BarberEVO Magazine

Be part of the Barber EVOlution

Industry News

Captain Fawcett founder Richard Finney receives MBE

Richard Finney, founder of Captain Fawcett Ltd, has been honoured with the prestigious Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2025 New Year Honours List in recognition of his outstanding contribution to International Trade and to Charity.

This honour highlights Richard’s leadership in expanding British enterprise globally along with his dedication to charitable causes. These include men’s mental health, homelessness, and children’s welfare.

A key initiative is the annual BarbersRide charity motorcycle ride, co-founded with Xavier Berrell and Colin Petrie, and now entering its ninth consecutive year, which has to date raised over £180,000, for children’s charities such as Alder Hey and Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospitals as well as ‘Make-A-Wish’.

In his acceptance of the MBE, Richie is quick to emphasise that this esteemed recognition is not his alone, but rather a reflection of collective dedication and team work.

“In the guise of Captain Fawcett, I am but truly honoured to have been awarded ‘Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire’ — Huzzah! However, this highly esteemed accolade should and will be shared, for I am but the conductor of a hugely professional and incredibly creative orchestra of talent that has in turn contributed so much to Captain Fawcett’s ongoing success. Together, we are building something both disruptive and extraordinary to boot.”

Founded in 2010 at a kitchen table in Terrington St Clement, Norfolk, Captain Fawcett has grown to become a beacon of British quality and craftsmanship in Gentleman’s Grooming and Hair Care, exporting to 48 countries and earning a reputation for its award-winning products and distinctive character.

Beyond business, Richie has driven Captain Fawcett’s commitment to social responsibility, with initiatives like ‘BarbersRide’ becoming a flagship of the brand’s mission.

This award serves as a reminder of the importance of creating a community, celebrating the combined efforts of the entire team, suppliers, distributors, partners, and stakeholders around the globe, who have all played essential roles in Captain Fawcett’s remarkable story.

“Life isn’t a straight track. It’s full of pot holes, detours, steep climbs and alarming descents,” reflected Richie. “As such, it’s important that you surround yourself with a motivated team who both subscribe and add to the brand ethos and believe in it as fiercely as you. Getting this formula right, will result in the remarkable. For in truth, one’s journey is defined by fellow travellers who are willing to take the road with you. Teams grow, people come and go, however, every individual adds to the creative whole. This honour isn’t mine alone; it belongs to my stalwart companions who share the weight and lift one another when we stumble. Step by step, we press on together.”

As Richie accepts this prestigious honour, he hopes that his story will serve as an inspiration to others, as indeed others have inspired him, proof that with a commitment to hard work, a dash of good fortune, a certain amount of resilience, and having the right people in your corner, your dreams can become reality.

Richard Finney MBE looks forward to continuing the company’s growth. “Captain Fawcett has always been about forging lasting relationships. It is people who cement the sturdiest of foundations, the cornerstone of Captain Fawcett’s success is in supporting communities, and expanding the horizons of UK trade,” he said. “I look forward to the challenge. Here’s to 2025!” 

For more information on Captain Fawcett, please visit www.captainfawcett.com

Rising Star: Montel Campbell

In each edition, we choose a rising star – someone who is taking ownership of their path and building a booming career in the barbering world. With previous rising stars coming from all across the UK, this time it’s a little closer to EVO’s home. Made in Glasgow, but making waves across the UK… let us introduce Montel Campbell.

“Honestly, I just want to be a powerhouse of a person in every way possible… and barbering is the vessel for me to get there,” Montel Campbell told us from his East Kilbride, Glasgow barbershop, 1147.

“But my barbering journey has really been propelled by the people around me – and they’re who I keep going for.”

At only 25, Montel Campbell has built his booming career upon hard graft, continual education, and a humility toward those who raised him – both at home and in the barbershop (which, in Montel’s world, often overlap).

Montel’s journey hasn’t been an easy one, but it is one that proves him a beacon of resilience. So, let’s go back a few chapters to learn about the beginnings of our barber on the rise to stardom…

A HUMBLE START

“I remember it was a really difficult time. My mum, my sister, and I had been living in a refuge after certain circumstances meant we had to move homes. We were still trying to get settled when I met Tony for the first time.

