how do i start a barbershop business plan

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How to Start a Barbershop Business in (2024): Step-by-Step Guide

Free Barber Shop Business Plan Template

Matthew Khalili

• January 3, 2024

18 Min Read

• Startup costs:  $75,000-150,000
• Industry trend:  Growing
• Difficulty: — Moderate to High
• Profitability: $20k-$100k
• Time to build: 9 to 18 months
• Commitment: Full-time

Remember those old barbershops with the red, white, and blue poles outside? Some are still places where people chat and laugh. Others have evolved into these fancy retreats where a simple haircut feels like a day at the spa.

Think about this: if you’re good at cutting hair, why not start a barber shop? One that’s a reflection of who you are and what you love.

Since 2013, the grooming industry has been steadily improving . This means a well-run barbershop can be a profitable venture.

But starting a business is hard. It’s like learning some dance moves. If you’re wondering how to start a barbershop. Dive in, and we’ll guide you through the steps.

How much money do you need to start a Barbershop?

According to the US Small Business Administration (SBA), the startup costs for barbershops typically sit between $50,100- $148,400. This includes barber school fees. So, if you’re already trained at a barber school, it’ll cost less.

Now, what do you need to open your shop? Here’s a simple list:

• Chairs for cutting hair and some extra for those waiting.
• Essential tools like scissors, hair clippers, and other stuff.
• A cash machine and stuff to keep the place clean.

To learn more about how much it costs to start, check out the startup costs for launching a barbershop .

Before diving in, you must draft your barbershop business plan that outlines all these costs.

What is the Average Barbershop Profit Margin?

The earnings of a barbershop business can vary based on several factors. Most barbershop owners rent out chair space to independent contractors, who then pay a percentage of their haircut earnings for the space.

As per IBIS World , a barbershop typically makes a profit of 10-20% of its total sales. On average, as of 2022, a barber shop owner in the United States earns about $53,654 annually. However, earnings can differ state by state, influenced by population and local business dynamics.

Pros and Cons of Starting a Barber Shop Business

Starting a barber shop business offers flexibility and networking opportunities, but it also comes with challenges.

• Building Business Connections:  You will connect with many people with diverse backgrounds.
• High Customer Retention:  Most people prefer to frequent a single hair salon. A satisfied customer might also become a source of word-of-mouth marketing.
• Steady Income:  Once your business is firmly established, you can expect a consistent stream of earnings.
• Competitive Landscape:  You might come across many barbershops in your area, leading to competition.
• Initial Investment: Building a customer base demands marketing expenditures.
• Persistence: Establishing a solid reputation requires an investment of time and patience.

Having weighed the pros and cons, let’s now dive into our comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to establish and run a successful barbershop.

Step-by-step Guide to Start a Barbershop

Table of Contents

• Understanding the Barbershop Industry and Market
• Brainstorm a Barber Shop Name
• Find the Right Location for Your Barber Shop
• Write a Barbershop Business Plan
• Create a Service Menu
• Register Your Barber Shop
• Apply for Barbershop Business Licenses and Permits
• Get a Business Insurance
• Apply for a Business Bank Account & Credit Cards
• Fund Your Business
• Build a Team
• Prepare to Launch Your Business

1. Understanding the Barbershop Industry and Market

It’s essential to do market research to determine who your customers will be—whether it’s men, women, kids, families, or anyone with hair.

With that being said, here are some significant trends and statistics that you should know about:

Barbershop Industry Size: The US barbershop market will be worth $4.9 billion by the end of 2023.

Growth History: The industry’s annual revenue has grown by 1.5% since 2017.

Future Growth: The barbershop business and beauty salons are predicted to grow. According to IBISWorld, there’s an expected 19% annual growth in job openings for barbers and related professions through 2030.

Business Numbers: The US has over 107,000 barber shops.

Employment: Barber shops employ around 135,000 people in the US.

Technology and Innovations in Barbering:

• The barbering world has evolved, adopting modern tools like electric clippers, razors, and specialized software for efficient client management.
• Augmented reality tools allow previews of haircuts, reducing dissatisfaction rates and boosting trust.

Challenges in the barbershop business:

• Finding skilled and professional barbers.
• Managing risks like accidents and misunderstandings with customers.

Who works in barber shops?

Gender: Most barbershop managers (75%) are male, with 25% female.

Education: About 35% of these managers have a high school diploma.

Age: On average, a barber shop manager is 41 years old.

2. Brainstorm a Barber Shop Name

If you’re starting a barbershop, one of your first tasks will be to come up with a business name for it. This can be a challenging process, but here are a few tips to make it easier:

• Choose a business name that clients can remember, pronounce, and recommend easily.
• Ensure the name aligns with the products and services you offer.
• Consider asking friends, family, colleagues, or social media for their recommendations if you’re having trouble deciding.
• If you’re planning to have a website, include relevant keywords like “barber” or “hair” to improve search engine optimization (SEO).
• Use online tools to get suggestions for business names. Simply enter keywords and get instant ideas.

Once you’ve settled on a name, check its availability on the US Patent and Trademark Office website. Additionally, see if the related domain is available, preferably with “.com” or “.org” as they are more credible.

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3. Find the Right Location for Your Barber Shop

Making the right decision about your barbershop’s location is essential. The location can significantly impact the flow of customers and the returns on your investment.

When looking for a location to start a barbershop, choosing a place in a densely populated area with a high demand for men’s haircuts and grooming services is important. This could be near residential places or commercial complexes. You can use online platforms such as Craigslist, Crexi, and Instant Offices to search for available commercial spaces for rent in your area.

Be sure to pick a spot with excellent visibility to draw walk-in customers. Additionally, consider the presence of complementary businesses like beauty salons or men’s clothing stores. They can boost the number of people passing by your barbershop.

Lastly, Think about your crew. A place that’s easy to get to has local amenities and ample parking. It’s not just a win for customers; your team will thank you, too.

Here is the list of the best states for opening a barbershop:

Source: Zippia

4. Write a Barbershop Business Plan

Alright, here’s the deal: skills and experience? Check. But what’s the game plan? Crafting a rock-solid barbershop business plan is like cooking a master recipe – every ingredient matters.

Here’s what your barbershop business plan should include:

• Executive Summary: A short note about what’s in the plan. It’s better to write this last.
• Company Overview: Talk about what your shop is about, what you want to do, who owns it, and your main goals.
• Product and Services: List the services your shop will have.
• Market Analysis: Look at what customers want, popular trends, and areas you can grow in. Also, see where you stand compared to others.
• Competitive Analysis: Look at other barber shops. Note what they do well and not so well, and think about how your shop is different.
• Sales and Marketing: Think about what makes your shop special. Plan how you’ll tell people about it and get them to come.
• Management Team: List the main people running the shop, what they do, and their background.
• Operations Plan: Talk about where you’ll get your stuff, where the shop will be, the tools you’ll need, and how things will run day-to-day.
• Financial Plan: Plan your money for the next three years. Think about costs to start, when you’ll start making a profit, expected money coming in and going out, and overall financial health.
• Appendix: Add any other important papers or information about money or the business.

Crafting these sections with accuracy isn’t a simple task. It takes a lot of time, a keen eye for details, and ongoing hard work.

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5. Create a Service Menu

Alright, diving deep into setting up your barbershop, one of the important aspects to nail down is your service menu. This isn’t just a list—it’s the heart and soul of what you’re offering. Here’s what you should have on your radar:

Define Your Services:

• What’s going to be your barbershop’s signature offering? It could be the classic flat-razor shave or a trendy curly hairstyle. Understand your niche and your target market.

Pricing It Right:

• Understand the actual costs: Think materials, labor, and overheads.
• Experience Matters: Consider tiered pricing. Is the client getting styled by a seasoned barber or a newbie?
• Profit Margin: Know your breakeven point, and don’t forget to mark up. Value your craft.

Know Your Customer:

• Who’s your target audience? While “everyone” sounds excellent, it’s about understanding who sees value in what you’re charging.
• Pro Tip: Not everyone is hunting for a bargain. For some, a premium price signifies unmatched quality.

Stay Updated on Market Rates:

• What’s the going rate for the hair services you’re offering?
• Trends Alert: If mullets become the next big thing (thank Zac Efron for that), know that styles in vogue might fetch you a bit more.

Peek at Competitors:

• A glance at other barbershop or salon menus can spark ideas.
• Gap Spotting: Identify services missing from their offerings. That could be your golden ticket for a niche target market.

Craft Your Menu with Care:

• Language matters. Ditch the jargon. Opt for terms like “buzz cut” or “straight razor shave.”
• Perception Game: Is it a “price list” for you or a more upscale-sounding “service guide”?

6. Register Your Barber Shop

First and foremost, deciding on your business entity structure is crucial. If this is your maiden venture into the barber shop business, you have several entity options to consider:

Select the business structure first

First and foremost, deciding on the structure of your business is crucial. If this is your maiden venture into the barber shop business, you have a few options:

• Sole proprietorship
• General partnership
• Limited liability company
• Limited partnership
• Corporation

Many experts, including those from reputable sources like Forbes, often recommend selecting a business entity such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) structure. It shields your personal assets from potential business debts and offers tax benefits.

Find a Registered Agent

With your business entity decided upon, especially if you’re leaning towards an LLC or Corporation, you’ll need to appoint a Registered Agent.

They are responsible for receiving and responding to official communications and legal documents on behalf of your barber shop.

An individual or an agency must be based in the same state as your business.

Register with the state and local laws & obtain business EIN

Next up is registering your barber shop with the state. Procedures vary depending on your state’s requirements, so it’s good to be thorough. Typically, you’ll liaise with your state’s Secretary’s office.

During this phase, you must also get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Think of this number as a unique identity for your business. This number is significant for tax-related matters and opening a business bank account.

Apply for tax registration

Lastly, let’s not forget about taxes. Make sure you’re registered appropriately for both state and federal taxes. This includes the usual suspects: sales tax, income tax, and employment taxes if you’re bringing some skilled barbers on board.

It might sound a tad complex, but having a registered agent by your side can make it flow much smoother, helping you navigate local laws and regulations.

7. Apply for Barbershop Business Licenses and Permits

If you’re taking steps on how to start a barbershop, you’ll soon realize that paperwork is an essential part of the journey. So, let’s get down to business!

First, it’s crucial to know that every barber shop business, or most small businesses, needs licenses or permits to kick off. The specifics might vary based on where you set up shop and local regulations.

At the state level, barber shops are usually under the microscope. But diving a bit deeper, here’s what you might need:

• Business Operation License: This is the green light from either your city or county. It permits you to run your barber shop in that specific area.
• Zoning and Land Use Permits: Before you fall in love with a location, make sure the local zoning laws give you a thumbs up. Some places have rules about where certain businesses can operate.
• Building Permit: Thinking of giving your space a makeover or starting from scratch? This permit ensures that any construction or remodeling you do is on the up and up.
• Sales Tax License: Regardless of its name, which varies by state, if you’re selling products or services, you’ll likely need this.
• Certificate of Occupancy: This isn’t just a piece of paper. It confirms that your barber shop meets building codes and is safe for business.
• Barber Shop or Salon License: Everyone needs to be licensed, whether you own the shop or hire employees. Plus, licenses often hinge on your shop’s location, and there’s usually a manager named as the point of contact. If hiring, ensure you’re bringing a licensed barber to maintain compliance. Don’t forget to keep up with your state’s safety requirements, too.
• Inspections: Depending on where you set up shop, your business might need to go through inspections from the building and health departments. Thanks to state and local laws, it’s just part of the deal.

Finally, a word of advice. Go through your state and local websites meticulously. They’ll guide you on the exact licenses and permits for your area. And, since paperwork is a recurring part of the barbershop business, keep track of renewal dates to ensure smooth sailing. Remember, staying compliant is a big part of running a successful business.

8. Get a Business Insurance

Starting a barbershop isn’t just about sharp scissors and comfy chairs. To ensure your barbershop thrives, you need to think about the unforeseen. This is where business insurance comes into play.

While diving into how to start a barbershop, you’ll discover that insurance is your safety net. It’s there to catch you when unexpected hiccups threaten your dream. Now, there’s a variety of insurance types to consider:

• General Liability Insurance: This is like the Swiss Army knife of insurance. It’s comprehensive, covering many aspects of your business, from injuries in your shop to property damage. If you choose one insurance, let this be the one.
• Business Property Insurance: It’s there to look after your gear and tools. After all, without them, there’s no barbershop!
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: This insurance covers repair or replacement costs if machinery malfunctions.
• Worker’s Compensation: This one’s for your team. If someone gets hurt while working, it ensures they’re taken care of.
• Property Insurance: This secures your physical space, be it a cozy corner shop or a more substantial establishment.
• Business Owner’s Policy (BOP): This is a combo meal. It bundles several insurance types, offering a comprehensive cover.

9. Apply for a Business Bank Account & Credit Cards

Apply for a business bank account to keep your barber business finances clear and separate from personal assets. It’s like keeping your hair-cutting scissors separate from the ones you’d use for crafts. It ensures clarity and safety!

Here’s the simple breakdown:

Open Business Bank Account:

• Keeps personal and barber shop business expenses apart.
• Protect your savings like a pro.
• Makes handling money and paying business taxes smoother.
• Personal assets protection

Get a Business Credit Card:

A business credit card linked to your business accounts is not just about separating expenses. Business credit cards can also open doors to helpful funds like small business loans down the road.

10. Fund Your Business

Starting a barber shop requires an investment. It’s not just about getting a space and setting up chairs. You have to think about the tools, like clippers and scissors, and there are fees for licenses, insurance, and registrations. So, how can you get the funds to kick off your barber shop business?

Here’s the scoop:

• Debt Financing: This is basically borrowing money you’ll pay back with some interest. Many places offer this, from banks to government programs. Just make sure you know the terms.
• Equity Financing: Instead of a loan, you give a part of your barbershop ownership to someone, and they give you money. It’s a trade-off but can be beneficial if you find the right partner.
• Grants: Some organizations, like government bodies or charities, might offer grants. This money doesn’t need to be paid back, but getting a grant isn’t easy. You’ll need to do your research and put in a strong application.
• Friends and Family: Your loved ones might believe in your vision and want to help. Just be sure to get everything in writing so everyone’s on the same page. And get some legal advice, too, just to be safe.
• Crowdfunding: Websites like Kickstarter let people pitch in to make your dream a reality. There’s also Fundable and WeFunder, where investors can support your barber shop idea.

11. Build a Team

Starting a successful barbershop business requires more than just a great location and equipment; it’s also about the people. Your team will be essential in how customers view your barber shop. So, who should be part of your team? Here are the roles that you should include:

• Barbers – They cut hair and do other things.
• Receptionists – They set up appointments and talk to customers.
• Marketing Person – They help people find your shop online.

You might hire all of these people, or just some, depending on how big your shop is and what you need. Sometimes, you might have one person doing many jobs or many people doing one job.

To find workers without spending money, you can put job ads on places like LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. If you want to spend a little, you can use websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, or ZipRecruiter. If you have some extra money, you can also get a special company (recruitment agency) to find workers for you.

12. Prepare to Launch Your Business

Before you launch your barbershop for customers, here are some things that you need to take care of:

Essential Barber Equipment:

Before opening the doors to your barber shop, ensure you have the right tools in place:

• Clippers and their accessories.
• Hair shears and trimmers.
• Shavers and a razor holder.
• Neck strips and their dispensers.

Going Digital with a Business Website:

In today’s digital age, having a business website is crucial for any barbershop business. It’s not just about online visibility; it’s about building a brand and reaching a wider audience.

Here’s what your website should have:

• Showcase essential details: location, contact information, and how customers can book appointments.
• Include high-quality pictures of your shop and team, complemented by clear descriptions of your services and pricing.
• Ensure your site is mobile-friendly, offering a seamless browsing experience for visitors.

Tools for Smooth Operations:

Running a barber business can be complex, with numerous roles to juggle. Thankfully, the digital world offers tools to make tasks easier:

Consider using management software. These tools can assist with appointment scheduling, customer data handling, and invoicing.

Amplifying Your Presence with Marketing Strategies:

A good marketing strategy is vital for both new and established businesses. It can expand your reach through digital platforms and bring in more customers.

Here’s how you can do this:

• Link your website to your social media platforms, ensuring consistent branding and messaging.
• Utilize platforms like Facebook for targeted ads, reaching out to specific groups, for instance, men under 50 in specific areas.
• Embrace Instagram’s visual appeal for showcasing your services and engaging with a different target audience.
• Optimize your website for search engines. A practical SEO approach can elevate your site’s ranking, making it more visible to potential clients.
• Encourage and respond to reviews on platforms like Yelp and Google My Business, essential for businesses like barber shops that thrive on local clientele.

With a good business plan, you have a better shot at getting the money you need to start your shop.

Now that you know the ins and outs of opening a barbershop, you can transform your shop into a bustling hotspot for fresh cuts and shaves.

