BARBER CONNECT 2025

ON 18-19 MAY, BARBER CONNECT TOOK OVER THE NEC IN BIRMINGHAM SHOWCASING THE BEST BARBERING EDUCATION AND CREATIVITY, HERE’S WHAT HAPPENED AT THIS YEAR’S SHOW…

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MODERN BARBER STAGE

On the Modern Barber stage, hosted by Ollie Hill cofounder of MaxOliver, our lineup of barbers showcased cutting-edge techniques and classic barbering fundamentals. Ollie delivered an education masterclass on sectioning and textured styling, emphasising creative freedom with diffusing techniques and rough drying. Wez Jones brought strong “football factory” vibes with his Essex sweep graduation and taper whilst Sam Elliot focused on scissor work, shaping, and internal weight removal for added texture. Tariq Howes demonstrated styling on a Wesley Snipes-inspired bleached Afro look and educated visitors on the importance of heat control to protect texture. Andy Dawson demonstrated a mullet with a high taper and talked about making an outgrown mushroom shape look longer than it is. Dan Gregory offered guidance for clients that are growing their hair out with a mid-length flowing hairstyle, while Pete Cranfield championed the classic buzz cut and the importance of pricing based on skill and experience. Meanwhile, barbering trio Alex Burt, Phil Jarman and Sam Campagna brought three models and showcased classic cuts such as a textured crop and a taper fade, focusing on softening bulk and building shape without sacrificing weight.

OLLIE HILL

SAM ELLIOT

NAOMI RICHARDSON

WEZ JONES

ALEX BURT

DAN GREGORY

MERCEDES PAGINTON

JOEY CONNOLLY

KEVIN LUCHMUN

BARBER SESSIONS PODS

TAKE A LOOK AT THE HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE BARBER SESSIONS PODS

The Barber Sessions Pods were hosted by Emma Moriarty-Richardson and Siobhan Moriarty-Jones alongside newcomer Auberne Enkel on the Sunday. They welcomed barbers including Sam Carter who discussed working with curls naturally and keeping cuts simple, while Liv Plum focused on edgy, textured styles like mullets and pixies using razors for soft finishes. Adrian Mecheres and Darryl Chow highlighted classic tapers and skin fades, and Connor Evans shared his passion for cutting Afro hair and staying inspired in a solo studio. Hannah McKnight and Michael Joseph discussed combining structure and creativity, from heavy square cuts to artistic skin fades while Roxanne Batt and Finn Addison explored shaggy and curly mullet styles. Expert braider, Jai-Li Rayneau stressed the importance of creating clean partings and Raw Talent Winner, Ayeesha Coleman, focused on texture and volume control.

BUSINESS STAGE

SPONSORED BY VAGARO

ANTHONY LABAN FROM THE NOBLE BARBER PODCAST LED INSIGHTFUL DISCUSSIONS ON THE BUSINESS STAGE

Industry professionals shared practical insights into the realities of running a barbershop, from managing costs to defining brand identity. “We’re entering a new realm where rent vs. haircut costs needs to be relooked at,” said Sam Campagna. “It’s getting harder to charge what you need to make the figures work.” Zamaine Ismael agreed, urging new shop owners not to undervalue themselves: “You have to enter the market with a fair price that reflects the craft of barbering. Don’t undersell yourself.” His top tip? DIY. “I did the panelling in West and Hunter myself – it saved a fortune,” while Louise Whitemore highlighted the influence of mums on client loyalty: “We focused our marketing on mums. Mums are loyal, have networks and influence decisions in households. It worked.”

Discussions on branding focused on consistency, authenticity, and understanding your worth beyond social media. Danny Robinson explained: “Brands send products to test the waters, they want to know your insights and style.” For those offered ambassador roles, the panel stressed the importance of evaluating the deal. “Sometimes unpaid roles are better, there’s less pressure, fewer requirements,” Danny said, with Sam Johnson adding: “Know your worth. Being seen in trade magazines and at events matters more than follower count. Consistency and individuality are key.”