I remember going to get my haircut with him, and thinking he was just so cool. We had the same V-cut mullet, with bleach at the back – so it just felt serendipitous to me.”

“He was my barber until he gave me a job, and he became my boss. I always wanted to work with him – and I’m extremely fortunate that I did for 10 years.

But what I’ve realised only recently was that it wasn’t just about liking cutting hair: it was Tony and the environment he had created.”

BUILDING A CAREER

Since Tony helped Montel start out in the business, his career has boomed – and he has recently gone into business with “one of the best barbers in the game,” Adam Berry, to open their shop 1127. Still based in East Kilbride, the pair aren’t far from Tony.

Montel has also built up a reputation for his forward-thinking cuts and styling.

“I always find inspiration on social media. I mean, Tony would always be blasting out mad trims that East Kilbride hadn’t seen yet – but through Instagram, I’ve been able to check out people’s styles from across the world and make friends with a lot of them.

Although, I have to say, what South American barbers are putting out there right now is insane. It’s mad colours, with super clean fades and designs – just all-out madness.”

THE POWER OF EDUCATION

Not only is Montel an advocate for pushing the limits of hair – he is also a firm believer in the power of education.

The barber recently joined the OP Barberschool as part of the education team after completing the Year One course and credits the OP D.F.S Formula for changing his career.

“Honestly, Josh OP is now one of my industry icons. What he’s done with his online academy is insane. He’s made it accessible for so many people, which is rare. I always tell people that I got my course on sale – and I don’t know where I’d be without it.”

“I am lucky to say that I get to work closely with the UK team, which consists of Tony Forrest and Marie Rainsford, who have both provided me with the support I need in the process of becoming an educator.

Shout out to those two because they’ve really supported me on this journey as an educator – always being patient and understanding.”

SUPPORT SYSTEM

Throughout our interview, Montel consistently referred to those who have supported him so far on his journey… “Tony Cairney, Adam Berry – they’ve been integral to my success so far.”

But Montel’s greatest support? His mum. “I grew up watching my mum work three jobs just to make ends meet. She didn’t ever let my sister nor I go without anything growing up. My gran, too – she would even chip in with my mum whenever I needed tools. It’s why I do what I do. It’s for my mum and my gran always.”

THE SECRET TO SUCCESS

Perhaps this humility and resilience is why Montel’s rise has been so swift. But as our conversation came to a close, we asked Montel: What’s the secret to success in this industry?

“You might face some difficult challenges in your life, but things happen to people – not because they deserve it – but because the world knows they can handle it.

Work hard, become great at what you do, and invest in yourself. Network with anyone you can – every single interaction you have, whether it be professionally or at the gym, is creating a network.

But the most important things? Be kind. Be yourself. Be positive… and put smiles on people’s faces whenever you can. The sky is the limit, and you set the height of your own possibilities.”

NHBF Top 100 Influencers

The NHBF Top 100 Influencer Index Award Ceremony is back for its fourth year!

Now in its 4th year, the award offers an opportunity to recognise those in the industry who use social media to influence, educate and innovate our sector.

Click below to watch the countdown for the Top 20 winner announcements.

This year’s Top 100 are:

