Andis^® Company proudly announces the launch of the Envy II Clippers, available in Standard or Premier edition options.

Essential to the Envy II Clippers is the all-new Phaze blade, an adjustable carbon-steel blade that transitions seamlessly from 0000 to 0A. This blade bridges the gap between fade and taper blends, offering unmatched versatility and precision.

Additionally, the Envy II Clippers’ perfectly balanced design reduces hand strain, ensuring effortless use during extended barbering sessions. The textured housing provides a secure grip, and innovative features ensure a smooth learning curve and professional-grade results, empowering the next generation of barbers.

The Envy II Clipper (standard) features a more powerful motor than the first-edition Envy Li Cordless Clipper, running at 6,500 SPM, with a lithium-ion battery for up to two hours of run time. The kit includes 11 attachment combs, providing a wide range of cut lengths for versatile styling options. 

For those seeking an extra touch of luxury, the Envy II Clipper Premier edition features elevated technology in elegant gold housing and includes a matching charging stand and six attachment combs, combining sophistication with practicality. The Envy II Premier Clipper features an even more powerful motor, running at 6,700 SPM, with a lithium-ion battery for up to two and a half hours of run time. The Phaze blade on the Premier edition also features a dynamic, 22-tooth ceramic cutter that runs cooler and stays sharper longer, enhancing durability and performance.

“The Envy II Clippers embody Andis Company’s commitment to innovation and improvement,” said Matt Andis, Co-CEO of Andis Company. “With unmatched versatility, inclusivity and performance, we are excited to see how both new and experienced barbers will benefit from these next-level tools.” 

The user-friendly design and precision capabilities of the Envy II Clippers set a new benchmark for professional grooming tools. New and seasoned barbers alike can elevate their skills with the innovation of the Envy II Clippers.

The Envy II Clipper (standard) is available here.

The Envy II Premier Clipper is available here.

For more information visit www.andis.com and follow them on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

Rising for its encore; Uppercut Deluxe have launched a new iteration of their iconic Monster Hold pomade. Lurching and lumbering its way back to a full size tin took some time… and now that it’s finally arrived!

This titan features all the staying power you can expect from our beloved strong-hold pomade.

Monster Hold is a traditional wax-based pomade that remains re-workable throughout the day. An extra powerful, sweat resistant wax that was created especially for traditional or bolder styles requiring a little extra hold! A product that holds with weight, making it perfect to control your style all day long!

Being wax-based means Monster Hold won’t set; making it perfect for anyone that likes to restyle their look – so it won’t wash out with just water or sweat either.

Uppercut Deluxe teamed up with incredible Australian illustrator Ben Brown to bring their vision to life. Ben is best known for mashing counter-culture with topics surrounding the absurdity of life.

As a consumer of pop and junk culture from a young age – consisting of old movies, comics, books and their brash print styles designed to get your attention – this fostered the starting blocks which shaped Ben’s ongoing graphic influences and aesthetic.

An old-school rocker at heart; Ben has worked with a stable of music labels creating a plethora of album covers, band posters and tour posters. Throughout the years his illustrative work has also played contribution to the direction of brands, alongside filling out the pages of surf and skate publications with his imagery of loud, confrontational visuals.

A decade ago, Uppercut Deluxe commissioned Ben to develop the original ‘Frankie’ Monster Hold graphic – therefore we are proud to have him return for a timely resurrection of our latest iteration of the pomade in 2024.

Andis^® Company proudly announces the launch of its highly anticipated Black Label Collection. This exclusive lineup features the GTX-EXO^® Special-Edition Trimer with M-Force^™ technology and the Master Cordless^® Special-Edition Clipper with Phaze blade, setting new benchmarks in cutting performance and precision. 

The GTX-EXO^® Special-Edition Trimmer redefines cutting precision with its groundbreaking M-Force^™ magnetic tension system on its GTX-Z^® blade with a true zero gap. This patent-pending technology delivers consistent blade speed resulting in cooler, smoother and quieter cutting.

It also provides consistent magnetic tension across the entire blade for more power and cutting precision. The springless design decreases wear and tear on the motor and drive components for longer tool life, while allowing for faster blade removal and reassembly. Plus, the slimmer yoke design enhances visibility for an improved line of sight. 

“We continue to push the limits of cutting performance with M-Force^™ — the industry’s first and only magnetic blade tension system,” said Matt Andis, Co-CEO of Andis Company. “This evolution in technology allows us to deliver more power and precision, plus a cooler, quieter cutting experience from consistent magnetic tension across the upper and lower blades. M-Force^™ hits different.”

