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UK & Ireland News

HOB Academy: Get The Gallagher Look

With the Oasis brothers touring the UK, demand has risen for the Gallagher-inspired haircut.

Nestor Sanchez from HOB Academy details how to get the look:

1. Section the top away from the sides and back with a rectangular section from the crown to the recession area.

2. Overdirect the side sections up towards the parietal ridge and cut to the desired length.
Tip: This will remove internal weight, flattening the sides and keeping a softer, longer edge this cut is known for.

3. Divide the back area with a horizontal section from ear to ear to just above the occipital bone. Start with the first section just behind the ear using a square cutting angle and work towards the centre with no over-direction to build a lighter, flatter shape whilst keeping the perimeter of the hair long. Cross-check and repeat on the opposite side.

4. Connect the top area to the bottom section working exactly the same way. If hair is thicker, ignore your guide and introduce a new guide about 1 inch longer than the bottom area, ready to be personalised at the end.

5. On the top section, take a profile section down the centre that travels from the crown to the front hairline and cut using a square cutting angle. Using your guide at the crown, work with horizontal sections creating a square shape through to the front.
Tip: The creation of corners on the roundness of the hair that overlap the hair on the sides will be a very important part of the aesthetic of the look, adding flatness and texture simultaneously.

6. Blow-dry the hair and straighten with irons, then soften the internal shape with your texturising scissors and feather razor to adjust the length and look of the perimeter.

7. Rub a matte finishing product through the hair, working it through the fringe, sideburns, and back to create texture and a longer-lasting finish.

Hair by HOB Academy Artistic Team
Photographer: Richard Miles

Barber’sRide 2025 Kicks Off

BarbersRide is back for its 9th consecutive year! In 2025 BarbersRide is back on the rolling rural roads of England after two years away fund-raising for Make-A-Wish in Ireland, and in the Netherlands and Germany. 

BarbersRide is a road trip like no other. This year, celebrating the camaraderie only a motorcycling adventure can promise, the Riders will visit past Main Sponsors en route, to hand out plaques and thank them for their continued support throughout the years.

The mission for 2025: to raise over £30,000 for Make-A-Wish, the charity which makes dreams come true for seriously ill children and their families. The trip also aims to raise as much awareness as possible for the charity’s work, all while giving riders an unbeatable sense of fellowship and memories to last a lifetime.

Established in 2017, BarbersRide has so far raised a grand total of £183,000 for children’s charities. Evenings are hosted by prestigious barbershops along the route, giving everyone on the road the chance to kick back, celebrate and fundraise with some of the UK’s most in-demand barbers.

2024 saw the BarbersRide crew take to the roads in Germany and the Netherlands on an epic 972 miles / 1564 km across Europe as a motley crew of over 30 riders set off on a 5 day mission, united by their passion for bikes and barbering. From slippery single tracks to savage switchbacks and razor-sharp racetrack bends, every moment counted.  

In 2025 BarbersRide kicks off at Lind Harley-Davidson in Newmarket on 2nd August with the finale at The Master’s Barber Shop in Southport on 7th August. All with one goal: to have as much fun as possible whilst raising funds for Make-A-Wish. 

Recently added sponsor, Matakki have announced a fantastic opportunity to win one of Matakki’s Barber 6.5″ Professional Hair Cutting Scissors (RRP £265)!

A huge thank you to our Associate Sponsor, Matakki Scissors, for generously donating this incredible prize.

The competition opens on 18th July 2025 and closes on 7th August 2025. The winner will be drawn by raffle during the closing event of this year’s BarbersRide.

Tickets are just £5 each, with no limit on how many you can purchase—so the more tickets you buy, the greater your chances of winning!

All proceeds will be donated to Make-A-Wish, helping to bring joy to children with critical illnesses.

Wahl Professional is proud to launch the second evolution of ‘Make It With Wahl’ campaign.

 Make It With Wahl is a celebration of the barbers and stylist’s that have chosen to trust and rely on WAHL tools, whilst also celebrating Wahl’s legacy. A legacy that speaks to dedication, craftsmanship, and the highest standards in the industry. 