  1. Cal Newsome – @cal_newsome
  2. Samuel A Bentham – @samrascals_
  3. Rob Wood – @novocabelohair
  4. Chlöe Swift  – @chloeswiftstylist
  5. Josh Lamonaca – @joshlamonaca
  6. Sarah Brawley – @sarahbrawleyhair
  7. Sarah Keane – @slkbleachexpert
  8. Casey Coleman – @caseyc_hair
  9. Jaymz Rigby-Marsters – @jaymz.marsters
  10. Jack Mead – @jackmeadstylist
  11. Richard James – @cyrl_cymru
  12. Errol Douglas – @erroldouglashair
  13. Okikiola Emaleku – @theskinpriest
  14. Daisy Goord – @daisy_goord
  15. Heffy Wheeler – @heffyx
  16. James Earnshaw  – @jhair_stylist
  17. Helena Brookes – @hellsbellshair
  18. Dale Mehmet – @dalehuncho
  19. Sophia Hilton – @hiltonsophia
  20. Simon Tuckwell – @heavy.metal.hairdresser
  21. Alan Beak – @alan_beak
  22. Emily Rosemonk – @emilyrosemonkhair_
  23. Charles Gray  – @charliegray248
  24. Tom Smith – @tomsmithhd
  25. Craig Henderson  – @craigsbarbershop
  26. Eleanor Szejnar – @beautybyelee
  27. Hollie Rudge – @holly_styleshair
  28. Adam Reed – @adamreedhair
  29. Mark Leeson  – @markleeson68
  30. Akin Konizi – @akinkonizi
  31. Jake Nugent  – @jakenugent.hair
  32. Lydia Wolfe – @lydwolfehair
  33. Emma Fowler – @emmafowlerhair
  34. Charlotte Harding – @the_hair_mermaid
  35. Andrew Barton – @andrew_barton_hair
  36. Kamila Borowiec – @glamliciousnails
  37. Rachel Valentine – @rachelvalentinehair
  38. Corey Jack  – @coreyjackhairr
  39. Ky Wilson – @kycutwilson
  40. Georgia Bell – @georgiabellhair
  41. Hazel Dixon – @hazeldixon
  42. Dawn Robertson  – @dawnhair24
  43. Jaz Moger  – @paintbyjaz
  44. Manshi Pandey – @manshi_priyadarshi
  45. Frazer Wallace – @frazerhair
  46. Jeseca McMahon  – @jesdoeshair_
  47. Guy Kleinhaus – @guydoeshair
  48. Dean Gleeson – @dean_gleeson_
  49. Simon Butcher – @simonshairground
  50. Siobhan Jones – @siobhanjoneshair
  51. Lewis Sidney Gumbrell – @siddabarber
  52. Stephen Hopper – @sh.hair.ne
  53. Mason Josh – @masonthestylist
  54. James Begley – @jamesbegleyliverpool
  55. Jonathan Andrew – @jonathanjandrew
  56. Simon Townley – @simontownley
  57. Justin Mackland – @justinmackland_hairartist
  58. Theresa Foddering  – @thenaildresser
  59. Dylan McConcahcie – @dylan.official_hairstylist
  60. Verity Ollerenshaw – @verityollerenshaw
  61. Rhys Whitehouse – @r.whitehouse_cuts
  62. Scott Cooper – @thecurlyscott
  63. JJ Sivani  – @jjsavani
  64. Felix Marrero Morales – @hairbyfelixuk
  65. Safy Burton – @saffffy
  66. Alyssa Davila – @thehairfairyy_
  67. Giuseppe Stelitano – @giuseppebstelitano
  68. Brooke Evans – @br00ke.evans
  69. Marlon Hawkins – @marlonjhawkins
  70. Oscar Mendoza – @oscar.mendoza_
  71. Paige Taylor Dargan – @taylordbypaige
  72. Vicki Lord – @vickilordhair
  73. Terri Harris – @terricolours_hair
  74. Laura Hill – @laurahillhair
  75. Daniel Couch – @danielcouchhair
  76. Jodie Whitehead-Booth – @jodie_whitehead_
  77. Ben Grace  – @bengracehair
  78. Keri Blue – @keribluebarber
  79. Mel Brough – @mehlun
  80. Caspar Finch – @casparfinch
  81. Darrel Starkey – @hairbydarrel
  82. Kymberley Holmes  – @kymberley_hairstylist
  83. Amy Sultan  – @amysultanhair
  84. Karis Woodward – @karisamyhair
  85. Amy O’Sullivan – @hairbyamyosullivan
  86. Rebecca Ruiz Hoynes – @bexx_hair
  87. Sophie-Rose Goldsworthy – @sophierose_golds
  88. Emma Dixon – @emmadixonhair
  89. Stephen William  – @stephenwilliamhair
  90. Simmi Lennark – @simmibeautyx
  91. Stacey Whyte – @stacey.hairartist
  92. Gemma Smidmore  – @colourbygemma
  93. Emy Roccabella – @emyroccabella_hair
  94. Adele Clarke – @adeleclarkespectrum
  95. Rhiannon Lamb – @naileditbyrhi
  96. Stacey Wright – @staceywright_hair
  97. Terry Longden  – @terrylongdencreatives
  98. Annie Barrett  – @annieb1creations
  99. Bianca Lerario – @Bianca Lerario
  100. Lauren Churchill – @lauren1creations

Out Now: UK & Ireland #48 (Jan/Feb)

The latest issue of BarberEVO is OUT NOW!

