By Alyssa Guerra 

Luxury customer experiences and services go above and beyond to make every customer feel seen and valued. It’s about tailoring the little details other barbershops ignore, from the atmosphere to your services to your communication. The goal is to craft a seamless, memorable journey that forges deep connections and conveys your values every step of the way, said Paul Andre de Vera of BSPK. 

Luckily, you don’t have to reinvent the wheel to offer high-end customer service and exceed customers’ expectations. You don’t have to break the bank, either. Here’s how you can deliver premium customer experiences at any barbershop, on any budget. 

1. First Impressions 

When designing a luxury customer experience, consider the details your clients will notice first. For example: 

• Are they offered a snack, beverage, warm greeting, or reading material when they arrive? Or are they ignored?  

• Does someone answer the phone or call back right away? Or are they left waiting for days?  

• Can they book online without headaches? Or do they give up halfway through due to a buggy website? 

• Is your space clean, decorated, and nice smelling? Or is there dust and a foul odor?  

Examples: 

• Use signature scents, comfy seating, music, lighting, temperature, and cleanliness to craft an intentional ambience, Harper Ellis Hair Co. (HEHC) says. This could be as simple as adjusting the lights, keeping the space spotless, or making ad-free music playlists on your phone.  

• Ask family and friends to walk through the door and note their impressions. How does the space make them feel? Is it what you had in mind? Repeat from time to time and use their feedback to adjust accordingly. 

Listen, smile, and engage when customers are present. Body language says a lot!  

2. Personalization and Exclusivity 

The difference between luxury and run-of-the-mill experiences lies in how valuable you can make a customer feel. Personalize their experiences so your clients never feel like “just another customer” again, HEHC says.  

Examples: 

• Note customers’ preferences, personal details, and purchases so you can tailor your product or treatment recommendations based on their needs.  

• Seek opportunities for exclusivity. Can you offer services that are new or hard to find elsewhere? Can loyal customers get extra perks?  

• Consider handwritten thank-you notes, birthday cards, and other personal touches that show each client your appreciation. 

• Use the customer’s name when speaking to them. “Hey, Brian! Welcome in” sounds friendlier than “Hey. Welcome in.” 

• Provide free options that allow customers to tailor their luxury customer experience. For example, consider asking if they’re OK with chitchat or if they want silence. Offer conveniences like a blanket, refreshments, and warm or cold towels. 

3. White Glove, End-to-End Experiences 

If you really want your barbering services to stand out, look for avenues to improve efficiency and remove hiccups from the customer’s journey. You’ll not only make it easier to book appointments, but also elevate the experience in little (but noticeable) ways. 

Examples: 

• Seek opportunities to make processes more efficient and convenient, like with 24/7 online booking, a frequently tested website, digital consultation forms, and automated reminders. 

• Routine training helps ensure that “exceptional service becomes second nature,” Ken Thomas wrote for Forbes. Hire and train your barbershop employees to represent your values consistently, whether it’s through body language or problem-solving during conflicts. 

4. Expertise 

You can’t achieve excellence without expertise. 

After all, customers—high-end consumers and otherwise—are coming to you as an industry expert. If you have the skills and answers they’re looking for, they’ll quickly learn to trust you. Once a customer knows they’re in safe hands, even the simplest services feel extraordinary. 

Examples: 

• Research top products, tools, or trends so you can use them, stock them, and answer questions about them. 

• Push yourself to pursue continuous training. Use it to fine-tune your barbering skills and offer more advanced techniques or services. 

• Showcase your awards, certifications, and reviews where current and prospective customers can see them. 

Premium insurance shouldn’t require luxury prices, either. 

When it comes to luxury services and high-end customer experiences, our team at WellnessPro believes value doesn’t have to be expensive.  

Barbers, visit the WellnessPro website and start your coverage journey for as little as $159 a year. 

British entrepreneur and founder of Pall Mall Barbers, Richard Marshall, has been awarded an MBE in the King’s New Year Honours List for Services to International Trade, Mentoring and to People with Dyslexia.

