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Do Barbers Need Insurance? Why It’s Essential for Your Shop

You’ve built your business with skill, hustle, and a solid set of clippers. The fades are sharp, and the clientele is loyal, but is your barbershop fully protected? When it comes to running a grooming business, general liability insurance and barbershop liability insurance aren’t luxuries—they’re necessities. From accidental injuries to property damage and service-related claims, insurance helps keep your business standing when the unexpected hits. In this guide, discover why barbers need insurance and where to begin when choosing one. 

Introduction to Barber Insurance Coverage 

Barber insurance coverage is a specialized form of professional liability insurance designed to shield barbers and beauty professionals from financial setbacks due to accidents, injuries, or property damage. Imagine the peace of mind knowing that if an unexpected claim or lawsuit arises, you’re protected. This coverage is not just a safety net; it’s a crucial part of running a successful barber business. With barber insurance coverage, you can focus on perfecting your craft without needing to worry about financial repercussions from potential mistakes or accidents.  

Why Barbers Need Coverage 

Every day in the shop brings opportunity along with risk. Think about it: 

  • A client trips over a cord on the floor.  
  • A reaction to beard oil leads to a skin complaint. 
  • A fire damages your tools and forces you to close for a week. 

Without barbershop insurance, even a minor incident could cost thousands. For example, a simple slip and fall could result in significant medical bills that you would be responsible for without proper coverage. Or worse, it could shut down your barbershop entirely. Barbershop liability insurance is designed to protect you from these exact situations. 

What is Barbershop Liability Insurance? 

Barbershop liability insurance helps cover the costs of injuries or damages that happen in your shop or because of your services. This type of insurance to helps cover: 

  • Slip and fall injuries  
  • Damage to client property (clothing, accessories, etc.) 
  • Claims related to allergic reactions or chemical burns 
  • Legal fees if someone sues your business 

How Much Does Barber Insurance Cost? 

Barber insurance costs can vary, but finding the right coverage doesn’t need to break the bank. Based on the policy type, coverage limits, and years of experience, pricing needs to be custom to your needs. Many insurance plans even offer discounts available for students or those who need to sign up for annual plans. 

To get the best value, it’s important to compare quotes and coverage options from different providers. Whether you’re running a busy barbershop or working solo, understanding what impacts the cost of barber insurance helps you choose a policy that fits both your budget and your business needs. 

Other Insurance Types Barbers Should Consider 

While liability insurance is the foundation, a complete coverage plan includes: 

Professional Liability Insurance 

Also known as errors and omissions insurance, professional liability coverage protects you if a client claims your services caused harm. This could include a skin reaction from a hot towel treatment or a lineup that didn’t go as planned. This type of barber insurance is needed for defending against lawsuits related to professional mistakes, negligence, or unsatisfactory results. If you offer specialized grooming services, professional liability insurance provides peace of mind and legal protection so you can focus on your craft. 

Commercial Property Insurance 

Your tools, chairs, mirrors, and products are your business lifeline, and commercial property insurance is essential for covering them from fire, theft, vandalism, and other damages. 

Business Interruption Insurance 

If you can’t operate due to a covered event (like a flood or power outage), this coverage can replace lost income and help cover rent and utilities if needed.   

Workers Compensation 

If you employ a team, this is legally required in many states. It covers job-related injuries for staff may experience.  

Customizing Your Barber Insurance Policy 

No two barbershops are exactly alike, which is why customizable barber insurance is a must. Many providers let you tailor your policy with optional add-ons like cyber liability or tools and supplies coverage. Choosing the right coverage ensures you’re protected where it matters most—without paying for extras you don’t need. 

Some insurers also offer flexible payment plans, instant proof of insurance, and same-day coverage, so you can get protected quickly and easily. Customizing your barbershop insurance means your policy evolves with your business, giving you the confidence to keep growing. 

