Razors Barber Shop – 30 Years and Counting
Why did you decide to set up your own Barber shop and why Syston?
So in 1994 I decided to set up my own Barber shop because I wanted to create a space where I could offer a traditional approach to customers in a nice environment. Syston was a great location because it was, and still is, a vibrant and growing community.
At the time there were only 4 other barber shops and apart from Males the others were one man operations, and I felt that having at least 2 barbers working , people would have less of a waiting time. Chris joined me after 2 years so he’s been at the shop for around 28 years.
How did you get started in the barbering profession?
I began my working life as a motor mechanic, but soon realized that it wasn’t the right fit for me. After looking around, I found a barbering course that was funded by the government at the time. I decided to enrol in the course and spent 12 months in Portsmouth learning the trade.
And I’ve worked as a barber ever since, 42 years now!. I ran a shop for a friend of mine in Braunstone, then spent some time working just outside Sydney, Australia. Came back from there and worked in Loughborough for around 8 years, that’s where I first worked with Chris, before coming to Syston and setting up Razors Barber Shop.
What role does word-of-mouth play in Razors success?
I feel that word-of-mouth has really been the key to Razors’ success, as I’ve done very little advertising. When happy customers tell their friends and family, it’s like the best advert we could ask for. It’s amazing how quickly it’s helped us build up a great customer base.
I’m guessing after all this time you’ve noticed a few changes in Syston?
Yes, quite a few. I think there are fewer characters around the town now. The place was full of them when I first started, but sadly they have dwindled, although there are still one or two.
But I think the place is as friendly today as it was when I first opened up. I’ve also seen a lot of locally owned businesses close too, which is really sad. Many of those people you see on a daily basis and then you just don’t see them anymore
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your 42 year barbering career?
The most rewarding aspect of my 42 year barbering career has been the opportunity to connect with people on a personal level. Building long-lasting friendships with some of my customers has been incredible.
I’ve found that the most satisfying part of being a barber is the impact I can make in people’s lives. Recently, while giving a haircut to a 4-year-old, I asked his dad where he used to get his hair cut at that age. It was a bit of a reality check when he said he used to come to me, but that level of loyalty is amazing.
How did the Covid situation impact your business?
Like many ‘non-essential’ businesses we had to close for around 4 months all together. And the hardest part for me was not being able to talk to 20 to 30 people everyday. Chatting about the football, or just putting the world to rights.
Although on a positive note, because of the ‘Track and Trace’ imposed by the government, we adopted an appointment system which has been one of the best things I’ve ever done. People can now download the Nearcut App and book their appointment on that. No more waiting and many customers find it really convenient.
How do you handle competition, as Syston seems to have lots of barber shops at the moment?
Well first off, one of the most annoying things about having all these barber shops in Syston, is that they are all really good.
Competition is just a normal thing in any business, including the barber shop industry. To stay ahead of the game, you’ve got to make sure you’re giving top-notch service, connecting with your customers, and always finding ways to improve.
And one of the ways we differentiate ourselves is with the Nearcut booking system. No more waiting with 6 or 7 people in front of you, you just walk straight in and you are in the chair. At present we have over 1700 people registered on the app which keeps us extremely busy.
Do you have any plans for retirement or passing on your barbering business?
I had a taste of what retirement would be like due to the Covid crisis, so no. I feel very fortunate that I still get up in the morning wanting to come to work, as I enjoy it so much, and while that continues I will carry on.
“I would really like Syston’s Knitting Banxy to immortalise me on the post-box on High Street. That would be the icing on the cake for me. Jamie Vardy, Kylie and me. That would be pretty cool”
What are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned about running a business in a small town?
Building strong relationships with your customers is the key. In a small town, word of mouth can make or break your business. Syston also has a strong sense of community, and that community can help you build a loyal customer base and create a positive reputation for your business.
In a small town, reputation is everything, and word of mouth travels fast. Providing great customer service can help you build a loyal customer base and generate positive reviews and recommendations that can help your business thrive.
Looking back, what moments stand out as the most significant in your 30 years in the shop?
It’s also incredibly rewarding to see the impact you can have on someone’s life, no matter how small it may seem at the time. Whether it’s helping them look good, offering a listening ear during a difficult time, or simply brightening their day with a joke, knowing that you’ve made a difference in someone’s life is a feeling like no other. Building those connections and forming those relationships with customers is what makes this job so special.