Ready to take the leap? Use our barbershop business plan template to ensure you’ve thought of everything and get your barbershop ready for customers.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

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Frequently Asked Questions

What license do i need to open a barber shop.

Different states have unique rules when opening a barber shop. Additionally, you might have local regulations to follow. Generally, to launch your own barber shop, you’ll likely need:

• Business Operation License
• Zoning and Land Use Permits
• Building Permit
• Sales Tax License
• Certificate of Occupancy
• Barber Shop or Salon License

What are the legal requirements for starting a barbershop?

Starting a barbershop means meeting specific legal requirements. These can vary depending on your location but generally include the following:

• Acquiring necessary licenses.
• Registering your barber shop.
• Getting the proper permits.
• Securing barber shop insurance.
• Finalizing a Lease Agreement.

Is owning a barber shop profitable?

Running a successful barbershop can yield substantial profits, potentially up to $300,000 annually. However, reaching this mark requires dedication, investment, and a unique vision.

Do I need a business plan to start a barbershop?

Absolutely. A comprehensive business plan is fundamental when starting or expanding a barbershop. It offers a clear direction for your business journey and can be invaluable when seeking financial support

What factors should I consider when choosing a location for my barbershop?

Picking the right spot for your barbershop is crucial. Here’s a quick guide to help:

• Buzzing Areas: High foot traffic areas can bring in clients, but consider the rent.
• Strategic Neighbors: Proximity to offices or schools can provide a consistent clientele.
• Budding Hubs: Emerging neighborhoods might offer affordable rent and a growing customer base.
• Team Comfort: Accessibility and amenities matter for your staff, too.

About the Author

Matthew Khalili is an experienced business planning expert and the founder of The Plan Writers. With over a decade of experience in the field, he has helped numerous entrepreneurs in creating investor-ready pitch decks and business plans. Matt has enabled 5000+ startups to raise over $1 billion through his business plan, market research, and financial modeling services. Read more

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Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a Barbershop

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on November 4, 2021 Updated on May 24, 2024

Investment range

$28,900 - $66,800

Revenue potential

$525,000 - $785,000 p.a.

Time to build

3 - 6 months

Profit potential

$215,000 - $330,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Remember the old-style barbershops with the swirling poles of red, white, and blue? These days, some barbershops are still a place to chat with neighbors while you wait for your trim, while updated versions offer services that turn a men’s haircut into a spa experience. If you’re a friendly hair-cutting expert, you could open a barbershop that echoes your personal style and vision.

Starting any kind of business, however, takes a lot of work. The key is to gain the necessary knowledge and move patiently through the business development and launch process. By taking it step by step, as detailed below, you’ll avoid many of the more common mistakes.

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Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Starting a barbershop, like starting any kind of business, requires considerable time and effort. It’s a good idea to learn all you can before deciding whether a barbershop is right for you. You will be taking a significant risk, so educating yourself is critical before jumping in.

Pros and Cons

Every business has advantages and disadvantages you should weigh before moving forward. Here are some basic pros and cons of starting and running a barbershop.

• Networking — You will get to know a lot of people
• Customer retention — People tend to go to one place for their haircuts
• Steady income — Once you’re established, income should be fairly predictable
• Simplicity — Until the whole world goes bald, cutting hair is a reliable business model
• Competition — Most neighborhoods already have a barbershop or two.
• Startup Costs — Marketing is necessary to build a customer base
• Patience — Building name recognition takes time

Barbershop Industry Trends

Barbershops are introducing additional products and services to potentially increase revenue further.

Industry Size and Growth

• Industry size and past growth — The US barbershop market was worth $4.9 billion in 2023, with annual revenue growth of 0.6% since 2018.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/barber-shops-united-states/ )) 
• Growth forecast — Barbershops are expected to expand along with beauty salons as indicated by a projected 8% annual growth through 2032 in job openings for barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists.(( https://www.bls.gov/ooh/personal-care-and-service/barbers-hairstylists-and-cosmetologists.htm ))
• Number of businesses — The US is home to more than 151,516 barbershops.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/barber-shops-united-states/ ))
• Number of people employed — Barbershops in the US employ nearly 170,879 people.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/employment/barber-shops-united-states/ ))

Trends and Challenges

• Bespoke, spa-like shops with costlier cuts and additional products and services like head massages and hair tonics
• Some fancy new barbershops offer alcoholic beverages, selling the haircut as a social event
• Mobile barbers, like a doctor who makes house calls but with scissors instead of a stethoscope(( https://www.mobilesalon.com/blog/entry/1547783150-what-is-a-mobile-barber ))
• Lack of skilled and professional barbers
• Risk of accidents and misunderstandings with customers

What Kind of People Work in Barbershops?

• Gender — 75% of barbershop managers in the US are male, while 25% are female.(( https://www.zippia.com/barber-shop-manager-jobs/demographics/#gender-statistics ))
• Average level of education — About a third, or 35%, of barbershop managers have a high school diploma.(( https://www.zippia.com/barber-shop-manager-jobs/demographics/#degree-level-types ))
• Average age — The average age of a barbershop manager is 38 years old.(( https://www.zippia.com/barber-shop-manager-jobs/demographics/#age-statistics ))

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Barbershop?

Barbershop startup costs range from $28,900 to $66,800, according to Step By Step Research, with the average cost around $45,000. This total includes the cost of barber school, so if you’re already a trained barber the total will be lower.

You’ll need a handful of different items to successfully launch a barbershop. Here’s a list to get you started:

• Barber chairs and additional seating for waiting customers
• Scissors, trimmers, other hair-cutting and styling equipment
• Cash register, cleaning supplies

How Much Can You Earn From a Barbershop?

Profits will vary depending on the number and type of customers you’re able to attract, and your expenses, particularly employee expenses.

The Professional Beauty Association estimates that, in the US, a men’s haircut costs an average of $28 , with the barber getting anywhere from 30% to 70% of that. Monthly expenses include rent, insurance, utilities, marketing, and supplies, and usually come to $2,500–$5,000.

If your shop has six chairs, each of which sees 10 haircuts per day, each costing $28, six days a week, your annual revenue is $525,000. You have barbers who take half of every haircut payment and $4,000 per month in expenses, so your net profit is about $215,000. Not a bad year.

As you gain recognition and referrals, you could see 15 daily haircuts per chair (at 40 minutes each, that would be 10 hours). Even if your monthly expenses increase to $5,000, you will be making over $785,000 in annual revenue and more than $330,000 in profit.

What Barriers to Entry Are There?

There are very few barriers to entry for a barbershop. Your biggest challenges will be:

• Standing out from the competition, likely via branding and expertise
• Time and money required to market your business at launch
• Barber training, cost of finding and hiring experienced barbers

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Step by Step Business values real-life experience above all. Through our  Entrepreneur Spotlight Series , we interview business leaders from diverse industries, providing readers with firsthand insights.

Read our interview with Set Lopez to uncover the keys to his success at Virtus Barber and Co., from selecting the perfect location in Dallas to customer relationship strategies.

Step 2: Hone Your Idea

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a barbershop, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an Opportunity

Since you have no track record in the business, you’ll have to find another way to stand out from the competition.

Research barbershops in your area and see which type of shops, services, and products are the most popular.

Examine the concepts of the shops, their brand sensibilities, and consider how you might make your barbershop unique. You may want to avoid choosing a concept similar to the successful barbershop just down the street. Or maybe you think you can do it better.

What? Determine Your Barbering and Grooming Services

After you settle on a concept, choose the services that fit best within that brand, and create a service menu. Along with men’s haircuts, you could potentially offer:

• Children’s haircuts
• Shaves and beard sculpting
• Facials of various types
• Scalp massage and conditioning
• Hair color and grey coverup

How Much Should You Charge for Services?

Whether you’re planning a no-frills shop or a high-end, spa-like experience, you could offer discount prices at launch in order to draw customers and build your reputation. Either way, it’s a good idea to research barbershops in your area to familiarize yourself with local pricing.

Men’s haircut prices range from $10 to $100 with an average price of $28. The price you charge should be in line with your concept. If you are offering a high-end haircut experience, you should be able to charge a higher price. You still need to be aware, however, of the competition so that you don’t price yourself out of the market.

Once you know your costs, you can use our profit margin calculator to determine your markup and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify Your Target Market

Your target market will depend on your concept. A bespoke shop will probably attract a younger, hipper clientele, while an old-fashioned concept is likely to pull in an older crowd. From there, you can choose the best places to reach these demographics with your marketing.

Once you’re up and running, word-of-mouth referrals and repeat clients will be your main source of business.

Where? Choose Your Barbershop Location

Selecting the right location for your barbershop is essential for its success. Look for a spot in a densely populated area with a high demand for men’s haircuts and grooming, such as near residential neighborhoods or business districts. You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

Aim for a location with easy accessibility, ample parking, and good visibility to attract walk-in clients. Additionally, consider the presence of complementary businesses like beauty salons or men’s clothing stores that can help drive additional foot traffic to your barbershop.

By strategically choosing a location that meets these criteria, you can position your barbershop for success and build a loyal customer base in the local community.

Step 3: Brainstorm a Barbershop Name

Here are some suggestions for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better
• The name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords in the name, such as “barber” or “hair,” boosts SEO
• Choose a name that allows for expansion: “The Modern Gentleman’s Shop” rather than “The Military Cut Barbershop”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Discover over 300 unique barbershop name ideas here . If you want your business name to include specific keywords, you can also use our barbershop name generator. Just type in a few keywords, hit Generate, and you’ll have dozens of suggestions at your fingertips.

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that set your business apart. However, once you start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Barbershop Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive summary — A brief overview of your barbershop business, highlighting key aspects and objectives
• Business overview — Detailed information about your barbershop, including its mission, vision, and values
• Product and services — Clear description of the specific hair-cutting and grooming services offered, along with any additional products for sale
• Market analysis — Examination of the local barbering industry, target market demographics, and potential customer needs
• Competitive analysis — Evaluation of other barbershops in the area, identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats
• Sales and marketing — Strategies for promoting your barbershop, attracting customers, and driving sales
• Management team — Introduction to key individuals running the barbershop, highlighting their roles and expertise
• Operations plan — Details on the day-to-day operations, including location, equipment, hours of operation, and staffing
• Financial plan — Projections and budgets outlining the financial aspects of your barbershop business, including startup costs, revenue forecasts, and profitability estimates
• Appendix — Supplementary materials, such as resumes of key personnel, additional financial data, or any other supporting documents

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose Where to Register Your Company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to barbershops. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind that it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose Your Business Structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your barbershop will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely.

Here are the main options:

• Sole proprietorship — The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General partnership — Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) — Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corporation — Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corporation — This refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just needs to elect this structure for tax status. In an S Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number or EIN. You can file for your EIN online, or by mail/fax. Visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind that, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship, you can simply use your social security number as your EIN.

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate on a calendar year (January–December), or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund Your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans — This is the most common method, but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and a strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans — The Small Business Administration can act as a guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants — A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Venture capital — Offer potential investors an ownership stake in exchange for funds, keeping in mind that you would be sacrificing some control over your business.
• Friends and family — Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding — Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal — Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a barbershop. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept.

Step 8: Apply for Barbershop Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a barbershop requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

Barbers are regulated and licensed in all 50 states. To become licensed, individuals must complete a formal education or apprenticeship program. After completing these programs, candidates must pass a state license examination. They also must meet certain age and educational prerequisites and may need to undergo a criminal background check and a medical physical. Finally, licensed barbers are required to renew their licenses periodically, with some states mandating continuing education for renewal.

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your barbershop as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked but is vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability — The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business property — Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment breakdown insurance — Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation — Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property — Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto — Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability — Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP) — This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of any of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business.

Essential Software and Tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, a number of websites and digital tools can help you with many business tasks.

Sites like Boulevard and Uzeli offer comprehensive solutions for barbershops including scheduling. 

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , FreshBooks , and Xero .
• If you are unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences of filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Develop Your Website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using website builders . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

However, people are unlikely to find your website unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Website and online presence — Ensure your website is optimized for search engines to improve visibility and use compelling calls to action to increase bookings.
• Local SEO — Register and maintain your business on platforms like Google My Business and Yelp to enhance local visibility and credibility through customer reviews.
• Social media engagement — Utilize Facebook for targeted ads, and explore different audience engagements on Instagram.
• Barber vlogs & blogging — Share vlogs that provide a behind-the-scenes look at barbershop life and maintain a blog discussing grooming tips and style trends.
• Customer transformations & testimonials — Highlight before-and-after photos and share customer testimonials on your platforms to demonstrate the quality of your services.
• Infographics — Develop and distribute infographics that provide styling tips and barbershop information, enhancing content engagement.
• Grooming workshops & in-person sales — Conduct grooming workshops and offer services at local markets and pop-up events to directly engage with the community.
• Street barber battles — Organize barber competitions to showcase your barbers’ skills and attract a large audience.
• Local partnerships — Collaborate with fashion stores, gyms, and local artists for cross-promotions and use your space for community art displays.
• Loyalty programs & referrals — Implement a loyalty card system and provide incentives for customer referrals to boost repeat business and attract new clients.
• Signage & flyering — Invest in vibrant signage for your shop and distribute flyers locally to increase brand awareness.
• Social media ads & influencer marketing — Engage in targeted advertising on social platforms and collaborate with micro-influencers to reach specific demographics effectively.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that set it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your barbershop meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your barbershop could be:

• Go against the grain and market yourself as a no-frills, value-based barbershop
• Offer the spa experience, with special high-end services
• Package your services, such as a haircut, shave, and facial purchased together
• Stay open late to attract the party-going crowd
• Exceptional service — do all you can to make customers feel at home

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain but your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a barbershop, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in barbershops for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in hair care. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. Online businesses might also consider affiliate marketing as a way to build relationships with potential partners and boost business.

Step 12: Build Your Team

Even prior to launch, you may need to recruit full-time employees for your shop, such as:

• Barbers — providing haircuts and additional services
• Receptionist — scheduling appointments, engaging customers
• Marketing lead — SEO, social media marketing

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Barbershop — Start Making Money!

Americans spend significant amounts of money on haircuts and facial skin care. That means there’ll always be a need for barber services. The challenge is differentiating yourself from the competition and retaining your customers while developing new leads. You can do that by keeping your barbershop up to date with the latest trends and providing additional services for a holistic personal care package.

Now that you know how to open a barbershop, you’re ready to start your entrepreneurial journey. With proper research and brilliant marketing strategies, your barbershop is well on its way to success!

• Barbershop FAQs

A successful barbershop can make up to $300,000 in annual profit, but it takes time, money, and a good concept to get to that level, not to mention hard work.

Every business has its challenges. But if you have capital, the right location, and a strong concept, you can make your barbershop stand out. Once you’re established, running the shop is a snap.

According to Zippia , the best states for barbers are Illinois , West Virginia and Minnesota .

To run a barbershop successfully, prioritize quality service, create a welcoming atmosphere, and focus on efficient operations. Hire skilled barbers, provide excellent customer experiences, maintain a clean and organized space, implement effective marketing and branding strategies, and prioritize client retention through loyalty programs and follow-up communication.

To create a unique and inviting atmosphere in your barbershop, pay attention to design and decor that reflects your brand and target audience. Consider factors like comfortable seating, attractive lighting, and personalized touches. Play music that suits the ambiance, and encourage client engagement through friendly interactions and a sense of community.

Word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied customers are powerful, so prioritize delivering exceptional service to encourage recommendations. Utilize social media platforms to showcase your work, engage with potential clients, and share updates or promotions. Collaborate with local businesses or organizations to expand your reach. 

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Barbershop Name
• Create a Barbershop Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund Your Business
• Apply for Barbershop Business Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Barbershop — Start Making Money!

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Barber Shop Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Business Plan Outline

• Barber Shop Business Plan Home
• 1. Executive Summary
• 2. Company Overview
• 3. Industry Analysis
• 4. Customer Analysis
• 5. Competitive Analysis
• 6. Marketing Plan
• 7. Operations Plan
• 8. Management Team
• 9. Financial Plan

Start Your Barber Shop Plan Here

You’ve come to the right place to create your barber shop business plan.

We have helped over 100,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their barber shops.

Barber Shop Business Plan Example

Below are links to each section of you barber shop business plan template:

Next Section: Executive Summary >

Barber Shop Business Plan FAQs

What is a barber shop business plan.

A barber shop business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your barber shop business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can  easily complete your barber shop business plan using our Barber Shop Business Plan Template here .

What Are the Main Types of Barber Shops?

There are many types of barber shop companies. Some barber companies are more traditional where they offer basic haircuts, shampoos, and shaves. Other barber shops focus on a more luxurious presence where they offer the same services as a traditional barber shop, but with luxury chairs and accommodations. There are some barber shops that focus on younger, trendier men that want fresh fades with designs, a trendy haircut, and/or a clean and modern beard trim.

What Are the Main Sources of Revenue and Expenses for a Barber Shop Business?

