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Wahl Professional unveils global brand evolution with ‘Make it With Wahl’ platform

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Uppercut Deluxe unveil new game-changing Control Cream

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The latest issue of BarberEVO is OUT NOW!

BarberEVO UK Issue 45 (Jul/Aug) is out NOW! Get your Copy HERE

The latest issue of BarberEVO UK is OUT NOW! This issue is set to make waves in the industry…bringing you exclusive content from the best barbers in the business. BarberEVO has brought together a collection of content from our esteemed columnists and industry leaders, whilst also highlighting those rising stars of the industry. Our summer shake-up issue covers everything from interiors and business to hair loss, client comfort and colour. With all of this…and even more – this issue is one for the books! 

IN THIS ISSUE: 

STMNT  

This issue, our cover star is the Nomad himself, Miguel Gutierrez, co-creator of STMNT! BarberEVO were lucky to join the STMNT Team take over Barcelona this June for the STMNT 2024 Summit. The STMNT Team gathered in the sunny Spanish capital to watch as the global stars of STMNT Creative Team share the most innovative editorial looks. BarberEVO has the inside scoop – with exclusive info from STMNT co-founders Miguel Gutierrez, Sofie Pok, Julius Caesar, and the team of STMNT global ambassadors.

Summer 

In our Summer shake-up issue, we are bringing the summer trends to life. We speak to Nick Taylor from the iconic American Crew about their newest collection: Yearbook. Taking you back to your last day of school, racing onto the football field – and knowing that school’s out for the best summer yet. BarberEVO has also managed to bring you the buzzing summer trends from the Babyliss PRO stars, Charlie Venn, Jay Roberts and Simon Butcher. In this summer session, you can also get the exclusive trend tips from Mike Taylor of MTE Hair & Barbering Academy. With a visit to Kent-based Chaps Grooming Co and a look at Byrd Pomade collab with Tallboys – summer in the hair world is in full swing. 

Barber of the Edition 

For our summer issue, the Barber of the Edition is…drumroll, please…Oscar Mendoza! The rising star on the UK hair scene is taking his barbershop and academy to new heights, whilst simultaneously taking his passion and teachings to stages across the globe. Find out more about his journey of resilience and commitment to his craft NOW! 

Interiors 

In BarberEVO Issue 45, Leicester barbershop Roots/CO. has taken the top spot of barbershop of the edition! Owner and founder Vinay Lakhatariya took BarberEVO through his journey to Roots/CO. and tells us exactly why he only has the best of the best in his shop. In this edition, Savills owner Joth Davies also reveals the inside info of moving into his new and expanded barbershop. Additionally featuring BarberEVO columnist Hayden Cassidy, the tiny barbershop Treehaus and Nael’s Hairworks – you can find all the interior insider info HERE! 

Business 

Vikki Harrison Smith is back to talk 10 years of building her barbering empire. We also sat down with MR Brothers Cut Club founder and Brosh Ambassador Daisuke Komatsu, so you can read the Diary of this CEO. In this edition, you will also take a trip to Switzerland with us, to join Heiniger owner, Daniel Heiniger, and Creative Director, Rex Silver – going behind the iconic tool brand. With more info on all-important business issues, such as franchising and booking software, you too can have a booming business in no time.

Hair Loss 

Hair Loss is a major facet of this industry and, at last, the subject of hair loss is breaking free from the shackles of taboo! Josh Lamonaca sat down with us to chat about the subject and tell us exactly why hair loss solutions are a MUST in the barbershop. Trichologist Tiffany Hall also features in this edition, giving the BarberEVO audience all the important tips and tricks to help with your clients’ hair loss pain points. 

Client Comfort 

Keeping your clients comfortable is the key to keeping them coming back. Barbershops need to consider all aspects of their clients desired sensory experience – from the aesthetics and furnishings to the services themselves. Comfort is everything! BarberEVO columnist Carlie Cardle talks shop, noting that you can make client comfort your very own USP. We also caught up with barbershops from across the UK, including Angus Mac Salon, Club 13, The Good Folks and more. Columnist Mark McIver also returns to the pages of BarberEVO, alongside columnist Simon Shaw.  

Colour 

Closing out the summer edition of BarberEVO UK is the section that will tell you everything you need to know about colour. Talking top tips for introducing colour to the barbershop and featuring a great chat with Ainsley Walton about his barbershop Har Sessions – BarberEVO can now reveal that colour is the summer trend that is here to stay. 

Eric Way Lovemore announced as new Artero Brand Manager

In this industry, Eric Way Lovemore needs no introduction following his stellar career in the hair world. Now, the world-class barber has added another accolade to his belt: Artero’s UK and Northern Ireland Brand Manager.

