-making at the highest level. By taking part, businesses directly contribute to shaping how the sector is understood, supported and represented nationally. 

A standout panel of respected voices shared real-world insight and practical perspectives, including Emma Curd of Mattaki Scissors, Darran Gould, founder/director Gould Barbers; Charles Whiston of CW Whiston salon; Christopher Moody, educator and salon owner: Wendy Cummins, chair of Hair Professional Apprenticeship Steering Group and salon owner; Diane Hey, Founder & CEO, Armonia Training Academy: Lesley Wilks, aesthetician and NHBF consultant; Christian Vincent of Worknest and Meg Piper, session stylist and owner of Solstice Hair. 

Together, they explored not only the realities facing businesses today, but also the collective responsibility, and opportunity, to shape a stronger, more resilient future. 

The event made clear that meaningful representation starts with listening. The NHBF exists to champion its members, ensuring their challenges, priorities and ambitions are heard where it matters most. The strength and impact of that representation is directly shaped by the voices within the industry. 

The NHBF stated: “The more our members engage, share their views, and take part in decisions, the stronger and more accurate our representation becomes whether that’s influencing government, shaping support, or driving the future direction of the sectors.” 

With over 84 years of expertise representing the UK’s hair and beauty sector, the NHBF has built its reputation on one enduring principle: that the strongest voice for this sector is a collective one. That commitment to listening, representing and supporting members remains as central today as it has ever been.

 The forthcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM, Monday 6 July 2026) and Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM, 18 May 2026) will ensure members’ voices remain at the core of the NHBF and inform the organisation’s future direction. 

Following an intense day of presenting and in-depth discussion Simon Shaw has been named as the 40^th President of the Fellowship for British Hairdressing. 

Now in its 80^th year, The Fellowship for British Hairdressing elects a new President every two years. Following in the footsteps of industry exemplars including Errol Douglas MBE, Beverly C MBE, Robert Eaton, Karine Jackson, Ken Picton and outgoing President Ashleigh Hodges, Simon said he was honoured to be taking over the role as President at this very special time in the Fellowship’s history. 

Simon has had a long-standing relationship with the Fellowship, joining very early on his their career and working alongside past Presidents and board members to develop the visibility and integrity of the Fellowship. Through his role as Head of Education for the Fellowship he has been able to showcase what the Fellowship stands for and increase membership and he was instrumental in introducing the very successful Project Men & Media to the Fellowships roster of educational Projects. Education is a passion of Simon, and in their role as President education will play a pivotal role.  Simon’s day-to-day role as Global Artistic Director is one that brings with it a whole host of exceptional qualities both commercially and creatively, key attributes required as part of the President’s role. 

Fellowship for British Hairdressing Chair, Marcus Allen commented, “Simon is a fantastic choice as President of the Fellowship. Truly immersed in all sectors within our industry and respected by all who know him with so much experience in all aspects of the business of hairdressing and barbering. Their commitment and dedication to the Fellowship is immeasurable, which will ensure a very exciting two years ahead. Our thanks go out to outgoing President Ashleigh Hodges for all the work and support she has given the Fellowship over the past two years,” concluded Marcus. 

Since its debut in 1953, the Wahl Senior® has been a trusted tool behind the barber’s chair, earning decades of credibility for its reliability, durability, and uncompromising performance. Today, Wahl introduces the Senior 2.0, the next chapter in the evolution of one of the industry’s most respected clippers. 

BUILT ON LEGACY. POWERED FOR THE FUTURE. 

Building on the same trusted foundation that barbers have relied on for generations, the Senior® 2.0 brings modern innovation to a legendary name. Designed for today’s professional barber, it combines refined performance with advanced technology to deliver greater power, precision, and adaptability. 

SAME NAME. NEW LEGACY. THE SENIOR® 2.0 INTRODUCES: 

RAPID SWITCH CLICK/NO-CLICK LEVER – TOOL FREE ADJUSTMENT – Patent-pending taper lever easily switches between 5-click positions or free-flow control no tools needed. Just lift and switch. 

