Fresha, the world’s leading marketplace platform for beauty, wellness, and self-care, today announced a strategic investment and partnership with Yuv, a cutting-edge company specialising in AI-powered hair colour technology.

This collaboration sets the stage for Fresha to further cement its position as the go-to platform for salons and beauty professionals globally, offering unparalleled innovation and efficiency.

Fresha boasts a network of over 120,000 beauty businesses worldwide, with salons making up a large portion of its partners. Hair colouring is a significant revenue driver for salons but remains one of the most complex services to manage effectively. By integrating Yuv’s groundbreaking technology, Fresha is set to revolutionise the hair colouring process—enhancing precision, streamlining inventory management, and delivering personalised and consistent services for clients. This strategic move further reinforces Fresha’s position as an industry leader, providing salons and beauty businesses with the advanced tools they need to elevate both their service quality and operational efficiency.

Hair colouring is a complex service that requires precision and consistency. Yuv’s technology allows salons to save personalised hair colour formulas directly in customer profiles, ensuring a consistent and tailored experience for every client. For salon owners, this means they can offer a high-quality, customised service every time, which not only strengthens client loyalty and drives repeat business but also contributes to environmental sustainability.

Beyond enhancing the client experience, Yuv’s technology significantly improves inventory management. Integrated into Fresha’s backend systems, the solution provides salons with real-time insights into product usage and automates restocking processes. This not only reduces waste and lowers costs but also ensures that salons always have the necessary products on hand, optimising efficiency and profitability.

By addressing these critical pain points with an innovative solution, Fresha expects to increase platform stickiness and deepen merchant loyalty. The integration of Yuv’s technology further embeds Fresha into the day-to-day operations of its largest vertical, strengthening its competitive advantage in the beauty space.

“Investing in Yuv aligns with our mission to provide the most advanced tools to beauty professionals,” said William Zeqiri, Founder and CEO of Fresha. “Hair colouring is a cornerstone of the salon business, and by addressing the complexities of this service, we’re adding significant value to our platform. This partnership will transform how salons operate and positions Fresha as the most trusted and indispensable platform for beauty and wellness businesses worldwide, reinforcing our role as the industry leader.”

“We’re thrilled to join forces with Fresha,” said Francisco Gimenez, Founder and CEO of Yuv. “Partnering with Fresha provides us with the platform and reach we need to revolutionise the salon experience on a global scale. Together, we’re set to transform how professionals and clients approach hair colouring, creating a more efficient and personalised process that benefits everyone involved.”

Wahl Professional announces the launch of the Vanquish Hairdryer in the popular T-shaped design for a more efficient and quieter drying experience for consumers and pros alike.

STERLING, Ill., Oct. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Wahl Professional, the leading and trusted brand in professional grooming and styling, announced today the launch of the Vanquish Hairdryer, a brushless digital motor dryer designed for a quieter, lighter, and more efficient drying experience.

For long sessions, the Vanquish Hairdryer’s slim and lightweight T-shaped design improves handling and reduces wrist fatigue.

“The introduction of the Vanquish Hairdryer underscores our ongoing commitment to innovation and quality, as it brings a new drying standard to consumers as well as professional barbers and stylists,” said Lance Wahl, global SVP of sales and marketing for Wahl Professional. “The Vanquish is truly raising the bar for the next generation brushless digital motor hairdryers and is a game changer for the industry. Its innovative features create a more comfortable and elevated experience regardless of styling skill level.”

The Vanquish Hairdryer prioritizes power, comfort, and efficiency. With FlowControl, it delivers direct airflow and efficient power for fast, even hair drying from root to tip. The SmoothTone™ motor system removes harsh frequencies and keeps the volume low, so professionals can continue to chat easily with clients as they dry. For long sessions, the slim and lightweight T-shaped design improves handling and reduces wrist fatigue.

