Generation Barber is set to return to Bournemouth on May 20th, 2024. Following the success of the 2023 show, Generation Barber will return bigger and better than before.

Aimed specifically for barbering students, Generation Barber, sponsored by Denman International brings together barbers, students and educators from across the UK for a day filled with education, inspiration and networking.

With education from leading barbering educators and influencers including the Great British Barbering Academy Team, Afro Hair Champion Grim Barber, Andis UK Education Team Lead, Baldy, and the organiser himself, Mike Taylor, this year’s schedule has it all.

For the first time, Generation Barber will also include demonstrations from barbers who started their own businesses in their 20’s. Dubbed the ‘Young Guns’, this performance is the perfect opportunity to inspire the new generation of barbers into thinking not only about their practical skills but also the whole package of what it takes to be a successful barber.

Alongside the incredible line-up, Generation Barber also allows students and barbers to get up close and personal with leading professionals in the Help and Advice Centres, situated in the main hall throughout the day. From advice on how to maintain your clippers to help on how to get that crispy fade, if you have any specific questions that need a more 1:2:1 response, the educators will be there throughout the day to help.

Due to the huge success from last year the Student Competition will also be returning. This is an incredible opportunity for learners currently working towards a formally accredited level 2 or 3 qualification to have a platform to showcase their skills.

There are two categories to choose from; either Classic or Creative, and the first round is judged by photographic entry. Get through to the final and you will see your work showcased around the Generation Barber Hall and on the big screen on stage. However, there can only be one lucky winner from each category who will go on to win a selection of goodies from Generation Barber Student Competition sponsor, Denman International and show supporter, Andis.

International Creative Director, Mark Hayes, will be leading the iconic Sassoon team at exciting new hair festival, HairCon which is taking place between the 22^nd and 24^th of June in the iconic O2 Victoria Warehouse in Manchester.

For over 40 years, Mark Hayes has been inspiring hairdressers at Sassoon with his passionate approach to hair and his technical expertise. Mark’s signature pared-down style, which reflects his love of modernist art and architecture, puts him at the forefront of global hair design. His role as International Creative Director takes him all over the world coaching, teaching and inspiring.

Beginning his 40-plus-year love affair with hair as an apprentice at the busy Sassoon Salon on South Molton Street, London in 1977, Mark’s yearly schedule now revolves around developing the seasonal collections and leading the worldwide demand for Sassoon Hair Design. He remains as excited today, as he was on his first day in 1977.  He said: “I take great pride in continuing the Sassoon legacy and now actively help to mould the company. I have the opportunity to create an energy and passion for hair in those around me.  My goal is to give more people more creative opportunities, more of the time.  It has been an incredible journey so far”.

 Mark and Sassoon will join an extraordinary line-up including Richard Ashforth’s Noise, Saco, Jack & the Wolfe, Heffy, SLK Bleach, Sally & Jamie Brooks, Desmond Murray and Errol Douglas along with the legendary barber heroes Alan Beak and Cal Newsome to name but a few. Prepare for your perceptions of both the industry and your business to be completely transformed by a spectacular line-up of global icons and immersive stage sessions, which will in equal parts inspire and revitalise your passion.

The event is a collision of artistry, aimed at igniting genuine connections within the hair industry. For hair professionals from across the globe, it’s time to get ready for a game-changing experience where you can immerse yourselves in a world of creativity, inspiration, and innovation. Whether you’re a salon, home salon or barbershop owner, a stylist and apprentice or a colourist (and everyone in between); you can expect HairCon to offer you the opportunity to challenge the equilibrium. 

HairCon is supported by an epic collaboration of industry titans including the Fellowship for British Hairdressing, Great Lengths, yuv ®, Diva Pro, Vagaro, DENSE, Design Essentials.Collaborators include Olaplex, Phorest, Ergo, Calligraphy Cut, Blonde Solutions, Tondeo, Novo Cabelo, Zen, K18, Comfortel and Glowwa.

Join Mark and more at HairCon 2024 for the best in global artistry and connection. Be inspired, get connected and join HairCon in leading the way into the future of the industry. 

For more information, please visit www.haircon.co.uk to find out how you can get involved.

