MB Debate: Should a Second Shop Look the Same as the First?

Published 02nd Jan 2025 by Josie Jackson

Your barbershop interior says a lot about your business and the clientele you hope to attract – but when it comes to opening a second barbershop, something you will need to consider is if you want your new location to look like the first. Here, we asked two barbers for their thoughts…

Luke Davies, co-founder of Supply 91

Luke says:As Supply 91 has grown, we’ve learned a lot about balancing brand consistency with innovation. We’ve now opened four locations, and with each new step, we’ve made sure the core values and feel of our brand stay the same – ensuring that our clients always recognise Supply 91, no matter which shop they visit.

“At the same time, growth has provided us with the opportunity to evolve. We've embraced inspiration from new trends, each neighbourhood’s vibe, and even the practical lessons learned from our previous spaces. When we moved our original shop from Cross Street in Islington to a larger space, we realised just how important it is to adapt and improve without losing sight of what makes us who we are.

“Ultimately, every new location is a chance to innovate and improve, but we must always stay true to the brand’s core. While we’re open to change and new directions, the brand feel and key touchpoints must remain consistent to keep our identity strong.”

 

Charles Rose, Director of Crate Cheshire and STMNT Grooming Ambassador

Charles says: Personally, I don’t believe a second shop needs to look exactly like the first, but it’s wise to maintain some consistent elements that tie the two together. For example, if you take Crate Cheshire, our three shops share the same branding and logos, yet each has its own different aesthetic inside.

“In my opinion, what really matters is ensuring that every shop you open upholds the same high standards. Whether it’s the quality of the haircuts, the level of service, or even the refreshments on offer, these must remain consistent across locations. This way, no matter which shop a client visits, they can count on the experience they’ve come to know and love. For me, that consistency in standards and experience is the most important aspect.”

Josie Jackson

Josie Jackson

Published 02nd Jan 2025

Josie supports the team with content for the print magazine, website and social media channels at HJ. Having grown up in a salon environment (thanks to her hairdresser mum) and even working as a Saturday girl before getting her degree in English Literature, Josie feels right at home in the industry. Although she’s experimented with a few creative colour looks in the past, she always comes back to blonde, and loves all things hydrating and bond building.

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