The Master Cordless^® Special-Edition Clipper with new Phaze blade bridges the gap between a Fade and Taper blade, offering unparalleled versatility and precision. This adjustable, carbon-steel blade with a dynamic 22-tooth cutter seamlessly transitions from 0000 to 0A, ensuring smoother blending during fading and tapering.

Built to withstand professional-grade daily use and all wrapped up in sleek, ultra-durable black label housing, the Master Black Label offers a powerful 6,500 SPM rotary motor, run time up to 1.5 hours, and Phaze blade with a true zero gap. The enhanced sound profile improves both barber and client experience, while the included Dual-Magnet OG Size 0 Comb provides added convenience and cutting versatility. 

The Black Label Collection is set to transform the barbering industry, serving as a testament to Andis Company’s continuous drive for innovation and excellence. The GTX-EXO^® Trimmer with M-Force^™ is available for pre-order here and the Master Cordless^® Clipper is available here. For more information visit www.andis.com and follow them on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

The leading and trusted brand in professional grooming and styling,
Wahl Pro, announced the launch of the new Kuno Clipper.
Designed with stylists in mind, the new clipper pairs innovative blade technology, refined materials for a soft touch, and a compact lightweight design intended for stylists with an eye for detail.

With salons across the world becoming the forefront of cultural trends, stylists can no longer take the one-size-fits-all approach for their cuts or client experience. The Kuno Clipper ensures stylists can serve each client with a premium style that fits their
individual needs.

“With the launch of the Kuno Clipper, we combined our 104 years of trusted expertise and technology with what stylists need – high performance off-scalp cutting, the option for a click or free-form taper lever, and thoughtful design,” said Lance Wahl, Global SVP of Sales & Marketing for Wahl Professional. “The German-engineered Kuno is sleek, lightweight, and quiet. We’ve created a luxury clipper for stylists seeking refined results.”

Crafted from high-end materials, the Kuno features an easily detachable Diamond Blade, which boasts an innovative carbon coating with diamond-like properties that increases durability and keeps blades sharp. With the option for a 3-click taper lever or a free flow taper, stylists will be able to achieve beautiful off-scalp cutting results with the utmost control and a design easy on the wrists. Operating at 7200rpms, the Kuno’s durable and quiet brushless motor includes a long-lasting lithium-ion battery that boasts 100 minutes of styling.

The Kuno Clipper is available for $299.99 on Wahl Pro’s official website and includes the Professional Cord/Cordless Clipper, Six Premium Cutting Guides, Power Cord, Styling Comb, Oil, Cleaning Brush, Operating Instructions and a Red Blade Guard. For more information, visit Wahlpro.com and follow @Wahlpro on Instagram, TikTok and
Facebook. 

About Wahl Professional 

Since its invention of the first practical electric hair clipper in 1919, Wahl Clipper Corporation has remained on the cutting edge of the professional and home grooming category and is the leading brand for barbers, groomers, and stylists around the world.

The family-owned brand embraces traditions and legacy, with its headquarters still rooted in Sterling, Illinois where it was founded and its global manufacturing located in the U.S. Wahl believes that hair has a profound ability to connect those and the world around them.

They are on a mission to support, educate, and inspire the future of grooming, resulting in the On-Demand barber education platform, free and accessible to professionals everywhere, and the first-of-its-kind, fully-accredited Wahl Barber Academy.

As the creators behind the ground-breaking annual Future Makers™ platform and the trusted name for leaders in the industry and those who are transforming it, Wahl exists to unlock the power of connection – one haircut at a time. For more information on Wahl Clipper Corporation and its products, please visit www.wahlpro.com.  

This edition brings only the best in the business – from the top barbers in the game, new-age tech, and interiors, to top of the range tools and even an appearance from rap legend Fat Joe! We’ve brought together a collection of content from our esteemed columnists and industry leaders, whilst also highlighting those rising stars of the industry. All this and more in our summer shake-up issue – it’s one for the books!

IN THIS ISSUE:

WAHL 

Our cover stars for this issue are from the professional grooming brand, WAHL Professional, from the Future Maker’s collection. Followed by the exclusive insider info about WAHL’s new ‘Make it with WAHL’ platform. The brand, who are always in pursuit of connection in the barbering community, has unveiled the platform – with the goal to further the deep-seated belief that powerful connections are forged with each haircut. The networking and uplifting platform is set to make waves within the industry, no matter what level you’re at. 