The new clipper offers professionals unparalleled versatility, with optional cordless freedom and a powerful performance.

The leading manufacturer of handheld barbering goods, Andis Company, has announced the launch of their new, heavy-duty eMERGE™ Clipper for barbers. The new tool by Andis, who also deliver powerful education for professionals, features a powerful motor to cut all hair types and a detachable blade system compatible with all Andis ultraEDGE® and ceramicEDGE® blades – designed to deliver the ultimate clipping versatility to create precision cuts.

Fitted with an Andis ceramicEdge size 000 Blade, the eMERGE™ Clipper’s detachable blade provides users with the flexibility to change to optional blades in seconds, so barbers can achieve the correct cut length for the desired style. The clipper additionally offers a blade lock feature for added blade security. 

“Designed for busy barbers, our new eMERGE™ Detachable Blade Clipper delivers the power, speed and ergonomics to make high-volume clipper cutting easier,” said Matt K. Andis, Co-CEO of Andis® Company. “Its powerful rotary motor glides effortlessly through every hair type – wet or dry. Plus, its cord/cordless flexibility means the eMERGE™ is always ready behind the chair.”

The innovative design, which gives you the ability to go cordless, means you can keep on clipping even if you forget to charge the battery. This is in part due to the clipper’s high-speed, high-torque motor which runs at 3,800 strokes per minute. The motor is powered by a lithium-ion battery for up to 1.5-hours of run time and includes an LED battery indicator that lets you know when to charge. The ergonomic design that offers a contoured shape with finger grooves, provides barbers with a comfortable and manageable experience.

The eMERGE™ Detachable Blade Clipper features a one-year warranty and includes:

• ceramicEDGE® Size 000 Blade
• Power Supply Adapter & Cord
• Blade Brush
• ¼ Oz Oil Tube
• Replacement Quad Drive

SRP: $305.99 USD

To purchase the eMERGE™ Clipper, visit www.andis.com and authorized Andis dealers. For more information on Andis® Company, follow them on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook.

STMNT Grooming Goods have proudly introduced their latest innovative addition to the grooming industry: the Dual-Sided Hair & Beard Comb.

Set to become a staple for grooming afficionados globally, the birchwood tool was designed with both barbers and clients in mind. The tool was created with the goal of revolutionising styling routines and enhancing the retail experience.

The tool, which STMNT have dubbed the “dual-sided wonder”, has both hair and beard grooming capabilities: streamlining the styling process, for the convenience of both barbers and clients alike. Made from sustainable birchwood, the comb is also notably sturdy. 

Designed with every barber in mind, the ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip and a “pleasure” to use for extended periods of time. Barbers can also use the tool to relieve fatigue and tension from the scalp, whilst promoting healthy blood circulation. The tool has also been designed with every hair type in mind, the combe caters to a diverse range of styling needs. 

In a bid to support barbers in elevating their retail offerings, the grooming company is encouraging barbers to offer the Dual-Sided Hair & Beard Comb as a complimentary gift.

Barbers can now provide added value to their customers by offering this £12.99 retail-priced comb for free with the purchase of other STMNT Grooming Goods products, creating a great incentive for clients to make in an in-shop purchase after their service.

The latest issue of BarberEVO UK & Ireland is OUT NOW.    Get your copy here! 

Step into Spring

The latest issue of BarberEVO UK & Ireland is OUT NOW! Our second issue of 2024 is one you won’t want to miss. Inside, you’ll find exclusive interviews and features focusing on creativity, sustainability, business and retail tips as well as our brand-new column with Hairgound’s Live podcaster Simon Butcher. We showcase the best up-and-coming barbershops in London, as well as a stunning EVO abroad location in Tennessee; and much more inside.  

Cover Star: Charles Gray 

Founder of Hair in Motion and barbering legend Charles Gray needs no introduction, but in this issue, we highlight his career from young apprentice to heavyweight educator and entrepreneur. Charles reflects on starting his apprenticeship aged 18, to now being expert educator with Hair in Motion, co-founder of Leaf Signature Styling, and creative director at Leaf Scissors. We discuss all this and more with Charles in the latest unmissable issue.