The Vanquish offers an easy-to-read and easy-to-use LED screen that displays four heat and three speed settings, so the drying experience can be personalized to the most comfortable heat setting for different hair types and thickness, or desired hair style. With the memory function, it will lock in the settings preferences, so the user can achieve their look again and again with convenience. The Vanquish also conveniently has an auto-clean function, keeping the filter clear of debris, for easy maintenance and long-lasting performance.

The Vanquish Hairdryer is available to purchase for $179.99 on Wahl Pro’s official website. 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.

 The Professional Beauty Association (PBA), whose mission is to advocate and fight for the rights and professionalism of the beauty industry, is urgently seeking donations for the Disaster Relief Fund as thousands of industry professionals are impacted by the devastating destruction of Hurricane Milton directly on the heels of Hurricane Helene. 

The PBA Disaster Relief Fund provides emergency relief to beauty industry professionals to pay for essential items such as clothing, food, bills and supplies during times of natural disaster. The fund is supported by generous donations from industry professionals and businesses and has distributed more than $2.5 million to help industry professionals get back on their feet following catastrophic disaster. 100% of donations go directly to those in need. All licensed industry professionals are eligible to apply, and PBA members may receive up to twice the regular amount of emergency relief funding. 

“In the wake of Hurricanes Milton and Helene we are completely overwhelmed with applications for emergency assistance,” shares Rachel Molepske, PBA Director of Leadership Operations & Charitable Programs. “Our industry professionals are suffering and we must help. We are making an urgent plea for donations to help those affected.” 

DRF applicants continue to share heartbreaking stories of how Hurricanes Milton and Helene have impacted their livelihood: 

“Everything in the salon is damaged. It is catastrophic. Everything I have worked hard for has been destroyed in the blink of an eye.” 

“Most roads were completely washed away, power is expected to be out for weeks, and my income has gone to nothing at this point.” 

“I don’t have a place to live at the moment and there are estimates of not having water restored for several weeks to several months from now.” 

Please help beauty industry professionals get the support they desperately need! Please DONATE and spread the word. 

PBA would like to thank the generous sponsors who have already committed significant contributions to DRF: 

● Andrew Gomez Dream Foundation/Paul Mitchell Schools – $25,000 

● K18 – $25,000 

● L’Oreal – $15,000 

● SalonCentric – $15,000 

● JPMS – $10,000 

● MY SALON Suite – $10,000 

● Henkel – $10,000 

Donations of any size are appreciated and needed. For more information, or to apply 

In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of fashion and grooming, technology has become a vital tool for professionals looking to streamline their operations and expand their reach. This issue, we speak to award winning barber, and fashion world high-flyer, Thaddeus, about how he uses industry technology like Fresha to build relationships and run his business seamlessly.

Fresha is an easy-to-use software designed for barbershops and other beauty and wellness businesses. It helps barbers manage appointments, customer info, and payments all in one place. With Fresha, barbers can let clients book online anytime, track client history and preferences, and handle payments smoothly. This means less time on admin tasks and more time cutting hair.

Fresha also helps barbers find new clients through its marketplace and keep existing ones with automated reminders and promotions. Using Fresha makes running a barbershop easier and more efficient, allowing barbers to focus on what they do best.

To find out more about how tech is being used in the barbering industry, Thaddeus, an award-winning barber, went over for the Louis Vuitton and Ami show at Paris Fashion Week with Fresha to see the importance of tech in the barbering industry.

Over the years, Thaddeus has perfected his craft and begun traveling and teaching around the world. He’s even had the privilege to personally cut some celebrities, such as Drake, J Balvin, Big Sean, and DVSN.

In 2017, Thaddeus became the National Men’s Ambassador-Educator for L’Oréal. In 2019, Thaddeus moved to the UK to attend Vidal Sassoon and merge the gap between barbering and hairdressing. He’s now back in North America running GRADIENT, ‘A platform for hair architecture and design. The fusion of knowledge, tools, and exploration.’

So, what about tech in the industry? Thaddeus says it’s all about building relationships and making your work and the ability to book as accessible as possible.

“I have all these models now connecting and booking with me through the Fresha app. It’s important to have a booking system connected to your profile on social media just because it stops any friction between you and your potential clients looking at your amazing work,” he explained.