Events

In our events section – we have no shortage of fun! BarberEVO columnist Byrd Mena is back on BarberEVO’s pages, giving you a BTS look at the RISE of Hair 2024, while we also look forward to the LV BarberExpo at the end of August. With these events on the horizon – the BarberEVO team have not long arrived back from Premiere Orlando and V’s Barbershop Summit in Phoenix, AZ – and we’re taking a look back at the amazing experiences. Our founders, David Foster and Andrew Brewster also made the trip to Bordeaux, France, for American Crew’s All Star event, as well as the STMNT Summit in Barcelona.  

Barber of the Edition

Our Barber of the Edition is Jimmy Fadez. His inspirational story of resilience, and genuine passion, is one that will change your perspective on the value of this industry. We sat down with the barber to learn more about his journey, and how the barbering community have rallied around him – unwavering in their support. 

Interiors

In BarberEVO’s interior section – we have no shortage of trailblazers in the barbering world. Kicking off the section, we have Skillz Kutz as our barbershop of the Edition. Owner and founder Kim Thomas has rocked the barbering community in Ashburn, VA – and she has no plans of stopping. Following on from Skillz Kutz catalyst, Kim, are the crew at Common Barbershop – from all the way in Australia. We also feature our columnist CJ from Barberville, who brought with him a very special guest – Jay Majors! Chatting about everything, from property, to design – Jay talks all things suites, offering up his top tips and seasoned perspective on shifting your business model.

Business

Leading our business section, we have Chico Boom who told us why you need to ensure your cash cow never goes hungry. Following on from Chico, we have our Diary of a CEO – where we get an insider peek into Joe Miller’s story with Beard Octane. From CT to Switzerland, we head to grooming-tool brand, Heiniger HQ to go Behind the Brand. We also put Fresha under the BarberEVO spotlight, to find out all the essential info AND more about the salon and barber software. With even more features tackling subjects, such as retailing and services – you don’t want to miss it.

Client Comfort

Kicking off client comfort, we caught up with Proraso Maestro Barbiere, Anthony Berriola from Razors, MA, talking about providing a service with a smile. One stop shop for barbering, tailoring and a whiskey – Jaxson Maximus, FL – shares how Collins chairs bring the ultimate comfort to the space. Rolda Ambassador Alejandra tells why products quality and formulation matters. BarberEVO will then take you to Las Vegas, circa. 1920, where The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails talks about how they created their roaring twenties, prohibition aesthetic – with the help of 18.21 Man Made. 

Color

Lastly, we tackle bringing color into the barbershop. We talked top tips for coloring, with Blonde Solutions’ Esbebe. Goldwell also make an appearance – with their newest product that is going to rock your business, and, well, you client’s world! Victor Hugo shares how to hone your whole hair art skillset, with the help of JRL tools. Renowned rapper Fat Joe also popped by EVO at CT Barber Expo – and we’ve gathered his thoughts on Rewind It 10. Spoiler alert – he loves it! All this and even more in the latest issue of BarberEVO!

For over a century, Wahl Professional has stood as the pinnacle of excellence in barbering, styling and grooming tools, leading the industry with innovation and quality. Today, the brand proudly debuts its ‘Make it With Wahl‘ platform, celebrating the global evolution of the Wahl Professional brand to empower the next generation of future makers.  

“When my great-grandfather, Leo Wahl, invented the first electric clipper, he could hardly imagine the profound influence and impact that he would later have on the culture and craftsmanship of countless professionals who would go on to forge successful careers, build communities, and foster connections, all with a Wahl tool in hand,” said Lance Wahl, Global SVP of Sales & Marketing for Wahl Professional. “Through education and the provision of high-quality products, our family-brand has remained steadfast in our commitment to empowering more professionals to realize their dreams. The possibilities are endless when you ‘Make it With Wahl’ and this is our open invitation to all professionals, at any stage of their career, to become part of the Wahl family.” 

The ‘Make it with Wahl‘ campaign is not just a launch; it’s the genesis of a broader platform, to showcase the fervor and connection shared between industry professionals and Wahl. Since its inception, Wahl Professional has become more than just a provider of exceptional products. The brand has played a pivotal role in cultivating a vibrant barbering community, empowered artists to achieve their dreams, and catalyzed transformation in countless lives, both in and beyond the barber chair. The introduction of ‘Make it with Wahl‘ underscores that with a Wahl tool, anything becomes achievable. 