Staying Creative      

In this issue, we are focusing on the best ways to stay creative as a barber, speaking to experts in the industry and highlighting the tools and skills necessary. We speak to creative expert and educator Alessandro Barca about his best tips, and tools he recommends for barbers to stay on the pulse of trends. While highlighting collections and advice on embracing individual techniques and finding a creative niche from Hayden Cassidy, Fede Damiani, Darren Heywood Kenny, Ex The Barber and Charlie Cullen. 

Sustainability   

With Earth Day 2024 approaching, we want to shine a light on the barbers, businesses and brands doing their bit to protect the environment. We speak to Brighton-based duo Ally Papworth and Dan Hall at The Tin Can Barbershop on their sustainable shop built in a shipping container, as well as columnist Carlie Cardle sharing sustainable insight to fellow business owners.  

Product Focus: Aftercare 

In this industry, barbers are spoiled for choice with the best and most exciting aftercare products for clients. We showcase speak to Matakki director Emma Curd about how their scissor brand has a unique function helping barbers avoid repetitive straining, as well as focusing on new releases like; Artero’s latest clipper, The Brooklyn; Wahl Professional’s Hi-Viz Trimmer, 5 Star Cordless Detailer Li, and the latest A-Lign Trimmer.  

Business   

Looking for the next way to expand your business? Focus on retail. Teaming up with Morgan’s Pomade, Kevin Vorley tells us about his tour to improve retail offerings in barbershops. While columnist Mark Maciver from SliderCuts Studio shares his advice to business owners and self-employed barbers about all thing’s insurance, with helpful tips about everything you need to know.  

We hope you enjoy this issue! You can order your print copy here. 

 

Kicking off the new year at the ‘24 winter x games where the barbers are just as extreme as the competitors, andis company partners with barber authority to give athletes and vips gold medal looks.

Andis® Company, a leading manufacturer of handheld grooming tools and education for professional barbers took its expertise to new heights in January, literally. Sitting at nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, Buttermilk Mountain played host to the 2024 Winter X Games, as well as Andis Company’s partnership with Barber Authority. Joining forces to offer barbering services in the Athlete’s Lounge, Andis Ambassadors were tapped to style the athletes with fresh haircuts and beard trims to show off at the games, plus at-home tools to keep up the looks.

Teaming up with Barber Authority, a barbering collective founded by celebrity barber Steve Vilot in Lynchburg Tennessee, Andis sent Andis Ambassadors Jose Perez Zamora (@flashy_faded), Julien Howard (@thevelobarber), and Jorge Saldana (goalku_) to demonstrate their own skills on the mountain. Equipped with fresh, custom-engraved Master Cordless Clippers and all new Andis tools including trimmers, shavers and more, these barbers brought expert talent to the competition known for taking things to the next level.

These X-treme styles included many athletes walking away with the X Games official logo shaved into their fades. Snowboarder Pat Fava left the games with a mustache trim by Jose Perez Zamora as well. While the Winter X Games are often synonymous with the long hair that many of the athletes would refer to as “flow,” the Athlete’s Lounge was packed with athletes and other VIPs waiting for their shot at a new, Andis-perfected look. Fades, sculpted mullets, and crew cuts transformed the style of the games.

“Andis tools have powered Steve and Barber Authority for 10 years at the X Games. This year, we were excited to also provide barbers for the event,” said Bruce Bock, Sr. Corporate Communications Manager at Andis. “Jose, Julien and Jorge are extremely talented barbers and everyone who walked into the tent walked out with a perfect haircut.”

“I have always been an Andis-only barber and after years of using their precision tools in my barbershops and on tour, it has been awesome working with the team here at the Winter X Games,” said Vilot. The level of talent and the quality of tools is obvious looking at every haircut that left the tent. We are very excited to continue partnering with Andis, especially this summer at Lollapalooza.”

As 2024 is already shaping up to be a big year for tight, structured haircuts, Andis and Barber Authority have secured themselves as the trendsetters in the world of extreme sports. Sharing the incredible talent of the Andis Ambassadors and the precision of the Andis tool lineup on a stage this large is set to forecast a wave of new styles in the world of barbering.