Featuring the inspirational stories of 4 barbers, the campaign calls for the barber and stylist community to share their own stories using #MakeItWithWahl. Whether they’ve come to barbering later in life as a second career or want to use barbering to uplift their community, Wahl Professional is excited to hear and share these stories. 

Multiple opportunities will be presented for the Wahl community to be involved in the campaign, with Wahl uplifting and sharing voices across the community on social media platforms. 

BarberEVO UK Issue 51 – OUT NOW!

Get your copy here!

Summer is in full swing – and so is the latest edition of BarberEVO UK. Packed with sun, style, and sharp ideas, Issue 51 brings the season’s boldest innovations, industry insights, and barbershop brilliance straight to your chair. This edition is all about evolution, expansion, and energy – and trust us, you don’t want to miss it. 

THE COVER: 
On the cover this issue is one of the striking collections fresh from our latest UK Roadshow – a powerful snapshot of talent, texture, and next-gen creativity on full display. 

IN THE CHAIR & ONE 2 WATCH: 
This edition, we get In the Chair with Charles Rose – owner of Crate Cheshire, and ambassador for both Matakki and STMNT. Charles shares his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the most respected names in the game. Our One 2 Watch is rising star Kostas Mourgelas, Fox Barbers owner and SB Barbering Academy alum, fresh off the stage from our Roadshow in Newcastle. 

EDUCATION: 
From the future-forward ethos of Tomorrow Education, to Wahl’s revamped course lineup and Novo Cabelo’s tailored training approach, this issue is packed with progressive education insights. We also spotlight leading brands like Gamma+, Lovemore, and OSMO, all raising the bar in learning and development. 

INTERIORS: 
Pushing the boundaries of modern barbering, we take you inside two standout spaces: HAUS and Ex Studio – where design meets disruption, and style is always on point. 

BUSINESS: 
On the business side, we go Behind the Brand with heritage grooming legends PASHANA, hear from columnist Mark Maciver, and dive into the new-age business blueprint with UNDERFOUND. Plus, we unpack everything from retail to tech that’s helping barbershops scale smarter. 

GROOMING: 
This issue’s grooming game is strong – with features on Morgan Jones, an inside look at James Beaumont’s evolving approach, and a deep dive with Arturo in Kingston and the team behind the booming grooming brand Vines Vintage. 

All this and so much more in BarberEVO UK Issue 51 – the ultimate guide to making this summer your sharpest one yet. 

Don’t miss it. 

Summer Trends and Festival Styles with Jim Shaw

Summer and festival season are here and with that in mind, we caught up with award winning men’s hairdresser, Jim Shaw. Here, Jim shares what hairstyles he thinks will be dominating trends for men this summer – focusing on lowkey, effortless summer styles.

The Broccoli Cut

For those who want to embrace a youthful look and enhance their natural hair texture, the Broccoli Cut is a perfect choice. For the summer months and festivals, this hairstyle is great as it is very laidback and relaxed but still looks bold and polished. To enhance the look, ask your barber/men’s hairdresser to taper the sides and create a seamless transition from the sides to the top of the head which should be kept longer and more voluminous. With this style, it’s all about defining your natural curls/waves. Therefore, you should start your styling on damp hair working with a curling cream like Label M Curl Define Cream and working this through your curls for definition and then finishing the look with a sea salt spray such as Label M Sea Salt Spray to add further volume, texture and hold whilst giving the finished look a more natural feel.

Man Bun

The man bun has been seen on many male celebrities recently, including Bradley Cooper and Jared Leto. It’s an iconic hairstyle which pairs were with the summer months and festival season where men are looking to wear their hair back off their face whilst providing them with the opportunity to customise their look and pair it with faded or shaved sides. The bun can also be worn in a variety of different ways, including towards the back of the head, nape or worn like a pineapple at the top of their head. I particularly like this style paired with an undercut and styled slicked back to the back of the head using a comb and high hold and shine product like American Crew Superglue.