On top of this new role, he will continue his work as the UK ambassador and global educator role for Artero. Telling us about his new venture, Eric said: “As the Brand Manager, I will grow the brand within my countries, introducing Artero to distributors, academies, barbershop, hairdressing salons, and end users. Artero has laid its foundations securely in the marketplace but now it’s time for the brand to start resonating with everyone and experience this well priced, high quality diverse product range that Artero has to offer.

“Now it will be easier for the brand to have a face in the country for buyers to easily communicate with and for me to bring more opportunities to the brand which is far easier than Artero in Spain trying to do it.”

He added: “When I was introduced to Artero three years ago, I immediately fell in love with the ethos of the brand and the quality of all the products. I realised that the brand was at its infant stages in the UK and Northern Ireland but was a brand that had been established for more than a hundred years and is still run by the same family from the very beginning.

“I wanted to be part of the brands journey and felt that with my passion for the industry I could grow with the brand and help being part of its unprecedented success globally.”

Murdock Barbers of London

Murdock Barbers of London Share their Top Tips for Retail

Retail is a major part of the salon and barber universe. Even though, the focus can tend to be on the result, rather than the products when you’re in the barbershop. Iconic barbershop Murdock Barbers of London place huge importance on their retail sales, and it has paid off. With their own product line that retails both in prestigious stores and online, they are the experts in maximising retailing opportunities. Murdock London CEO Graham Clark, gave us his top tips for increasing your retail sales. 

1. Make Shopping Easy.

“Being that our bricks and mortar stores are barbershops we find ourselves in a fortunate position where customers get to see our products in action every day by the very hands who designed them. When a customer picks up a product in our stores it can be done with a unique level of assurance. Everyone in our store is a master of their craft and a master of the products we use.” 

2. What’s your Secret Sauce? 

“Barber approved, British Made. Who better to take care of your grooming needs than those who do it every day. This is what sets us apart from our competitors and we’re extremely proud of it. Knowing what makes you unique is essential to success in a retail environment, it’s the first step in welcoming new customers into your brands world.”  

3. Believe in the product you are using!

“Whether you develop your own retail range or stock an existing brand, you need to have a thorough understanding of the products and how they work and genuinely believe in their worth. No-one can recommend products with conviction if they wouldn’t use them themselves. Ensure you and the team try products from the ranges you offer on your own hair, so you can legitimately rave about them to the person in the styling chair.”

4. Train to Build Confidence.  

“Both you and your team need to know as much as possible about the products you are using so that you can convey this information to clients with confidence. Confidence in what you’re selling directly translates to confidence in your customer and what they’re buying. This navigates your team away from selling and towards educating, your customers require answers and with suitable training your team will be able to provide them.” 

5. It’s not selling, it’s educating.

“Don’t think of encouraging clients to buy take-home products as selling, it’s part of the service. As experts, it’s our job to advise clients on how to look after their hair once they leave the barbershop. Being that we’re literally using the products on the customers you couldn’t have a more practical opportunity to explain to your clients why you’re using what products you are, the proof is right there in the mirror!” 

6. Use your website! 

“Our website is a major platform for selling out products, with the entire range displayed in an easy to access way with high-quality imagery and enticing descriptions. We also feature regular blogs that inform clients of ways they can use our products to create the latest trends or help with specific hair, scalp or beard needs. Your website should also promote the retail products you offer and, ideally, enable clients to buy directly from you. Our website is another tool in which we aim to educate, and nurture customers in the hope they’ll become part of our community.” 

For more information head to @murdocklondon on socials – or visit their website at www.murdocklondon.com

Yasemin Hassan launches Talking Textures Exhibition

Award-winning barber, Yasemin Hassan has announced the launch of Talking Textures. A groundbreaking exhibition which set to illuminate London’s Ugly Duck Venue with its launch on April 12th, 2024. Curated by Yasemin Hassan and captured through the lens of photographer Yeliz Zaifoglu, the photo series dives deep into the intricate relationship between beauty, cultural identity, and the resilient nature of hair, especially within the Southwest Asian & North African (SWANA) communities.

Talking Textures is more than just an exhibition; it’s a movement. Spanning across a series of 26 compelling photographs, a poignant short video, and an engaging panel discussion, the project aims to celebrate, educate, and redefine the cultural significance of textured hair. This initiative seeks to bring to light the challenges, beauty rituals, and the profound connection between hair and cultural identity in SWANA regions.