Real Scenarios, Real Costs 

Not sure if you need barbershop insurance? Here’s what can go wrong: 

  • A pipe bursts overnight, destroying your inventory and flooring. 
  • A customer claims a razor nick caused an infection. 
  • Someone breaks in and steals $5,000 worth of clippers, trimmers, and grooming tools.  

Barbershop liability insurance could mean the difference between a minor hiccup and a major financial disaster.  

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How to Pick the Right Policy 

Insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s how to find coverage that fits your needs: 

  • Choose industry-specific providers. Go with insurers who understand the barbering business.  
  • Bundle your policies. You can often combine liability, property, and professional coverage to save money. 
  • Be honest about your services. If you offer extras like razor shaves, hair coloring, or fade designs, make sure they’re covered.  

How to Apply for Barber Insurance 

Getting insured as a barber is easier than ever. Most insurance providers offer a quick online application or a phone option if you need to speak with someone directly. You’ll typically be asked for a few key details about your business, like annual revenue, number of employees, the services you offer, and your professional background. Once submitted, you can often receive a free quote and secure coverage in just minutes. By applying for coverage, you’re taking an important step to protect your business from unexpected risks so you can stay focused on your clients and craft. 

Don’t Wait for Something to Go Wrong, Get Insured Today 

You’ve worked too hard building your name and sharpening your craft. Now it’s time to protect it. Barbershop liability insurance doesn’t just protect your year—it protects your reputation, your livelihood, and your peace of mind. Whether you’re cutting fades in a busy shop or running a solo studio, coverage is the backup every pro needs.  

Visit VagaroPro to learn more actionable insights on protecting and growing your barber business.   

NHBF Welcomes New HMRC Guidance on Employment Status for Hair, Beauty and Barbering Professionals

The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) is pleased to welcome new guidance from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), created to help people in our sector understand whether they’re classed as employed or self-employed for tax purposes. 

The guidance is especially useful for those working under the popular ‘rent a chair’ model — where professionals pay a fee or a percentage of their earnings to use a chair or space in a salon, barbershop or clinic. 

Put together with input from the NHBF and other sector groups, the guidance includes practical, easy-to-follow information about common working setups, along with real-life examples. It also explains how to use HMRC’s Check Employment Status for Tax (CEST) tool to figure out someone’s tax status — whether that’s as an employee or a self-employed business owner. 

There’s also a short video included, which clears up some of the confusion around employment status, tax responsibilities, VAT registration, and why having written agreements in place when renting a chair or space is so important. 

Caroline Larissey, Chief Executive of the NHBF, said: 

“We’re delighted to have collaborated with HMRC, along with NHBF members, on this important guidance for employment status in our sector. This partnership represents a step forward in providing the sector with clearer, more accessible information on tax obligations. 

The new resources, will be valuable for salon, barbershop and clinic business owners, and professionals across our diverse sector. As with any guidance, there are naturally opportunities for continued refinement to reflect the full breadth of business models in our sector, particularly VAT exemptions for some beauty/ wellbeing treatments. 

The NHBF will be actively signposting members to these helpful new resources alongside our own established guidance for hair and beauty business owners and chair/space/room renters. We look forward to our continued work with HMRC to ensure everyone in our vibrant and evolving sector has the tools they need to confidently navigate their tax responsibilities.” 

Kelvin Shorte, Deputy Director, Taskforces & Specialist Compliance at HMRC, added: 

“We understand the hair and beauty industry operates with various working arrangements, and it’s vital that both salon owners and professionals get their tax status right. This new guidance responds directly to requests from the industry for clearer, sector-specific information. 

Whether you’re a salon owner with staff or someone who rents out chairs in your premises, this guidance will help you understand your obligations, so you can get your tax right first time.” 

The NHBF will continue working with HMRC to make sure the guidance reflects the reality of how our industry works and supports everyone in meeting their responsibilities with confidence. 

For more information on how to join the NHBF visit www.nhbf.co.uk 

@nhbfsocial 

NHBF Welcomes New HMRC Guidance on Employment Status for Hair, Beauty and Barbering Professionals

The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) is pleased to welcome new guidance from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), created to help people in our sector understand whether they’re classed as employed or self-employed for tax purposes. 