Happy New Year! Welcome to the first issue of BarberEVO in 2025 – here we have a magazine fill to the brim with the latest tips, techniques, and advice to help you get the ball rolling and nail the new year. Whether you’re looking to refresh your barbershop, you’ll find inspiration in our Interiors feature, or in need of some goal setting or pricing advice, you’ll find some guidance in our Business feature. Let’s kick January off with a bang and start the new year on the right track!

COVER STAR: Tomoya Nishimori

This edition, our Cover Star and Barber of the Edition is the globally renowned barber Tomoya Nishimori. He is the mastermind behind the iconic Mr Brother’s Cut Club, and global educator and ambassador for the premium Japanese grooming brand, BROSH. In this feature, we delve into the backstory of Tomoya and find out exactly how he became the barber that we all know and respect today – as well as hearing about his passion for BROSH and showcasing the talent of the Japanese barbering industry.

EVENTS

Kicking off all thing’s events, we hear from Andy Dawson who was recently involved in the opening of the brand-new Footasylum store in Aberdeen’s Union Square shopping centre. Elsewhere, we dive into the roaring success of EVO On The Road: Glasgow edition – the sold-out event was not to be missed! BarberEVO was also lucky enough to attend the MR. Barbers annual award ceremony and see the excitement firsthand. And who could forget about the Fellowship’s Luncheon and Awards at The Londoner Hotel – we have it all covered here!

NEW YEAR

Bringing in the new year, we hear from Luke James Dolan who won the coveted title of Wahl’s British Barber of the Year for 2024. We speak to four of the best and brightest barbers about their goals for the new year ahead, and our columnist Alan Beak shares his tips for goal setting for the year ahead. Columnist Vikki Harrison-Smith showcases one of her brightest stars from the SB Barber Academy, and Rob Wood from Novo Cabelo reflects on the monumental year he had in 2024, while Andy Dawson of SIGMA Male Image shares his accomplishments, and offers advice on how you can achieve your goals.

INTERIORS

Here, we take a deep dive into the chilled oasis that is Folk. and hear from owners Jordan Coubrough and Sean Dick about how they created the relaxed, yet elevated, space. Elsewhere, we hear from Mustafa Ismail, owner of R.W. Wolf Barbers, who took home the impressive accolade of Wahl’s British Barbershop of the Year 2024 to find out about their trend-setting design inspiration. Vikki Harrison-Smith and Graeme Macaskill share the results of Daylight Company in their barbershops, and we spotlight Mari de Monte’s Manhattan based barbershop Low Ear.

BUSINESS

REM UK have been at the forefront of innovation for decades, and the BarberEVO were lucky enough to get a behind-the-scenes tour of the factory to see where the magic happens. One of BarberEVO’s newest columnists Graeme Macaskill talks us through how to rise prices in the new year, while the NHBF break down the first budget from the Labour Government and how that will affect you.

PRODUCT FOCUS: Haircare

Barbering isn’t all about haircuts, it’s also about helping your clients care for their hair. Starting this feature off strong, we hear from Ryan Lewis, owner of Club13 in Hull and STMNT Grooming Goods ambassador, about his go-to haircare tips and tricks for clients. Columnist Hayden Cassidy shared how you can care for your hair away from the barbershop, while Mark Maciver talked about the need for conversations around hair-loss, and Olivier Mathis went through his beard care routine with The Bluebeards Revenge.

Make Your Retail more YOU with Vagaro

Vagaro Enhances E-Commerce Capabilities with Introduction of Product Variants

Vagaro, the leading software for businesses in beauty, wellness, and fitness, has announced the launch of its new Product Variants feature, offering businesses even greater flexibility in managing their retail sales all in one place.

The new feature allows businesses to easily manage product variations, such as different sizes, shapes, or colors, by simply indicating these details in a dropdown menu. This eliminates the need to enter each variant as a standalone product, simplifying the inventory process. Additionally, users can manage essential product details such as ingredients, instructions, and size guides, all from one centralized page.

The launch reflects Vagaro’s commitment to being a comprehensive, all-in-one solution for beauty business owners. Industry data shows that retail sales contribute between 15-40% of revenue in the beauty industry. With the addition of product variants, users can maximize these product sales directly from their Vagaro account.

