Frequently Asked Questions

GENERAL INFORMATION

When and where is Barber Connect

Sunday 18 May - Monday 19 May 2025. Both days are 10 am-5pm.

What is the event about?

Barber Connect is a professionals only exhibition that enables barbers to network, learn and discover what is new on the market and the trends to look out for in the industry. The aim of the exhibition is to unite the international community of professional barbers with the brands that uphold an uplift the industry. It is the perfect place to discover the latest innovations in hair products and services, whilst being updated on forthcoming trends and education. Barber Connect welcomes all professionals from the barbering industry including senior buyers, barber shop owners, hair stylists, students, apprentices, colour technicians and more.

Who should visit the event?

Barber Connect welcomes all professionals from the barbering industry including senior buyers, barber shop owners, hair stylists, colour technicians, apprentices and more. Barbering  students & lecturers are welcomed on Monday to make the most of the exclusive benefits and discounts offered by leading brands.

Will there be any demonstrations?

Yes, there will be live demonstrations at the show. There will be four free live stages including our Business Stage, Modern Barber Stage, Barber Sessions Stage and WAHL Stages.

 

Can I bring my colleague and/or friend?

Barber Connect is open to professionals in the barbering industry only, so please only bring people who are also within the trade.

Can my children visit the event with me?

Barber Connect is a professional only event. Children under the age of 14 are not admitted with no exceptions.

What is the entrance policy?

Due to the professional nature of the event, nobody under 14 years of age is allowed entry into Barber Connect. This includes babies. Prams are also not permitted on premises. As a busy event, we need to maintain a safe and professional environment for our trade visitors. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

STUDENT POLICY

If I am a student can I attend?

Yes. As long as you are a student in the hair industry you are welcome to attend Barber Connect

What's on for colleges at the show?

There will be lots on for colleges at the show, including exclusive discounts! Look out for the College Hair Journey which will navigate you around the show for the best student experience.

What is the student entrance policy?

All students attending the show must be above 14 years of age, exceptions will not be made. All students must also bring a form of student ID to be shown upon arrival.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

Visa

As Barber Connect is a free show, we are unable to offer visa letter to support your travel. Please contact your embassy to obtain further information on how to organise a visa to attend the event.

Is there a parking facility?

Parking is available at NEC, please follow this link to find out more: 

https://www.thenec.co.uk/visitors/parking-at-the-nec/

How do I get to the show?

Located in the middle of the UK’s motorway network, jumping in the car is the ideal way to get to the NEC. Getting to us by train is easy as the NEC is located a five-minute walk away from Birmingham International Railway Station. Over 120 National Express and Megabus coach services run daily across the UK to Birmingham Airport. For more information on travel and accommodation please click here:

https://resx.eventexpressuk.com/event/BarberConnect2025/room_requirements

TICKET INFORMATION

Where is my ticket?

All tickets will be sent by email in your confirmation email. All tickets are digital this year, no need to print them off just show your QR code at the door.

What happens if I forget/lose my ticket?

Your ticket will be issued via email and can be scanned from a phone or tablet for entry. Please bring your electronic ticket with you on a phone or tablet for entry.

How to prepare for the show?

Tickets are electronic only this year and will be issued in your confirmation email before the show. Tickets will not be posted.

What if someone else's name is on my ticket/the name on my tickets is incorrect?

Please contact [email protected] to change the name on your ticket.

ACCESS & FACILITIES

Are pushchairs allowed into the exhibition halls?

No. Barber Connect is a professional only event. Children under 14 are not admitted. All visitors are strongly recommended to find alternative childcare arrangements for their children - no children or prams are permitted and no exceptions will be made.

Will there be anywhere to buy food while I'm at the exhibition?

There are food facilities within the show and many food options to suit all tastes.

What disabled facilities are available?

You can view all disabled facilities here:

 https://www.thenec.co.uk/visitors/accessibility/

QUESTIONS NOT ANSWERED?

What can I do if my question has not been answered by any of the above?

If your question has not been answered by any of the above, email [email protected]