For many, retail remained a missed opportunity - Andrew Hansford kept it simple: “It’s got to be something owned by you.” Joth Davies recommended surprising clients with a complimentary shampoo to spark a conversation: “Sometimes they’ll take a picture and buy online but call them out!” Ian Harrold added: “We show clients what we’re using on their hair. It’s part of the experience.”

When it comes to recruitment the panel stated that shops are hiring but the right barbers are hard to find. “Candidates are interviewing us now,” said Joe Pomper. “They want flexibility, better prices, even stage opportunities.” Wez Jones added: “Many don’t understand VAT or shop overheads. There’s a lack of awareness about what it costs to run a barbershop.” Naomi’s advice to barbers? “Take time to learn about the brand. We’re always looking for the right person.”

With rising interest rates and inflation, The Impact of the Budget focused on strategy. “Don’t panic,” advised Bobby Gordon. “Ignore the noise. Look at your outgoings, get your pricing right.” Phil Jarman urged barbers to “put your business under a microscope.” Steph Stevenson shared her own tough reality: “I lost eight staff in six months. Start with what you want to earn. Membership models give you control.”

A discussion on training veered quickly into health and safety concerns. Charles Rose called for enforced qualifications, while Katie Birkes prioritised hygiene: “Cleanliness comes before technical training.” In Breaking Barber Stereotypes Deone Luke opened up about the challenge of being a female barber: “It’s been hard proving my worth.” Derek Shortall celebrated his diverse team sharing: “That’s our strength, it helps us attract all kinds of clients,” and Ayeesha Coleman addressed prejudices she has faced: “People think I only cut Black hair. I do all hair types and it should work both ways. Our space is LGBTQIA inclusive, and our reputation in Manchester reflects that.”

Conversations around wellbeing were candid and powerful, Damien Diablo commented: “Lockdown without clients or a team really tested my mental health.” Tom Hoffman, also spoke about boundaries: “We help everyone else but we have to help ourselves too.” Elsehere, as more barbers choose independence, the lines are blurring. “Self-employed barbers are more driven,” said Karl Foster but Andy Boyde warned of legal changes: “The Employment Rights Bill is coming, which means employees will have rights from day one.” Samuele Bartolotti could see the benefits on both sides: “Selfemployment pushes me to build my base. But I also get freedom to work on other projects.” Finally, a discussion on What Young Barbers Really Think About the Industry closed the show, with the panellists stating the importance of visual learning and hands-on training and experience. Barber Connect 2025 proved that today’s barbering world is about more than fades and foils but staying smart and in touch with your barbering community.

BABYLISSPRO AT BARBER CONNECT

THE BABYLISSPRO STAGE SHOWCASED INNOVATION, INSPIRATION AND A WHOLE HOST OF IDEAS FOR THE COMING YEAR

BaBylissPRO delivered two-days of trends, techniques and everyday styling for barbers of all levels at Barber Connect, with education and engaging conversations about barbering from some of the best names in the business.

Throughout the weekend, BaBylissPRO showcased the power of the FX ONE range of products, with brand ambassadors Tariq Howes and Pete Cranfield taking centre stage. Joining them were guest artists George Smith and Liam Campbell, who brought their own signature techniques, creative flair, and fresh energy to the platform.

Across the weekend, the four barbers delivered a series of back-to-back live demos that showed off the precision, versatility, and performance of the FX ONE tools in real time, taking the audience through everything from clean skin fades and sharp outlines to textured crops and detailed beard work.

Crowds gathered around the BaBylissPRO stage to catch the action up close and personal, as the barbers talked through their go-to techniques, gave practical tips, and showed just how adaptable the FX ONE range is in the hands of true professionals.

Each look was a testament to the power and control these tools offer, with their high-torque motors, interchangeable battery system, and ergonomic design making light work of even the most technical cuts. The live sessions didn’t just highlight what the tools can do, they also gave a glimpse into the creativity, skill, and passion that drives the barbering community.

With the FX ONE range front and centre, BaBylissPRO once again proved its dedication to pushing the craft forward and supporting barbers with the tools they need to take their work to the next level.