Marshall’s journey is one of the most extraordinary transformations in modern British barbering.  Diagnosed with severe dyslexia at the age of five, Marshall struggled to read, write, spell his own name and complete basic tasks such as filling out cheques, for first 10 years of running his business. Undiagnosed ADHD emerged later in life. Expelled from school at 15 with no formal qualifications, navigating entrepreneurship through resilience, observation, and alternative learning methods. Yet he went on to build one of the world’s oldest barbershop brands into a global enterprise with locations in London and New York.

Despite these barriers, Marshall rebuilt his life through practical learning, mentorship, and relentless perseverance — becoming one of the UK’s most respected figures in the men’s grooming, hairdressing, small business and exports sectors.

His work reached national prominence when Prime Minister Rishi Sunak referenced Richard’s story live on television, highlighting his resilience and contribution to British entrepreneurship.

Marshall now advises the UK Government as a member of the Small Business Growth Council, shaping the national agenda for the 5.6 million small businesses that power the UK economy.

Richard says, “I’m overwhelmed to receive an MBE from the King. I hope my story and journey demonstrates that it really is possible to overcome the most difficult of challenges. It’s not easy, and so I focused on a different direction and just grabbed every opportunity with both hands and made sure I learnt everything I could from other businesspeople. And now I like to share my knowledge and expertise with others, showing parents, employers and teachers that having dyslexia and/or being neurodivergent does not mean a restricted future. It’s important to instil ‘can-do’ confidence.”

Richard’s upcoming autobiography will further explore his powerful journey—from classroom humiliation and illiteracy to speaking on global stages, advising ministers inside 10 Downing Street, and leading a heritage brand now celebrating 130 years. The book will provide a blueprint for others, highlighting the potential of social mobility. The release of the book will coincide with the relaunch of the Pall Mall signature men’s grooming product collection.

Kevin Hollinrake MP, Chairman of the Conservative Party and Shadow Minister without Portfolio, said:

“That’s marvellous news — so well deserved. I’m absolutely delighted to see Richard recognised with an MBE. This honour is richly deserved. Richard is a standout example of British entrepreneurship at its best, building successful international businesses while giving back through mentoring and championing people with dyslexia. During my time as Business Minister, I saw first-hand his commitment to small businesses and to helping others succeed. This recognition reflects not just commercial success, but real service to others. Huge congratulations to him and his family.”

Millie Kendall OBE, CEO of the British Beauty Council, said:

“Richard absolutely deserves this honour. He has worked tirelessly with government for many years, helping to raise the profile of the hair and beauty sector and demonstrating the immense value it brings to the UK economy. His contribution has been instrumental in showing policymakers what our industry delivers now — and what it could deliver with stronger, continued government support. Richard is also a powerful ambassador for British business on the global stage, particularly in the United States. His dedication, influence and passion for championing our sector make this recognition incredibly well-deserved.”

Caroline Larissey, Chief Executive of the NHBF, said:

“Richard’s contribution as an NHBF Board Member has been outstanding. He brings deep expertise, commercial understanding and an authentic connection to a sector with a notably high percentage of neurodivergent and dyslexic individuals. His insight has directly shaped how we communicate with and support our Members, ensuring our messaging is more accessible, inclusive and representative of the realities many face. Richard’s leadership and advocacy have helped drive meaningful change within the industry, and we are delighted to see him recognised with this honour.”

Barbering is built on tradition, craftsmanship, and community – and few embody those values quite like Sid Sottung. This January, Captain Fawcett invites barbers from near and far to gather for a truly special occasion: a one-day celebration honouring Sid’s incredible journey, ahead of his return expedition to the United States.

Taking place on Monday 12th January 2026 at Captain Fawcett HQ in King’s Lynn, this in-person and live-streamed online event promises to be a fun evening for all involved. After years of dedication, education, and adventure in the name of gentleman’s grooming, this is a chance to raise a glass, share stories, and celebrate a legacy that has helped shape the industry.

The day will feature a masterful haircut and shave demonstration, offering attendees the opportunity to learn directly from one of barbering’s most respected figures. Education continues with deeper insight into Captain Fawcett’s product range, alongside the official announcement of new educators, marking an important passing of the torch to the next generation.