The guidance is especially useful for those working under the popular ‘rent a chair’ model — where professionals pay a fee or a percentage of their earnings to use a chair or space in a salon, barbershop or clinic. 

Put together with input from the NHBF and other sector groups, the guidance includes practical, easy-to-follow information about common working setups, along with real-life examples. It also explains how to use HMRC’s Check Employment Status for Tax (CEST) tool to figure out someone’s tax status — whether that’s as an employee or a self-employed business owner. 

There’s also a short video included, which clears up some of the confusion around employment status, tax responsibilities, VAT registration, and why having written agreements in place when renting a chair or space is so important. 

Caroline Larissey, Chief Executive of the NHBF, said: 

“We’re delighted to have collaborated with HMRC, along with NHBF members, on this important guidance for employment status in our sector. This partnership represents a step forward in providing the sector with clearer, more accessible information on tax obligations. 

The new resources, will be valuable for salon, barbershop and clinic business owners, and professionals across our diverse sector. As with any guidance, there are naturally opportunities for continued refinement to reflect the full breadth of business models in our sector, particularly VAT exemptions for some beauty/ wellbeing treatments. 

The NHBF will be actively signposting members to these helpful new resources alongside our own established guidance for hair and beauty business owners and chair/space/room renters. We look forward to our continued work with HMRC to ensure everyone in our vibrant and evolving sector has the tools they need to confidently navigate their tax responsibilities.” 

Kelvin Shorte, Deputy Director, Taskforces & Specialist Compliance at HMRC, added: 

“We understand the hair and beauty industry operates with various working arrangements, and it’s vital that both salon owners and professionals get their tax status right. This new guidance responds directly to requests from the industry for clearer, sector-specific information. 

Whether you’re a salon owner with staff or someone who rents out chairs in your premises, this guidance will help you understand your obligations, so you can get your tax right first time.” 

The NHBF will continue working with HMRC to make sure the guidance reflects the reality of how our industry works and supports everyone in meeting their responsibilities with confidence. 

For more information on how to join the NHBF visit www.nhbf.co.uk 

@nhbfsocial 

Richard Marshall Champions Barbering at the Highest Levels of Government Amid Industry – Wide Negativity

As the barbering industry faces a wave of public and media scrutiny, Richard Marshall, Founder of Pall Mall Barbers and a trusted voice in government,is taking bold steps to shift the narrative.

Drawing on his personal journey from a humble apprenticeship to running one of the most respected barbering brands in the world, Marshall is using his influence to elevate the status and recognition of barbers, and hairdressers and beauty across the UK.

A member of the government’s Small Business Growth forum covering 5.6 million SMEs in the UK and a regular contributor to high-level advisory panels, Richard works with business ministers, lords and heads of policy on multiple areas of government and business.

He has presented at a Department of Trade & Business conference to 11,000 departmentemployees in 100 countries putting British barbering and hair on the map at highest levels of government, whilst sittingnext to the CEO of Microsoft. Marshall is also a board member of the National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) and currently standing in their election to become the organisation’s next president.

Marshall believes now is a critical moment for the hairand barbering sector to reclaim its value and future. “The NHBF is respected for its accurate data reporting and, importantly, has a seat at the top government tables,” said Marshall. “Together, we have the potential to make real, lasting change in how all our industry is perceived, protected, and supported –from funding and regulation to education and mental health recognition. Having worked with HRH Prince William on mental health projects gives me a prime position to lead from the front.”

He continues, “I’ve seen people informing government about the sector who, quite bluntly, don’t know what they’re talking about. That’s why I’m working with the NHBF to host a series of barber-specific round tables –to gather real insight from those on the ground and feed that directly into government.”

From sweeping the floor and making the tea the age of 12 in barber shop in Bedford to award-winning international business with locations in London and New York, and working in 10 Downing Street, to advise various prime ministers’ special advisers from his real life business experiences.