INCREASED POWER & ADVANCED CUTTING PERFORMANCE – 8000 RPM brushless motor with Adaptive Speed Control™ automatically adjusts motor speed to hair type, giving you smoother results in less passes. 

BALANCED ERGONOMICS – Durable yet balanced metal bottom housing features patented grooves for extra control and comfort. 

CUTS COOLER, STAYS SHARPER – Blades made from high-carbon steel with black PVD Chrome and DLC coatings – delivering consistent cutting performance, cut after cut. 

READY WHEN YOU ARE – 2.5 Hours of cordless run time, powered by the included Single Power Station™ and USB-Compatibility. 

The Senior® 2.0 is £227.99 

Available to purchase from wahl.co.uk 

 A destination salon in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City. Offering a completely personalised approach to hair and beauty for the individual. A place to relax and leave rejuvenated. 

Formerly known as NineteenTwenty salon, Grant Carr has opened up the business and his apprentice, Ray Murdoch, has joined the business as co-owner. This new partnership marks the start of a new era and Garçon is born. Talking about the change Grant explains “Together we had already been re-directing the business for a more combined wellbeing approach over the last 12 months and the new name and look encapsulates and defines the buzz we have created.” 

Ray added “The meaning behind the new name reflects our inner drive and curiosity to become something greater; masters of our craft. Having worked so closely with Grant for the last ten years, I am equally as passionate about the future of Garçon.” 

The team welcomed clients and Glasgow’s finest to their exclusive opening event on 5th March at the flagship salon and an afterparty at their neighbour and exclusive kloud with RendezVous bringing the party vibes. 

Working with leading haircare brands including Aveda and L’Oreal, the highly skilled team offer a range of hair and beauty services. Combining additional services such as sports therapy and aesthetics for busy clients, building a feel-good routine into their lifestyle and wellbeing. 

 Follow @garcon.glasgow 

The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) welcomes the Government’s announcement of a £900 million expansion of the Youth Guarantee and wide-ranging reforms to the apprenticeship system changes that should prove positive for the hair, beauty, barbering and aesthetics sector across the UK.

Announced on 16^th March 2026, the package represents the most significant reshaping of youth employment and skills policy in recent years. For a sector that has long championed entry-level employment, on-the-job learning, and entrepreneurship, the NHBF believes these reforms could help unlock substantial new talent for businesses, if implemented effectively. 

Youth Guarantee and Jobs Incentives

The expansion of the Jobs Guarantee Scheme to include 22 to 24 year olds is particularly welcome news. Hair & beauty businesses, the majority of which are small or micro-enterprises, frequently say the cost and risk of taking on young staff is a barrier to recruitment. New hiring incentives for employers recruiting young people on Universal Credit who are at risk of long-term unemployment could make a real difference for salon, barbershop and clinic owners willing to invest in the next generation.

Caroline Larissey, Chief Executive of the NHBF, commented:

“Hair & beauty is one of the most powerful vehicles we have for getting young people into skilled, fulfilling work. We welcome any policy that lowers the barrier for businesses to say yes to a young person who is ready to learn. The expanded Youth Guarantee, combined with incentives for smaller employers, is a step in the right direction and we look forward to working with Government to ensure our sector can access every benefit available.”

Hair & Beauty has a workforce which is more than 85% female, so any support given to the sector benefits a population who have been historically underserved by the Government.

Apprenticeship Reform: What It Means for Hair and Beauty

The Growth and Skills Levy reforms bring both opportunity and challenge for the sector. From April 2026, the Government will introduce further incentives for non-levy paying employers, which accounts for the vast majority of hair & beauty businesses, who recruit 16 to 24 year old apprentices. This is a direct response to longstanding calls from the NHBF and the sector for a system that works for small employers.

More than 80% of hair & beauty businesses employ fewer than five people, and 95% employ fewer than ten.

However, the latest State of the Sector Survey report from the NHBF shows that 69% of businesses said it was more difficult to find staff than 12 months earlier, so there’s a clear need for Government support.