Braided Rat Tails

Not for the faint hearted, this style is super quirky and was recently sported by Matt Smith at the Armani runway show in Milan. This is a fun look for men with longer hair to experiment with, particularly for festival season. By braiding the hair from the middle this will create an eye-catching style whilst also keeping hair tamed all day and night. For those feeling extra adventurous, they can team the rat tail at the back with a pop of bold colour to add a further cool edge to the look.

PREPARE WITH PRE-STYLE

When it comes to men’s grooming, American Crew has long been at the forefront of innovation, setting the standard for professional styling products. Now, with the launch of their new pre-styling shampoo range, Ian Harrold shares with BarberEVO why this is a must-have range for barbers and their clients.

“People are asking, ‘Why is there a need for a pre-styling shampoo?’,” Ian told us. “My answer to that is 14 years ago, you never would have thought you ‘needed’ an iPad, but that need was created following the launch and demand. 

“So that’s what American Crew are doing here with their Pre-Styling Range. For example, the Fiber Pre-Styling Shampoo adds strength and texture to the hair with the Fiber properties so that when you enrich it with either the Fiber Grooming Foam or Fiber Cream you don’t need as much product. This product is like a magnet that pulls all aspects of the grooming together and makes styling easier for both barber and client alike.” 

We asked Ian to tell us why this new American Crew range is so revolutionary to the male grooming industry, and he explained: “This is the first male grooming range that has styling elements brought into the shampoo while cleansing the hair as well. With this product, you don’t need to use conditioner because when you’re adding elements of product to the hair shaft you don’t want to rinse that out with conditioner. 

“With the Boost Pre-Styling Shampoo, you will find that as soon as you start towel drying your hair already has extra volume and will start defying gravity once you add that friction. While cleansing the hair and scalp, there is added volume already so when it comes to styling with the Boost Powder, you will use less product as the hair is already infused with some of those styling properties.” 

And why is this something that Ian recommends for both barbers to use behind the chair and for their clients at home? “This range, consisting of the Boost Pre-Styling Shampoo, Fiber Pre-Styling Shampoo, and the Forming Pre-Styling Shampoo makes their haircare regime much simpler and allows people to get better value and effectiveness of their styling products. 

“With the Forming Pre-Styling Shampoo, this is great for helping clients with curly and Textured hair wake up with curls held in place. It removes that element of frizz and that can often come with curly hair, while adding shine and complete curl definition.”

Ian continued, noting: “One of the key things I know about male grooming is that men like products with ease – which is why 3-in-1 products are so popular. So, if you can offer a product that helps simplify their routine at home, it offers great retail value while also allowing barbers to have a more effective service behind the chair. 

“A lot of my clients will tell me that they don’t have time for in depth styling routines, or don’t know how to apply products. This range becomes an easy retail sale because it gives them the benefit of time and ease when creating the style they’re trying to achieve. For barbers, I’d recommend talking your client through the steps when you’re styling their hair and how these products will benefit them.” 

With new products, it can be daunting to integrate it into the barbershop wondering what if your clients or team don’t like it, but Ian shared some of the reactions he’d received. “This is definitely an addition to the American Crew family that has been really well received by the team,” he told us. “We were a bit sceptical at first but after seeing the results, we have implemented the Pre-Styling Range across the board. Now it’s officially launched, we are seeing the client reception to using this at home and it’s been extremely positive.” 

Cal Newsome To Host NHBF Top 50 Hair Influencers Awards at HairCon

Cal Newsome, last year’s top NHBF Influencer, award-winning barber, and member of the Wahl Artistic Team, has been announced as the host for this year’s NHBF Top 50 Hair Influencers. This event, which features the industry’s only independently compiled influencer list, will take place from 5 to 6 PM on Sunday, June 22, at HairCon, held at O2 Victoria Warehouse in Manchester.

As the owner of Bull & Co Barber Club in Shropshire, Cal will join the NHBF team on the Social Stage at HairCon to announce the top 50 hair and barbering influencers. These recipients are chosen based on independently judged results powered by algorithms.