The primary source of revenue for a barber shop are the revenues it generates for the barber shop services it provides. Another revenue stream is the rent collected from the other barbers and stylists that rent space in the barber shop.

The key expenses for a barber shop business are the cost of purchasing the barber shop equipment and supplies. Other expenses are the rent and utilities for the facility.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Barber Shop Business Plan?

Barber shop businesses are most likely to receive funding from banks. Typically you will find a local bank and present your business plan to them. Another option for a barber shop is an SBA loan as they provide a lower interest rate and longer loan term. Outside investors, friends, and/or family are other common funding sources.

What are the Steps To Open a Barber Shop Business?

Opening a barber shop business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to open a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Barber Shop Business Plan - The first step in opening a business is to create a detailed barber shop business plan pdf or doc that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.  

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your barber shop business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your barber shop business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Barber Shop Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your barber shop business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to open your barber shop business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 

7. Acquire Necessary Barber Shop Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your barber shop business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to open promoting and marketing your barber shop business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful barber shop business:

• How to Start a Barber Shop Business

How to Write a Barber Shop Business Plan in 2024?

Having a detailed and professional barber shop business plan is important for anyone working on opening a new barbershop . It can also be an excellent roadmap for growing your barber business.

What You Will Learn

We’ll take a look at the basics of researching and creating your barbershop business plan, plus some helpful info and a free template to help you get started.

Jump to the Section You Like

What is a barber shop business plan, why does your barber shop need a business plan, key element of a good barber shop business plan, barber shop business plan template.

Every business is different, and a lot of the elements of your own business plan will be informed by your target market, location and the services that you offer (or plan to expand into).

A business plan is a living document that you can adjust or update as needed. It will include information about the barber shop’s financial, marketing and management details.

This will include your startup costs (if you’re planning to open a new shop), plus market research, your mission statement (more on this later) and your strategy for success.

You’ll also include an executive summary at the beginning, details about your target market and marketing plan, plus a description of your products and services.

Most plans also include information about training and support for your team, plus your management structure.

In order to write a plan for your business, you’ll have to conduct market research, decide on a long-term vision for future growth, write out a sample budget and set clear and achievable goals. You may also want to include supporting documents such as an income statement.

The management team and owners can use the business plan as a road map to make sure the barber shop is achieving these goals, as well as make informed and data-based decisions about staffing, advertising or even equipment purchases.

This isn’t limited to the salon industry. Business plans are documents that will help any enterprise be (and stay) successful.

You can use yours as a guide when you’re making new business decisions like which services to promote, how to market your barber shop, and even what training to offer staff members.

If you’re hoping to secure funding or attract investors, it’s essential that you have a solid business plan ready to show them- this helps them see the “big picture” of your vision as well as the practical details.

You can provide accurate information about your prospective clients, promotion strategy, revenue and budget. You can also identify any potential roadblocks early in the startup process and have some ideas of who your barbershop’s competition will be.

In addition, the vision and mission statements, as well as the targets you’ve set will make it easier to lead effective staff meetings and keep everyone motivated and focused on hitting your goals.

It’s a way to stay ahead of your competitors and create better strategies that adapt to a dynamic industry and the changing needs of clients and staff members.

Every business plan is as unique as the barber shop it represents, so don’t worry if this all seems a bit intimidating to try and create the perfect business plan at first. All good plans have some things in common.

They start with a business overview, describing your target clients and your services. Then, include revenue-related information such as a budget, projected sales and break even points.

You’ll also outline your marketing plan to expand or develop the number of customers, potential barber shop expenses and your financial plan as a whole.

Business plans for a new barbershop will also detail the startup costs and your plan for getting financing, whereas a plan for an existing barbershop will show people how your business stands financially, including supporting documents like a cash flow statement and revenue projections.

Let’s take a closer look:

How to Get Started on Your Barber Shop’s Business Plan?

Your barbershop business plan will help every step of the way, whether you’re trying to attract new investors, adjusting your pricing strategy or deciding on equipment or hiring and training staff.

It breaks down the business’s finances and long-term goals, making it easier to stay focused on the big picture and plan for success.

Some things to keep in mind are:

• Gather information: Take a look at other barber shops and local businesses nearby, research equipment and services, understand new trends and identify your target market.
• Understand the Roadblocks: Brainstorm and list out everything that might affect your business’s cash flow, startup costs or timeline. You’ll need to plan for these in your budget.

Once you know these things, you can use barbershop management software to track your team’s performance and make sure you’re meeting the targets.

• What Makes You Special: What sets your barbershop business apart from the competitors? If you offer something others in the area don’t (maybe you take walk-ins or have staff who specialize in beard care), then create a plan to market this.
• Use a Free Template to Save Time: If you’re struggling with writing your competitive analysis or barber shop business description, example templates are available online and can save you a lot of time- you can use one and just adjust the details as needed to fit your brand and ideas.
• Consult a Professional: Whether you’re creating a mobile barber shop business plan or one for a large, multi-location chain, it’s important to make it look as professional as possible.

Consider hiring a consultant or even a business advisor to check the financial details, marketing strategy or even help you create the executive summary. This is especially important if you’re planning to present this to investors later.

Here are some of the things that a barbershop business plan should include:

This will be your first impression, so make sure it looks professional. It’ll be seen by investors, management staff and pretty much anyone with an interest in your company. It should have:

• Your Barbershop Business Name (and logo, if applicable)
• Your Professional Contact Information

Table of Contents

Business plans should be organized and easy to navigate. A clear table of contents is essential for this. Divide and label each section clearly so it’s easy to find information.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary should be clear and concise- it needs to be easy to understand, informative and give readers a strong first impression. Include the following:

• Your Barber Shop Mission Statement (Briefly your business’s goals and your plans to achieve them)
• Your Vision Statement (What are your long-term plans for your barber shop’s future?)
• Your Business Overview (What is your shop’s concept? Is it a hip and fun setup in a local shopping center, a specialty Turkish Barber, or a traditional establishment? Explain and give a brief summary)
• Your Key Factors for Success (What does your business need to start off on a strong foot and keep going this way?)

Business Description

• Your location(s)
• Services you offer (and any ones that you’d like to include in the near future)
• Your Staffing Information (How many barbers, managers and support staff you have or will need)
• A summary of your competitors and the market research you’ve conducted (Be sure to identify anything that sets you apart and explain how you’ll use this to attract customers)

Target Market

Describe your target clientele and why you’ve chosen them. Some things to consider are:

• The demographics and speciality services will attract
• Where your client base comes from (are they students or workers in nearby buildings, for example?)
• Why you’re targeting them (this might affect future training, products, equipment purchases and decor)
• What you think your average client wants or needs (and how you plan to provide it)
• Anything that makes you unique among other businesses in your area

You might want to conduct a SWOT analysis for your barbershop (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) to help you understand all of these things in more detail.

Competitive Analysis

Understand the market and what you can do to be successful.

• Who are your competitors?
• Where are they, in relation to you (and are you close to any major roads or transit lines)?
• What kinds of services do you both provide? Is there a lot of overlap?
• If so, what makes you special?
• Will you be competing for the same clients?
• What’s the difference between your prices and why?
• How do you plan to attract customers and build client’s loyalty?

Management Plan

Your barber shop management plan will explain how the business operates. This includes things like:

• Your Management Structure (This might be simple for small establishments or more detailed for larger ones)
• Your Management Strategy (Targets you need to hit, long-term goals and financial projections- including what you’ll do to make this happen)
• Your Staffing Needs at the Management Level (How many high-level staff such as managers or accountants, etc. and their roles- again, this might be a lot simpler for smaller businesses)

Your Products and Services

This will give investors and financial professionals an idea of your shop’s income, potential expenses and profits, and will also help you to identify future roadblocks or potential areas of opportunity. Explain:

• The products your staff will use for services
• All of the retail products you plan to sell
• The services you provide

Be as detailed as possible, explaining your prices, the costs associated with each item on the list, the time they’ll take (if it’s a service) and the profits you’ll make. If you’re already in business, you can also include details about the popularity of each one, too.

Your Marketing Plan

How will you reach new customers and grow your business? What advertising methods will you use? What are the costs associated with each one?

You can give a basic outline here, but be sure to do your homework and be ready to put this plan into action.

You’ll want to include:

• Your barbershop’s Marketing Plan (What you’ll do to reach people)
• Existing or potential sales plans and promotions (How will you increase demand and keep loyal customers happy)
• Your advertising methods (This doesn’t just mean paid advertising, it should also include your social media strategy and inexpensive or free online marketing)
• Your brand story and reputation (Especially if you’re already in business)

Your Sales Plan

Make sure that this includes both your retail products and services you offer. Identify and explain:

• How you’ll market each one
• Why they will appeal to customers, and their benefits
• What your sales goals are
• What you expect your income to be from these products and services
• How much you estimate things costing, including any specialized training or equipment you’ll need

Your Financial Plan

For a new barbershop, this will include startup costs and how quickly you intend to become profitable, but existing businesses should include expenses and funds needed for any improvements such as renovations, equipment or new training, as well as profit projections.

Documents to prepare include:

• Your financial statements (including an income statement, if possible)
• Any assumptions (such as potential expenses and money needed to cover costs)
• Projections of your profits and losses
• Your break-even point
• The barber shop’s balance sheet (this is sometimes referred to as a “book value” and explains the actual worth of your business and its assets)
• Any existing loans or debts

One of my top tips when preparing this is to have a professional go over it or assist you during the process. They can help ensure everything is accurate and provide any advice you might need.

Operating Plan

Explain how your barber shop will be run, including:

• Your main location (This might be just one shop, or it could be a main office for a multi-location chain)
• Your management structure (Including a brief overview of the division of responsibilities at the higher levels of your management team)

Additional Information

You can include any other information here that investors or managers may need, including:

• Additional documents
• Important policies
• Financial statements

Any documents (such as a balance sheet, for example) that you need to reference in your business plan, can be appended here.

Do not miss our post on barber shop license .

We’ve done our best to help you by including a free barbershop business plan pdf template that you can use and adjust as needed to create your own.

Your free barber shop business plan template will look like this.

Do not miss our post Barber Shop Price List .

Opening a new barber shop or growing an existing one takes a lot of time, energy and know-how, but having the right business plan in place makes everything easier.

Just like having the right staff and equipment, your barbershop business plan makes it easier for an owner or manager to keep everything on track, identify potential issues or opportunities for the company and make informed decisions.

How to write a great business plan https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/iel3/46/14446/00660335.pdf

The successful business plan: secrets & strategies https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=hpFxjEsZLUwC&oi=fnd&pg

Institutional forces and the written business plan https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1016/j.jm.2002.11.002

About the author Bartek Kulasza

Bartek Kulasza creates informative content that focuses on efficient business management. He covers salon software, marketing and sales, budgeting and reporting, salon design and equipment, inventory management, growing customer base, helping businesses optimize operations, enhancing customer experience, and increasing profitability.

• How to Write a Barber Shop Business Plan

Barber Shop Business Plan Template

If you want to start a barber shop business or expand your current one, you need a business plan.

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 7,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their barber shops.

Below are links to each section of your barbershop business plan template:

Next Section: Executive Summary >

Barber Shop Business Plan FAQs

• What Is the Easiest Way to Complete My Barber Shop Business Plan?
• Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Barber Shop Business Plan.
• What Is a Barbershop Business Plan?
• A solid business plan provides a snapshot of your barber shop as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes a marketing plan and market research to support your plans. Your plan should also include a full financial model including income statement, cash flow statement and balance sheets.
• Why Do You Need a Business Plan for a Barber Shop?
• If you’re looking to start a barber shop or grow your existing barber shop you need a business plan. A successful business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your barber shop in order to improve your chances of success. Your own barber shop business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.
• What Are the Sources of Funding for a Barber Shop?

The second most common form of funding for a barber shop is personal savings. Other funding options are credit cards, crowdfunding and angel investors. Angel investors are wealthy individuals who will write you a check. They will either take equity in return for their funding, or, like a bank, they will give you a loan.

Start Your Barber Shop Plan Here

BARBER SHOP BUSINESS PLAN OUTLINE

• Barber Shop Business Plan Home
• 1. Executive Summary
• 2. Company Overview
• 3. Industry Analysis
• 4. Customer Analysis
• 5. Competitive Analysis
• 6. Marketing Plan
• 7. Operations Plan
• 8. Management Team
• 9. Financial Plan
• 10. Appendix
• Barber Shop Business Plan Summary

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

Barber shop business plan template + PDF

In this article, you will find an exemplary business plan for barber shop, offering a detailed framework to guide you through establishing and managing your own barber shop. It's crucial to understand that while all names and numbers in this barber shop business plan template are invented for illustrative purposes, they can be adjusted to suit the specific needs and realities of your barber shop business.

Additionally, for ease of use and customization, a Barber Shop Business Plan PDF is available for download. This article serves as an invaluable tool for entrepreneurs who are keen on developing a robust and practical strategy for launching or growing their barber shop, providing a clear roadmap and comprehensive insights into the industry.

How this barber shop business plan sample was created

To create a personalized business plan for your barber shop, all you need to do is click on "Get your business plan" . You'll be prompted to answer a few questions about your barber shop, providing essential details about your business. Our advanced AI system will then use this information to generate a comprehensive business plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. This process takes only 5-10 minutes, after which you receive a fully structured plan. The beauty of this system lies in its flexibility; you can edit and customize the plan to perfectly align with your vision. Once finalized, you have the option to save it to your computer, ensuring that your barber shop's roadmap to success is just a few clicks away.

Generate your custom barber shop business plan in minutes!

Barber shop business plan sample, executive summary, business description, market research and analysis.

• Organizational Structure and Management Team

Products or Services

Marketing and sales strategy, operations plan, financial projections, risk analysis.

Urban Edge Barbers is a young, contemporary and fashion-forward barber shop targeting individuals aged 18-25 within the local community. The company plans to differentiate itself through its cutting-edge haircuts, beard grooming services, and a range of high-quality hair care products.

The company is structured as an owner-operated small business, helmed by seasoned barber and experienced entrepreneur, Jordan Smith. Alongside him, the business comprises a dynamic team including receptionist and customer relations expert Alex Taylor, and marketing specialist Riley Morgan.

In terms of operations, the business intends to operate from Monday to Saturday, between 9 AM and 7 PM. Staff shifts will be organized on a rotational basis to ensure constant service availability during operating hours, supplemented by regular stock checks, quality control measures, and an effective system for gathering customer feedback.

The marketing and sales strategy rests on multiple pillars: maintaining an active social media presence on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, local advertising through collaboration with local businesses, a customer referral program, an easy-to-navigate website equipped with an online booking feature, and active participation in local community events.

Given the competitive business landscape, key risks include market competition, economic downturns, staff turnover, changing consumer trends, and operational disruptions. Mitigation measures include differentiation through unique offerings, staying up-to-date with industry trends, maintaining competitive prices, offering conducive work environments to staff, and proactively scheduling regular equipment maintenance.

In terms of competition, the business identifies "Style Studio Salon" , "Downtown Gents Barbershop" , and "Modern Mane Men's Salon" as its key competitors. However, thanks to a specialized focus on trendy styles and high-quality personal grooming services, the business holds a unique position in the market.

Financial projections for the next three to five years indicate a trajectory of steady growth. The first year will be primarily devoted to initial investments, with a gradual increase in revenue anticipated. By the end of Year 1, the business expects to break even. From Years 2 to 3, we foresee a steady increase in clientele, leading to an estimated 20% annual growth. As we expand our product line and services, we predict stronger customer retention. In Years 4 and 5, with a solid customer base established, we project an annual revenue growth rate of 25 to 30%, potentially expanding our footprint with a second location.

In conclusion, Urban Edge Barbers is well-armed with a dynamic team, a unique service offering and strategic marketing and operations plans. Thus, we are poised to successfully differentiate our brand in a competitive market and carve out a niche among the younger, style-conscious demographic.

Business Name and Location: "Urban Edge Barbers" is slated to launch its flagship location at the bustling heart of the city, known for its young, vibrant community and thriving business ecosystem.

Business Industry: Urban Edge Barbers will operate within the grooming and barber service industry, offering an array of premium haircuts and styling services targeted at fashion-conscious clients.

Business History: The concept of Urban Edge Barbers was conceived by its founder, Jordan Smith, with over a decade of experience in barbering and an acute understanding of emerging trends within the industry. Recognizing a gap in the market for a dynamic and modern barber shop, the plan for Urban Edge Barbers was put into motion.

Mission Statement: "To deliver exceptional grooming experiences, embracing individual style and personality, one haircut at a time" . We aim to offer a personal touch, focusing on tailor-made hair solutions with a blend of contemporary aesthetics, fostering a space where our clients can feel at ease and confident in their style.

Legal Structure: As a small business entity, Urban Edge Barbers is an owner-operated establishment constituting a sole proprietorship.