Marshall’s story is a testament to what’s possible in the sector. Today, he’s using that platform to open doors for the next generation of talent and ensure hair professionals are recognised as the highly skilled, entrepreneurial professionals they are.In recent months, he has been meeting with senior decision-makers to push for greater industry recognition, support for local barbershops, and clearer progression routes for young professionals.

His message is simple but powerful: barbers matter –to the economy, to local communities, and to the wellbeing of the nation.

With his candidacy for NHBF President, Marshall is doubling down on his commitment to drive progress at the highest levels. His vision is clear: to create an industry that is not only respected, but celebrated.

NHBF Members can vote for Richard via the NHBF website.

@pallmallbarbers

7 Tips for Handling Complaints – With WellnessPRO

By Alyssa Cink 

How you deal with criticism can impact your bottom line. According to a poll of 1,000 Americans commissioned by Toni & Guy, one in 10 clients has been so disappointed by a haircut, they’ve refused to pay for it. One percent even threatened to sue. 

Here are seven ways to handle barbershop complaints with ease. 

1. Don’t ignore an unhappy client. 

If you receive a harsh customer review, withdrawing is not the answer. Don’t ignore the flustered voicemails or simply delete the inflamed comments from your Instagram post. 

Harvard Business Review’s study of more than 400,000 customer service-related tweets found that customers who received any kind of customer service response were willing to pay that company more. It didn’t matter if the customer was happy, furious, or sad. All of them were willing to recommend a brand for at least six months after their interaction. 

Takeaway: Respond to all feedback, good and bad. Engaging with even the most confrontational, difficult hair clients can positively impact their brand loyalty. 

2. Respond fast. 

Harvard Business Review observed that, after 20 minutes of waiting for a reply, customers saw the brand as $3 more valuable. After waiting five minutes or less, many customers were willing to pay almost $20 more (an increase of 85 percent). 

Takeaway: The sooner you reply to a barber shop complaint, the more value your brand captures.  

3. Stay calm. 

In his book “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” Dale Carnegie says customers can “hear” your smile through your voice.  

So remind yourself to smile – yes, even if you can’t see your client’s face, and even if you don’t feel like smiling. By acting happy, you’ll influence your inner thoughts and change how you respond to unhappy clients. 

Takeaway: Don’t match an upset client’s emotions. Instead, stay calm and smile. 

4. Adopt HEAT. 

Another trick is to adopt the HEAT model: Hear, Empathize, Apologize, and Take ownership. 

First, people who feel heard, feel better. The 2020 National Customer Rage Study reported that one percent more active listening can yield 14 percent more gratitude from customers. Furthermore, one percent more empathy can yield up to 90 percent more gratitude. 

So listen actively to upset clients. Use their names. Don’t interrupt. Give verbal cues over the phone, like repeating information to show you’re paying attention. 

Takeaway: Hear and empathize. 

Additionally, tell clients how sorry you are for the inconvenience or the trouble.  

Don’t admit fault. Do present possible solutions, set expectations, and follow through. 

Takeaway: Empathize and take ownership. 

5. Rethink the refund. 

In lieu of refunds, solutions like gift cards give you the opportunity to provide a stellar second experience and earn an unhappy client’s loyalty. In other words, it allows you to make things right at your salon, not someone else’s.  

Takeaway: Instead of refunds, invite them back. 

6. Learn from your mistakes. 

As Carnegie writes in his book, learning from the past is way more productive–and fun–than getting defensive. 

Takeaway: Never miss an opportunity to learn.  

7. Set and practice your protocol. 

Before complaints happen, set a complaints policy for all kinds of barbershop conflicts: in person, over the phone, and online.  

Furthermore, give every customer-facing employee an opportunity to practice. Giving them pretend Google reviews or roleplaying stressful scenarios in-person keeps everyone calm and confident during real conflicts. 

Make insurance part of your procedure. 

If a barbershop complaint turns into something serious, like a lawsuit, make sure you have an insurance provider who’s in your corner.  

Not currently insured? Scan the QR code to visit our website and start your coverage journey with WellnessPro. 