Guests will also enjoy behind-the-scenes guided tours of Captain Fawcett HQ, seeing where the magic truly happens, along with photographic opportunities and the unveiling of exciting new social media initiatives. Throughout the day, refreshments and good conversation will flow, with donations gratefully accepted for Make-A-Wish, adding a charitable heart to the celebrations.

For those unable to attend in person, a live broadcast will ensure ambassadors across the globe can still be part of the moment.

Relaxed, celebratory, and rooted in camaraderie, this event is more than a farewell – it’s a tribute to barbering culture, shared knowledge, and the bonds that define the craft. A fitting send-off for Sid Sottung, delivered in unmistakable Captain Fawcett style.

Full details here:

• Date: Monday 12th January, 2026
• Time: 9am
• Location: Captain Fawcett HQ

Tickets for the event can be purchased here. However, if you cannot attend the event, Captain Fawcett will be live-streaming all the fun! Don’t miss out!

Each year, the MR. Barbers family comes together to honour the people, passion, and hard work that drive the brand forward – and 2025 was a year worth celebrating. The MR. Barbers Internal Awards Night, held at Quy Mill Hotel & Spa, Cambridge, on November 22, 2025, brought the entire team under one roof for an evening of recognition, inspiration, and well-deserved celebration.

From rising talent to seasoned leaders, the night spotlighted the individuals who embody the company’s values, elevate the client experience, and continue to push the brand to new heights. More than an awards ceremony, it was a powerful reminder of the strength of the MR. Barbers community and the bright future ahead.

The winners were revealed as:

• Young Barber of the Year – David Watson, MR. Barbers Saffron Walden
• Most Cuts Barbershop – MR. Barbers Bishops Stortford
• Outstanding Achievement Award – Julie Saban Stansted
• Best Team of 2025 – MR. Barbers St Andrew’s Street, MR. Barbers Bury St Edmund’s
• Ambassador of the Year – Auburne Enkel, MR. Barbers Sudbury
• Best Newcomer of the Year – Alex Meric, MR. Barbers Welwyn
• Manager of The Year – Mark Price, MR. Barbers Bishop Stortford
• Barber of the Year 2025 – Dylan Ponty, MR. Barbers Sudbury
• Most Cuts of 2025 – Zach Dale, MR. Barbers Halstead
• Reel of 2025 – Maria Novikov, MR. Barbers St Andrews Street

If you’re an avid reader of BarberEVO, you will have seen many of these faces across the pages of the magazine. MR. Barbers is a family-run business, where connection and community are at the centre.

Anyone who is looking for a new chapter, where growth, creativity, and community are centred – check out MR. Barbers Career Page for your next steps.

MTA Education is proud to announce that its renowned MADE: The Academy for Modern Barbering training programme will be delivered in partnership with Glasgow Kelvin College, launching January 2026 at the Falkirk campus.

This collaboration marks a significant ongoing chapter for the college, which will now offer one of the UK’s most respected entry-level barbering programmes to learners across central Scotland.

The Certificate in Barbering (MADE with MTA): C&G (Level 5) is an 18-week intensive course bringing MTA’s proven, industry-led teaching model into the college environment for the very first time. MADE with MTA won Training Provider of the Year at. This year’s prestigious industry Scottish Hair & Beauty Awards (SHABA).

Ross Miller, Owner/Founder of MTA Hair Education said: “We’re thrilled to bring the MADE programme to Glasgow Kelvin College for the first time. MTA has built a strong reputation for delivering barber training that mirrors real industry expectations, and this partnership allows us to extend that standard to a new region. Glasgow Kelvin College shares our commitment to quality, accessibility and learner success, and together we’re creating a pathway that will set students up for genuine, long-term careers. We’re excited to welcome and support the first wave of students.”

