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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Caroline Larissey, Chief Executive of the NHBF, said:

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

The latest issue of BarberEVO is OUT NOW!

Grab your copy here or subscribe for the full year here.

Don’t Call It a Rebrand… Call it an evoLUTION

As we welcome 2026, we are showing that BarberEVO is not just a magazine; it’s a statement. With a bold new look and an elevated creative direction, this issue places art at the very heart of barbering, celebrating the craft as something to be admired, revisited, and proudly displayed. From the cover to every carefully considered page has been designed with longevity in mind – a book you’ll want to keep on your shelf and return to time and time again.

We focus on every trend set to dominate in 2026 – from burst fades and mullets to the create work that blends striking visuals, elevating hair at its core. Alongside that, we have meaningful stories from the industry’s most influential names and rising talents. It reflects how far the craft has come, while honouring the creativity, passion, and culture that continue to push it forward. Issue 47 marks a new chapter for BarberEVO – one that invites you not just to read, but to look, feel, and be inspired.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Full details here:

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

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

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

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

The winners were revealed as:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the Programme:

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

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

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

Who the Programme Is For

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

How to Apply

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

The Autumn Budget has landed – and while Chancellor Rachel Reeves promised stability and “fair, necessary action,” the UK’s hair, beauty and barbering sector was left wondering whether anyone in Westminster has actually seen a salon’s balance sheet lately.

With income tax and NI thresholds frozen, a higher-than-expected inflation forecast, salary-sacrificed pension schemes being taxed, minimum wage rising again in April 2026, and dividend tax up by 2%, the overall message was loud and clear: costs are going up. Again.

And the industry has a lot to say about it.

BABTAC: “This adds pressure on already tight margins.”

Lesley Blair MBE, CEO and Chair of BABTAC & CIBTAC – and former Treasury advisor – didn’t mince her words.

“For small businesses continuing to navigate the current financial climate, the decision to freeze income-tax thresholds until the end of 2030/31 offers some certainty for planning and forecasting,” she explained. “However, the freeze on National Insurance thresholds will effectively increase employer contributions as wages rise with inflation, adding further pressure on already tight margins.” 

She added that taxing salary-sacrificed pension contributions removes “a valuable incentive” for staff while the OBR’s revised inflation forecast will squeeze both business overheads and client disposable income.

And as for the 2026 minimum wage increase to £12.71?

Lesley noted: “Although positive for workers, it will significantly raise wage bills in a labour-intensive sector. Coupled with a 2% rise in dividend tax, the cumulative impact could challenge the commercial viability of many small salons.”

NHBF: “Salons are already at breaking point.”

Caroline Larissey, chief executive of the NHBF, said the Budget simply didn’t recognise the realities of small, people-focused businesses.

“Today’s Budget delivers little for the small, people-focused businesses at the heart of every high street,” Caroline said. “Hair and beauty is one of the most accessible and empowering routes into work for women, young entrepreneurs and neurodiverse individuals – yet this Budget was far from the ‘fair and necessary’ action our sector urgently needed.”

She warned that members are “already at breaking point,” adding:

“The Chancellor cannot keep loading costs onto small businesses without offering the support needed to keep them trading… If the Government truly wants to grow the economy, end low pay and keep high streets open, today’s wage announcement must be matched with serious support on National Insurance, business rates, skills and enforcement.”

HARE: “Once again, our sector has been overlooked.”

James Talbot, co-founder of HARE, a values-led Oxfordshire barbering and hairdressing business, didn’t hide his frustration.

“As an entrepreneur… I’m deeply frustrated by the lack of meaningful support for our industry in today’s UK budget,” he said. “Once again, one of the country’s most socially important and economically vulnerable sectors has been overlooked and ignored.”

James explained that the planned minimum wage rise – while well-intentioned – “will hit small legal businesses hard at a time when margins are already razor-thin.”

And business rates? Still unclear.

“The VAT threshold remains at a totally unfair and unviable £90k,” he added. “Many independent, entrepreneurial and legal businesses like ours will struggle to absorb these costs… threatening the survival of the salons and barbershops that serve at the heart of communities.”

His message for Government was stark:

“If Britain wants skilled, qualified barbers and hairdressers in the future, it needs to back the enterprising and community-led businesses that train them today.”