The Andis Envy II Clipper is Designed for Inclusivity

Andis’s recent launch of the Envy II Clippers in both Standard and Premier editions not only bridge the gap between fade and taper blends, but they also offer users the ability to customize it for left-hand use with the bonus left-hand lever arm included in the kit!

“The Envy II Clippers embody Andis Company’s commitment to innovation and improvement,” said Matt Andis, Co-CEO of Andis Company. “With unmatched versatility, inclusivity and performance, we are excited to see how both new and experienced users will benefit from these next-level tools.”

Essential to the Envy II Clippers is the all-new Phaze blade, an adjustable carbon-steel blade that transitions seamlessly from 0000 to 0A. This blade bridges the gap between fade and taper blends, offering unmatched versatility and precision.

Additionally, the Envy II Clippers’ perfectly balanced design reduces hand strain, while the textured housing provides a secure grip, ensuring effortless use during extended salon sessions.

The Envy II Clipper (standard) features a more powerful motor than the first-edition Envy Li Cordless Clipper, running at 6,500 SPM, with a lithium-ion battery for up to two hours of run time. The kit includes 11 attachment combs, providing a wide range of cut lengths for versatile styling options.

And for those seeking an extra touch of luxury, the Envy II Clipper Premier edition features elegant gold housing with a premium charging stand and six attachment combs, combining sophistication with practicality. The Envy II Premier Clipper features an even more powerful motor, running at 6,700 SPM, with a lithium-ion battery for up to two and a half hours of run
time.

The Phaze blade on the Premier edition also features a dynamic, 28-tooth ceramic cutter that runs cooler and stays sharper longer, enhancing durability and performance.

Envy can be a good thing, especially if it’s in your hand.

Andis Introduces the New Envy II Clipper – Kenny Duncan Edition

Be Great on Purpose with the Envy II Clipper – Kenny Duncan Edition

This limited-edition clipper was created in collaboration with Kenny Duncan, Andis North American Artistic Team Lead and internationally known barber, in celebration of his 20-year anniversary of barbering excellence with Andis.

The inclusive design allows for customization that accommodates both right- and left-hand users with the addition of a left-hand lever in the kit. Featuring original artwork by Chuck Styles, this limited-edition clipper delivers cutting-edge performance wrapped in show-stopping aesthetics.

The blueprint to success is artfully depicted on this limited-edition clipper through hidden nuggets of wisdom relating to the steps that every barber can take in order to achieve greatness.

“Greatness is a reflection of mindset. It’s easy to settle for just being good. I encourage you to know what’s missing for you to be GREAT and curate a plan to obtain that greatness. I encourage each of you to: BE GREAT ON PURPOSE.” – Kenny Duncan

Elevate Your Craft with the Envy II Clipper – Kenny Duncan Edition. Designed by Legends, Built for Excellence.


*This new Envy II Clipper is unlike the previous Andis Envy II Clippers (standard Black and premier Gold editions) because the Kenny Duncan edition only fits with the Master model blade and Master model attachment combs. Learn more about this tool here.

Two Forces. One Mission

It’s the collab you never knew you needed, and the one we have all been waiting for. Legendary professional barber tool brand, BaBylissPRO have joined forces with the revolutionary and innovative education and product brand, Tomb45, to create a tool range like no other, including a Clipper, Trimmer, wireless charging pad, and Professional Nano Light Ionic Dryer. Everything you need to know, here in BarberEVO.  

For both BaBylissPRO and Tomb45, the words ‘by barbers, for barbers’ are not taken lightly. Both bodies are constantly devoted to innovating for the barbers at the center of this industry. This shared passion behind each brand has led to a tool collaboration unlike any other. We introduce to you: The BaBylissPRO X Tomb45 Clipper, Trimmer, Wireless Charging Pad, and Professional Nano Light Ionic Dryer. 