Attendees at HairCon will be the first to witness the official reveal, making this a must-attend event for both industry professionals and fans.

NHBF Chief Executive, Caroline Larissey, said: “We’re delighted to have Cal Newsome hosting this year’s Top 50 Hair Influencer reveal. As last year’s winner and a respected voice in the industry, Cal brings genuine insight and credibility to the event. His passion for barbering and commitment to raising industry standards make him the perfect person to lead the celebration.”

This year’s host Cal Newsome added: “I’m proud to be hosting this year’s NHBF Top 50 Hair Influencer reveal. Being recognised last year was a big moment for me, and it’s great to now be part of highlighting others who are pushing the industry forward. There’s so much talent out there, and this event is a great way to give it the recognition it deserves.”

Join Caroline, Cal and a host of your favourite industry influencers live at HairCon on Sunday 22nd June at 5.10pm on the social stage as the list is revealed – who will take the top spot this year? 

Dense Hair Experts and Kiss Branding Win Diamond Award for Best Visual Identity at Transform Awards

Dense Hair Experts and creative agency Kiss Branding have won the prestigious Diamond Award for Best Visual Identity from the Lifestyle & Wellbeing Sector at the Transform Awards. The accolade recognises their bold and thoughtful approach to tackling the stigma surrounding hair loss through an empowering and authoritative brand identity.

The Transform Awards, which celebrate excellence in rebranding and brand development, praised Kiss Branding for creating a “simple yet impactful visual identity” that confidently stands out in a saturated market. The project not only elevated Dense’s market presence but also delivered tangible commercial success, increasing conversion rates from 0.4% to 2.3%.

Judges highlighted the modern and credible nature of the brand work, noting its careful balance between clinical-level personalisation and consumer accessibility. Kiss Branding’s deep understanding of Dense’s audience enabled them to challenge outdated perceptions and create a brand that speaks to real people with clarity and empathy.

Dense’s win places the Leeds-born brand among the most respected names in global branding. Other major winners at this year’s Transform Awards included LEGO, Aston Martin, ZSL, TikTok and TNT Sports — a peer group that underscores the scale and significance of Dense’s achievement.

Aasim Hashmi (ASH), Co-Founder at Dense, said: “For us, this isn’t really about awards — it’s about recognition that the work we’re doing matters. Hair loss is something that affects so many people, but the conversation around it has always been awkward or brushed off. We set out to change that. To move things on from banter and bravado to real, science-led solutions that actually helps people take control early, confidently, and without the stigma. This award tells us we’re on the right track — but we’re nowhere near done.”

Kiss Branding is an award-winning creative agency specialising in bold, insight-led brand identities. Poonam Saini, Creative Director at Kiss Branding, said: “The best brands don’t just sell products, they meet real needs and empower people to live their best lives. Dense is one of those brands. This award celebrates a true transformation, from strong strategy and compelling storytelling to bold, standout creative all coming together to shift perceptions and make a real difference in young men’s lives. I couldn’t be prouder of the Kiss team, the incredible Founders at Dense®, and everyone who has helped shape this work. This is what meaningful branding looks like.”

The Wait is Over — SHABA 2025 Finalists Are Officially Announced

The Scottish Hair & Beauty Awards will take place on Sunday 24th August 2025 at the iconic Glasgow Hilton, with the biggest names in the industry coming together for a night of glitz, celebration, and career-defining recognition. This year’s event promises to be more spectacular than ever, shining a well-deserved spotlight on the talent, creativity, and hard work that powers Scotland’s vibrant hair and beauty scene.

On the red carpet, we’re thrilled to welcome two of the industry’s most loved personalities — Fallon Carberry and Justin Mackland — who will be hosting exclusive interviews with finalists and special guests, bringing the red carpet to life with energy, elegance, and a whole lot of fun.SHABA Founder Joanne Reid shares:
“Every year the standard gets higher, and 2025 is no exception. Our finalists represent the best in Scotland — bold, passionate, and game-changing professionals who are shaping the future of the industry. We’re so proud to celebrate them all.”