For more information visit www.andis.com and barberauthority.com. To keep up with all things Andis® Company, follow them on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

Denman recently donated Jack Dean by Denman barbering kit to a new cohort of barbering learners at Mike Taylor Education in Poole. A general lack of offering for apprenticeships in barbering means that students are forced into a choice between private courses that are often premium priced and can lack real world training or hairdressing college courses that lack a barbering focus. Mike says “These nine students were falling between the cracks when it came to the training on offer. After years of petitioning and a change of local MP, I finally succeeded in securing funding for seven students. They were all worthy applicants and so eager to begin that I couldn’t just select seven, so we are funding two of them ourselves. Denman’s donation of kit means that they have quality tools from the very start.” 

These students will take English, maths and wider learning along with their practical skills and Mike’s purpose is to ensure that when they have acquired their VRQ Level 2 they will be workplace ready and an asset to any barbershop who will help them progress further.

For more information on Mike Taylor Education go to www.miketayloreducation.com. 

Follow @denmanpro. 

One Man. Two Wheels. Over 10,000 miles across 27 countries…

British Gentleman’s Grooming company Captain Fawcett Ltd, is on the road again for the third and final part of the GREAT EXPEDITION 2023. 

Richie Finney, founder of the multi-award-winning Norfolk-based lifestyle brand, has embarked on the last leg of a three part solo motorcycle adventure. Beginning in May, during spring and summer Richie completed two action-packed tours through Spain, central Europe and the Nordic and Baltic states. The finale, Part Three, sees him continue his odyssey through the heart of Europe, culminating with a photo finish in Paris in mid-October.

Covering 16,000km across 27 countries, the remarkable ride has proved hugely successful. As well as cementing relationships by sharing great moments in the European barbershop community, it has created the occasion to meet new acquaintances – barbers, customers and distributors alike. The Great Expedition is an unparalleled opportunity to showcase the brand’s multi-award winning Gentleman’s Grooming products to existing and prospective buyers on their home territory. Raising public awareness of the brand through barbershop events, the epic road trip is generating a wealth of shared social media content and enthusiastic coverage in the European press. 

Richie Finney (aka Captain Fawcett’s ‘Right Hand Man’) says: “Why Europe? Of course after Brexit we are no longer dealing with a single state (the EU) but 27 individual countries, each with their own nuances and customs requirements, plus others not part of the European Union. Some 78% of our orders go overseas and, furthermore, Captain Fawcett is hugely proud to be named a Department for Business and Trade Export Champion for 4 years running.

I’m taking to the highway because, as tis said ‘the road goes forever on’, but inevitably our time on it is short. The barbershop experience is hands-on. It can’t be replicated through wires and algorithms. The chatter, the laughter, the drinks, the scent of perfume, a massage, a luxurious close shave. Those tangible moments are the antidote to solitude, a tribute to our togetherness. They’re the essence of life itself! So, dear chums, by all means come along and say how do! It’s going to be wild, it’s going to be weird, and it’s going to be one hell of a ride!” 

The innovator in the barber industry is crossing over into music, integrating the unique sound of their clippers into a summer soundtrack created by legendary professionals.

STERLING, IL (August 1, 2023) – Did the inventors of the electric hair clipper just drop an album? Sounds like it. Wahl Clipper Corporation, a pioneer in the barber tool industry for over 100 years, dropped six new tracks as part of its new Icons of Wahl campaign.

At the heart of every barbershop is a musical backdrop that sets the tone for the space, the experiences, and the clients. The sound of their iconic clippers and trimmers has always been an omnipresent hum in the background of every haircut. In a bold creative move, Wahl blended these familiar sounds with music that resonates with modern professionals, giving birth to six fresh tracks, each seamlessly incorporating the distinctive sounds of a Wahl tool all while celebrating the unique identity and diversity of industry pros.

Every Wahl clipper has its own distinct vibration, tone, and pitch, creating a symphony of sound that is unmistakable to those who wield these legendary tools. Factor in the variable speeds, swappable blades, along with a variety of different cutting techniques, and you have a rich sonic palette of sounds that have become the hallmark of Wahl products.
The Icons of Wahl campaign showcases their line-up of headliner tools, Wahl’s most enduring products, each with its own unique legacy. These tools stand the test of time and have become the cornerstone for modern barbers and stylists. With Wahl’s clippers and trimmers in hand, these professionals elevate their artistry, producing exceptional results that leave a lasting impression on their clients.