“Beauty & wellness professionals know that time is money. Our product variants feature will give some of that time back while also helping them improve their retail sales; enhancing their revenue in more ways than one,” says Vagaro CMO, Charity Hudnall.

Businesses can efficiently manage and sync their entire online inventory without the need to dedicate excessive time to stocking or updating multiple platforms. Vagaro AI also offers businesses the ability to craft product descriptions and details quickly, further enhancing the efficiency and professionalism of their online stores, especially when used in combination with product variants.

In Conclusion: The addition of product variants streamlines the retail experience for beauty professionals, enabling them to manage their inventory and product details with ease. With this new feature, Vagaro continues to help businesses grow by simplifying complex tasks and enhancing revenue potential.

For more information on how product variants can help businesses thrive, visit Vagaro.

GA.MA Professional launches new Lumine Beetle Clipper

When it comes to precision styling, the right clipper makes all the difference. GA.MA Professional, the global hair tool leader, is excited to announce the launch of their new Lumine Beetle Clipper. Small in size but packed with all the features of a larger trimmer, this compact powerhouse is the perfect choice for detailed work like finishing touches, intricate designs and precision cuts.

Designed with both ergonomics and durability in mind, the Lumine Beetle Clipper (Price: $47.20) is ideal for stylists who need accuracy without sacrificing performance. With a 6000 RPM motor, it effortlessly delivers professional-grade results, whether you’re perfecting a sharp fade design, refining edges around the ears, beard, or sideburns or tidying up the nape. Its lightweight beetle-inspired design prioritizes safety, enhances productivity and allows for faster work to keep up with the fast pace of salons and barbershops.

What sets the Lumine Beetle Clipper apart is its Professional Sintered Blades. These blades blend the durability of forged steel with the lightweight feel of synthetic materials, created through a cutting-edge sintering process. This advanced technique fuses metal powders into a corrosion-resistant structure that’s built to thrive in wet environments like salons. The result is a blade that’s as reliable as it is precise.

Additional Features:

  • Cord: Professional Cord/Cordless
  • Additional Professional Sintered Blade Included
  • Battery: Lithium Battery
  • Autonomy: 90 min.
  • Hanging Hook
  • Minimum Cut: 0.3 mm

For added convenience, the clipper includes three comb attachments (1.5 mm, 2 mm and 3 mm), perfect for tackling a variety of hairstyles and fade techniques. Whether you’re working in a salon or on the go, this compact tool can even easily slip right into your pocket, delivering pro-level results wherever your styling journey takes you.

With its advanced technology, ergonomic design and powerful performance, the Lumine Beetle Clipper is the ultimate creative partner. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, this clipper helps unlock your potential and keep your work sharp, precise and inspired.

The Lumine Beetle Clipper will be available for purchase at www.gamaprofessional.us.

Jay’s Barber Club Charity Christmas Cut’athon at Denman HQ

Jay Millar and the awesome team at Jay’s Barber Club in Belfast ran a cuta’thon for charity at the Head Office of Denman International on December 18, 2024.

The team took time out of the hectic pre-Christmas rush to devote three hours to cutting the hair of up to 25 staff members and ALL proceeds went to Haircuts for Homeless.

“Haircuts for Homeless is one of our chosen charities and when the opportunity arose to raise money through the cuta’thon we were incredibly grateful to Jay and his team for stepping in. The staff loved having the convenience and novelty of getting a cut and finish without even leaving the premises,” Maria Stafford, Partnership Development Manager. 

Jay and the team were delighted to support this amazing charity founded by Stewart Roberts, as they are no strangers to helping the local community. Jay Millar already works tirelessly to promote mental health awareness and donates his time and services to those struggling with homelessness.

The Denman team is now all set for a handsome Christmas!

It’s All About Connections – Vagaro Connect

Vagaro Launches Connect App to Enhance Real-Time Communication for Businesses and Clients

In today’s fast-paced business environment, effective communication is more important than ever. Vagaro has introduced Vagaro Connect, a two-way messaging platform designed to improve communication between businesses and their clients, as well as among team members. Accessible via the Connect App or Vagaro Desktop, the app enables seamless, real-time conversations, empowering businesses to deliver a personalized experience to clients while improving team collaboration.