Long-term Potential: Urban Edge Barbers aims to establish itself as a trailblazer in the local market over the span of the initial three years, post which the plan is to scale and replicate our business model across multiple locations. Leveraging digital marketing and a strong community presence, Urban Edge Barbers anticipates the steady acquisition of a loyal client base, which will underpin its long-term growth strategy.

Financially, in the first year, the business anticipates a period dominated by initial costs and investments, with revenue growth gradually increasing, culminating in breakeven by year-end. As the company moves into years two and three, a steady increase in revenue coupled with the addition of new services and products is forecasted to contribute to a 20% year-on-year growth. By the close of the fifth year, the business expects to have established a strong customer base and is forecasted to witness a robust increase in revenue growth by 25%-30%.

In congruence with solidifying its financial standing, Urban Edge also plans to explore the viability of diversification and expansion via the launch of related grooming products under the Urban Edge brand.

In conclusion, Urban Edge Barbers is positioned to make a substantial impact on the local grooming service industry with its modern approach to barbering. Focusing on quality, personalization, and keeping abreast of the latest fashion trends, the business is primed for success, positioning it well for future expansion and growth.

The business we're launching is Urban Edge Barbers, located in the heart of a bustling city catering largely to stylish young professionals in search of a versatile and cutting-edge grooming experience. The barber industry presently is a booming $5 billion market, witnessing positive growth trends over the past half-decade, and is expected to maintain this trajectory considering the increasing emphasis on personal grooming and appearance within our target market.

Our primary customers consist of trendy and fashion-conscious individuals aged between 18 and 25, a demographic that currently represents a sizeable 20% of the city's population. However, our target market extends to any individual seeking a fresh and contemporary grooming experience. The growth potential of this market is significant, given the rising population of young professionals in the city and the projected growth rate of 3-5% per annum.

Based on our market research, this demographic prioritizes not just quality and efficiency in their barbering services, but also a space where the latest style trends are not just followed but created. This market demands personalized services, a creative approach to grooming, and flexible availability of appointments.

Observing the latest market trends and patterns, we discern a robust growth potential in a barber shop model that not merely offers grooming services but also doubles as a meet-up location, solidifying their cool-hangout reputation. The trend is towards experiential barbering spaces.

Our key competitors are "Style Studio Salon" , "Downtown Gents Barbershop" , and "Modern Mane Men's Salon" . Style Studio Salon holds a significant 20% market share, backed by its traditional service offering and robust market presence. Downtown Gents Barbershop, with a 15% market share, banks on its vintage charm and is popular among the older demographic. Modern Mane Men's Salon, holding a 10% market share, offers similar services to ours but lacks emphasis on personalization.

Although our market is reasonably competitive, our business model that combines an up-to-date grooming service with an experiential space sets us apart. Our lead barber Jordan Smith's expertise, combined with Alex Taylor's client service skills and Riley Morgan's innovative marketing strategies, make up a formidable trio providing us an edge over our competitors.

The potential barriers in our way to market entry may include obtaining appropriate licensing, recruiting skilled staff, establishing supply chains for premium grooming products, and standing out in a competitive marketplace. Strategies to overcome these barriers include ensuring rigorous compliance with regulations, providing attractive employment packages for quality talent, establishing relationships with topnotch suppliers, and a robust and distinct market presence using innovative branding strategies.

In conclusion, Urban Edge Barbers is well-placed to make a significant impact in the booming barbering industry. With a clear understanding of our target market needs, a robust plan to negotiate barriers, and a dynamic team to execute this vision, we expect profitable growth over the coming years.

Organizational Structure and Management

Urban Edge Barbers operates under a flat organisational structure aimed at promoting collaboration and enhancing efficiency. At the apex of the structure is the owner and lead barber, Jordan Smith. He is ably supported by Alex Taylor, a seasoned customer relations specialist who handles all reception duties, including appointment scheduling. Assisting them in crafting brand visibility and growth is Riley Morgan, the team's marketing strategist.

Despite its seemingly compact size, the team encapsulates a wealth of experience and expertise in their respective roles. Jordan, with over a decade of experience in the art of barbering, remains on top of modern men's hairstyles. Alex is a customer service maven with an unparalleled mastery of organizational logistics, while Riley, a degree holder in marketing, brings on board cutting-edge digital marketing techniques.

In anticipation of business growth and expansion, more staff will be hired to meet the demand. Current projections suggest the need for two additional barbers in the next two years and a possible recruitment of a human resource manager should the business scale up faster.

Urban Edge Barbers believe in fostering a culture of mutual respect and swift resolution of staff disputes, hence the need for transparent human resource hiring policies and practices. To maintain a harmonious working environment, the business will endeavor to ensure equality in recruitment. Detailing staff obligations, leave allocations, working hours, and remuneration will be clearly stipulated in the employee handbook.

The business will rely on the expertise of external consultants, mainly for legal and financial advice. A local accounting firm, Branson & Associates, will provide financial consultation, ensuring that the barber shop complies with local and federal tax law and maintains its financial health.

In summation, Urban Edge Barbers exemplifies a potent mixture of expertise, innovative management structure, and sound HR practices that will undoubtedly guarantee its growth and success. The deeply ingrained culture of equality and respect, coupled with its penchant for nurturing talent, speaks volumes about its vision and deliberate focus on becoming a leader in the industry.

Urban Edge Barbers specialises in a range of grooming services including, but not limited to, haircuts, scalp treatments, beard grooming, and a selection of other premium personal grooming services. All services are performed by trained barbers with comprehensive knowledge of hair types, scalp health, and latest trends in men's hairstyles.

The business also offers sales of a curated range of high-quality hair care and beard grooming products. These products have been carefully selected for their superior ingredients, exceptional performance, and ethical manufacturing practices.

One of the unique selling propositions of Urban Edge Barbers is our location-based tailoring of services. Understanding that trends and styles fluctuate based on demographics and location, our team stays ahead of the curve by constantly researching and innovating based on the local fashion landscape.

Currently, the business is in the start-up stage and our team has been diligently working on procuring high-quality equipment, sourcing suppliers for hair and beard care products, recruiting experienced barbers, and finalising the décor to echo the trendy and edgy company ethos.

The Urban Edge Barbers’ logo has been registered as a trademark at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The company is also in the process of patenting a unique scalp treatment mix formulated by our lead barber, Jordan Smith. The exact recipe and process are confidential for business reasons.

The production process for services begins with consultation where our barbers understand the client's requirements and make recommendations based on their hair type, face shape, and personal style. Following the service, customers are guided on how to maintain their hair or beard style at home. In terms of products, we have direct tie-ups with national distributors, who source the products from manufacturers, which are then stocked at our shop.

We have multiple suppliers for our product range, ensuring that a shortage from one supplier does not affect our inventory. For instance, our hair care range is supplied by Brilliant Hair Co., a renowned brand in the industry, while beard care products are sourced from two suppliers, Manly Mane and Beard Bros Supply, both well-reputed brands in their own right.

Overall, Urban Edge Barbers stands at the intersection of style, sophistication, and quality, ready to revolutionise the grooming experience of the urban gentleman. Our focus on localized trends and innovation, backed by our intellectual property, outlining the production process, and strategic supplier relations, are the foundational pillars on which this idea is being brought to life.

The central principle guiding our marketing strategy at Urban Edge Barbers is to cater to the trend-conscious and style-forward needs of our target demographic, young professionals and fashion-forward individuals aged between 18-25 years.

In keeping with this goal, our primary marketing channels will be social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. By showcasing our diverse range of services, cutting-edge hairstyles, and professional staff, we aim to attract our target customers. Social media platforms also provide opportunities for engaging with customers in a more relaxed and informal way.

Our marketing plan includes regular engagements like themed posts, active interaction with followers, sharing customer testimonials, posting before and after transformation images, and sharing grooming tips and tutorials. We will also focus on local search engine optimization and online reputation management to ensure that we are easy to find and customers find positive reviews about us when they search for us online.

In addition, our sales strategy combines the efforts of our in-shop sales team that includes all our barbers and our receptionist. The team is trained to upsell services and products at the point of sale. This involves suggesting additional services during consultation and product recommendations during or post-service.

Another component of our sales plan is to offer online booking options to our clients. By partnering with an automated booking software platform, we aim to provide our clients with around-the-clock, easy-to-use, and flexible booking options. This service allows customers to choose their preferred barber, service, and appointment time, which also aids in smooth shop operations and resource allocation.

Urban Edge Barbers believes in value-based pricing. Services are priced based on the complexity, time taken, and the levels of expertise required. We aim to maintain competitive pricing in the area to ensure affordability without compromising on service quality.

Distribution channels cover both our physical location for first-hand services and our online platform for service bookings and product sales. We also anticipate creating relationships with local gyms, corporations, and local universities to provide mobile services to these groups at special events.

For promotion and advertising, we plan to invest in local print media, online pay-per-click (PPC) ads, and industry-specific magazines. The launch of the shop will be promoted heavily with an inauguration event and opening month discounts. A referral program will also be implemented to incentivize existing patrons to bring companions.

Lastly, our customer service policy is focused on 100% customer satisfaction. A feedback system will be implemented to make sure every customer is allowed to voice their opinion. We will offer support through multiple channels such as phone, email, and social media, providing timely and helpful responses to questions or concerns.

Our marketing and sales strategy at Urban Edge Barbers is rooted in understanding our customers, offering high-quality services, and maintaining robust customer relations. It harnesses the power of digital tools while remaining grounded in the principles of genuine hospitality and superb customer service.

Operational Workflow:

At Urban Edge Barbers, daily operations will be organised by our receptionist and customer relations manager, Alex Taylor, who will maintain an updated scheduling system to ensure appropriate time allocation for each client. Our opening hours will run from 9 AM to 7 PM six days a week with only Sundays being off.

Production/Service Delivery Processes:

Upon arrival, each client will be greeted by our receptionist and checked into our system. After a short waiting period in our comfortable waiting area, our clients will be attended by our skilled barbers who will take time to listen to their preferences before giving them the desired haircut or grooming service.

Quality Control Measures:

The quality of our service delivery will be placed under stringent checks to maintain our high standards. Our barbers will receive regular training under the guidance of our lead barber, Jordan Smith, to ensure they are updated with the latest trends and techniques in men's grooming.

Inventory Management:

We will conduct stock checks at regular intervals to ensure we neither overstock nor understock our inventory of grooming products and supplies. Our inventory will be managed digitally to ensure easy tracking and swift, effective re-stocking from our suppliers.

Supply Chain Management:

Our supply chain will be streamlined and efficient, derived from cemented relationships with trusted suppliers for grooming products and equipment. We maintain this by negotiating favourable terms that allow for prompt deliveries and quality supplies.

Facilities and Equipment Needs:

Urban Edge Barbers will be housed in a comfortable, spacious and modern facility equipped with all the necessary grooming equipment. Our facility will have three barber stations paired with comfortable barber chairs, washbasins, and storage cabinets. There will also be a reception area, waiting area and stock/inventory room. Mirrors, hair trimmers and clippers, scissors, combs, towels, cleaning supplies and protective gear amongst others are part of our initial equipment requirement.

We will use both direct purchase and leasing options for our equipment needs. While equipment like barber chairs and stations will be directly purchased, we might explore leasing options for certain expensive equipment such as high-end hair care and treatment machinery if required in future. All our equipment will be periodically tested to ensure health and safety standards are met.

In conclusion, Urban Edge Barbers ensures a smooth operational plan that guarantees a consistent service experience for our clients, regulated inventory and supply chain management and meeting all facility and equipment needs efficiently and economically.

As a start-up looking to disrupt the barber services market, Urban Edge Barbers has worked diligently to prepare a comprehensive financial projection to offer insight into our financial future.

• Sales Forecast: Our sales forecast for the first year is approximately $150,000, based on reasonable assumptions regarding customer acquisition and product service sales. By strategically marketing our services, offering highly sought-after endorsements, and using our talented team's networking, we intend to outperform these projections.
• Profit and Loss Projection: Considering all overhead costs, we expect to break even by the end of the first year and anticipate a slight profit of around 10% in our second year. By the third year, we aim to see a consistent profit margin near 25%.
• Cash Flow Projection: The cash flow forecast shows that Urban Edge Barbers will have a positive cash flow from the second year onward, after considering all expenses, including staff salaries, rent, maintenance, and advertising costs.
• Balance Sheet Projection: Our balance sheet accounts for all the assets, liabilities, and owner’s equity. The primary assets include cash, accounts receivables, and inventory. The liabilities consist of our debts, account payable, and accrued expenses. The owner's equity will be the difference between our assets and liabilities.
• Break-Even Analysis: Based upon cautious market penetration projections and considering overhead and fixed costs, Urban Edge Barbers expects to reach its break-even point by the end of the first year. This will be helped largely by the careful management of cash flow and strict adherence to payment schedules on both the collecting and paying ends.
• Financial Assumptions: The prime financial assumptions include a moderate economy with no major downturns which could affect consumer spending. Additionally, we have assumed a continuous increase in client base and moderate competition in the market over the next five years.
• Considerations: Our financial plan takes into consideration potential risks and challenges including potential economic downturn, staff turnover, increased competition, and market saturation. Strategies for mitigating these risks form an integral part of our business model.

In conclusion, our financial projections suggest an optimistic portrait for Urban Edge Barbers. With sound fiscal management, disciplined work ethics, and an unwavering focus on quality and customer service, the company is expected to make substantial financial gains over the coming years.

• Senior Management Team: The management team of Urban Edge Barbers is led by Jordan Smith, a barber with over a decade of seasoned experience, who owns and operates the shop. Supporting him is Alex Taylor managing customer relations and the reception, and Riley Morgan, marketing specialist well-versed in digital marketing strategies.
• Capital Requirements: The initial capital requirement for the establishment of Urban Edge Barbers is approximately $75,000, which will cover costs associated with leasehold improvements, professional barber chairs, washing units, equipment, initial inventory, working capital, and marketing for the first six months of operation. Jordan Smith will invest $45,000 from his personal savings, and the remaining amount will be funded through a small business loan.
• Risk Analysis: Urban Edge Barbers acknowledges that potential risks may come from various sources such as changing market trends, economic instability, operational disruptions, and competition. Each of these risks has been carefully analyzed, and adequate measures have been put into place.
• Market Risks: One of the main market risks for Urban Edge Barbers comes from competition. Nearby barber shops and salons that offer similar services could pose a threat. To stand out and mitigate this risk, Urban Edge will differentiate itself with unique, high-quality services and a strong brand identity that appeals to the target customer base.
• Operational Risks: Operational risks such as equipment failure or staff shortages could impact productivity. This risk will be mitigated by having backup equipment and cross-trained staff available at all times.
• Financial Risks: Financial risks could occur from economic downturns or unforseen expenses. Urban Edge plans to counter this by maintaining a conservative budget, regularly reassessing the financial landscape, and keeping a contingency fund.
• Legal Risks: As with any business, there will be legal risks including issues related to employee relations or compliance with health and safety regulations. Urban Edge plans to retain a legal advisor to ensure all activities comply with necessary legal requirements.
• Insurance Considerations: Urban Edge Barbers has taken insurance quite seriously. Commercial general liability insurance has been procured to protect the business from liability claims for bodily injury and property damage. Additionally, the business has worker's compensation insurance for the staff and will ensure that all insurance policies are updated as the business grows.

Finally, Urban Edge Barbers has established detailed contingency plans in case of any unforeseen circumstances. These include procedures to handle unexpected staff shortages, emergency facility issues, and financial strains. By palpably addressing each risk area and by having a robust contingency plan in place, Urban Edge Barbers is confident about parrying the extensive challenges of the entrepreneurial landscape.

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How to Start a Profitable Barber Shop Business [11 Steps]

By Nick Cotter Updated Feb 05, 2024

Business Steps:

1. perform market analysis., 2. draft a barber shop business plan., 3. develop a barber shop brand., 4. formalize your business registration., 5. acquire necessary licenses and permits for barber shop., 6. open a business bank account and secure funding as needed., 7. set pricing for barber shop services., 8. acquire barber shop equipment and supplies., 9. obtain business insurance for barber shop, if required., 10. begin marketing your barber shop services., 11. expand your barber shop business..

Before starting a barber shop business, conducting a thorough market analysis is critical. This step will ensure you understand the demand for barber services in your area, the competition you will face, and the preferences of your potential clientele. Here's how to perform a meticulous market analysis:

• Research local demographics: Study the age, gender, income levels, and lifestyle habits of the population in your target location to tailor your services accordingly.
• Analyze competitors: Identify existing barber shops in the vicinity, noting their services, pricing, strengths, and weaknesses to find a competitive edge.
• Understand industry trends: Keep abreast of the latest trends in barbering, such as popular hairstyles, organic products, or technological advancements in booking systems and equipment.
• Assess demand: Survey the area to gauge the potential demand for your services. This could involve direct surveys, focus groups, or analyzing foot traffic in potential shop locations.
• Examine regulatory environment: Ensure compliance with local laws and regulations regarding health and safety, licensing, and operations for barber shops.

Are barber shop businesses profitable?