About the Programme:

Delivered jointly by MTA Education and Glasgow Kelvin College, this new Falkirk-based course offers:

• The first-ever delivery of the MADE programme at Glasgow Kelvin College
• 18 weeks of hands-on, structured training (four days per week)
• A respected City & Guilds SCQF Level 5 qualification
• Teaching from MTA-trained barbers alongside experienced college lecturers
• A complete professional barbering kit included
• Core training in:
  • Clipper and scissor cutting
  • Beard design and grooming
  • Shampooing, conditioning, styling and finishing
  • Client care and consultation
  • Professional standards and hygiene
  • Social media and personal brand-building for modern barbers

The programme mirrors MTA’s successful national model: high discipline, repetition for skill mastery, and a salon-realistic environment that prepares learners for immediate employment.

Who the Programme Is For

Designed for learners aged 16+, the course welcomes complete beginners and career changers who are motivated, creative and ready to commit to intensive training. No prior experience is required — only dedication and a willingness to practise.

How to Apply

Applications open January 2026 via Glasgow Kelvin College’s admissions portal. With demand expected to be high for this inaugural cohort, early applications are encouraged.

By Alyssa Guerra 

Your clients’ appointment-booking process is like a roller coaster. Their desire for beauty services gets them in line. But they need momentum to reach the station.  

As app development platform CommonNinja explains in their 2024 article “How to Improve Customer Satisfaction with Seamless Booking Experiences,” the process should help customers book services efficiently and with minimal frustration or confusion. This is essential to building trust between consumers and your brand. It encourages customers to get in line again and again—not just because they need beauty services, but also because they enjoy the appointment-booking process. 

Wondering how to schedule appointments with clients in a way that builds bridges instead of barriers? Here are some tips to consider. 

1. Understand your customers. 

Research and collect feedback to better understand your current and potential clients. Who are they? How do they want to feel when they visit your website or salon for the first time? What do clients like now, and what changes would they like to see? 

Starting with the consumer in mind makes it easier to craft interactions they’ll love from the first click. 

2. Don’t overcomplicate. 

Your clients crave accessible experiences with minimal barriers. Ask yourself: What unnecessary barriers can I eliminate to make the experience as speedy and convenient as possible? 

Aim to create a booking site that’s easy to use, easy to read, and easy on the eyes, Kate Reynier writes for youcanbook.me. Pick a handful of colors, templates, and fonts, and use them purposefully. Make sure your pages load quickly, and streamline navigation with as few steps as possible, Reynier suggests.  

3. Support 24/7 availability and self-service. 

Customers love the autonomy of self-service, as well as the transparency of real-time reminders and updates, like with estimated wait times, says ibex.co in their article “The Now Generation: Surviving the Instant Gratification Culture.” It means they can take action on their time. Plus, automated appointment confirmation or chatbot communication eases customer anxiety and reduces your chances of no-shows, schedly.io states in their article “5 Ways to Make the Booking Process Seamless for Clients.” 

Consider an online appointment-scheduling system that allows clients to book a time, sends appointment reminders, and supports 24/7 cancellations. If they can see available team members, pay, and synchronize with their calendar in one seamless place, that’s even better, says Brevo in their 2024 guide to online booking.  

4. Personalize the experience. 

As ibex says, “One size fits none. Trying to be everything to everyone—instantly—often leads to generic, forgettable experiences.”  

Allow your appointment-scheduling software to tailor the experience to individual customers. For example, some types of software allow special requests or recommend additional services. In turn, clients can easily bundle everything they want (plus add-ons they didn’t even know they wanted), says schedly.io. Meanwhile, tools like AI chatbots, predictive autofill, saved preferences, and intelligent suggestions can direct users smoothly down each step of their customer experience journey. The best part is, the journey feels uniquely designed for them, ibex explains.  

And don’t forget, paying is part of their experience, too. As schedly.io writes in their blog post, you never know what a client’s financial situation might be. In addition to the usual credit cards, consider accepting digital wallets, bank transfers, PayPal, and/or installment plans so they have flexible (yet secure) options. 

Tailored Coverage: Because one-size-fits all doesn’t work for insurance, either. 

At WellnessPro, we believe insurance is another area where quality customer service and tailored experiences matter. Our coverage is designed for the beauty and wellness world—because that’s our world, too.  

Visit the WellnessPRO website and start your coverage journey for as little as $159 a year. 