With features such as the trimmer’s new reversed blade orientation making lineups easier than ever, the clippers DS1 Dual Speed Motor that runs at 7,500RPM at high speed, and 6,800 RPM at low speed, and a LED Battery-Level Indicator Screen on both, these tools are the pinnacle of innovation.  

Not to mention, the clipper and trimmer in addition to being USB-C Compatible and FXCORD Compatible for Cord/Cordless Use, both tools are wireless charging compatible… to pair perfectly with the oh-so slick BaBylissPRO X Tomb45 Wireless-Charging Pad.  

And to top the tool range off with a cherry on top, they have also created the BaBylissPRO X Tomb45 Professional Nano Light Ionic Dryer. The Nano Titanium and Ionic technology offer maximum smoothness and shine, the cold shot button locks in styles, and with nine LED heat and speed settings and engineered airflow offers more efficient and effective styling.  

Joining Forces 

By BaBylissPRO and Tomb45 collaborating on this tool range, not only has increased the power and functionality of the tools, but it also strengthens the reach and education available within the industry.  

44 Global Educators: There is a combined total of 44 BaBylissPRO® and Tomb45® global educators  

25+ Million: Between BaBylissPRO® and Tomb45®’s digital presence, they have a combined 25+ million followers.  

158+ Million:  158+ million interactions on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube in 2024. 

Who are Tomb45? 

We spoke to Chris Bossio, one of the founders of Tomb45 about the collaboration, and why he believed it was a perfect fit. But first, Chris told us a little more about Tomb45 and what the brand stands for.  

“I have been teaching barbers how to cut hair and get better at their craft, and just been pouring into elevating the industry as much as I can for the past 10 years. One of the things that I noticed in the barbering industry as I was coming in was there wasn’t a lot of innovation. If it’s not innovative, if it’s not going to elevate the industry, then it’s not a project that Tomb45 want to take on. 

“BaBylissPRO® was a brand that wanted to do something new, something different. They were willing to listen to us. It wasn’t just about the money. They wanted to do something different, something that would elevate the industry and bring the standards higher.” And so, Chris travelled to BaBylissPRO®’s HQ, to meet with the team.  

“I spent the weekend with the leadership team, and it was all so synergistic. Big barber brands, they usually don’t want to do something expensive, they don’t want to reengineer something and build from scratch. But BaBylissPRO® will willing to take that risk. It felt like going to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. I drew on a piece of paper what I thought would be the most ergonomic, cool, best feeling clipper in a barber’s hand, and they came back with some renderings and mock ups. They came back with technology that they were never willing to introduce in the past… until now.”  

Two Innovators, One Mission: Redefining the Industry.  

“So,” Chris continued, “This is what it looks like when Tomb45 and BaBylissPRO® come together and create a vision. You can see the ergonomics, the way it hugs your hand, the size of it, the shape, the balance, the weight, all of these details were thought about. I just feel like we are paying attention to the real behavior that happens in a barbershop.”  

An example of this is the location of the lever on the trimmer. “How long have trimmers been around? Why hasn’t anyone thought about putting the lever on the side where your hand naturally lies, to be more ergonomically efficient? So, that’s what we did! I want it to be fun to move the lever around. It’s little details like this that barbers will notice and appreciate.  

“I remember one of the team members at BaBylissPRO handing me a piece of clay and saying, ‘form the lever that you think would feel best in your hand.’ I did it, then we drew it out, and that’s the tool we created. The second you feel this in your hand, you know it was built for a barber, by a barber.”  

Making the Cut  

We also wanted to get the tools in the hands of a barber to hear their feedback on the brand new tools and collaboration. And who better to speak to than educator for BaBylissPRO® as well as Tomb45®, Sean Ralston!?  

First Impressions of the Tool 

“When I first saw the clipper, I thought it was super cool. It’s tough to be unique these days, especially since many clippers look alike. But this one, from the design to the features, is completely new. It’s not just an update or an iteration; it’s an entirely new concept. Seeing it come to life from a sketch was a really cool moment, especially from two of my favorite companies.” 