The Icons of Wahl campaign features legendary professionals, including Rick Morin, Fernando Ibánez, Garland Fox, Kristi Faulkner, Nieves, and Arisa Thomas, each paired with the headlining Wahl tool that has played a pivotal role in shaping their careers. Wahl enlisted producer John Ferreria to craft original songs that merge the rhythms of their favorite tools with the genres that inspire them:

01. Rock the Look – Rick Morin feat. Wahl Senior® (80’s Rock)

02. Abracadabra – Kristi Faulkner feat. Wahl Magic Clip® (Electro Pop)

03. Style Standards – Garland Fox feat. Wahl Legend® (Jazz)

04. El Cabello – Fernando Ibánez feat. Wahl Super Taper® (Latin)

05. Fine Tune – Nieves feat. Detailer® Li (Alt Hip-Hop)

06. Fur Sure – Arisa Thomas feat. KM10® (Easy Pop)

Garrett McGuire, Wahl’s Global Brand Director, explained the thought process behind the inventive blending of tool vibrations with music, stating, “The buzz of Wahl tools has always been music to my ears, and I know barbers and stylists will immediately recognize each tool’s unique rhythm and vibration within these new songs. We are passionate about celebrating the essence of their craft in a way that resonates, with music being such a large part of the barbershop or salon experience, and feel inspired and energized in this industry they cherish.”

The Icons of Wahl campaign is a genre-blurring crossover for barber professionals and music enthusiasts alike, with custom music tracks available for download and sharing on various social media platforms. 
As part of the campaign, the entire Icons of Wahl line, including the Senior, the Legend, the Magic Clip, the Super Taper, the KM10, and the Detailer Li, is now available for purchase at wahlpro.com.

The original Icons of Wahl songs can be enjoyed on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and can be downloaded from wahlpro.com/icons.

The latest issue of BarberEVO North America is OUT NOW.  

Get your copy here!

Barber of the Edition: Jessie Perez Gil
Barbershop of the Edition: Blind Barber Chicago
Newcomer of the Edition: Elliot Thomas, The Spot Academy
EVO in the City Location: San Francisco
EVO Abroad Location: Switzerland
Diary of a CEO: Aston LaFon, 18.21 ManMade
Behind-the-Scenes Photoshoot: Purcy Chair

Welcoming our new and returning columnists: 

Angie Perino
Barberville
Chico Boom
Byrd Mena
Brandi Lashay
Tyler Kelbert

 ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:  

NEW YEAR TRENDS

Everything you need to know about 2024 style is HERE.

Featuring trend predictions from STMNT’s Jōvan Figueroa, American Crew’s Phoenix Thomson, Andis’ Angie Perino, Pamela Reyes, Taylor Leven and Jason Rios, too. Including insight to color, style, cuts, design, texture, and protective styling.

• 

• 

GROOMING

Shaving and skincare make for the perfect relaxation experience in a shop. Learn how to maximize on sales and revenue using grooming services.

Featuring advice from Jay Cruz, J. Harris Barber, Danilo Alfonso, Joseph Macdonald and more. 

• 

• 

EDITORIAL

Expect big names in the editorial world in this feature. Byrd Mena is one of our new columnists and gives you the tools you need to do justice to your creativity and design photoshoots that showcase your skill AND look cool.

Also spotlighted are Carlos A. Trista, who covers freestyling on competition stages; Edwin Cruz Delgado, who speaks about the best products. Angel Marcano also looks at the power of color and pattern to boost your creative streak. And the one and only Byrd Mena tells you what you need to do to get your work notices.

• 

• 

TOOL FOCUS: ELECTRICALS

The biggest names in electricals are here: Cocco Hair Pro, Bevel, Tomb45, Panasonic, BaBylissPRO, Andis, and Wahl share their most exciting releases. This is where you find out what tools are going to up your game this year.

We hope you enjoy this issue! You can order your print copy here.