Key changes relevant to hair & beauty employers include:

• Additional financial incentives for non-levy* employers hiring 16–24 year old apprentices, launching from April 2026. (*those with an annual wage bill of less than £3 million – so the majority of the sector).
• Foundation Apprenticeships expanding into hospitality and retail sectors from April 2026 — sectors that share the workforce pipeline with hair and beauty and offer comparable entry-level pathways.
• A new Level 2 Administrative Assistant Apprenticeship aimed at 16–24 year olds, available for starts from 1^st August 2026, creating additional opportunities for young career starters in salon and clinic support roles (such as receptionist)
• Streamlining of the apprenticeship offer, reducing over 700 standards to focus funding on young people and critical skills. Hair and beauty apprenticeship standards are not among those being withdrawn.
• Apprenticeship Units launching from April 2026, allowing employers to use levy funding for flexible workforce training for the first time. The initial seven units focus on engineering and digital sectors, but the NHBF will engage with Skills England on future units relevant to hair and beauty.

Important Information fo Levy Funding Employers (ie those paying over £3 million in wages)

While welcoming the investment, the NHBF draws the sector’s attention to changes that will affect how levy funds are managed from August 2026:

• The expiry period for new levy funds will reduce from 24 months to 12 months (applying only to funds entering accounts from 1^st August 2026).
• The 10% monthly top-up on levy accounts will be removed for new funds from 1 August 2026.
• The employer co-investment rate, once levy funds are exhausted, will change from 95%/5% to 75%/25% from August 2026 for new apprentices. Existing apprentices on programme retain the 95% government contribution.

The NHBF strongly encourages levy-paying members to review their current apprenticeship plans in light of these changes and to seek guidance before August 2026.

NHBF Response and Next Steps

The NHBF will be monitoring implementation closely and engaging with Skills England and the Department for Education to ensure that hair, beauty, barbering and aesthetics businesses are able to access the full range of support available. 

We will publish guidance for members and the wider sector as further details emerge, including on funding rates for Apprenticeship Units (expected April 2026) and on training provider conditions (confirmed 30^thMarch 2026).

Members with questions about how these changes affect their business are encouraged to contact the NHBF membership team or visit nhbf.co.uk for the latest guidance.

SalonCentric Becomes the Premiere Shows’ First-Ever Presenting Sponsor for San Antonio event, Bringing Unparalleled Value to Beauty Professionals

Premiere Beauty Shows, the nation’s leading network of professional beauty events, is proud to announce a strategic partnership with SalonCentric, a premier distributor of salon professional products, as the first-ever presenting sponsor of Premiere San Antonio. This historic collaboration unites two industry leaders to deliver an elevated and transformative experience for beauty professionals in the Southwest.

Premiere San Antonio presented by SalonCentric: August 30-31, 2026

This partnership represents the coming together of two leaders in the beauty industry, each with a proven track record of empowering professionals and driving innovation. Premiere Beauty Shows has long been recognized as the gold standard for professional beauty events, while SalonCentric is celebrated as the go-to distributor for salon professionals, offering access to the most sought-after products and education. Together, these two leaders are redefining what regional beauty events can achieve, creating a platform that inspires, educates, and connects beauty professionals like never before.

A Historic Collaboration to Elevate the Industry
As the first-ever presenting sponsor in Premiere Beauty Shows’ history, SalonCentric’s involvement marks a pivotal moment for the beauty industry. This partnership is not just about hosting an event—it’s about leveraging the combined strength of two industry giants to empower beauty professionals and advance the profession.

SalonCentric’s role as presenting sponsor will amplify the event’s impact, bringing attendees exclusive access to cutting-edge products, world-class education, and immersive experiences that reflect the shared commitment of both organizations to excellence and innovation.

What Happens When Two Powerhouses Join Forces?
The collaboration between Premiere Beauty Shows and SalonCentric promises to deliver an unmatched experience for attendees, including:

●      Unrivaled Expertise: With Premiere Beauty Shows’ legacy of hosting world-class events and SalonCentric’s deep knowledge of professional products and education, attendees will benefit from the combined expertise of two industry leaders.

