Mike Taylor co-founded the British Barbers Association because he wanted respect for his amazing profession. Modern Barber spoke to him to find out where it all began:
How did the BBA happen?
Barbers are perceived as hairdressings' poor cousins, so the BBA was created to give barbers a voice. It's free to join and has amazing support from leading barber brands. Plus we work with VTCT and HABIA to improve barber education. We now have 5000'members.
Why should barbers join?
For better pay, better skills, better recognition and an overall better future. Together'we have a bigger voice, one that's now finally being heard. Plus you get good deals on products, services, education and regular industry updates.
What are you shouting about?
Anyone can open a barbershop without any training; barbering needs licensing to raise standards and improve public trust. The Hairdressing Council is currently working on a dossier to take to Parliament.
Anything else?
Training! Many educators are from unisex salons; we don't have enough educators with experience in barbering. Students need to see that barbering is different from hairdressing. Download the HABIA standards and check your college is delivering'them.
Don't you have a day job?
I'm an educator and I have five co-owned barbershops. I work two days a week on the shop floor.
What's next?
I'm working with the VTCT on a series of basic barber training videos, preparing for the BBA Masters Competition. It's going to be great.
Follow @britishbarbers