Yes, barber shop businesses can be profitable if they are well managed and marketed correctly. Factors such as location, pricing, customer service, and marketing strategies will all play a role in the success or failure of a barber shop business.

Starting a barber shop requires careful planning and a solid business strategy. A well-crafted business plan serves as a roadmap, outlining your vision, goals, and the steps needed to achieve them. Here's a guide to help you draft your barber shop business plan:

• Executive Summary: Summarize your business concept, the services offered, target market, and financial highlights.
• Company Description: Detail the specifics of your barber shop, including location, ownership, and what sets it apart from competitors.
• Market Analysis: Research the local market, including demographics, customer needs, and competition to identify market opportunities.
• Organization and Management: Outline your business structure, the team, and their roles and responsibilities.
• Services Offered: Describe the range of services you'll provide, pricing strategies, and how they meet customer demands.
• Marketing Plan: Explain how you'll attract and retain customers, your advertising strategies, and your brand's unique selling proposition.
• Operational Plan: Discuss the day-to-day operations, the equipment needed, suppliers, and the management of inventory.
• Financial Plan: Present detailed financial projections, including start-up costs, revenue forecasts, profit and loss estimates, and break-even analysis.

How does a barber shop business make money?

Barber shops are able to make money by providing their customers with services such as haircuts, beard trims, and more. A target audience for a barber shop business could include men of all ages, as well as women who prefer more classic and traditional styles. Those who seek out a barber for personalised services will likely be willing to pay a higher price than those at a traditional hair salon. To maximise profits, barbers can also offer products such as beard oils and styling products to the customers they serve.

Developing a brand for your barber shop is crucial, as it differentiates your business from competitors and creates a lasting impression on your customers. A strong brand will reflect the unique personality of your shop and resonate with your target audience. Here's how to craft a compelling brand for your barber shop:

• Define Your Brand Personality: Choose a brand personality that aligns with your values and the experience you want to offer. Whether it's traditional, modern, edgy, or luxurious, ensure it's consistent in all your communications.
• Choose a Memorable Name and Logo: Your shop's name and logo are often the first elements people will notice. Make sure they are easy to remember, and that they encapsulate the essence of your brand.
• Create a Color Scheme and Aesthetic: Select colors and a design aesthetic that will be used throughout your shop's interior and marketing materials. This visual consistency helps to reinforce your brand identity.
• Develop a Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Identify what makes your barber shop stand out. Whether it's a signature cut, exceptional service, or a unique atmosphere, your USP should be central to your branding strategy.
• Build an Online Presence: Establish a professional website and active social media profiles that reflect your brand's style and voice. Engaging online content can help to build brand awareness and loyalty.

How to come up with a name for your barber shop business?

When it comes to coming up with the perfect name for a barber shop business, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It's important to consider your target audience and the culture of your local area when deciding on a name. Brainstorming can be a great way to generate potential names. Think of words, phrases or catchphrases that evoke a feeling of professionalism and style. Additionally, it's good to consider how the name will look on signage, business cards, and other marketing materials. With creativity and thoughtfulness, you can come up with the perfect name for your barber shop business.

Once you've developed your business plan and secured funding, the next crucial step is to formalize your barbershop's presence by registering your business. This legal step is essential for operating within the law, opening a bank account under your business name, and paying taxes. Follow these general guidelines to ensure your registration is completed properly.

• Choose a Business Structure: Decide whether your barbershop will be a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation. Each structure has different legal and tax implications.
• Register Your Business Name: Pick a unique name for your barbershop and register it with the appropriate state agency, ensuring it's not already in use.
• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN): Apply for an EIN with the IRS for tax purposes, especially if you plan on hiring employees.
• Register for State and Local Taxes: Register with your state to obtain a tax identification number, workers' compensation, unemployment, and disability insurance.
• Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses: Check with your local government to see what specific permits and licenses are required to operate a barbershop in your area.

Resources to help get you started:

Acquiring the right licenses and permits is essential for legally operating a barber shop. This ensures compliance with local health and safety regulations, enhancing customer trust and business credibility. Key steps include:

• Business License: Apply for a general business license through your city or county government.
• Barbering License: Ensure all barbers are licensed by the state's cosmetology board, which may require passing an exam.
• Health and Safety Permits: Obtain health department permits to ensure compliance with sanitation standards.

What licenses and permits are needed to run a barber shop business?

The exact licenses and permits required to run a barber shop business will vary depending on the state and city you are operating in. Generally, you may need a general business license, sales tax permit, resale permit, health permit, sign permit, and employment tax permits. Additionally, the rules for barbershops tend to be stricter in some states than others; you may need to obtain additional licenses or certifications from your state’s barber board if it requires barbers to have special credentials.

Opening a business bank account and securing funding are crucial steps in establishing the financial foundation for your barber shop. A dedicated business account keeps your personal and business finances separate, simplifying accounting and tax reporting. When it comes to funding, there are various options to consider depending on your needs and eligibility. Here are some steps to guide you through these processes:

• Research banks and credit unions that offer business banking services and compare their fees, services, and customer reviews to choose the right fit for your barber shop.
• Prepare the necessary documents to open a business bank account, typically including your business license, EIN (Employer Identification Number), and ownership agreements.
• Explore different funding options such as small business loans, lines of credit, SBA loans, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.
• Prepare a solid business plan to present to potential lenders or investors, highlighting the viability and profitability of your barber shop.
• Consider reaching out to local small business development centers or financial advisors for guidance on finding and applying for funding.
• Keep in mind that some suppliers and equipment vendors offer financing options, which can be a convenient way to secure necessary items for your barber shop.

Setting the right prices for your barber shop services is crucial for attracting customers while ensuring profitability. It's important to consider the cost of your supplies, the expertise of your barbers, and the pricing of competitors. Here are some guidelines to help you determine the appropriate pricing strategy:

• Calculate your costs: Add up the expenses for rent, utilities, salaries, and supplies to understand your break-even point.
• Analyze the market: Research local barber shops to gauge the going rates for similar services, ensuring your prices are competitive yet fair.
• Consider your clientele: Tailor your prices to the demographic you are targeting, whether it's high-end clients or budget-conscious customers.
• Value your services: Price your services according to the skill and experience of your barbers, and ensure that you're offering value that justifies the cost.
• Offer tiered pricing: Introduce a range of services from basic to premium, allowing customers to choose depending on their needs and budget.
• Implement loyalty programs: Encourage repeat business by offering discounts or special rates to loyal customers.
• Adjust as needed: Be prepared to modify your pricing based on customer feedback and changing costs to maintain a competitive edge.

What does it cost to start a barber shop business?

Initiating a barber shop business can involve substantial financial commitment, the scale of which is significantly influenced by factors such as geographical location, market dynamics, and operational expenses, among others. Nonetheless, our extensive research and hands-on experience have revealed an estimated starting cost of approximately $17500 for launching such an business. Please note, not all of these costs may be necessary to start up your barber shop business.

Starting a barber shop requires careful selection of equipment and supplies to ensure you can provide excellent service to your clients. From comfortable barber chairs to quality grooming tools, each item plays a pivotal role in setting up your shop for success. Here's a guide to help you acquire the essentials:

• Barber Chairs: Invest in durable and comfortable chairs that can accommodate clients of all sizes and have adjustable features.
• Styling Tools: Purchase professional-grade clippers, trimmers, scissors, and razors to deliver precise cuts and styles.
• Sanitation Supplies: Stock up on barbicide, disinfectants, and sterilizers to keep tools clean and comply with health regulations.
• Shaving Supplies: Include shaving creams, gels, aftershave, and straight razors for customers looking for a clean shave.
• Hair Care Products: Offer a range of shampoos, conditioners, hair sprays, and pomades for different hair types and styling preferences.
• Combs and Brushes: Have a variety of combs and brushes for different hair textures and styles.
• Reception Area Furniture: Provide comfortable seating and entertainment like magazines or a television to create a welcoming waiting area.
• Point of Sale System: Choose an efficient POS system for scheduling, transactions, and inventory management.

List of software, tools and supplies needed to start a barber shop business:

• Barber chairs: $500 - $5000 each
• Barber station: $300 - $1800 each
• Cash register: $200 - $1500
• Scissors and Clipper Blades: $10 - $100 per set
• Razors, blades, sanitizer, and disinfectant: $50 - $200
• Mirrors: $100 - $600 each
• Caps, gowns, and barber aprons: $25 - $400 each
• Towels and Cloth Strips:$10 -$50 per pack
• Accounting Software: Free to around $200/month
• Employee Scheduling Software (optional): Free to around 100/month

When starting a barber shop, it's crucial to protect your business, employees, and customers with the appropriate insurance. Different types of insurance cover various risks, from property damage to liability claims. Consider the following steps to obtain the necessary insurance for your barber shop:

• Research local regulations and insurance requirements for barber shops in your area to ensure compliance with state and municipal laws.
• Contact a licensed insurance agent or broker who specializes in small businesses or specifically in beauty and personal care industry insurance to discuss your specific needs.
• Evaluate different types of insurance policies, such as General Liability Insurance, Professional Liability Insurance, Business Owner's Policy (BOP), Workers' Compensation Insurance, and Commercial Property Insurance.
• Request quotes from several insurance providers to compare coverage options and costs. Make sure to inquire about any business-specific endorsements or riders that might be beneficial for your barber shop.
• Review the terms, conditions, and exclusions of each policy carefully before making a decision to ensure you have comprehensive protection.
• Once you've selected a policy, complete the application process, submit any necessary documentation, and make your initial premium payment to initiate coverage.
• Keep your insurance documents safely stored and make note of renewal dates to maintain continuous coverage.

Marketing your barber shop is crucial to attract new clients and grow your business. An effective marketing strategy will help you establish your brand, showcase your services, and highlight what sets you apart from the competition. Here are some ways to begin marketing your barber shop services:

• Develop a Strong Brand Identity: Create a memorable logo, choose a color scheme, and develop a brand voice that reflects your barber shop's ethos and appeals to your target audience.
• Launch a Professional Website: Ensure your website is user-friendly, mobile-responsive, and includes essential information such as services offered, pricing, location, and contact details.
• Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase your work, share customer testimonials, and engage with your community.
• Implement a Referral Program: Encourage your satisfied customers to refer friends and family by offering them discounts or free services.
• Partner with Local Businesses: Build relationships with nearby businesses to cross-promote services and tap into their customer base.
• Engage in Community Events: Participate in local events or sponsor community activities to increase visibility and network with potential clients.
• Utilize Online Reviews: Encourage happy customers to leave positive reviews on platforms like Google My Business and Yelp to build trust with prospects.

Once your barber shop has established a solid customer base and a strong reputation for quality service, it's time to consider expansion. Whether you're looking to open a new location, offer new services, or hire additional staff, here are some strategies to help grow your business:

• Conduct market research to identify potential new locations with high foot traffic and a demand for barber services.
• Explore franchising opportunities to leverage your shop's brand and business model for expansion.
• Diversify your services to include additional offerings such as spa treatments, hair care products, or grooming accessories.
• Invest in marketing and advertising to raise awareness of your brand in new markets or to attract a broader clientele.
• Partner with local businesses or events to increase visibility and network with potential customers.
• Implement a referral program to encourage your existing customers to recommend your barber shop to friends and family.
• Utilize social media and online booking systems to streamline operations and make it easier for new customers to find and use your services.

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01.08.2018 4 min read time

How to Start a Barber Shop

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• Business Categories
• Businesses/Owners

If you’re someone who cares about male grooming, loves serving clients, and has a keen eye for style, then starting a career as a barber might be the perfect choice for you. But how to start a barbershop and make sure to be successful?

Here’s the great news: barbers are thriving right now. The male grooming industry has been steadily growing since 2013 and is expected to be worth $26 billion by 2020.

With that in mind, if you’ve ever considered opening a barbershop, now would be an excellent time to do so.

Not sure where to start? To give you some clarity into what it takes to successfully start a barbershop , here are 8 steps you need to take to get there:

Step 1: Lay out your barbershop business plan

Every good business begins with a plan. Before you start scoping out locations or sharpening your tools, take some time to lay out how you’re going to establish and run your company. In short, if you're wondering how to start a barbershop, the very first step is to create a business plan .

This doesn’t necessarily have to be a big formal document (unless you’re planning to get a loan or bring in some investors). But it helps to have something on paper — even if it’s just for your personal reference. Having a tangible plan will help you get organized and bring clarity into what you need to do.

So, what should your business plan contain? Here are some of the things you need to iron out:

Kick things off with a brief summary of your mission and vision for your barbershop. If you're planning to show your barbershop business plan to someone else, this section should capture their attention and compel them to keep reading.

Let’s say an experienced barber — let’s call him Josh — wants to launch his own shop to cater to his growing client base. His business plan overview could start with something like…

Josh's Barber Co. offers a premium barbershop experience for busy professionals. We strive to go beyond selling run-of-the-mill grooming services, and instead provide rich experiences that clients will genuinely enjoy…

From there, Josh can specify his specific mission and vision for the business and talk about what differentiates his barbershop from the rest.

Market research and analysis

As an entrepreneur, you need to be fully aware of the state of your industry and market. Who are the other players in the space? Where is the industry going? There are just some of the questions you should answer.

Do research into the barbershop industry both at a national and local level. Look into the average revenue and margins of barbers in your area. It can also help to check out the competition. Scope out the top barbershops in your city to see how they operate.

After doing your research, you should have a clear idea of the following:

• Average revenues of barbershops (national and local)
• Average profit margins
• Typical size (size of the team, of the location etc.)
• Price ranges
• Products and services offered

Sales and marketing

The next section of your business plan is all about sales and marketing. This section should cover:

Products and services - What are the specific services that you’ll offer in your shop? Typically, this section would contain offerings like:

• Hair washing and styling
• Facial shaving
• Beard and moustache trimming/grooming

If you’re planning to specialize in a specific service or sell products in your barbershop, be sure to mention them in this section.

Pricing - This is where you talk about your pricing strategy. A number of factors will come into play here. Costs and margins are primary considerations, but you should also factor in your positioning (i.e., budget vs premium prices) as well as your location and competitors.

Marketing and advertising - There should be a section on how you intend to promote your barbershop. How are you planning to get the word out? Discuss your overall strategy and include tactics such as:

• Paid advertising
• Social media marketing [specify the social networks]
• Traditional ads
• Word of mouth marketing
• Loyalty programs
• In-store promotions
• Email marketing

Your business plan should also talk about how you’ll handle the finances in your barbershop. Whether you’re planning to fund the business yourself or obtain financing from a third party, you’ll need to specify the details.

Try to come up with your projected cash flow, revenue, expenses, and profit. Aim to predict how much you'll earn for at least the first year of your business.

The next section of your barbershop business plan is all about operations. This section should discuss how you plan to operate your business. You need to tackle things like:

Step 2: Choose a legal structure for the business

Once you have a plan, the next step is to figure out the legal structure for your barbershop. This will affect how you file your taxes, fund your business, and manage your financials, so it is critical that you choose the right structure for your situation.

Barbershops in the US generally have the following options:

Sole proprietorship

A sole proprietorship doesn't distinguish the business from its owner. This means that any income that you earn from your barbershop will go into your personal tax return. The main advantage here is that a sole proprietorship is easy to set up and maintain. There’s no application process, and tax filing is much simpler because everything is reported under your name.

The downside? If you're a sole proprietor, you are personally liable for the business' financial obligations. This means creditors can go after your personal assets if your business defaults on loans or bills.

A sole proprietorship may be right for you, if you’re starting a small barbershop and you’re not planning to hire employees or attract investors.

C-corporation or s-corporation

A C-corp operates as a separate entity from its business owners, so your personal assets are protected from any financial obligations. C-Corporations also make it easier to issue stock and raise money. An S-Corp functions similarly but is  taxed as a sole proprietor, meaning the business income will be reported on the owner’s personal tax return.

A big disadvantage for both these entities is that they can be expensive to establish and maintain. There's a lot of paperwork involved, and taxes may get more complicated.  

These business models are ideal for barbershops that are looking to expand to more locations, hire large teams, and get outside investors.

Limited liability company (llc)

Think of an LLC as a hybrid between a sole proprietorship and a corporation. It functions as a separate entity for the individual, so you're protected from any personal liabilities. In terms of taxes, your LLC income will be reported on your personal tax return.

LLCs have some limitations, though. For starters, it could put you in a higher tax bracket, particularly if your barbershop isn't your only source of income. This could result in higher taxes. Additionally,  you can't issue stock to shareholders and certain business loans are only available to corporations.

An LLC may be right for your is you're looking to be the main boss in your barbershop and are planning to hire a handful of employees, but you’re not planning to take on investors or issue stock to shareholders.

Step 3: Fund your business

Next, let’s talk about the funding of your venture. If you want to start a barbershop, you will need to come up with enough money to cover the start-up expenses . You also want to ensure that you have enough cash flow to cover the first 6 months or even the first year of activity.

