The Hair and Beauty Industry Authority (HABIA) have recently made the exciting appointment of Director and Co-Owner of Matakki, Emma Curd, to their team.

Emma will be joining the team as an ambassador with a focus on standards, in addition to Matakki being a HABIA official working partner.

Joan Scott, CEO of HABIA, said: “HABIA focus on standards, Education, Excellence, and careers. We are delighted to welcome Emma as an ambassador, with a focus on standards. Her experience and professional status in addition to the Matakki brand values, alongside their focus on industry standards and practices, align with those of HABIA perfectly.

“We appreciate the work that James, Emma and the Matakki team undertake to support the industry and work with hair professionals, educators and learners to champion technical excellence and high industry standards. We are excited to partner with such an initiative-taking brand, who offer such excellence to the industry.”

“Habia are truly about high standards and technical excellence, and I am thrilled to assume an additional role alongside my roles at AHT and world skills, with the backing of the Matakki brand to achieve that,” Emma enthused. “Standards has been the core of my professional career, it does not matter what uniform I have worn or what title I have held, I have pursued excellence in all.

“At Matakki we continue to promote and support these values to elevate the hair and beauty industry and maintain the professional status it deserves. As a senior manager and Director with experience in varying sectors, it is my belief that structured and accredited training with assessment in any industry, provides better outcomes and safer working.

“I am incredibly lucky to be a part of the Matakki brand formed by my husband back in 2003. James is an authority on steel, an expert technician, and an outstanding marketeer. This combination of varied skills being at the centre of our brand, ensure a holistic business model.

“Collaborating with our amazing team internally, our global ambassadors and official partner salons, allows us to strive to promote safe, secure, and equitable working environments through accredited training from FE through to CPD for all.”

Emma’s career spans almost 25 years as a qualified and registered clinician, including roles as a senior manager, Treasurer at the RCN union in Yorkshire and Humber and active senior clinician, prescriber, and mentor in her field of expertise.

This experience means Emma holds valuable knowledge, and a skill set which includes key areas such as risk assessment, prevention of cross infection, health and safety in the workplace and ergonomics. This is unbelievably valuable to affecting change around industry standards for learners and employers.

Emma has been a respected lead in the NHS, managing both teams and services, and is an advocate of qualification and continuing professional development. Since 2016, Emma has transferred those skills into Matakki alongside her husband James Curd, founder of Matakki, whilst retaining her qualified and accredited clinical status to function as a resource around user health in both equipment, its maintenance, ergonomics and working environments.

Emma’s role as ambassador will see her supporting HABIA across the hair and beauty industry alongside other experts, to develop national occupational standards which are incremental to professional qualification.

Jude Taylor has been announced as the new brand ambassador for OSMO. The Newcastle upon Tyne stylist has swiftly rose to the top of the industry after kickstarting his career in 2019.

Starting his apprenticeship just before the pandemic, Jude’s dedication and passion saw him qualify with a Level 3 diploma in 2023. As a new ambassador for OSMO, Jude will be focusing his expertise on curly hair and vibrant colour creations.

“I’m very excited to share my passion and expertise to the wider OSMO Family,” June enthused. “Curly hair is a real love for me (even for my own curly hair!) and I already love working with the OSMO Curl Revival range in the salon with my clients, so it’ll be great to demonstrate my cutting style to my peers. I also love working with vibrant colours, and the OSMO Color Pyscho and OSMO IKON shades and bleaches really help me achieve standout looks for my clients. I’m really looking forward to sharing my enthusiasm and skills in this new role.”

“We caught Jude’s creativity at a show and were so impressed with his expertise and passion for our craft. We know Jude will bring energy and new technical creativity within the OSMO Family, and we’re all excited to be working with Jude,” said OSMO Senior Brand Manager, Sinéad McLaughlin.

Jude’s style is characterised by his super creative and alternative approach to hairdressing, often bending the traditional rules. He thrives on creating bold, unconventional colours that are rarely seen in everyday life, making his work stand out in a crowd.