Yasemin Hassan, an award-winning hairdresser, has emerged as a pivotal figure for individuals with textured hair in London, particularly within the SWANA community. Her extensive experience on high-end fashion shoots and London Fashion Week 2023, coupled with personal conversations within her community, inspired the creation of Talking Textures. Yasemin’s mission is to decolonize perceptions of hair and address the underrepresentation of SWANA identities in the hair industry.

Working closely with Dania Arafeh, founder of 3EIB – a SWANA fashion platform reclaiming the Arabic word 3Eib, meaning ‘shame’ – this project is a reaction to the underlying shame that SWANA individuals often experience from others within their own cultures, as well as what we are taught in the mainstream media about beauty.

The exhibition runs from 12th April at Ugly Duck London, 49 Tanner St, London SE1 3PL.

For more information please visit www.instagram.com/talking_textures_

Bedfordshire barber on a mission to support men’s mental health

A study undertaken by RICS last year showed that 4 in 10 men in the UK won’t speak to their families, friends or health professionals if they are struggling with mental health, and shockingly, 75% of suicides in the UK are male.

Local business owner Christie Turner, owner of CT Barbering, has firsthand experience of the impact of untreated men’s mental health issues, having witnessed several male friends and family members’ struggle. Through the therapeutic nature of her conversations with clients, that can range from humorous and uplifting to deep and meaningful, she’s been able to help them through some difficult and challenging times and this motivated her to go further in addressing the stigma surrounding men’s mental wellbeing.

Drawing from her diverse experience in various barber shops, Christie recognises how the traditional barber environment can affect men’s mental health due to the societal attitudes towards male self-care and masculinity. She believes that nurturing the link between looking good and feeling good can make a positive difference.

With over a decade of experience, the business owner appreciates the significant role barbers play as regular touch points in men’s lives, offering a support system outside of family, friends and healthcare providers. Due to the close contact service and regularity of appointments (males in the UK visit a barber every 2.5 weeks on averageiv) she believes this is what helps to build that unique connection.

Utilising mental health mirror decals that encourage men to open up, a friendly and welcoming atmosphere and a range of wellness services including stress-relieving facials tailored to male skin types, the barber and qualified facialist hopes to identify early signs of struggle among her clients, offering them crucial support within the community.

Christie said: ‘The statistics around men’s mental health are devastating and highlight the urgent need for support. As a barber, I’m uniquely positioned in the community and have an opportunity to support them. I aspire to create an environment where men feel safe to express their feelings and share what’s going on in their lives, while promoting the importance of self-care through a range of accessible grooming and wellness services. The mental health support available through the NHS isn’t enough to tackle the epidemic of male suicide rates so I’m taking action to support as many men in my community as I can. Hopefully I can inspire others to do the same.’

You can find Christie at My T Sharp on Newnham Avenue or via her Instagram.

Care. Climb. Kilimanjaro.

Andis supports barber Daniel Rymer as he reaches Kilimanjaro summit to raise £100k for homeless charity, Caring For Bristol.

The effects of Covid-19 and its impact on the mental and business health of barbers all over the UK, and indeed beyond, cannot be understated or overestimated. And, like many barbers, Andis ambassador Daniel Rymer struggled to adapt as the doors to his barbershop closed, and he found himself at home contemplating what the future would hold for his career, his team and himself on a personal level. 

An inner strength to bring about positive change

That said, adversity can often reveal an inner strength and self-determination that drives people to achieve extraordinary things and, as Daniel says, this is what motivated him to accomplish such an amazing feat, with the help and support of Andis. “I found it hard to deal with lockdown and, despite what people say in public, many barbers and local businesses I spoke to were all feeling the same. When you’re not in the shop you become disconnected from the thing you’re most passionate about, and the people who share that passion; you lose your sense of purpose. The financial impacts compounded matters with the loss of income and trying to keep the business going with loans and costs. It was a worrying time and I felt I needed to do something positive for me, but also for other people.”

To overcome his predicament and fulfil his need to get away from his situation, Daniel hit upon the idea of scaling Mt. Kilimanjaro to not only address his own mental health challenges brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, but also to help others in the process. “I wanted to achieve something positive, challenge myself to do something I’d never done before, and raise money for people dealing with homelessness and hopelessness. I decided to raise money for Caring in Bristol – a local charity whose vision is to create a city that’s empowered to solve homelessness as, despite everything, I felt I could do more for disadvantaged people. This is when Andis stepped in to offer their support.”

A passion for barbering meets ambition

Combining this personal feat with his passion for barbering, Daniel set about assembling a team to reach Mt. Kilimanjaro’s summit and undertake the highest haircut on record. With a collective of likeminded business owners from his area, and expert porters, Daniel embarked on a gruelling ten-day ascent to the 5,895m summit, which saw him coping with altitude sickness, blisters and acute tiredness. 