This seamless connection allows potential clients to view Thad’s work and book appointments without any hassle, improving that experience for the client, and boosting business.

“For example, we’ve been able to grow our social media following, our fan base, and our community, as well as travel the world. I was just in Barcelona teaching an amazing class at a big show, which connected me to some amazing barbers. And this is all through connecting with the right people. Technology has definitely helped the barbering industry. These opportunities to teach and collaborate are a testament to how technology can open doors and facilitate meaningful connections in the industry.”

Thaddeus is particularly impressed with the Fresha app, highlighting its simplicity and aesthetic appeal. “What I like about Fresha is that their booking app is so simple, pleasing to the eye, and very minimal. I think it would match any branding, so if you’re looking for a booking app, Fresha is the way to go,” he said.

This endorsement speaks volumes about the importance of user-friendly technology in enhancing the client experience and supporting business growth. The integration of technology in the barbering industry is not just a trend but a necessity for modern professionals.

Thaddeus’ experience illustrates how tools like Fresha can significantly impact a barber’s ability to manage their business, connect with clients, and expand their reach. As technology continues to advance, it will undoubtedly play an even more significant role in shaping the future of the barbering industry.

By using innovative tools like the Fresha app, Thaddeus has streamlined his operations, built a global community, and showcased his talents on an international stage. His story is an inspiration to other professionals in the industry, highlighting the transformative power of technology in achieving success and making meaningful connections.

Captain Fawcett’s new Bianco Classico range is a sophisticated addition to the brand’s renowned grooming line. Known for its dedication to quality and vintage flair, Captain Fawcett has curated this collection to appeal to modern gentlemen who appreciate classic elegance.

Tailored for all hair types, ‘Bianco Classico’ is simply sensational for white, grey and platinum Silver Foxes. The new range launches with a Beard Butter, Moustache Wax and Purple Shampoo, all designed to highlight and accentuate the natural brilliance of silver strands.

Formulated as a Beard Butter and Moustache Wax, ‘Bianco Classico’ both conditions and shapes, whilst adding a subtle sheen to all mature facial hair.

The ‘Bianco Classico’ toning Shampoo is crafted from crushed Violet pigment to counter tarnished yellow undertones and reveal the natural radiance of blonde, bleached or grey hair. Best used once a week, integrated with your favourite hair care ritual to enhance clarity and shine whilst keeping locks looking fresh.

Evoking the seasons of a life well lived, the ‘Bianco Classico’ collection is ideal for scent layering, being subtly, and most delectably, fragranced with woody Rosemary & Star Anise, combined with invigorating Cyclamen, the mineral tang of Ambergris, calming Cedarwood and sun toasted Tonka. 

Renowned in the industry for his own flowing pewter hair and beard, Captain Fawcett Founder, Richie Finney, said: “Depending on your unique inherited genetics, silver strands tend to begin sneaking in during our 30s. Gadzooks! And, as hair loses pigment, it becomes drier and coarser, perchance appearing somewhat frizzled, tired and dull. So giving hair proper attention keeps it shining with vigour and health! And of course, the same principles apply for one’s beard as for the distinguished locks upon one’s head. Polishing the family silver is simply essential!

“A man with platinum or smokey grey hair is undeniably striking. It is not merely an aesthetic. Indeed, embracing the seasons of one’s life speaks of a certain confidence and character. It even, dare one venture, symbolises the gaining of wisdom. Granted, this particular reward is not immediately apparent in my own case, but there we are. Hope springs eternal. But I digress…silver hair refines a fellow, much like the self-assurance that comes with wearing a well tailored suit. An edge sharpened by life’s experience simply can’t be faked. Hi-Ho Silver, Away!”

Shop Captain Fawcett’s new Bianco Classico range here.

The latest issue of BarberEVO is OUT NOW! 