●      Expanded Opportunities: SalonCentric’s involvement will bring a broader range of brands, educators, and activations to Premiere San Antonio, ensuring beauty professionals have access to the best the industry has to offer.

●      A Shared Vision for Growth: Both organizations are committed to empowering beauty professionals, driving innovation, and fostering meaningful connections that elevate careers and businesses.

A Partnership Built on Leadership and Innovation
Randy Field, Senior Vice President of Premiere Beauty Shows, emphasized the significance of this collaboration:
“This partnership is a true meeting of the minds between two industry powerhouses. Premiere Beauty Shows and SalonCentric share a commitment to excellence, innovation, and supporting beauty professionals. Together, we are creating an event that will set a new standard for regional beauty events and inspire professionals across the Southwest.”

LeAnn Bobitt, SVP of Brand Strategy for SalonCentric, echoed this sentiment:
“SalonCentric and Premiere stand at the forefront of our industry, and our partnership is a powerful testament to our unified vision of empowering beauty professionals. By merging our strengths, we are poised to deliver an exceptional experience that equips beauty professionals with the essential tools, cutting-edge education, and creative inspiration they need to thrive.”

A Must-Attend Event for Beauty Professionals
Premiere San Antonio 2026 will feature more than 100 brands, diverse education sessions spanning hair, barbering, spa & wellness, nails, makeup, and more, as well as show-stopping Main Stage presentations, hands-on workshops, and immersive activations. With SalonCentric as presenting sponsor, the event will deliver an elevated experience that reflects the combined strength and vision of two industry leaders.

Visit Premiere San Antonio presented by SalonCentric

Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this transformative event in the heart of Texas. Show passes for Premiere San Antonio Presented By SalonCentric (August 30-31, 2026) will be available March 2026 at premieresanantonioshow.com, and SalonCentric/State RDA retail locations in Texas.

Visit the premieresanantonioshow.com for more information and updates.

Novo Cabelo has announced Steven Goldsworthy as the winner of its first ever Stylist of the Year Award, unveiled during a live online ceremony hosted by founder Rob Wood.

The award marks a significant moment for the company, celebrating not only technical excellence in hair systems, but also the compassion, consultation standards and ongoing client care that sit at the heart of the Novo Cabelo philosophy.

Steven, a trained trichologist, was recognised for his ethical approach to hair loss solutions and his commitment to supporting clients throughout every stage of their journey.

Steven said: “As a Trichologist, my role in hair loss has always been to identify the underlying cause, advise on preventative measures, and, in extreme cases, refer clients for a hair transplant. However, transplantation is not always the right solution, and I felt strongly that there was a gap in care where many clients were being left without a suitable alternative.

After months of research, I discovered Novo Cabelo, which at the time was a relatively new company. I followed their work closely, watched their social platforms, and eventually reached out to undertake their training. Once we began offering hair systems, the response was overwhelming. We were inundated with enquiries and quickly built a large, loyal client base.

Hair systems are not for everyone, and we are always completely upfront about the costs and ongoing maintenance. I often compare the decision to Botox versus a facelift: one is temporary but still a significant investment, while the other is permanent, surgical, very expensive and irreversible.

Winning this award is a wonderful tribute to my amazing system clients and, most importantly, gives future clients confidence that they are in safe, experienced hands, receiving both an exceptional service and a high quality solution.”

Hosted online by Novo Cabelo founder Rob Wood, the event brought together stylists from across the network to recognise excellence in a sector that has historically lacked structured education and ongoing professional support.

Rob Wood said: “This award is about far more than hair. It is about restoring confidence, identity and dignity for people who have experienced hair loss. Steven represents everything 

Novo Cabelo stands for: integrity, care, innovation and a deep understanding of the emotional journey our clients are on.

When we launched Novo Cabelo, our mission was to raise standards within the hair system industry and remove any stigma around wearing hair. That starts with education, aftercare and supporting our stylists so they can support their clients properly. Steven embodies that standard.”