“It was very challenging with six days on the mountain. It took three days to get to base camp and we reached the summit on day four. The views were spectacular and it was a massive achievement for me and the whole team. Equipped with my Andis tools, cape and branded clothing, I performed haircuts on the mountain, which was an unbelievable experience and great for bonding everyone together on our shared mission.”

Care. Climb. Kilimanjaro. 

£100,000 raised, and time to reinvent his brand

Initially intending to raise £6,000 individually, a target which he has exceeded, the team’s efforts have now surpassed £100,000, and this achievement motivated Daniel to emerge even stronger. Giving him the time and space away from his business, he returned to the UK refreshed and reenergised with a new model in mind. “I’ve now rebranded my business to ‘Rythm Barbering’. Unlike before, this is a community hub that offers a safe, cool and creative space for independent barbers, as well as empowering self-employed beauty professionals, nail technicians and other creatives to thrive.”

Thanking Andis for their support, Daniel points to the range of tools, accessories and encouragement offered by the brand. “Andis has been amazing. They provided warm weather gear and a wide range of tools that enabled me to work throughout the trip, and on the mountain. Two of the tools I took on my trip were the Andis Galaxy Clipper and Trimmer. They are powerful and precise but also extremely lightweight – and that matters when you have heavy gear strapped to your back! I even gifted some tools to one of the porters, who happened to be a barber, so he can better support his family, so it’s been an enriching experience in so many ways.”

Named ‘Care. Climb. Kilimanjaro.’ Daniel has documented his trip and, as he concludes, this is both the “best and worst thing” he’s ever done. “It was an incredible journey, but it was gruelling, and it tested my resolve to the limit. But I’m so proud of what we achieved, and I look forward to continuing to receive donations in support of this worthy cause.” 

Donate to Daniel at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/danielrymerhair

For information on Caring in Bristol, visit https://caringinbristol.co.uk/

Visit Rythm here: https://rythmhair.com/

For information on Andis visit https://andis.com/

BARBEREVO and BARBER STRONG Discuss Professionalism, Functionality and Comfort In The Shop

As we know, Barbers find great pleasure in using products that help create a memorable experience for their customers. The main goals every day are to make money, save time and provide a quality and professional service. That being said, BarberEVO sat down with functional apparel leader Barber Strong to discuss the main pillars of what makes an ideal situation in the shop, for both the barber and the client.

Barbers adhere to high standards, ethics, and conduct while providing barbering services. This encompasses various aspects, including:

1. Skill and Expertise: A barber demonstrates a mastery of haircutting, styling, and grooming techniques. They keep up with the latest trends, tools, and products to provide quality services to their clients.

2. Punctuality: Being punctual and respecting clients’ time is a crucial aspect of professionalism.

3. Hygiene and Cleanliness: Maintaining a clean and hygienic workspace is vital. Barbers follow proper sanitation practices to ensure the safety and well-being of their clients.

4. Communication: Effective communication with clients is essential to understand their preferences and deliver satisfactory results. A barber listens attentively and provides appropriate suggestions when needed.

5. Customer Service: Barbers prioritize customer satisfaction. They are courteous, friendly, and attentive to clients’ needs.

6. Appearance: A professional appearance creates a positive impression. Barbers should dress neatly and present themselves in a manner that reflects their commitment to their craft.

7. Ethics and Integrity: Barbers operate with honesty and integrity.

8. Continuous Learning: Embracing ongoing education and skill development is a sign of professionalism. Barbers should attend workshops, seminars, and industry events to enhance their knowledge and expertise.

Overall, professionalism in barbering fosters trust and loyalty among clients and contributes to the growth and success of the barber’s business.

Barbers should always be effective and efficient with all the tools, equipment, and processes they use in their daily work. It involves ensuring that everything in the shop is well-organized, easy to use, and supports the smooth execution of their services. Here are some aspects of functionality in the shop:

1. Tools and Equipment: Barbers rely on various tools, such as clippers, scissors, razors, and trimmers, just to name a few. Functionality demands that these tools are of high quality, well-maintained, and properly sanitized to deliver precise and consistent results.

2. Workstation Layout: The layout of the shop’s workstations should be designed for efficiency. Stations should be well-equipped with the necessary tools within reach, allowing barbers to perform their services without unnecessary movements.

3. Appointment Management: An effective appointment scheduling system ensures that barbers can manage their time efficiently and minimize wait times for clients. This may include using appointment booking software or maintaining a well-organized appointment book.

4. Inventory Management: A functional barbershop keeps track of its inventory of hair products, grooming supplies, and tools. This helps barbers know when to restock and ensures they always have what they need to deliver services promptly.