Slick Gorilla has officially launched in the U.S., bringing with it the signature styling routine behind its newest global brand ambassador, Sam Hartman, American football quarterback for the Washington Commanders. Known for his confident, game-ready look, Sam relies on Slick Gorilla.

To achieve his trademark volume and textured finish, Sam follows a simple three-step routine:

1. Prep with Sea Salt Spray ($16.00): Applied to damp hair, this builds natural volume, grit, and beach-inspired texture for effortless movement and lift.

2. Define with Lightwork ($16.00): A small amount warmed in the hands creates shape with a soft matte finish and flexible hold, keeping hair polished yet touchable.

3. Boost with Hair Styling Powder ($16.00): Lightly dusted at the roots, this best-selling product – boasting 27,000+ five-star Amazon reviews and selling one unit per minute globally – adds instant thickness and long-lasting lift, making it the secret behind Sam’s signature volume.

Slick Gorilla’s U.S. debut signals a major step for the brand as it continues to grow its global presence with ambassadors like Hartman leading the charge.

This December, Glasgow hair stylists and barbers will get to be a part of a new fashion movements in the barbering and hair industry, as Jade Hayter – The Label hosts a month-long pop-up at The 145 Collective in Glasgow. 

Stylists and barbers will have chance  to feel the quality for themselves — because this collection is designed to be experienced, not just seen. Every piece is crafted with premium, durable, bleach-proof fabrics, and trying them on in person lets professionals appreciate the weight, fit, and movement that photos can’t fully capture. Explore the textures, test the flexibility, and see how each garment shapes to the body, ensuring they invest in clothing that performs in the shop and feels incredible to wear. This is an opportunity to build a work wardrobe with intention — confidently, hands-on, and tailored to the individual.

Founded by Jade Hayter — professional hairdresser and owner of The 145 Collective — the label offers stylish, high-performance clothing that’s bleach-proof, stain-resistant, and sustainably made. Designed for barbers, stylists, and educators who live their craft every day, the collection gives professionals what the industry has been lacking: fashion that holds up to salon life without sacrificing style. 

Traditional hairdressing and barbering attire has long been limited to basic uniforms or merch-style apparel. Jade Hayter – The Label changes that with pieces that look sharp enough for photos, events, and stage work — while being engineered to survive chemical splashes, colour stains, and everyday shop wear.

Whether cutting in the studio, teaching at events, filming content, or jumping behind-the-chair between educational moments, barbers and stylists can now look polished all day — no spare-outfit panic, no ruined clothes.

Founder Jade Hayter said: “I’m so excited to bring this collection home to Glasgow for the pop-up. We created clothing that elevates the look and feel of barbering and hairdressing – pieces that are stylish, practical, and made to last. This industry deserves apparel that performs without compromising creativity, quality, or sustainability.”

Pop-Up Details:

Location: The 145 Collective, 145 Bath St, Glasgow G2 4SQ
Dates: Runs daily throughout December.

Website: jadehayter.com
Instagram: @jadehayterthelabel

Let’s be real—your station is only as strong as the tools you trust. Whether you’re crafting fades, detailing beards, or finishing with skin-close precision, having the right trio makes all the difference. That’s where the Envy II Clipper, Slimline® Pro II Trimmer, and ProFoil® Plus II Shaver come in. Together, they’re the ultimate lineup for stylists who want speed, control, and flawless results.

Clip with Confidence – Envy II Clipper

This isn’t your average clipper. The Envy II is built for versatility, featuring the new Phaze™ blade with adjustable lengths from 0000–0A. It’s lightweight, ergonomic, and even includes a left-hand lever arm for ambidextrous comfort. With 11 attachment combs and a 6,500 SPM motor, it’s your go-to for fades, tapers, and bulk work—corded or cordless.

Trim with Precision – Slimline® Pro II Trimmer

Need crisp lineups and smooth transitions? The new Slimline® Pro II is your detailing MVP. Its pencil-like design gives you unmatched control and visibility, while the 7,000 SPM motor powers through light bulk and fine detailing. With 2 hours of cordless runtime and USB-C fast charging, it’s always ready to go. Plus, it’s quiet enough for kids and sensitive clients.