With celebrities, influencers, industry leaders, and creatives in attendance, SHABA 2025 is set to be an unforgettable celebration — complete with a high-impact awards ceremony, live entertainment, and the legendary SHABA afterparty.

🎟 Tickets are now on sale and expected to sell out fast — secure your spot at Scotland’s biggest hair and beauty event of the year.

Best Apprentice Barber 
Revival roomPaul mclaren
Kings barber shopRobbie gemmel
Future StudiosMark Howie
Rag & Bone BarbershopKye Stewart
The Cave BarberShopJodie Taylor
Wee Rebel BarberJax Flanagan
Beardy beardy FinniestonGrant Clark
Brown & sons barber coCayden Brown
Beardy Beardy Renfield StreetLewis Templeton
Serpent Kings BarbershopRhys Brannan
Best Barber Colourist
Dadi Long LocsDadi Long Locs
Craig Boyd HairdressingKirsty Newlands
Barber & GroomLeigh Legano
URBANHAIRZoe Clark
The Cave BarberShopRafal Golaszewski
Best Barbershop
The Cave BarberShop
Kings barber shop
Atelier Alexander – Salon & Barbers
Black Lotus Barbers
R+R Studios
The Changing Room Barbershop
Orbit Smoke Barbers
Serpent Kings Barbershop
Rag & Bone Barbershop
Beardy Beardy Renfield Street
Beardy beardy Finnieston
Mr Dun Barber
Best Male Barber 
URBANHAIRBlayre Turnbull
Mr Dun InverurieTate Mckenzie
Rag & Bone BarbershopAaron Wilson
The Cave BarberShopScott Thompson
R+R StudiosKeiran Flynn
Apex studio – Premium BarberingZak Khokhar
Kings barber shopAlan nassadi
Hard GrindDaniel Laird
Beardy Beardy Renfield StreetMark shannon
Beardy Beardy Renfield StreetTommie McGuckin
Black lotus barbersAaron Fallon
Beardy beardy FinniestonEuan Pirie
Morelife barbershopBlair Cochran-Brash
Atelier  Alexander – Salon & BarbersStephen Binnie
Sandras Unisex Hair SalonKyle Morton
Best Trainer / Training School
Desiree’s
Erasure Skin Academy
James Dun Salon
MANIQUE Beauty Salon & Academy
MADEwithMTA Barber Academy
Fempire Beauty / Fempire Beauty Academy
Samantha Blues Hair
Mr Dun Barber
Evolution Hair Clinic
Best Female Barber
Black lotus BarbersErin Wick
Barber & GroomLeigh Legano
Mastercut Hairdresser GlasgowSabrina Samuel
Orbit Smoke BarbersAngela Dickson
Serpent Kings BarbershopJanna Carlton
Serpent Kings BarbershopEmily McKenna
R+R StudiosMichelle Duncan
Kings barber shopJoanne woods
MINT BarbersSheridan  Smith

PASHANA® Unveils a New Look!

Iconic barbering brand PASHANA® proudly unveils the next chapter in its storied legacy with a striking new visual identity, showcased in a recent photoshoot set in an authentic, working barbershop. 

With a rich heritage spanning back over a century, to 1910, PASHANA® has long been trusted by professional barbers for its classic grooming products and traditional formulations. The brand’s recent refresh honours that rich history while embracing a contemporary look designed to resonate with today’s discerning barbers and style-conscious clientele. After all, even the classics need a little touch up now and again! 

The new photography captures the essence of the PASHANA® range in its natural habitat — a barbershop! From vintage chairs to heritage tools of the trade, the shoot brings together timeless barbering traditions with the modern evolution of the brand. 

The brand refresh includes updated packaging, enhanced branding elements, and a renewed focus on supporting barbers with products that blend classic quality with contemporary appeal. Trade wholesalers Trade wholesalers will also appreciate the strengthened shelf presence and elevated visual impact that PASHANA® now has. 

Wholesalers and industry professionals can expect to see the fresh look rolled across stores and marketing materials in the coming months.