As a rule, always try to be "pessimistic" when you work on your financial projections. Also, plan a "safety net" to be able to deal with any unexpected expenses.

You have a number of options for financing your barbershop. They include:

TAP INTO YOUR SAVINGS OR OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS

If you have substantial savings, you could potentially use that money to fund your business. Tapping into your savings prevents you from taking on debt, thus reducing your financial liability.

If you have a retirement account such as a 401(k), you may be able to use those funds to finance your business. Doing so does require a number of legal steps, so consult with business and tax professional before doing this.

Obtain a loan

You could also apply for a business loan through your bank or credit union. Just bear in mind that you may need a high credit score and/or collateral in order to get approved.

If you’re unable to obtain a loan from your bank or credit union, see if you can secure an SBA loan. Backed by the U.S., Small Business Administration, SBA loans let you borrow money for various business-related expenses, including working capital, purchasing equipment and supplies, buying real estate, and more. SBA loans don't require high down payments and they offer reasonable interest rates. Do note, though, that the process for getting approved can take longer than conventional loans.

Use a line of credit

Financial institutions, lenders, and even payment processors like PayPal can offer lines of credit to businesses in need of funds. Similar to obtaining a loan, securing a line of credit requires you to go through an application process, in which the lender gauges your creditworthiness. If all looks good, you can get approved for a credit line just a few days.

Raise money from relatives and friends

Consider approaching your relatives and friends for an investment or loan. This is a very common practice, particularly for entrepreneurs who are unable to obtain a loan or credit line.

Just exercise some caution when coming up with an agreement with your friends and family. Have a formal contract in place detailing the terms of your agreement, as well as a timeline for when and how you will pay them back.

No matter what type of financing method you choose, it’s important to have proper documentation. Prepare your credit report, bank statements, and any proof of assets that you have. Doing so will make the process for applying for a loan or line of credit much easier. And even if you’re tapping into your own funds, having your docs in order will allow you to better plan your business financials.

Step 4: Obtain the necessary licenses, permits, and certifications to start a barbershop

Barbershops need to pass several regulatory requirements depending on their jurisdiction. The criteria will vary depending on your state, county, and city, so check with your local authorities to determine the licenses, permits, and certifications that you need to obtain.

At the most basic level, though, you need to be a licensed barber to be able to start a barbershop . Obtaining your barber’s license requires either completing an apprenticeship or going through an approved education program (in some cases, you may need to do both).

The specific requirements will depend on where you plan to become a barber. Julio Martinez (@j.marrtt) who works at The Rich Barber Hair Studio in Sacramento, says that in California, apprentice barbers need to complete a minimum of 3,200 hours of on-the-job training over a 2-year period.

If you choose to go to barber school, you’ll need to apply at an approved institution and complete the program (this typically takes six months.)

In addition to having your license, you need to ensure that your facility meets certain criteria. The most common ones for barbershops include:

• Hot and cold running water
• Public restrooms
• Drinking water
• Each station or barber may need a square footage requirement [e.g., 35 sq. ft per chair]
• Enclosed storage area for clean towels that’s separate from soiled towels
• A sterilizer or sanitary compartment

Again, these things vary from one state or city to the next, so check your local and state offices to determine which regulations to comply with.

Step 5: Find the right location to start a barbershop

When you start a barbershop, the choice of location can make or break your business , so it’s important to find the right spot. Thanks to technology, it’s a lot easier these days to find available commercial spaces for lease. Websites such as Craigslist and LoopNet are great places to start your search. You could also contact a real estate broker or agent in your area to show you available spaces.

There are a number of factors to consider when looking for the right barbershop location, including:

Your target market

You need to be keenly aware of who your target clients are. How old are they? Where do they live and work? How much do they earn? The answers to these questions will point you in the right direction.

For instance, if you’re targeting young male professionals with lots of disposable income, then it makes sense to set your sights on high-end areas. Or, if you’re looking to cater to a hip and trendy clientele, then setting up shop in an up-and-coming neighborhood would be a smart move.

Know your budget

When budgeting for your lease payments, you want to allocate about 3% to 10% of gross monthly sales. This means that if you're projecting your sales to be $25,000 per month, then your rent budget shouldn’t exceed $2,500.

Get some foot traffic estimates

Get a feel for how much foot traffic a location is getting. Depending on the location, you may be able to get some estimates through your broker or the property management company.

The quality of traffic is also important. When scouting rental spaces, pay attention to the people in the areas you’re considering. You don't want to start a barbershop in an area where you won't find enough potential clients . Do they fit the profile of your target customers? If not, you may need to check out other places.

Get to know other businesses in the area

Pay attention to the shops in the location that you’re viewing. Will you have anchor tenants in the same location? Are there any establishments that naturally draw in more people — e.g., train stations, shopping centers etc.?

Consider the case of The Well Kept Barbershop in Astoria, New York. According to Luis Concha (@luthebarber_), one of the shop’s owners, when he and his partner were scouting for places in which to set up shop, they chose Astoria because it was home to establishments that attracted lots of people.

“We are not originally from Astoria, but we knew the area evolved over the last 10 years, and we wanted to be part of that evolution,” he says.

“With trendy bars, vintage style restaurants, and the 30 Avenue train station just a few feet away, we are in a prime location for massive foot traffic!”

Another tip? Try not to rush the process. As Luis puts it, “location is important, so don’t rush into just anything. There can be a lot of pressure to get into the first thing you see. It’s so funny because when we first saw our location it was beat up and old. We had seen so many locations in brand new buildings and every time we would bid on them we would get turned down.”

“In the end, it was the old beat up place that we turned into a vintage yet modern style barbershop!”

Step 6: Sort out your systems and technologies

The next step is to figure out the tools and technologies you need to run your barbershop. It’s not advisable to do everything manually. Carrying out tasks using a pen and paper can be time-consuming and can lead to human errors. You’re much better off using tech solutions to streamline the various processes in your barbershop.

Consider the following:

Appointment scheduling software

Appointment management is essential to consider when you are about to start a barbershop. As a service-based business, you need to be able to keep track of your bookings and manage your calendar.

The best way to do that is through a cloud-based scheduling platform. There are several appointment schedulers for barber in the market, such as Booksy, that offer numerous benefits, such as strong calendar management features so you and your team can keep track of all your bookings and ensure that clients are served on time.

Having an online booking software also opens up more scheduling options for your customers. Most solutions provide a booking portal that allows clients to reserve appointments through your website, as well as on Google, Instagram, and Facebook.

Here’s a great example of a booking page from the Well Kept Barbershop. The page showcases all the available services and time slots and it lets clients book appointments with just a few clicks.

Point of sale system (POS)

All barbershops need a system that lets them ring up sales and take payments. This is where your point of sale software comes in. A good POS should streamline your checkout process so clients can pay for your services with ease.

Accounting software

When you start a barbershop, staying on top of your books is critical. Arm your business with an accounting system (ideally one that integrates with your POS) that can track your revenue and expenses. Aside from keeping your financial ducks in a row, a good accounting software will give you the data you need to make the right financial decisions for your business.

Employee management system

This is a must if you’re going to hire a team. You need a platform for managing your employees’ schedules, so you can make sure that you always have someone to man your barbershop.

STEP 7: RECRUIT BARBERS AND EMPLOYEES

Let’s talk about building your dream team. Especially at the stage when you just start a barbershop, recruiting the right people to work at your shop can be a challenge. You’ll need to find individuals who not only possess the right skills, but are also a good fit for your brand.

The easiest way to find applicants is to set up your online employer profile and post job listings. Start by researching barbershop trade groups and publications and see if they have a “Careers” section on their website.

Here are some examples:

• Behind the Chair
• Modern Salon
• American Barber Association

If you want to widen the net, you could also post listings on sites like Monster.com and Indeed. Share a few details about the project and your values. Explain that you are about to start a barbershop and that you're looking at creating the perfect entourage.

Connecting with other barbers can also help. Widening your network opens up opportunities for referrals and help you discover great talent, so ask your barber friends for recommendations.

Regardless of what hiring tactic you decide to implement, make sure that you’re setting your sights on individuals who align with your values.

Chuka Torres (@chukathebarber), the Founder and CEO at The Rich Barber, does just that, and it’s worked out great for his team.

“When you start a barbershop, I think it’s is important to hire people that fit into the established barbershop culture and people who share similar values. Unity and synergy is very important to us at The Rich Barber. Also, I like people who are ambitious and ready to learn and grow. I like when they fit with the culture, share similar values and are ambitious they usually work out,” he says.

And when you do hire your employees, be sure to communicate with them. "It is very important to always have clear communication and expectations,” shares Chuka. He adds that regular check-ins can also be beneficial.

According to him, they have check-ins and meetings with their barbers, and while they aren't mandatory, they've found these check-ins to be "very uplifting, so barbers don't mind and they participate." Their meetings also promote harmony and unity in the shop. That's even more crucial when you start a barbershop and need to create your work culture.

Step 8: Craft your marketing plan

Next up is marketing your barbershop. Start coming up with ways to drive traffic and sales for your business. There are tons of tactics to consider when you are about to start a barbershop (or any other business), but here are the most common ones:

Tap into your existing clients - If you’re a practicing barber, chances are you already have a client base eager to sit on your chair. Use this to your advantage by asking your existing customers to refer you to their network.

Antione Dunn, a barber at The Rich Barber Hair Studio, did just that. “When I first started out, I asked clients to refer my services to the people they know,” he shared. Doing this helped Antione build up his clientele particularly in the early days.

Search marketing - You want to make sure that people searching for a barber can easily find your shop online. A big part of doing that is optimizing your business for search engines like Google.

You can start by creating a local listing on Google My Business. When you set up your profile, include as many details about your barbershop as possible, and upload several photos and videos. Doing so will make your listing look much more attractive.

Implement social media marketing - Having a strong social media presence can do wonders for your barbershop. A survey by Booksy found that the majority of respondents — 85.6% to be exact — said they look at a service provider’s social media accounts before trying them out.

Social media clearly plays a big role in consumer’s purchase decisions, so it’s important that you establish a strong profile, particularly on places like Facebook and Instagram. Be consistent with publishing top quality content on these social networks, and don’t forget to give potential clients the opportunity to book an appointment right from your social media profiles.

Let your work speak for itself - Last but not the least, is letting your work for itself. The best strategy for attracting new customers and keeping your existing clients coming back is to consistently deliver top-notch results.

For Julio, this has been key to his success. He’s an apprentice at The Rich Barber Hair Studio, but he already has a steady stream of clients and a huge following on Instagram (75,000+). According to him, he was able to achieve that by delivering exceptional services time and time again.

"Being consistent with my haircuts has been critical to my success. I've gotten tremendous word of mouth because of it. That's kind of the oldest trick there is [word of mouth], but it's how I got around.”

Youssef Barber (@youssefbarber), CEO of Diamond Cuts, offers similar advice. "I have always been consistent and dedicated to the business. I would be in the shop from open to close, and even after hours. And I would do that daily," he says.

Doing so, according to Youssef, was key to his success. And it is even more when you just start a barbershop and need to build your reputation.

You now know how to start a barbershop

Ready for your grand opening? Starting a barbershop business can be challenging . As you’ve seen in this post, it takes several steps to get up and running. That being said, if you’re highly skilled and passionate about what you do, the venture will be more than worth it.

We hope the tips above bring you clarity and help you take the first few steps to open the doors to your barbershop .

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How to Start a Barber Shop

Barbershops provide men and boys with grooming services, such as haircuts and shaves. They  are small shops that specialize in cutting men's hair and shaving the neck and face. Since the times of ancient Rome, approximately 296 BC specifically, the barbershop has been known as a place to socialize in the neighborhood. It is a place for men to network and connect with others in the community.

Learn how to start your own Barber Shop and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a barber shop by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Barber Shop
• Form your Barber Shop into a Legal Entity
• Register your Barber Shop for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Barber Shop
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Barber Shop
• Get Barber Shop Insurance
• Define your Barber Shop Brand
• Create your Barber Shop Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your barber shop. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Barber Shop Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your barber shop?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a barber shop.

Experienced barbershop owners suggest a minimum capital investment of $150,000 to $200,000. This includes the following items:

• Attending barber school - $6,500 to $10,000
• Office space - cost varies, based on location
• Construction costs - your space must be up to current electric and plumbing standards
• Permits and licenses
• Insurance - speak with a licensed agent to determine what policies you need $2,400.
• Marketing materials - $3,000
• Shop equipment - cash register, business management software, signage - $14,000
• Shop inventory - chairs, child seats, clippers, scissors, trimmers, razors, brushes, mirrors, shaving powder, hair cream, after shave, cleaning supplies, etc. - $20,000
• Furniture and miscellaneous necessities - $5,000
• Website - $1,500 to $3,500

Should you decide to invest in one of many franchise opportunities, budget another $25,000 for franchising fees.

What are the ongoing expenses for a barber shop?

There are a number of items you should budget for to properly run a barbershop:

• Rent, phone, Internet, and utilities
• Marketing materials and campaigns
• Replenishing of both professional and retail supplies
• Regular cleaning and maintenance of shop and barber equipment
• Payroll and taxes - To reduce this expense, consider hiring barbers as independent contractors. They will compensate you for use of your chair by either paying rent or a percentage of their income. Commissions range from 30-70% of the barber’s profits.

Who is the target market?

Your customers will primarily be adult males. From time to time, you will have a younger boy customer in need of a haircut. Your client base will be comprised of individuals who appreciate the artistry of a quality barber and enjoy the camaraderie and social atmosphere that a barbershop offers.

How does a barber shop make money?

A barbershop makes money by charging a fee for services provided.

Pricing varies, depending upon the services you offer, your location, and experience. Neck clean up prices average $10, while haircuts can range anywhere from $20-$90.

How much profit can a barber shop make?

The average annual profit for a barber shop owner is $35,000. Many have reported profits of $70,000 and higher, depending upon location and the number of barbers they employ.

How can you make your business more profitable?

Barbershop owners suggest the following strategies to increase annual profits:

• Offer additional services, such as facials, hair coloring, and custom design haircuts.
• Have a retail section that includes products such as hair gel, razors, and brushes.
• Offer a mobile barber service

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your barber shop is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

In most states, it is necessary to obtain a barber’s license. Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a barber shop business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

  For more information about local licenses and permits:

• Check with your town, city or county clerk’s office
• Get assistance from one of the local associations listed in US Small Business Associations directory of local business resources .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Certificate of Occupancy

  A barber shop business is generally run out of a storefront. Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO).  A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

• If you plan to lease a location :
• It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
• Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a barber shop business.
• After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
• If you plan to purchase or build a location :
• You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
• Review all building codes and zoning requirements for your business’ location to ensure your barber shop business will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Barber Shop needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Barber Shop.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a barber shop

To introduce yourself to the neighborhood, consider having a grand opening event. Drop off flyers at businesses and homes in the surrounding area. Community newspapers, local TV stations, and radio stations are also great marketing resources. Advertise the event well in advance and offer specials for those who mention your flier.

A basic website and a social media presence should be part of your marketing strategy. Research blogs that your clientele might read and advertise on those websites. The National Association of Barbers offers marketing opportunities for barbershop professionals. They are also a great resource for keeping up with the latest in industry trends.

How to keep customers coming back

In the service industry, word of mouth often proves to be the strongest marketing tool. Strive to deliver exceptional customer service to each client. Encourage patrons to refer their friends by offering a referral discount. Many barbershops have also successfully retained customers by offering a membership or discount days for regulars.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

Those who are dedicated to working hard and delivering outstanding customer service will find success in this industry.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a barber shop?

There are a number of items that will require your attention from day to day:

• Scheduling client appointments
• Consulting with customers regarding the cut and/or shave they would like
• Cutting and/or shaving clients
• Interacting with customers throughout the day
• Providing information regarding proper aftercare, when necessary
• Cleaning and maintaining all equipment
• Keeping shop clean
• Reordering supplies
• Networking and marketing
• Administrative tasks

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful barber shop?

Before getting started, you will need to attend barber school and obtain the necessary certification. Additionally, many states require barbers to log a certain number of training hours, ranging anywhere from 800-2,000 hours.

This is a highly social profession, so you must be able to connect with clients from all backgrounds. The ability to listen is just as important as conversing.

As the owner, strong business acumen would also prove beneficial. If you fall short in this area, consider taking a basic business course or hiring a consultant.

What is the growth potential for a barber shop?

Deeply entrenched in history, barbershops are considered one of the most lucrative businesses in the world. Entrepreneurs who are willing to invest time and resources have the potential to expand their venture well beyond their primary location.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a barber shop?

Veteran barbershop owners offer the following tips:

• Before renting your space, research the areas to determine the necessity for your services. This will also help in deciding how much space you need and how many chairs you can rent to other barbers.
• Get experience in the industry before opening your own shop.
• When deciding on a location, make sure you set up in a high traffic area with ample parking.
• Start small, building as the business grows. Don’t initially invest in the most expensive equipment or too large of a space.
• Consider your clientele, when setting your hours of operation. For many, nights and weekends are preferred over weekdays.
• Try to design your shop with an old school feel with accents of trendy flair throughout.