Shave to Finish – ProFoil® Plus II Shaver

Finish strong with the new ProFoil® Plus II. This cordless foil shaver delivers glass-smooth fades and irritation-free results thanks to its gold titanium staggered foils and 9,000 SPM motor. It’s lightweight, ergonomic, and charges via USB-C on a sleek premium stand. Customize your look with Black Chrome or Gold foil housings—coming soon—and keep your station looking sharp.

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Clip. Trim. Shave. Repeat.
This trio isn’t just about tools—it’s about elevating your craft. Whether you’re in the shop or on the go, these three are built to keep up with your hustle.

Ready to upgrade your station?

Shop the trio. Own the finish. 

Andis.com 

Nine years. £207,000+ raised for children’s charities to date. One incredible community of barbers and bikers.

This year’s BarbersRide roared back onto the road, smashing the 20K target to raise a phenomenal £26,238.40 – with more still rolling in! 2025 brought together more than 45 riders, creating memories to last a lifetime. Some joined for a day, others rode the full distance, but all shared the same mission: to support Make-A-Wish and bring joy to children living with critical illness.

Kicking off at long term sponsor Lind Harley-Davidson in Newmarket, the ride was expertly led by road captain Matty Wood, who plotted and guided the route with precision. Day One saw the crew roll into Captain Fawcett HQ in King’s Lynn, one of the most anticipated stops, where, so they say, hospitality was as legendary as the moustaches. I should coco!

Onwards to the renowned Waterman & Webb, who hosted a truly magnificent evening. The next morning, the Ride received a thunderous welcome at Wahl HQ, complete with Ramsgate’s finest homemade doughnuts. From there, it was on to Iron Born Barbers in Southampton, where Reuzel CEO Rob Wilcox flew in all the way from Denver, Colorado to join the ride – now that’s dedication chums! A visit to fantastic BarbersRide sponsor Uppercut followed, then on to Barbicide® – a cash sponsor since day one, whose support has been woven into BarbersRide’s DNA from the very beginning. Huzzah!

Old Red Barbershop gave the merry band of bikers an incredible welcome with Bedford’s local press and the mayor in attendance for their special 10^th birthday celebration. Next came a simply awesome stop at Thornton 100 Custom Bike Builders before the grand finale at The Master’s Barber Shop in Southport. Great food, live music and an epic party that grooved late into the night – what a way to finish!

At each stop, handsome wooden plaques were presented to thank long-standing supporters for their sterling contribution to the cause as the journey swept through the New Forest, across the expanse of Salisbury Plain, along the honeyed lanes of the Cotswolds and finally into Southport in one glorious, rumbling line.

Behind the scenes, rider Iain Crockart captured the adventure with stunning photographs, while Russ Lee kept followers hooked with buzzing social updates. Special thanks also go to Captain Fawcett’s Jenna Leake, who has been instrumental in organising past rides – even while taking on her own rather special project off the road this year…congratulations!

Sponsors included Captain Fawcett, Barbicide®, Reuzel, Uppercut Deluxe, Wahl, Matakki Scissors, American Crew, Denman and trusty media partner BarberEVO Magazine – once again proved that generosity in this industry runs deep.

BarbersRide Co-Founder, Xavier Berrell (Ice Cool Products Ltd), summed it up: “Make-A-Wish is why we do it, but it’s also about the camaraderie of spending a week on the road with the best bunch of people ever. We’ve built a community of like-minded individuals and made life-long friendships through BarbersRide. That in itself is a beautiful thing.”

Fellow Co-Founder, Richie Finney, aka the Right Hand Man added:
“This year was simply incredible, the best yet. Across the route, the turnout of supporters was phenomenal and local community interaction just brilliant. Some rode the whole way, others joined for a leg or even just an evening and every single person brought something truly amazing to the Ride. Rumours that Captain Fawcett won the bright red child’s go-kart at The Master Barbers raffle are as yet unconfirmed…”

After nine incredible years, the current organisers are taking a well-earned back seat. The road ahead is wide open, perchance for a new crew to take it forward… get in touch if that might be you!