Since launching its training programme, Novo Cabelo has focused on transforming the perception of hair systems within the wider hair industry. By prioritising in depth consultation processes, structured aftercare, scalp health and system safe product development, the company has built a reputation for innovation rooted in client wellbeing.

The introduction of the Stylist of the Year Award signals the brand’s ongoing commitment to recognising professionals who deliver not only outstanding transformations, but also long term care and transparency.

As Novo Cabelo continues its expansion across the UK and into Europe, the annual awards are set to become a cornerstone moment in celebrating the stylists who are reshaping the future of modern hair replacement.

NATURE IN MOTION

Experience an inspiring one-day education event with Hair In Motion, representing the peak of the industry in creativity, innovation, and trend expertise. Hair In Motion will demonstrate the latest trends collection as seen on stage internationally, where you will see cut, style, and colour brought to

life through expert live demonstrations. Hair In Motion represents the forefront of the industry when it comes to education, innovation, and knowledge of trends, with flawless execution

of technique. HIM aims to progress the industry forward one student at a time through unique

courses and events.

In this powerful partnership, Aveda joins forces with Hair In Motion to actively engage and inspire through a commercial yet artistic lens. Joinus to meet the HIM team up close and personal for the

ultimate look and learn education experience.

LEARN

Be inspired by the Hair In Motion team as they present the latest trends collection through digital

presentations and live models.

See cutting, styling, and colouring techniques showcased live by industry leaders.

Learn new cutting techniques for both men’s and women’s hair.

Discover innovative styling methods and techniques easily implemented into daily salon life.

Build strong short-hair foundations using a blend of

barbering and hairdressing principles.

Apply scissor, clipper, and razor techniques to create precision, texture, and personalized detailing.

Understand shape, proportion, and balance to design elevated short haircuts that suit every guest.

Develop confidence in finishing, refining, and maintaining short looks to keep guests rebooking.

• Start time: 10.00AM
• Finish time: 5.00PM
• Level: Advance
• Duration: 1 day
• Price: £275

Spring is in the air and that means as well as refreshing your wardrobe, your hair deserves a seasonal upgrade too. This spring, men’s hair trends are all about blending timeless styles with bold, modern touches. From effortless texture to statement cuts, this spring is the perfect time to change up your look. 

Curtain Fringes

Curtain fringes are making a serious comeback this spring, offering the perfect mix of retro flair and modern edge. Characterised by their slightly off-centre parting, the hair flows and frames the face, working well for those with straight or slightly wavy hair. What makes curtain fringes so appealing is their versatility. They can be worn sleek and polished or tousled and textured. With the right cut and styling, a curtain fringe can add movement and dimension to your hair, making it a must-try for spring. 

Mod Cut

Defined by its sharp lines, cropped sides and slightly longer top sections, the mod cut steps back into the spotlight this spring. It’s sharp and structured silhouette demands attention without shouting for it. The beauty of the mod cut lies in its adaptability, slicking it back exudes confidence and polish, whereas a textured, tousled mod adds personality and edge. This spring is all about versatility and men’s styles that are both timeless and fresh.

Frosted Tips

Frosted tips are bringing a playful, eye-catching twist to men’s hairstyles this spring. Its lighter ends contrast with your natural hair, adding dimension and personality without needing a complete style overhaul. This style is perfect for those who want to experiment with colour, while keeping their cut simple. Frosted tips can be subtle for a modern, refined look or more pronounced for a statement-making, nostalgic vibe. This spring, frosted tips prove that even small pops of colour can make a big difference.

Coloured Buzz Cut

The coloured buzz cut is taking men’s hair to a new level this spring, combining minimalism with bold self-expression. It’s short, uniform length makes it low maintenance, but by adding a pop of colour, it is instantly transformed into a bold, statement look. This style is perfect for those looking for an effortless style that is unforgettable, offering a contrast between simplicity and creativity. With the dyed buzz cut, spring has become the season to experiment fearlessly, proving that even shorter styles can have maximum impact.