How and when to build a team

While it’s recommended that you start small, you will need to hire additional barbers once the shop starts to gain recognition. Each barber should be licensed and well-groomed. He/she should be personable and dedicated to delivering quality customer service. Veteran shop owners caution against hiring perfectionists. Successful barbers are detail-oriented, but able to work swiftly.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• National Association of Barbers
• Franchise Information for V’s Barbershop

Real World Examples

• Barber Shop Business With Multiple Locations
• Men & Women’s Barber Shop

Further Reading

• A Short Interview With A Barber Shop Owner
• Find more  business ideas  perfect for Small Towns!

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

How to Start a Barbershop

A barbershop provides grooming services to mainly male clients. Many barbershops also sell hair products and beard oils. To improve the experience of visiting a barbershop, some businesses have also started to serve coffee.

Create a Free Logo

Enter your brand or company name to get started.

How to Start a Barbershop:

If you are interested in starting your own barbershop, follow our detailed guide below.

Refine your idea.

Research existing barbershops..

Find out as much as you can about how the big franchises conduct business, what services they offer, and in which ways they are doing things differently.

Likewise, research smaller, successful, independent shops, and learn about the approach they take to offering their services, marketing their brands, and innovating in the space. Pay attention to business models, supply chains, and quality of service.

Decide how you will compete.

These days men are seeking more than just a haircut. They are looking for a barbershop experience that is more upscale, includes skincare and hair care services, and a place to socialize, relax, and network.

There are opportunities for creating hybrids. Some barbershops have coffee shop-style waiting areas and sell clothes or hair care products. There is also a need for quick-service offerings without any frills. Depending on your research into the industry, and what it is you want to achieve, seek a unique approach to what you will offer the market.

Decide on a business model.

There are three main business models in the barbershop industry: booth rental, commission, and full-time employment.

Booth rental barbershops ask barbers to pay a monthly fee. Essentially, the barbers are independent contractors who rent space in your barbershop.

The commission model is a partnership between the owner and individual barber where a percentage of each cut is paid as commission to the barber giving the cut.

Finally, there's the full-time employment model , wherein you employ a barber, pay them a salary, and possibly offer them other benefits.

Consider franchising.

Franchises, in some ways, make the process of starting a barbershop easier. They've done the thinking and planning for you. The concept, branding, and business model are already in place, all you need is a location and funding.

Choose your role in the shop.

Will you be playing a management role, focusing entirely on running and growing your business, or will you also be cutting hair part time?

Create a barbershop business plan.

Write an executive summary..

Describe what your business will do, write out your mission statement, and explain what makes your business unique.

Describe your ideal or current location.

If you do not have a location yet, describe the ideal location you would like for your business. Refer to your market research to show why you would like to work in a particular area.

Describe your launch.

State when you would like to launch, if you will be hosting a launch party, and if you are offering opening specials.

List your sources of revenue.

Let investors know how you will be earning money. Your main form of income will be from grooming services, but you could also sell hair and beard products.

List your essential staff.

List the job titles of roles you will need to be filled when you launch the business.

Staff members you may need include:

• A receptionist.
• Cleaning staff.
• A barista (if you offer coffee).

Describe your marketing strategy.

Explain how you will market your business using social media, flyers, or paid advertisements on Google.

This section should also include a description of your target market and a summary of your SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis.

Name and describe your competition.

List at least three barbershops that you have identified as your competition. Describe how they are similar to your business, as well as how your business differs.

Describe your finances.

List your startup expenses, calculate your break-even point, and include your revenue projections.

Download our free barbershop business plan template to find an in-depth guide on writing about your finances. You'll find the template toward the bottom of this page.

Describe your future plans.

Discuss how you plan to grow your business. This may include opening another location, selling more products, and/or hiring more staff.

Form your barbershop company.

Create a legal entity..

Forming a business entity protects you from liability and can save you money on taxes. You have four possible legal structures to choose from for your barbershop: sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company, or a corporation.

Most barbershop owners choose LLC. This structure protects you from personal liability. LLC's are more flexible when it comes to taxes, but can be difficult to set up.

Choose a name.

Create name ideas with a business name generator and narrow down your choices by asking potential customers for feedback.

Once you have chosen a name, take it one step further and protect your business's name and logo with a trademark.

Register your company.

File a DBA (doing business as), or file LLC paperwork with the State, and register a trademark, if necessary.

Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

An EIN, or Federal Tax Identification Number, is assigned by the IRS to businesses. If you employ staff members, you are required to have an EIN.

Set up legal and financial basics.

Opening a business bank account that is separate from your personal accounts protects you from liability and gives you access to business banking services. You should also consider buying business insurance to protect your business from losses caused by lawsuits, fire, flood, theft, etc.

Find funding.

Research funding options..

To get set up and have the products and equipment you need to run your barbershop for the first few months, you'll need a substantial sum of money, which can come from a financial backer.

There are two main types of financing models available to small business owners. Debt financing is what banks, government programs, and money lenders offer. The business owner will have a certain amount of time to repay the loan with interest.

Equity financing is what investors offer. It is money they pay into the business for a stake in the business.

Approach banks for a loan.

A small business loan is the most common way to finance a new business, so you should approach several banks to find out about their loan programs.

Apply for a business credit card.

A business credit card can help to cover day-to-day costs that can easily be repaid.

Research small business grants.

There are a number of grants available for small businesses. Research grants for the personal grooming industry or general small business grants offered by the government or private organizations.

Find a location.

Think about your target market and needs..

There is a lot to consider when deciding on a location for your barbershop. Depending on your budget and the nature of your barbershop, you will be looking for certain characteristics that boost brand identity, attract your target market, and elevate chances of growth and success.

Check that your location meets requirements.

There are state cosmetology and barbering board requirements when it comes to setting up your barbershop, and it is important you make sure to comply with them.

Barbershop facility requirements:

• Hot and cold running water.
• Public bathrooms.
• Drinking water.
• Containers for trash and soiled items.
• Cabinets that close properly.
• At least 35 square feet around each barber chair.

Set up your barbershop.

Design the layout of your barbershop..

The design and layout of your barbershop and the furniture and decorations you choose are entirely up to you. If you want a minimalist feel, less is more. If you want to throw back to the 1950s, or even further, to the Wild West, antiques are a must.

Put essential software in place.

There are various types of software you can get to ensure the smooth running of your business.

• Accounting software tracks business finances (expenses, debt, credit, tax, etc.).
• Inventory software helps track everything a barbershop needs to run effectively.
• Salon management software will help schedule and manage appointments, process sales and payments, and manage client information.
• Point-of-sale (POS) software allows businesses to accept a variety of payments for services and products and tracks sales.

Secure suppliers.

A barbershop requires a lot of equipment, some of which need to be replaced constantly. Find a supplier for razors, clippers, styling gels, cleaners, sterilizers, etc., one that is affordable, timely, and has high-quality supplies.

You can buy supplies online, where there is generally a greater selection and lower prices. Alternatively, buy supplies from your local retailer, who might be able to deliver faster.

Build your team.

Recruit qualified barbers..

A good team will make your shop a success. Whether you employ full-time barbers, strike a commission-based deal, or charge booth rent, you should still aim to have only the best barbers you can find working in your barbershop. Each of them must have a barber's license.

Use social media, job boards, word-of-mouth, and staffing agencies to help you attract and hire the best applicants.

Draft basic employment contracts.

Your barbershop will need a set of basic contracts; an employment contract is essential. Have a lawyer put one together or find one online.

Market your barbershop.

Register a domain name and create a website..

Before creating a website, register a domain name for your barbershop with a domain name registrar. Next, create a user-friendly, informative website that is perfectly aligned with your brand.

There are many website builders to choose from. Most of them have free versions and are packed with templates to help you get started.

Make online booking available.

Make it easy for your customers to book appointments with online booking; a must-have these days.

Create social media pages.

Never overlook the power of social media. Facebook and Instagram lend themselves nicely to barbershops. Just remember that the point of social media is to actively participate in it: be accessible to your customers, and share relevant pictures, videos, and memes regularly and freely.

Use your space.

Consider using digital signage. You might want to have one or two screens put up in your shop, and instead of having them on a TV channel, use them to advertise, or display promotional deals or other information.

You can design your own digital signage with free digital signage software.

Use search engine marketing (SEM).

These days, people most often find businesses by asking their phone about it. If you want to appear when someone asks "Where is the nearest barbershop?" be sure to register for Google My Business. Also, consider setting up a Yelp! page and asking happy customers to rate your business there.

Pay-per-click advertising and optimizing your website for search can also have huge payoffs, but you'll either need to research these topics or hire a local agency to help you.

Host a grand opening.

A grand opening is a good opportunity to introduce your shop to the community and to attract attention. Be sure to advertise your grand opening in the local paper and on social media. You could also start handing out flyers a week or so in advance. You want as many people there as possible.

Be certain everything is where it needs to be and that there are enough tools and supplies for the day. You will also need to make sure your staff knows exactly what to do and how to act.

How to Start a Barbershop — Checklist

Download our free barbershop business checklist in PDF format.

Barbershop Business Plan — Free Template

Download our free barbershop business plan template in MS Word format.

Barbershop Metrics: Profit Per Cut

One of the most important barbershop metrics is Profit Per Cut . Essentially, profit per cut tells you how much the shop makes from every cut after expenses. To find this number , take the total number of sales, subtract the percentage you pay your barbers and other monthly expenses, and then divide the result by the number of cuts done in that month.

Let’s assume you charge $25 a cut and manage as a team to do 2,400 cuts a month . And, having a 70/30 split between barbers and shop, you pay barbers 70% of earnings . Lastly, let’s put your monthly expenses (rent, supplies, utilities, etc.) at $4,000 . Now we have the figures we need to calculate our profit per cut.

Step 1: Calculate the total sales. Multiply the number of cuts done by the price of each cut.

2,400 x $25 = $60,000.

Step 2: Calculate the total barbers’ pay.

$60,000 x 0.7 = $42,000.

Step 3: Subtract barbers’ pay from total sales.

$60,000 - $42,000 = $18,000.

Step 4: Subtract monthly expenses.

$18,000 - $4,000 = $14,000.

Step 5: Divide this total profit by the number of cuts done that month.

$14,000 / 2,400 = $5.83.

As you can see, $5.83 is your profit per $25-cut.

What equipment does a barbershop need?

Men & Women's Hairstylist Logos

How much does it cost to open a barber shop?

Starting a barbershop costs roughly between $120,000 and $150,000. The cost depends on your business model, rent, government registration fees, and licenses and permits. Don't forget to factor in the cost of barbershop supplies.

How much money can you make owning a barbershop?

Estimates run from as low as $30,000 up to as high as $180,000 per year. It all depends on the location, expenses, whether you charge booth rent or pay commission and salaries, and whether or not you are going to be cutting hair as well as managing the shop.

Do you need a license to own a barber shop?

This depends on your state's license requirements. Generally, you don't have to be a licensed barber to own a barbershop.

How do I open a barber shop?

• Refine your idea .
• Create a business plan .
• Legally form your barbershop company .
• Find funding .
• Find a location .
• Set up your barbershop .
• Build your team .
• Market your barbershop .

How much do barbers pay for booth rent?

The average booth rental costs between $250.00 and $1,200.00 per month based on the shop and location.

Do barbers make a lot of money?

Barbers typically earn between $10.00 and $25.00 an hour but can be more, depending on experience.

How do barbers do taxes?

It depends on the business structure of your business. Most barbershop owners choose an LLC business structure. This choice protects business owners from personal liability and it's more flexible when it comes to taxes.

How far apart should barber chairs be?

Barber chairs should be spaced 4.5 to 5 feet apart to provide ample room for each barber.

Is a barber shop a profitable business?

A barbershop can be a profitable venture. While the annual wage estimate for barbers is around $20,000.00 per year on the lower end of the spectrum, around 10% have an annual income in excess of $50,000.00, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics . While the barber industry experienced a notable decline in the late 90s and early 2000s, it has made a strong comeback.

What is the average barber salary?

Barber salaries typically range from under $20,000.00 to more than $50,000.00 per year, depending on expertise, experience, state, and employer.

How much does it cost to rent a chair at a barber shop?

It costs between $250.00 and $1,200.00 per month, according to our research. However, the cost will depend on the employer, and the barber's skills and experience.

What are the types of barbershop businesses?

• Mobile barbershops.
• Throwback barbershops.
• Brand cafes.
• Mancave salons.
• Airport barbershop booths.
• Crowdsourced barbershop apps.

What licenses and permits do I need to start a barbershop?

• Business operating license.
• Certificate of Occupancy.
• Building permit.
• Fire department permit.
• State cosmetology or barbering license.

How can I open a barbershop with no money?

• Take out a commercial loan.
• Take out a small business loan.
• Attract investors.
• Consider invoice financing.
• Consider equipment financing.
• Take out hard money loans.
• Get a cash advance against credit card income.

Any tips for choosing a location for a barbershop?

• The location should be easy for others to find.
• There should be enough parking nearby.
• Your target demographic should live or work in the area.
• The space needs to fit your plans.
• The space should be in good condition.
• There should be constant foot traffic.
• The area should be clean and safe.
• The plumbing, electricity, and heating should be reliable.

How many parking spaces does a barbershop need?

There should be no fewer than three parking spaces nearby for every 1,000 square feet of space you have in your barbershop, according to our research. Keep in mind that there will most likely be local guidelines to follow.

How do I attract the right barbers?

• Advertise on your website and industry websites.
• Use social media.
• Advertise in hairdressing magazines and journals.
• Ask existing staff members to spread the word.
• Put up a sign in the window.
• Post to job sites using Betterteam.

Any ideas for a barbershop grand opening?

• Offer $5 cuts.
• Invite local celebrities for free cuts.
• Partner with a local charity.
• Have live music.
• Have a bold theme.

How much does it cost to become a barber?

A state-recognized barber program costs between $2,000.00 and $11,000.00, depending on the school.

Do you need a degree to be a barber?

No, you don't need a degree, only a license from an accredited school.

How much is insurance for a barbershop?

On average, barbershop owners pay $425.00 a year for general liability insurance and $455.00 a year for professional liability insurance.

What is the difference between barber school and cosmetology?

The difference is in what is taught. Both professions cut, style, and wash hair, but barbers generally focus on cutting men's hair and they are licensed to shave with a straight razor.

How much does beard-trimming cost?

Beard trimming costs $15.00 on average.

Do barbershops do eyebrows?

Yes, barbers will trim eyebrows with a clipper, but won't tint or do any delicate shaping.

How much does an apprentice barber earn?

On average, an apprentice barber can earn between $9.93 and $13.90 per hour.

What should I consider when starting a barbershop for men?

• Who is your ideal customer?
• What products and services will you provide?
• Is your pricing right for your target customer?
• What sort of customer experience are you going to offer?
• Is your location right for your goals?

How do barbershops clean their tools?

According to health and safety standards, all barbershop equipment, implements, tools, and materials need to scrubbed with soap and then disinfected with EPA-registered bactericidal, fungicidal, and virucidal disinfectants, or isopropyl alcohol and ethyl alcohol.

How does a barbershop get barbers?

Barbershops can attract barbers by advertising on their website, industry magazines, local newspapers, and across social media platforms. Networking at industry and community events and asking existing staff to spread the word are also effective ways to get new barbers. You could also post the position to job sites like Betterteam .

What are the ongoing expenses for a barber shop?

There are three areas that make up your running costs, or expenses. They are material costs, overall costs, and employee costs.

Material costs relate to the supplies you need for delivering your services, as well as to the products and items you sell.

Overall costs include rent, utilities, advertising, etc.

Employee costs constitute salaries, commissions, taxes, etc.

Do you need a barber license to open a baber shop?

No. You can open a barbershop if you are not a licensed barber yourself, but you will need a team of licensed barbers, as well as a business license and a location.

Do startup barbershops usually last?

There aren't barbershop-specific failure rates available, but according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, roughly 20 percent of small businesses fail within their first year, and about 50 percent fail within 5 years.

Should I put full dividers between barber chairs?

Some states may require your business to put up full dividers because of social distancing rules. Check with your county to see what their protocols are.

What are the benefits of owning your own barbershop?

The major benefit of owning a barbershop is that you can make more money. As a barbershop owner, you can rent booths to barbers, or have a 70/30 split with the barbers, while at the same time cutting hair yourself. That's not to mention the greater sense of self-accomplishment that comes with starting and running a successful business.

How difficult is it to run a barbershop?

Starting and running a barbershop is a challenge. Most of the responsibility falls on your shoulders, from managing employee schedules and inventory to implementing marketing strategies and complying with tax regulations.

What books should I read before starting a barbershop?