The dedicated business communication channel within Vagaro Connect ensures that work-related messages are kept separate from personal messages, allowing business owners to set clear boundaries. This helps improve professionalism while maintaining effective communication.

What is Vagaro Connect?

Vagaro Connect is an extension of the Vagaro Pro apps that provides an easy-to-use platform for direct messaging between clients and businesses. By enabling two-way chat for both client and team communications, Connect helps simplify the process of staying in touch, with all features fully accessible through the Vagaro Pro app on desktop and mobile. Full functionality is available with Vagaro’s text messaging (SMS) feature, making it easier to stay connected at all times.

While many business owners already communicate with clients and employees through emails or phone calls, Vagaro Connect offers a more streamlined and efficient solution. Unlike traditional methods, Connect enables real-time, personalized communication that’s more efficient and easier to track.

Turn Conversations into Conversions

In addition to facilitating communication, Vagaro Connect helps businesses convert positive client interactions into booked appointments or upsell opportunities. When communicating with clients through the app, business owners can send appointment links directly to their calendars, allowing clients to book services on the spot. The integration with the Vagaro Calendar makes it easy to send clients links that go straight into a service provider’s schedule, ensuring that every interaction has the potential to turn into revenue.

This seamless integration between chat and scheduling simplifies the booking process for clients and helps businesses secure revenue quickly. The combination of fast response times, personalized service, and easy scheduling ultimately enhances the customer experience and boosts the likelihood of repeat business.

Acquire Client Information Quickly & Easily

In today’s fast-paced environment, speed and accuracy matter. With Vagaro Connect, businesses can quickly obtain important client details through direct communication, without the need for time-consuming phone calls or emails. By enabling text messaging, businesses can immediately gather essential information, update appointment details, or request feedback, all while ensuring a personalized and efficient interaction.

The platform also includes an internal notes feature, allowing businesses to leave relevant client details within the chat history. This keeps all team members informed about a client’s preferences, upcoming appointments, and any other important information, ensuring a seamless experience for the client at every touchpoint.

Clear Communication Across Multiple Platforms

Another standout feature of Vagaro Connect is its ability to maintain consistent communication across various platforms. Clients can reach out via the Vagaro Marketplace, your Branded App, or your MySite. Once a client initiates a conversation, the message icon will appear across all platforms, so businesses can respond quickly, regardless of where they are.

Even if the conversation doesn’t proceed in one uninterrupted stream, Vagaro Connect allows businesses to pick up right where they left off, ensuring continuity and preventing any information from falling through the cracks. With access to message history and internal notes, your team can stay aligned on client interactions, no matter where they take place.

Improved Team Communication

Effective team communication is a cornerstone of any successful business. Vagaro Connect enhances internal communication by allowing team members to engage in one-on-one chats or group chats, helping managers communicate with employees about important matters, including:

  • Scheduling and shift changes
  • Payroll and staffing updates
  • Training opportunities
  • New inventory or promotions
  • Daily deals or special events

In addition, Vagaro Connect syncs with employee calendars to provide a real-time view of each team member’s availability, ensuring that scheduling issues are addressed quickly. Whether it’s ensuring that a team member is free to take a client or sharing important business updates, Vagaro Connect improves operational efficiency and promotes a more informed, connected workforce.

Better Work-Life Balance

While it’s important to be available for clients and employees, it’s equally important to maintain personal boundaries. Vagaro Connect helps business owners preserve their work-life balance by keeping professional communication separate from personal messages. By using the app, business owners can respond to clients and employees when needed, without worrying about personal conversations mixing with work communications.

This not only maintains professionalism but also prevents the mix-up of private and business messages, offering a much-needed distinction between the two. By allowing business owners to manage all their communications in one place—without using personal phone numbers or email addresses—Vagaro Connect helps maintain the right balance.

Conclusion

As businesses seek more effective ways to manage client and team communications, Vagaro Connect emerges as a crucial tool. The app enhances the overall client experience, streamlines internal communication, and supports a healthy work-life balance for business owners. With its seamless integration with Vagaro’s other tools and features, Connect enables businesses to manage real-time communication more effectively and efficiently.

Businesses looking to improve communication, streamline client interactions, and enhance team collaboration can start a FREE 30-day trial of Vagaro Connect today and experience its impact firsthand.