Industry Voices: “We need to focus on what we can control.”

The wider industry – from salon owners to educators – echoed similar concerns, emphasising resilience, planning and realism.

Benjamin Shipman (The Hair Movement, Sidcup)

Benjamin said this “wasn’t the Budget any of us were hoping for,” noting that it offered “nothing to incentivise or help us.” But he urged the industry to stay proactive.

“It forces us all to futureproof our business ourselves,” he explained. “We need to focus on what we can control… communicating the value of our services, refining our prices and becoming more business savvy.” 

Billy Ryan (Tribe Salons, Clapham Common)

Billy noted that while the Budget held few surprises, the impact is still significant.

“The next year will need calm heads and steady leadership,” he said. “Strong financial planning, reliable systems and steadily increasing the value of what we deliver will matter more than ever.” 

Sean Hanna (Sean Hanna Salons & Consultancy)

Sean was clear: complaining won’t cut it.

“Hope and complaining are not strategies,” he said. “Business leaders have a choice; either stand still and endure whatever happens or… make decisions that will ensure their business succeeds.” 

British Hair Consortium: “We must be heard – now more than ever.”

In response to mounting concerns, the British Hair Consortium has launched a major nationwide survey, urging every corner of the sector – salon owners, freelancers, barbers, educators, mobile pros – to contribute evidence that will be used to lobby Government.

“Without a strong, collective evidence base, upcoming government decisions risk worsening the pressures already facing the sector,” the Consortium wrote. 

The message? If the industry wants change, it needs to speak with one voice.

The Bigger Picture: Why This Industry Matters

If anyone still doubts the sector’s economic importance, consider this:

• Beauty generated £30.4bn in GDP in 2024 – growing four times faster than the UK economy.
• The sector directly employs nearly half a million people, with a footprint close to 700,000.
• It contributed £8.6bn in tax in 2024, set to rise to £9.4bn in 2025.

This isn’t a niche industry. It’s a powerhouse – and one that deserves to be taken seriously.

Where Do We Go From Here?

While the Budget delivered few wins for hair, beauty and barbering, the sector is nothing if not resilient. From Lesley Blair’s financial realism to James Talbot’s call for fairness, and from the NHBF’s advocacy to grassroots voices urging practical action – the message is clear:

The industry will keep fighting. But Government needs to listen.

For now, the most powerful tool the sector has is its collective voice.

And yes – that means filling out the survey.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BarberEVO UK Issue 53 is OUT NOW! 

This issue celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and community as we wrap up the year in style.

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS AT WAHL

On this edition’s cover, we celebrate Simon Shaw’s career to-date, with this month marking his 25th year at Wahl Professional. Read more about this monumental moment in this issue!

EVENTS:  

We take you behind the scenes at BarberEVO and SalonEVO: The Experience in Scale Liverpool, reliving the energy and excitement from the two-day industry celebration. We also bring you the ultimate guide to Fashion Week with Ainsley Walton, and dive into the action with BaBylissPRO backstage. Then, we head to the Barber and Barbershop of the Year Awards with WAHL, and peek inside the BROSH World Championship for an unforgettable global barbering spectacle. 

IN THE CHAIR & BARBER ABROAD: 

We get In the Chair with Tariq Howes, diving deep into his inspiring barbering journey. Our One 2 Watch is Scotland’s Best Barber, SHABA winner and owner of R+R Studios Dundee, showcasing the best of Scottish talent and creativity. 

FESTIVE: 

From our Year in Review to winter shop culture with Huckle, this section captures the spirit of the season. We talk business insights with American Crew, winter trends with Hayden Cassidy, and highlight moments from Novo Cabelo’s standout 2025. Plus, discover styling trends from Morgan’s and festive scheduling advice from Mark Maciver. 

BEARDS & TACHE: 

 We sit down with Joe Mills to break down beard and moustache trends sweeping the scene, before exploring bearded education with Simon Hairground and celebrating Movember with The London Beard Co. 

INTERIORS: 

Our Barbershop of the Edition is No.1 Barbers, a Takara Belmont–fitted shop that’s setting new design standards. We also round up the standout barber interiors of 2025, offering plenty of inspiration for your next renovation. 

Order your copy of BarberEVO Issue 53 HERE!