5. Payment and Point-of-Sale System: A smooth and reliable payment system simplifies the transaction process for both the barbers and their clients. Functionality in this area involves using secure, efficient, and modern point-of-sale systems.

7. Client Records: Maintaining accurate and up-to-date client records helps barbers track client preferences, haircut history, and any specific needs, leading to personalized and attentive services.

8. Workflow and Time Management: A functional shop optimizes workflow and time management to maximize the number of clients served without sacrificing the quality of services.

9. Comfort and Ambiance: Functionality isn’t just about tools and processes but also the overall environment. A shop with a comfortable waiting area, pleasant ambiance, and adequate lighting enhances the overall experience for clients and barbers alike.

By prioritizing functionality, barbers can streamline their daily operations, improve customer satisfaction, and create a more productive and enjoyable workspace.

Barbers should always create a welcoming and relaxing environment for clients during their visit to the shop. It involves taking various measures to ensure that clients feel at ease and have a positive experience throughout their time in the establishment. Here are some aspects of comfort in a barbershop:

1. Waiting Area: Providing a comfortable and well-furnished waiting area with ample seating, magazines, and perhaps refreshments, allows clients to relax before their appointment.

2. Chairs: Investing in ergonomic and comfortable barber chairs ensures that clients can sit comfortably during their haircuts and grooming sessions.

3. Adequate Lighting: Proper lighting in the barbershop helps clients feel more at ease and allows barbers to perform their services with precision.

4. Temperature and Ventilation: Maintaining a comfortable temperature and good ventilation is essential for the comfort of both clients and barbers, especially in warmer or colder months.

5. Background Music: Music adds to the overall ambience of the shop and can create any type of atmosphere a barber is striving for. Kept at an appropriate volume, it can create the perfect experience.

6. Cleanliness: A clean and well-maintained shop instills confidence in clients and contributes to their overall comfort.

7. Communication: Friendly and respectful communication between barbers and clients is crucial in ensuring clients feel comfortable expressing their preferences and concerns.

8. Personalized Service: Taking the time to understand each client’s individual needs and preferences contributes to a more comfortable and satisfactory experience.

9. Privacy: Respecting client privacy during the service and providing options for private grooming areas when needed can enhance comfort, especially for sensitive services.

10. Post-Service Care: Offering aftershave treatments, hot towel services, or other pampering extras can leave clients feeling refreshed and well-cared for.

Overall, creating a comfortable environment in the shop not only makes clients feel valued and cared for but also fosters positive word-of-mouth and repeat business, contributing to the overall success of the barbershop.

Please visit our friends at Barber Strong for all your functional barbering apparel requirements!

Wahl X Lister: Take A Load Off.

A safe space to pop your feet up, offload, and have a chat.

Lister have teamed up with parent company Wahl to create a pop-up barbershop at The Royal Highland Show to help raise awareness around mental health in agriculture.

Take a load off. A safe space to pop your feet up, offload, and have a chat. Mental health in the agricultural industry is something that doesn’t get talked about enough. With 92% of UK farmers under the age of 40 ranking their mental health as being poor, it is a hidden problem that we need to talk about.

The pop-up barbershop will be open from Friday the 23rd to Sunday the 25th near the Shearing Pavilion at The Royal Highland Show. Providing visitors with the opportunity to get a fresh hair cut by a professional barber, the campaign will be raising money for The DPJ Foundation and the RSABI, both mental health charities within the agricultural industry.

Attracting over 190,000 visitors each year, this year’s Royal Highland Show will be hosting the Shearing World Championships, seeing shearers and enthusiasts travelling from all around the world to support the competition. Creating this safe space at the event is crucial for those who may want to take a moment to relax and just chat in a safe space.

Martin Booth, Head of Sales and Commercial at Lister, said, “Partnering up with Wahl and offering a service, such as barbering, that can sometimes be difficult to arrange when travelling and working long hours is an important step in our mission to supporting mental health within agriculture. It is vital to raise awareness on this issue the industry is facing and ensure individuals who work in the rural community get access to the support and resources available.”

Lloyd Rees, shearer and Lister ambassador, said, “Many people working in farming and agriculture often feel isolated and distanced from the wider communities. This can have a big impact on their mental health, and without the proper resources and support to hand, can often spiral into something bigger”.

Kate Miles, Charity Manager of the DPJ Foundation, said, “We are really pleased and grateful that Lister have taken the lead with the Take a Load Off initiative to provide an opportunity to promote good mental health in agriculture, the power of taking time and talking. The eyes of the shearing world will be on the Golden Shears so it’s a brilliant chance to raise awareness.”