HairCon to welcome International Hairdressing Awards

The International Hairdressing Awards (IHA) is set to make waves in 2025 with its prestigious awards ceremony taking place on Saturday, June 21st, during the much-anticipated HairCon event at Manchester’s iconic O2 Victoria Warehouse. This exciting announcement marks a milestone collaboration between two powerhouse platforms in the hairdressing industry, promising an unparalleled experience for professionals across the globe.

This partnership unites the creative brilliance of the IHA with the vibrant networking, education, and business opportunities offered by HairCon, organised by The Assembly Events Ltd. Together, they aim to create a dynamic space that celebrates artistry, fosters innovation, and supports professional growth within the global hairdressing community.

Mikel Luzea, CEO and Founder of the International Hairdressing Awards, shared his enthusiasm for this groundbreaking partnership: “The International Hairdressing Awards are more than just accolades; they are a celebration of the artistry and passion of our industry. Partnering with HairCon allows us to expand our reach and impact, offering participants a comprehensive platform to connect, learn, and be inspired.”

Michael Dynan, CEO and Founder of The Assembly Events Ltd., echoed the excitement: “We’re thrilled to announce the prestigious International Hairdressing Awards’ UK debut exclusively at HairCon 2025! This collaboration solidifies the incredible success of our inaugural show and marks a milestone for both organisations, bringing together the world’s top talent for an extraordinary evening of recognition, followed by two unmissable days of creativity, connections, and commerce. Join us for this historic moment where the global hair community unites to celebrate excellence and shape the industry’s future.”

The 2025 IHAwards Ceremony promises an unforgettable evening of glamour, creativity, and well-deserved recognition as the industry’s brightest talents and pioneers are honoured on the global stage. Complementing the awards, HairCon will continue to captivate attendees on Sunday, June 22nd, and Monday, June 23rd, offering two days packed with dynamic content, product showcases, inspiring artistry, and unparalleled networking opportunities.

With Manchester set to become the epicenter of professional hairdressing for this extraordinary weekend, industry professionals won’t want to miss this unique opportunity to be part of history. From celebrating the very best in hairdressing to connecting with top brands and innovators, HairCon 2025 promises to elevate the global hair community like never before.

Save the date and prepare to be inspired at the ultimate hair industry event of the year!

Patrick Butler Joins V’s Barbershop as Director of Barbershop Experience

V’s Barbershop, the leader in authentic men’s grooming since 1999, is excited to announce the addition of Patrick Butler to its leadership team as the Director of Barbershop Experience, effective January 1, 2025. Butler brings over 30 years of industry expertise and a proven track record in education, operations, and grooming products.

“Patrick is the perfect fit for V’s Barbershop as we continue to improve every aspect of the patron experience,” said Emily Brown, Chief Operating Officer of V’s Barbershop. “I’m thrilled to work closely with him at industry events and in our shops to ensure our franchisees and barbers have the training, tools, and inspiration needed to deliver exceptional in-store experiences. His expertise strengthens our commitment to being the authority in men’s grooming.”

A respected industry veteran, Butler has built an impressive career spanning the globe. As an International Educator with American Crew, he played a pivotal role in establishing technical academies across North

America, Europe, and Asia, teaching advanced men’s haircutting and grooming techniques in 10 countries. His career also includes leadership roles in sales and operations with Peel’s Salon Services (later SalonCentric) and Floyd’s 99 Barbershops, where he focused on education, content production, franchise support, and building strong relationships with manufacturers.

In his role at V’s Barbershop, Butler will focus on strengthening franchisee support through improved training programs, ensuring consistent service quality across all locations, and introducing innovative customer engagement strategies. He will also lead efforts to expand V’s beyond its traditional barbershop model, building on its existing product line by exploring new opportunities in product development e-commerce, and digital educational resources designed for all customers, addressing the grooming needs of the modern man.

“Patrick’s addition to our leadership team represents an exciting step forward for V’s Barbershop,” said Jim Valenzuela, Founder and CEO of V’s Barbershop. “His wealth of experience and dedication to education will help us redefine the men’s grooming experience both inside and outside our barbershops.This hire signals our commitment to expanding into new areas while staying true to our core mission of delivering premium barbering services to gentlemen everywhere.”