At the core of Wahl Professional’s brand evolution lies a deep-seated belief in the power of connection in every haircut created. It is grounded in the understanding that hair isn’t just hair—it’s a conduit that links us to ourselves and the world around us. ‘Make it with Wahl’ is the brand’s commitment to ushering in another century of trusted excellence, equipping professionals with the tools to accomplish remarkable feats, shape culture, change lives, and foster meaningful careers. 

“Our brand evolution embodies humility, intentionality, and a deep understanding of people’s needs,” stated Garrett McGuire, Global Brand Director. “It ignites connections, fosters growth, fearlessly propels individuals forward, and fuels the future of professionals worldwide.” 

Wahl Professional invites all industry professionals to embark on this transformative journey—a journey defined by quality, passion, and the enduring bonds forged through Wahl.  

For more information on Wahl Professional and the ‘Make it With Wahl’ platform, please visit www.WahlPro.com.  

Set to take the male grooming world by storm, Uppercut Deluxe have released the brand-new product in their latest range, Control Cream.

With its barely-there hold, Control Cream is ideal for frizz control, curl control and everything in between. From straight to curly hair, this lightweight styling cream is designed to smooth down frizz or enhance curls in natural styles.

Control Cream adds a nice, light hold. To be used every day to give structure and shape, whilst controlling frizz. The all-rounder for guys who want that light enhancement and a healthy, natural finish.

If you don’t want to take our words for it, listen to the reviews from a selection of experts:

Steve Purcell | Uppercut Deluxe Founder: “I felt there was a hole in the men’s grooming market for guys who just want a lightweight styling cream. Something that gives the hair structure and shape without bogging it down. Not too much control, and not too little. Something that was just right.”

Tim Hutton | Hutto’s Barbershop, Australia: “Control Cream is great for the guys that want the no-fuss look while still maintaining an all-natural hold that carries them throughout the day.”

Queen Rockabilly | Tough Tiger Barbershop, Canada: “My clients who need volume LOVE this product! Helps the hair look fuller and thicker.”

Ben Boyer | Le Coupeur, France: “It’s the product my customers have been asking for, plugging a gap in the styling world.”

Asada Yoshiharu | Barbers Point, Japan: “It’s great for frizz reduction. Taking the edge off of unruly hair, yet an ideal curl enhancer to makes curls pop without weighing them down like traditional leave-in moisturisers.”

Jimmy Morrison | Jimmy’s Barbershop, Australia: “Control Cream is the Swiss Army Knife of styling. You need volume? It has it! You want texture? It’s for you! Feeling frizzy? Say no more. Need hold, yet want the look of no product in your hair then Control Cream is for you.”

Mike Conti | Pugsly’s Barbershop, USA: “It brings a new, refreshing approach to styling curls. Control Cream goes to the next level when you add some heat from the blow dryer. This simple action activates the formula and makes styling fun.”

Uppercut Deluxe Control Cream is available from uk.uppercutdeluxe.com, retailing at £15.

Here’s how Danny Smith, owner of BarberSmiths, uses Fresha to manage his three bustling barber shops across London.  

Danny opened his first BarberSmiths in Angel, North London, with the aim to create a traditional barbershop with a warm atmosphere and highly skilled barbers. All at an affordable price. Now open in Shoreditch and Marylebone, too, Danny’s brand is ever growing. 

BarberSmiths have been using Fresha as their chosen software to help keep track of the day-to-day running of the studios, and help the business continue to grow. With over 100,000 partner venues in more than 120 countries, Fresha’s software simplifies business operations and has a spread of features so business owners can tap into marketing, payment processing and have their own place on the Fresha marketplace. 

Fresha sat down with him to talk about what it’s like being a business owner, and how he’s found working with their software to grow his barbershop into what it is today. 

“I started the business about five years ago. We grew very quickly in Angel, which allowed us to open another studio in Shoreditch. And then Marylebone. I was inspired by being in London in general and seeing all the lovely barber shops. I wanted to be a part of it.” 

“What makes BarberSmiths different is the incredible atmosphere, and the very high-end service. It’s our premium service that remains at an affordable price.” 

Fresha asked Danny about his experience opening his own business, and if he had any advice for anyone starting out as a business owner. “The best way to learn is to throw yourself in at the deep end.” 