Jude’s talent has not gone unnoticed within the industry. He has placed in the top 10 for three consecutive years in the apprenticeship category of the UK Hair and Beauty Awards, and more recently, he secured 7th place at the same awards for Stylist of the Year.

Jude also just won “Unique Colourist of the Year” in the North East Hair and Beauty Awards. One of Jude’s favourite aspects of his career is performing on stage. He collaborates with incredible creatives through electronics brand, Diva Pro Styling, and recently had the opportunity to showcase his skills at HairCon, an experience he cherishes.

BarberEVO UK columnist and industry icon Alan Beak has been appointed as the new Global Ambassador for Booksy, marking a significant milestone for both the platform and the barbering community.

Known for his precision, creativity, and passion for education, Alan’s partnership with Booksy positions him as a driving force in promoting innovation and digital solutions within the industry.

As Director and Co-Founder of RUGER., Alan has always been at the forefront of cutting-edge barbering techniques. His new role with Booksy will see him championing the integration of technology into barbershops worldwide.

Through this collaboration, Alan will play a pivotal role in showcasing how digital tools can streamline operations, enhance client experiences, and help barbers elevate their businesses to new heights.

“The impact that Booksy had on RUGER. was phenomenal because we were the only people in our area that were taking our bookings,” Alan explained. “Now your time is your money, and our time is our money, and we would have people come to the shop at 8 a.m. on a Saturday and sit there for 4 or 5 hours waiting. Now, we’ve respected their time, and they’ve respected ours just waited anyway. But having that streamline of clients knowing full well who you have in the chair all day made us much more professional.”

As Booksy expands globally, Alan Beak’s influence will undoubtedly strengthen its presence in the barbering industry, inspiring professionals to embrace modern solutions that maximize efficiency and customer engagement. His ambassadorship signals a bright future where artistry meets innovation, setting a new standard for the industry.

Wahl Professional, the leading and trusted brand in professional grooming and styling, announced today the launch of its latest innovation, the 5-Star Vapor™ featuring the New F32 Fadeout™ Blade, the industry’s first adjustable balding blade. Offering rapid precision and a powerful cut, the Vapor™ is designed for barbers to achieve picture perfect bald fades by comfortably transitioning from bald to fade around the scalp area. 

The Vapor will be a part of Wahl’s 5-Star line of products, which includes the two of the highest selling clippers globally, the 5-Star Magic Clip® and the 5-Star Senior®. These tools and cordless counterparts have become the most trusted, dependable clippers on a barber’s station, and the addition of the Vapor™ will further solidify Wahl Pro as the global leader in barbering.  

“The Vapor is the culmination of Wahl Pro’s world-class innovation and engineering. Vapor offers a unique solution to the tedious processes of cutting to scalp and blending bald fades,” said Lance Wahl, Global SVP of Sales & Marketing for Wahl Professional.

“Aside from sharper precision and improved control through new designs, The Vapor’s revolutionary adjusting balding blade will simplify and create a more comfortable experience for those in the chair and behind it.”  

The F32 Fadeout™ Blade has deeper, finer, and 50% more ball-pointed teeth that are six grams lighter than Wahl Pro’s standard blade, so it can move quickly and smoothly over pores, preventing nicks and scrapes. The high-carbon steel blades with PVD chrome and black DLC coatings keep the blades cool, are ultra-strong, rust resistant, and remain sharp up to four times longer compared to standard steel blades. For the closest cut, the F32 Fadeout™ Blade can be adjusted for zero gap.  

In addition to the new blade, the Vapor™ has more power without the weight. Its high-speed brushless motor with Adaptive Speed Control provides consistent power of 8000 RPMs through all hair types and textures, while only weighing 275g, for a lighter hold.

For more control, the Vapor™ has a rubberized no-slip grip material, and the new metal taper lever and housing are shaped to align with natural hand and finger placement for unmatched comfort.   

The Wahl Pro 5-Star Vapor™ is available for $199.99 on Wahl Pro’s official website. For more information, visit  Wahlpro.com and follow @Wahlpro on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. 

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.