The Power of Collaboration 

“Tomb45 has been making innovative charging products for a while, and BaBylissPRO® has always been a brand that values the opinions of barbers. The two brands understood that working together could be beneficial to everybody, and the two brands have teamed up really nicely and naturally. So, it just made sense for us to connect, combine ideas, and create something unique.” 

Favorite Features 

“There are a few cool new features. One is the built-in wireless charging. Unlike previous tools where you needed attachments to make it work, this one charges wirelessly straight out of the box. Another is the ergonomic lever; it fits perfectly in your thumb. But the feature I’m most excited about is the trimmer. The power button is on the back, so you can use it for lineups without flipping it over. It’s a completely new approach that I think will make barbers’ jobs easier.” 

The Backwards Trimmer 

“It’s funny because, when you first see it, it looks ‘backwards,’ but it makes so much sense. The power button is on the back, and the blade faces away from you, making it perfect for lineups without having to flip the tool over. It’s definitely different, but we think it’s going to be a game-changer for the industry.” 

Describing the Tool in Three Words 

“Innovation, ergonomics, and power.” 

Get your hands on the BaBylissPRO X Tomb45 Tools NOW!

Entries open NOW for College Star – Denman’s Big Blowout Competition

College Star – Denman’s Big Blowout Competition opens TODAY!

College Star – Denman’s Big Blowout Competition launched last year and attracted an amazing response of over 500 entries from hairdressing students up and down the UK.

The simple online only competition asks students to upload their details and four images of their very best blow-dry for the chance to win £1000 cash.

Last year the winner was Yasmin Ainsley of East Durham College who took home the big prize. Denman CEO Kevin McNamee said: “We were absolutely overwhelmed with the response last year and so grateful to all the amazing college tutors who encouraged their students to get involved. Brilliant blow-dry skills are essential for young professionals and we wanted to create a competition that inspired and celebrated students as they master those skills. Last year’s entries set the bar high, so we are really looking forward to seeing 2025’s entries. Good luck everyone!”

Here’s what every College and student needs to know:
Competition opens: February 17th
Competition closes: March 21st
Winner announced: April 11th

How to win: Just upload images of the front, sides and back of one blow-dry look. For full entry requirements and T&C’s please follow the link College Star | Denman Brush – Denman UK.

Prize: £1000 for the student and a hamper of tools valued at £200 for the
student’s College department. PLUS, there’s a little something for the tutor too – the tutor whose students enter the most number of entries wins £250 AND the tutor of the winning student also wins £250! T&C’s apply

EVO X Vagaro LIVE: The Future of Barbering with John Mosely

Vagaro is redefining the way barbering businesses operate, and in the latest episode of EVO X Vagaro Live, industry legend John Mosely AKA The Popular Nobody sat down with our editor and host for this IG LIVE collaboration, Jennifer Paxton, to talk tech, cash and more. 

Launching straight into it, Jennifer asked the all-important question – why do barbers need to go digital?

“You’ve gotta get on the tech train now!” John said. “Digital tools can streamline operations, boost client satisfaction, and increase profitability.

“Vagaro is the app that will allow you to customize your whole business model. We don’t want you to pay for things that you’re not using,” John added.

In this industry, cash has historically been king, but John delves into the importance of evolving beyond that mindset – especially post-COVID. 

“One of the things we talk about is payment processing. In the barber community, cash is king, but we talk a lot about how you should be charging credit cards, saving cards on file, and charging those no-show fees,” said John. 

“But if you want to buy your first business, they’re going to do a credit check on you. They want to know you know what you’re doing. If you want to buy a house, you need to have a credit history. By incorporating digital payment methods, barbers can build financial credibility and secure long-term business stability.

“It’s the small things like that that have a huge long-term impact. And Vagaro is the way to go for the support on this journey.”

Learn more about how John uses Vagaro to take his business into the future – and how you can, too.

Stay ahead of the curve by following @barberevo, @popular_nobody, and @vagaropro for more insights, pro tips, and updates on how to make your business more efficient. Work smarter, not harder!

Check out the IG LIVE here.