After falling in love with barbering and London, Danny opened BarberSmith with only three years’ experience working in the industry. So, it wasn’t all smooth running when Danny decided to make the jump. “I found that there was a lot I didn’t know. I probably went into it slightly too quickly: but sometimes that’s the best way to learn.” 

His favourite part of being a small business owner is the community he became a part of as soon as he opened his first studio. “There are people I’ll speak to on a daily basis,” he tells Fresha, “whether that’s the 90-year-old woman who’s lived here for years, or maybe someone new to the area. You tend to build relationships with so many people.” 

What made him the proudest, though, is the fact that his clients just keep coming back. “I can walk into every store and see first-hand that clients are coming in and keep coming in. Not just for the brand, but for the barbers themselves.” 

As Danny began to look into opening his other studios, he realised that running BarberSmiths across London was going to be a challenge and he needed software that was going to be able to keep up with his business as it grew. “I chose Fresha because I realised it was super simple to use. 

“I heard about Fresha through my sister, who’s a hairdresser. Her salon has been using it since they opened,” Danny told Fresha. “And once I started using it, I haven’t looked back. And it’s been a very nice partnership because I have been able to grow my business as Fresha has grown too.” 

Fresha gives business owners the chance to see everything that’s going on even when they have multiple shops. It saves them time and allows their team to have a little more independence. Fresha Reporting and insights also allows Danny to keep an eye on “the finer details of the business” which means he can use that time he saves investing in the business, rather than spending his whole working week trying to keep track of everything. 

“Each barber has their own profile which allows them to look after their own schedule. And they can make edits when needed. So, I have more freedom to concentrate on other things within the business. 

“My favourite feature is the retention rate: each individual barber has their own, so every month you can see what percentage people are running at. And I look at my own retention rate and male sure that I’m keeping the standard as high as possible.” 

Danny adds another of his favourite features: the ability to set up cancellation and no-show policies to either ask for an upfront payment or charge a client’s card on file when they don’t show up. “Before the no-show feature, we had a lot of issues with people not letting us know when they were going to turn up and we lost money. The feature allowed us to be able to charge people for not letting us know within a certain timeframe. 

“I would 100% recommend Fresha to anybody in barbering or anybody in the beauty industry. It’s been superb and it’s helped me sort of grow from the bottom to where I am now.” 

If you want results like these for your business, check out what the Fresha, the world’s #1 online booking platform for barbershops can do for your business. 

About Fresha 

Fresha is the world’s #1 beauty and wellness marketplace powered by all-in-one free business software with integrated payments. With over 100,000 partner venues in more than 120 countries, Fresha simplifies business operations and enhances customer experiences.

To learn more, visit fresha.com, download Fresha on the App Store and 

Google Play, or follow Fresha on Instagram and Facebook. 

Norfolk-based gentleman’s grooming Captain Fawcett has announced that their new product has been awarded as a ‘Men’s Grooming Products & Accessories’ Finalist at Cosmoprof Bologna.

The global lifestyle brand has been acclaimed for its  ‘Expedition Reserve’ Matt Styling and Volumising Hair Powder. The Cosmoprof & Cosmopack Awards in partnership with BEAUTYSTREAMS celebrate excellence in the global cosmetics industry and with over 700 entries, from across the globe, the contest is extremely competitive, with just 3 finalists per category. 

Products are independently judged on category criteria including Innovation, Creativity, Packaging & Design, Product Benefits, Ethics and User Experience.

Captain Fawcett’s new ‘Expedition Reserve’ Matt Styling and Volumising Hair Powder is the latest addition to the highly acclaimed ‘Hair Couture’ collection, created for both professional barbershops, salons, and luxury styling at home.

Captain Fawcett founder Richie Finney was delighted to join fellow global industry leaders at the The Grande Soirée Cosmoprof & Cosmopack Awards Ceremony in Bologna, Italy on Friday 22 March. 

He attended the glittering occasion with Valentino Bergamini, CEO and Founder of Captain Fawcett’s highly esteemed Italian distributor Bottega della Barba Srl. 

Richie said: “It is a huge honour for Captain Fawcett to be recognised as being amongst world leaders in the beauty and grooming industry. Being named as a Finalist amid such impressive competition from all across the world is testament to the ambition and hard work of the whole team, not least our simply magnificent distributors who do so much to support the Captain Fawcett brand in their home territories. 

“Captain Fawcett thanks all colleagues and friends for each playing their hugely appreciated parts as we continue to forge ahead in 2024!”