The GTX-EXO II Trimmer just dropped—and it’s a game changer. Sharper hits. Cleaner lines. Less friction. More control. Straight out of the box. This isn’t a refresh. It’s a redesign, and it’s built to keep up with the way you work. 

Why You’ll Want This in Your Station 

M-Force Magnetic Tension System

Zero-gapped out of the box. No springs—just magnets for consistent blade tension andsharp, even corners. That means cleaner lines, smoother feel, and no extra setup. 

Lighter Body, More Control 

Andis redesigned the EXO housing to cut weight by 6% and increase airflow. The upgraded yoke helps prevent hair from getting caught—because nothing should slow you down mid-fade. 

Power Meets Endurance A high-speed brushless motor cranks out 7,200 SPM, and the upgraded Li-Ion battery keeps it running longer—20% more run time to be exact. Cord or cordless, this thing doesn’t quit. 

Sleek New Look 

Choose between two bold looks: 

Black Chrome – sleek and professional (U.S. only)

Gold Housing – stand out with flair (EU/UK only)

Premium Charging Stand 

Because your tools should look as sharp as your cuts. Keeps your trimmer ready and on display. 

From the Chair 

Global Educator Sean Casey says it best: “Out of the box, it’s already dialed in. Sharp, but not aggressive. I can use it on kids, sensitive skin—any client. Andis is listening. They’re not just building tools. They’re building for the next generation.” 

Get Ready The GTX-EXO II just landed—and it’s built for barbers who want speed, precision, and performance without the guesswork. Follow @andisclippers and @barberevo for first looks. 

The UK Government has unveiled a new strategy  Backing Your Business: Our Plan for Small and Medium Sized Businesses outlining its long-term commitment to support small and medium sized businesses (SMEs).  

With hair & beauty comprising thousands of salons, barbershops, clinics and self-employed professionals, many measures in this plan will directly affect our sector. 

High Street Revival and Cost Relief  

The NHBF has campaigned for a reformed business rates system, and we cautiously welcome the announcement that Government plans to permanently lower business rates for retail, hospitality, and leisure premises with ratable values under £500,000 starting in April 2026.  

This change, alongside extended relief for 2025/26 and a freeze on the Small Business Multiplier, is a step towards providing financial relief to many hair and beauty businesses. 

However, this is just a first step in the right direction, the NHBF is working with the Government to secure significant levels of reform.  

Tackling the Issues of Late Payments 

One of the major announcements in the Government’s plan is new legislation to tackle late payments. 

This is a long-standing and serious issue in the hair and beauty sector. Many NHBF Members, particularly Solo Members, Assured Trade Members including educators, and brand ambassadors, report delays of 60 days or more when working with larger companies.  

These late payments can cause major cashflow problems and undermine trust. The proposed reforms will introduce stricter payment terms, mandatory interest on overdue invoices, and the power to fine large firms that consistently pay late.  

NHBF strongly supports this change by the Government, which has the potential to deliver fairer, faster payments across the supply chain and empower small business owners to focus on their work, not chasing invoices. 

Tackling Crime and Licensing Red Tape 

The plan also responds to growing concerns over safety on the high street, promising 13,000 additional community police officers and specific action against shoplifting and theft.  

We know that many Members are concerned about the impact on their businesses if an area is perceived to be high crime, so we welcome this investment.  

Support for Skills and Digital Growth 

The Government is investing in leadership training, digital adoption, and AI tools for small business owners.  

This includes specialist funding through the Made Smarter Adoption programme and expanded access to apprenticeships. These initiatives could help salons upskill staff, streamline bookings and marketing, and attract new clients. 

The NHBF will work closely with the Department of Business and Trade to understand what this means for our Members and the wider hair & beauty sector.  

Employment and Environmental Challenges 

Finally, NHBF is closely monitoring proposals under the Employment Rights Bill, which is mentioned throughout the Business Plan, which could increase costs for small employers. There are also new expectations around energy use and sustainability. While support is offered, compliance may be complex and costly for some. 

Caroline Larissey, NHBF chief executive, says, “We welcome this plan as a starting point. NHBF will be engaging directly with Government to ensure our Members, the hair & beauty sector’s voice is heard by championing policies that support, not strain, this vital part of the economy. We will continue keep members informed and provide resources to help navigate these changes.