The latest issue of BarberEVO NA is OUT NOW! This issue is set to make waves in the industry… bringing you exclusive content from the best barbers in the biz’. BarberEVO has brought together a collection of content from our esteemed columnists and industry leaders, whilst also highlighting those rising stars of the industry – and we have Rey Scott, the leading entrepreneur and founder of My Supply Guy, taking centre stage on our front cover. In our second-last issue of 2024, we are feature everything from interiors and business to hair loss, client comfort and colour. With all of this…and even more – this issue is one to remember! 

IN THIS ISSUE: 

REY SCOTT FOR MY SUPPLY GUY 

In every issue of BarberEVO, our cover star, Rey Scott, AKA My Supply Guy, guides us to three booming barber businesses. Always on the lookout for fresh industry talent to shine a spotlight on – Rey not only supplies the barbering industry with their products and tools, but he also bolsters the heart of the industry… the people that fill it. In this issue, we wanted to do something a little bit different. We wanted to shine that spotlight onto Rey, to let you get to know the man behind it all a little bit better.  

L3VEL3  

Kicking off this edition, we have L3VEL3™ – who are, indeed, taking things to the next level. The brand have always showed up in style, but now they are arriving in color. We caught up with the L3VEL3™, Chrystofer Benson, and the Director of Events & Artists, Hannah Benson, who played instrumental roles in the development of their new color line. Sitting down with the pair, we talked all about how the barbering color game is going to see a major shift in the coming months. 

EVENTS 

Events the last few weeks have been popping off. With Rise of Hair bringing the heat in St Petersburg, FL, in August; the LV Barber Expo hitting the jackpot; and JRL heading to China, alongside their ambassador Squeak the Barber. And we can’t forget the STMNT Summit in our event roundup! Held in the beautiful, bustling city of Barcelona – beacons of contemporary barbering got together in a convergence of creativity, culture and community.  

BARBER OF THE EDITION 

As this editions Barber of Edition, we have John Carmona AKA Titan Barber. Known for striking cuts and colors that challenge conformity and encourage individuality, all whilst running his incredibly successful barbershops – Barber Theory – and being a Wahl Future Maker and a STMNT Social Media Ambassador. 

TEXTURE 

Textured hair is hair of diversity – with curls, coils and waves – and it’s more than just a style. It’s a statement of identity and heritage. For barbers, mastering the art of cutting and styling textured hair is essential. Requiring a unique skillset, tools and understanding, we spoke to industry experts to find out more. With words from Lauren The Legend, Zeke Peters, 360 Jeezy and more, we talk everything from braiding, to trimming, to hair care. 

INTERIORS 

Your surroundings have more of an influence on you than you think… call it the placebo effect, or simply good taste! But what you can never do is underestimate the power of a great barbershop, especially with a great interior. Kicking off our interiors section, we have Josh DeMarco of DAPR who believes that true craftmanship is the key to the most elevated experiences. Then we head over to The Gents Place, who’s Collins furniture helps clients coming back, again and again. Heading across the pond to London, we visited Time barbershop – who talk us through why they believe that taking time to curate an experience is what will take you to the next level. Find all this and more I our interiors section… 

BUSINESS 

Kicking off business, we have Sly Huncho – who sits down to discuss why social media is the boost you need in business. Next up we have our esteemed columnists, Tyler Kelbert and Brandi Lashay, who reveal their secrets to a flourishing barbering business. Fresha also popped by the BarberEVO pages with their friend Thaddeus, discussing how to balance different avenues of your career. Following on, we have many more chats about cash flow, tech, recruitment and, of course, retention – with our columnists, such as, Chico Boom and Angie Perino sharing all the insider secrets.  

BEARDS & ‘TACHE 

Last up, we enter the world of beards and mustaches. Transcending their status as mere facial hair trends, they’ve become powerful symbols of personal style and self-expression. From sleek, sculpted beards, to bold statement making ‘taches – today’s grooming landscape has evolved. In this edition we highlight those at the fore, including 18.21 Man Made, Cédric Johnson Jr. from V’s, grooming expert Michael Ryder, and so much more. Our friends at Wellness Pro even popped by to give their top tips to dealing with those pesky nicks (and, of course, how to avoid them). 

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.