Rascals’ Owner and Founder, Sam Bentham, has just been announced as the newest Fresha Ambassador. The #1 Salon Software for booking, analytics, payments and more, has supported Sam through his journey from barber apprentice, to barbershop owner and entrepreneur. Sam spoke to BarberEVO about why he is Fresha’s #1 fan.

“I mean, I’ve been using Fresha before it was called Fresha,” chuckled Sam Bentham. “It just feels pretty full circle to be a Fresha Ambassador now.”

Sam is the owner and founder of the Newcastle barbershops Rascals, haircare line of the same name – and the newly announced Fresha Ambassador. Sam set up his urban city-scape style barbershop in Newcastle in 2018 and Rascals’ second location at the end of 2023 – Sam feels like his career has catapulted. Whilst this type of constant career evolution would bring some people a certain degree of stress, Sam told us he “loves it.”

Smiling, Sam said: “It’s funny, Fresha has been with me throughout my career. When I was just starting out, I got involved with Fresha because it was free, at the time. I’ve stuck with it for the entire time I’ve owned Rascals because it’s just so user-friendly. For me, it’s the perfect application – having two locations; with any other service, I would have to have two subscriptions. With Fresha, I’m able to integrate both stores into the one app. Having access to information about everything going on in my barbershops – from my stock levels to my staff’s commission – on one app, it’s made everything go so much smoother.”

The barber and entrepreneur, who is originally from North Tyneside in Newcastle, spoke to us whilst in the middle of a move to Manchester. While telling us about his plans to leave his barbershops in a managerial capacity, to set up a studio in the Rainy City and focus on creating digital barbering content, he noted that this is where Fresha comes in handy.

He said: “I have an amazing team at both Rascals stores, but I know that because they are such busy stores, the load will sometimes get overwhelming. It’s great to know that even if I’ll be away from the stores, I’ll be able to take on some of that weight. One of my favourite features on Fresha, is the add-on called Team Pay. I’m able to monitor the attendance and hours worked with the clocking in and out time sheets. I can track their commission, wages and tips – and pay it out. All from the app – wherever I am. Before Team Pay was developed, I used to have to sit on a Saturday afternoon and work everything out myself. So, it’s really allowed me to maximise my time and focus on different branches of my career.”

“I mean, there’s a greater benefit to it too, for owners. Before this feature came out, I used to have all of this money paid into my business account and send it out from there, which meant I was taxed on it all. With Fresha, because it’s all paid out via them and the business wallet feature, I’ve ended up saving nearly half my VAT bill, which I can then reinvest into my business,” Sam said.

The young creative, whilst “always having a business mindset,” didn’t always have the barbering bug – but it seemed there was always something trying to reel him in. When he was a child, Sam’s mum worked in a hairdresser – where Sam admittedly “loved the sound of the hair being cut.” After leaving high school, Sam studied Aerospace Engineering at college. Only lasting a year, he dropped out with no clear plan. With more free time on his hands, Sam began modelling hairstyles for his friend, who was undertaking a hairdresser apprenticeship. Fascinated by the colors and styles, Sam decided to make the move into the barbering world.

Sam said: “As soon as I figured out that I was going to give barbering a go, I knew I wanted to have my own shop. I’m someone who likes to do it my own way. When I was working for other barbers, I would always observe their space and visualise what I’d do with it. It’s the same with Rascals hair products. I’d be styling people’s hair and thinking about what ingredient could enhance the formula – even how I could make the packaging look better. So, I knew I had to start it up.”

The entrepreneur notes that launching the Rascals range in the summer of 2023 is one of two “real career highlights,” which reminds him of “just how far” he has come. Opening his second location of Rascals soon after the launch of his product line also gave the budding businessman a huge boost.

“It was so exciting opening the second Rascals. It lets me know I’m doing something right,” Sam nodded, before continuing. “I’m trying to do something different at Rascals. I’m trying to create something that is in between a barbershop and a salon. So, I use a lot of scissor work with a super in-depth consultation. I don’t want it to be your typical barbershop.”

Sam acknowledges that for some clients, this new-wave style of barbershop can feel intimidating. At Rascals, he makes it a priority to have his clients feel comfortable from the get-go.

“It’s about being greeted with a smile,” he said. “It’s about making the effort to give your client that good quality advice, to ensure your client feels listened to. I believe that’s one of the reasons we have such great customer retention rates. We’re able to focus on the service and really engage – a lot of that is because we have Fresha to deal with those important, but honestly, time-consuming tasks. We’re able to create that service that keeps our customers coming back.”