• "Barbershop Now!: How to Open A Barbershop" (Volume 1) by Eric Ryant and Jeff Grissler
• "Ready, Set, Go!: The Start-Up Guide for Opening, Remodeling & Running a Successful Barbershop" by Eric Ryant and Jeff Grissler
• " The Wealthy Barber " by David Chilton
• " The Art of The Start " by Guy Kawasaki

How do I write a barber shop business plan?

• Write an executive summary .
• Describe your ideal or current location .
• Describe your launch .
• List your sources of revenue .
• List your essential staff .
• Describe your marketing strategy .
• Name and describe your competition .
• Describe your finances .
• Describe your future plans .

What can I expect in my barber shop monthly expenses?

• Equipment leases.
• Beauty and hair products.

What do you need to open a barber shop?

• A good idea to ensure that you can attract customers and compete with the market.
• A solid business plan.
• A business name, registration, and tax registration.
• A business account.
• Salon management software.
• Start-up funding.
• A prime location.
• Equipment and products.
• A qualified team.
• A good marketing plan.

How do I start a barber shop from home?

• Get your barber license.
• Ensure you have a large space with running water, where you can keep your equipment permanently and where it won't be difficult to clean up cut hair.
• Plan how you want your barbershop to look and prepare your space.
• Source proper equipment, including a barber chair, mirror, and counter.
• Invest in professional cutting equipment and products, including clippers, scissors, straight razors, combs, capes, disinfectant jars, spray bottles, shaving bowls and brushes, dusting brushes, creams, razor blades, and styling products.
• Set up and arrange your space to create the atmosphere you're going for.
• Build your client base, starting with family and friends, until you can finance a move into a proper shop space.

What things are needed to start a barber shop?

• Barber license.
• Business plan.
• Business licenses and permits.
• Tax and business registration.
• Location, equipment, and products.

What is a good barber shop design?

A good barbershop design is one that puts your customers at ease and makes them feel welcome. You can create a classic, traditional barbershop set-up by adding a barber's pole and using a rustic color palette of browns and creams. Or, you can go for a modern, trendy design with clean lines and a monochromatic color palette.

You should have a well-lit sign to draw attention and a comfortable waiting area that encourages people to sit and relax. Your flooring should be easy to clean of hair but should make a statement. You can use hardwood or the more traditional black and white tiles. To create the ambiance you want, don't underestimate the value of great lighting! Lastly, decorate your barbershop with witty signs, old posters, and attractive product displays.

What type of business is a barber shop?

According to the North American Industry Classification System, barbershops are classified as Personal Care Services. Most barbershops are sole proprietorships or LLCs.

How do I start a luxury barbershop franchise?

You can buy into a luxury barbershop franchise if you can pay the franchise fee and prove that you have the assets to equip and open your barbershop.

How much does a barber shop license cost?

A barber license costs between $75.00 and $150.00, depending on the state.

How do you manage a barber shop?

• Talk to your customers and ensure you are providing a good service.
• Ensure your staff is happy and have the best products and equipment to work with.
• Lead with confidence, listen and communicate well, and help to resolve conflicts.
• Cut any wasted expenses, services that aren't worth the resources, and staff members who aren't working out.
• Delegate tasks and ensure staff is well-trained.

What is the average barber shop owner's salary?

On average, a barbershop owner earns $53,772.00 a year.

Where can I find a barbershop business plan sample?

You can use our step-by-step guide , which includes a free downloadable business plan template and checklist, when starting your barbershop.

What kind of barber equipment do I need to open a barbershop?

You will need equipment and products such as clippers, scissors, straight razors, combs, capes, disinfectant jars, spray bottles, shaving bowls and brushes, dusting brushes, creams, razor blades, and styling products.

Where can I find good barbershop software?

You can find some great companies that specialize in barbershop software, such as BookSteam, Acuity Scheduling, Timely, and MasterPeace live.

Related Articles

How to start a hair salon, how to open a bar, how to register a domain name, how to start a consulting business, how to start a nail salon.

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How to Start a Barbershop: Detailed Guide You Can Use

• May 8, 2023
• For Salon Owners

Want to know how to start a barbershop? It’s not easy, we can tell you that, but it’s worth it.

Let’s dive in.

“ A true entrepreneur is a doer, not a dreamer ”. Even though starting a business might begin with a dream , it also requires a significant amount of planning, preparation, and hard work to succeed .

From securing funding and finding a location to hiring staff and promoting the business, there are many critical steps involved in opening a barber shop and ensuring it becomes successful.

In this article, we’ll explore the essential factors to consider when starting a barbershop, including market research, financial planning, and marketing strategies.

Whether you are a seasoned barber looking to open your own shop or a newcomer to the industry, this guide will provide valuable insights and tips to help you get started on the path to success.

Starting a Barbershop Business in 13 Easy Steps

When opening a barbershop, you need to:

Write a business plan

Research the market, decide on a budget, figure out funding, determine the legal structure of your barbershop, register for taxes, obtain a barber license, get the necessary business licenses and permits, choose a location, prepare essential tools and systems for managing your barbershop, hire the right people, establish your brand, get the word out.

The first step in how to start a barbershop is to write a business plan. Every successful business starts with a plan.

A business plan is the foundation of the barbershop. It is a step-by-step guide to every stage of starting, running , and growing the business.

It is like a roadmap that will guide owners to success.

More than that, a business plan is vital to get partners or funding . Investors want to be sure they will see a return on their investment.

They want to know that there is a detailed plan on how to run and grow the business that will get them their money back. The business plan will show them whether the barbershop will be successful or not.

So, creating a barbershop business plan is an important first step in starting a barbershop.

But what goes into a business plan?

An executive summary

The executive summary tells the reader why the business will have success. It should contain information such as:

• The mission statement
• The service or products offered
• Information about the leadership, the team, and the employees
• Financial information
• Growth plans if asking for financing

Company description

When writing a business plan, you need to describe your barbershop in greater detail.

Include the following information about your barbershop:

• The name (check out some pretty cool ones to get your creative juices flowing)
• Legal description
• Your (and your business partners) names
• Your competition

Market research and analysis

To succeed, you need to have full awareness of the industry and current market trends. Research the barbershop industry both at a local and national level.

Answer these questions in the market research:

• Who is the competition?
• What are their strengths?
• What do they do that works?
• Why does it work?
• Can you do it better?
• Where is the industry going?
• What are the average revenues and margins of a barbershop?

Other aspects of a business plan

Some other essentials to include are:

• The structure of the company
• A detailed explanation of the service
• Marketing and sale strategies
• Funding requests
• Financial projections
• An appendix to provide supporting documents

Tip: The business plan should highlight how you are going to compete and bring in business – if you need help, check out our comprehensive guide on how to write a sure-fire business plan for a barbershop .

Market research and analysis are crucial steps when starting a barbershop. This involves gathering information about the local market, identifying your target customers, and analyzing your competition. Conducting market research and analysis can help you make informed decisions about the location, services, and pricing of your barbershop.

Get to know your customers

To begin, start by determining who your target customers are . Specify their age, gender, income level, and lifestyle preferences.

Why is this important?

Let’s say that through your market research and analysis, you have determined that your target customers are young professionals between the ages of 25 and 40, with a moderate to high income level, and an interest in grooming and personal style.

Based on this information, you can tailor your services to meet the specific needs of these particular customers . For example, you might offer more modern and trendy hairstyles, grooming products, and services, such as beard trimming and shaping. You might also offer services such as hair coloring, hairline enhancements, and hair treatments that cater to the haircare needs of this demographic.

Furthermore, you could design your barbershop to reflect the preferences of your target customers. So, if your target customers are young professionals, you could create a contemporary and modern atmosphere with comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and a variety of entertainment options.

Determine market demand

Once you have a clear understanding of your target market, research the local area to determine the demand for barbershop services . This may involve gathering information on the number of existing barbershops, their services, and their pricing.

Let’s say you are considering opening a barbershop in a particular neighborhood. Before committing to a location, you should research the local area to determine the demand for barbershop services. This may involve gathering information on the number of existing barbershops, their services, and their pricing.

For example, you could visit nearby barbershops, inquire about their services, and observe the number of customers visiting them. You could also research online reviews to gauge customer satisfaction and identify any common complaints or pain points.

Additionally, you could research the prices of similar services in the area to ensure that your pricing is competitive. This can involve researching the prices of services offered by nearby barbershops, as well as similar businesses such as hair salons and spas.

Through this research, you can gain a better understanding of the local market and identify any gaps in services that you can fill . For example, you may find that there are no barbershops in the area that specialize in modern and trendy hairstyles or grooming products, creating an opportunity for your barbershop to fill that gap and stand out from the competition.

Check what your competitors are doing

Next, analyze your competition to determine their strengths and weaknesses . Consider factors such as the quality of their services, customer service, pricing, and marketing strategies. This will help you identify opportunities to differentiate your barbershop and offer unique services to attract customers.

In addition to gathering information about the local market and competition, it’s essential to research industry trends and best practices . This can help you stay up-to-date on the latest hair care techniques, equipment, and products. You can also gather insights on effective marketing strategies and customer retention techniques.

Overall, conducting thorough market research and analysis is a critical step in starting a successful barbershop. By understanding your target customers, local market, and competition, you can make informed decisions that will help you stand out and attract loyal customers.

How much does it cost to open a barbershop? Truth be told, the cost of starting a barbershop depends on many factors.

Some of them are:

• business model
• price of rent
• government fees
• licenses and permits
• equipment and other supplies

The cost of starting a barbershop can range from $80,000 to $200,000 or more. This price includes the following:

• $5,000-$10,000 for barber school
• Various prices to rent, lease, or buy a barbershop
• Construction costs to renovate or build your barbershop
• $1,000+ for registration fees
• $3,000+ for license and permit fees
• $2,000+ for insurance
• $50,000+ for furniture, equipment, and supplies like chairs, scissors, clippers, brushes, etc.
• $3,000+ for marketing materials
• $1,000-$3,000 for a website
• $25,000 for franchising fees if investing in one

To set up a barbershop business, you as a shop owner need a sizable amount of money .

You need money to rent, lease, or buy a shop. Then you need the equipment including barber chairs, clippers, scissors, and much more. Not to mention licenses, permissions, insurance, and registration fees.

So, you need to find a reliable financing option, or better yet a couple of them, to get things going.

You have a few options:

Your savings

Using personal savings to finance the opening of a barbershop can be an excellent option if you want to avoid taking on debt or sharing ownership with investors. However, be careful when it comes to this decision – besides rewards, this option comes with certain risks, too.

You first need to ensure you have enough money set aside for emergencies and personal expenses. Also, you need to be realistic about your expected return on investment. Stay flexible and prepare for potential setbacks – adjust your plan on the go. If you can, consult a financial advisor or business consultant to help you minimize your risks.

Debt financing

Debt financing involves borrowing money from a lender and agreeing to repay the loan with interest over time. It’s something that government programs, banks, and money lenders offer.

Equity financing

Unlike debt financing, which involves borrowing money that must be repaid with interest, equity financing involves selling ownership in the business in exchange for funding.

Grants are another funding option for barbershop owners, although they may be less common than debt or equity financing. They are typically offered by government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private foundations, and they do not need to be repaid. However, obtaining a grant can be competitive and requires a great deal of research and preparation.

Financial backers will want to know details about the business before investing.

They will want to know the location, services offered, expenses, earnings, and more. Make sure the business plan contains this information to convince them to invest.

Prior to opening a barber shop, it’s essential to determine its legal structure.

This decision will affect how you pay taxes, fund the business, and manage finances.

Common business structure types in the United States are:

Sole proprietorship

If filing as a sole proprietor, any income from the barbershop will go on your personal tax return.

C-corporation or s-corporation

A c-corporation operates as a separate entity from the business owner. This protects personal assets from any business financial obligations.

An s-corporation works in a similar way, but the owner reports the income of the barbershop on his personal tax return.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

This is a common business structure for barbershops. An LLC entity protects shop owners from being personally liable in the event of a lawsuit against the shop.

Tip: There is an option of purchasing a barbershop franchise.

Purchasing a franchise eliminates the process of creating a business model and structure. The only thing you need to take care of is the location and funding.

The next step when starting a barbershop is to register for taxes. In the United States, there are two types of taxes – state and federal.

To register for taxes a barbershop business needs an EIN.

An EIN is an employer identification number . It is also known as a federal tax identification number or a federal employer identification number.

It is a nine-digit number assigned to the business by the IRS for tax reasons. An EIN is necessary to receive licenses and permits, file taxes, open bank accounts, hire employees and more.

The structure of your barbershop business determines how it is taxed. Also, each state has its own taxes, so make sure to do your research first.

Tip: Businesses have to file taxes at least once a year and some have to file every quarter. Consider hiring an accountant to help you set up and file taxes the right way.

This will get the business off to a good start and prevent overpayments. Keep records of sales, invoices, product orders, and other expenses.

Meeting the State Board requirements is how to get your barber license.

In the United States, every state has different requirements. Research what your specific state requires.

Then, contact the Barber Regulatory Authority , where you can find the needed requirements for becoming a licensed barber.

Again, this varies from state to state. But some general requirements are:

• You are a legal adult
• You have a high school diploma or higher
• You have cut hair for a substantial amount of time (at least 1,000 hours)

Next, fill out the barber license application and submit it with the required fee.

To include work experience, attach a letter from the licensed barber who trained you. Also, include your barber school degree.

A Board of Cosmetology or Barber Examiners Board sets the licensing requirements. They work with the state’s Department of Public Health to inspect and ensure that barbershops meet state regulations.

Barbershop regulations include:

• Owners have a completed Barbershop Owner application
• Proof of ownership or lease of a business location
• Proof you are a licensed barber
• Proof of a city or county business license

They will also make sure that the physical shop meets certain requirements such as:

• Hot and cold water
• Public bathrooms
• Containers for trash
• Drinking water
• Storage containers for barber tools
• Barber chairs are the required square footage apart

After obtaining a barber license, you now need to get a business license.

The barber license allows you to work as a barber but the business license allows you to operate a business.

Licenses and permits needed to open a barbershop are:

• State cosmetology or barbering license
• Business operating license
• Certificate of Occupancy
• Fire department permit
• Building permit

The next step in starting a barbershop that can make or break your business is location.

Finding the best possible location is critical to the success of your barbershop and it can pose a real challenge.

Here’s what you need to pay attention to:

Think about the target market

Who is the target customer? Make sure that the location of the barbershop is near where they work or live. You need a high concentration of your target market to ensure a steady stream of customer

Rent and lease terms

Look for a location with affordable rent and favorable lease terms, such as a long-term lease. Having the option to negotiate a rent reduction if the business does not meet certain financial goals is also great.

Easy to find

The best place for a barbershop is somewhere with a lot of foot traffic . A location in a retail area will generate walk-in customers and build brand awareness.

Keep in mind though that places in high-traffic areas cost more.

Consider the availability of parking for your customers, either in the form of on-site parking or nearby public parking.

Fits the nature of your brand

Choose a location and space with characteristics that fit the brand style . The space should adapt to your plans to create an appealing atmosphere.

This will boost brand awareness, attract customers, and increase the chance of growth.

Good condition

It is also important that the space is in good condition. All the plumbing, electricity, heating, and cooling should be reliable.

The space should be clean and well-maintained. Trust us, you don’t want to find yourself having to spend money fixing the place a day before opening your barbershop.

Safe location

Another important thing to keep in mind is how safe the neighborhood is. You don’t want to be at risk of a robbery or lose clients because they fear the neighborhood.

Competition

Consider the number of existing barbershops in the area and the services they offer. Look for a location with less competition or where you can differentiate your barbershop by offering unique services.

Meet the requirements of the state cosmetology and barbering board

The State and Barbershop Board have specific requirements for a barbershop. Know what these requirements are in your state and make sure to choose a place that complies with them.

Managing a barbershop requires more than just tools and equipment for providing services. It also requires a range of tools and systems to ensure that the business operates efficiently and effectively. Here are some essential tools and systems for managing a barbershop:

• Booking system : A scheduling and appointment booking system is essential for managing customer appointments and reducing wait times. Such a tool streamlines scheduling, facilitates calendar management, enables efficient employee management, and improves customer experience. Look for a system that allows customers to book appointments online, sends reminders, and offers useful integrations.
• Point-of-Sale (POS) system : A POS system is essential for managing transactions and tracking inventory. With a POS system, you can easily process payments quickly, track sales, and manage inventory.
• Accounting software : Accounting software is essential for managing finances and tracking expenses. This software enables you to track income and expenses, create invoices, and generate financial reports.
• Marketing tools : Marketing tools are essential for attracting new customers and retaining existing ones. Email marketing software, social media management tools, and online advertising platforms are great options for a barbershop.
• Business analytics tools : Business analytics tools are essential for tracking business performance and making data-driven decisions. Look for tools such as Google Analytics, which allows you to track website traffic and user behavior, and business intelligence tools that help you visualize and analyze data.

Get more bookings with the right tool for the job

Before technology, barbers would use a physical booking calendar to schedule appointments. There’s nothing wrong with using such a calendar – it works just fine.

However, an online booking system works ten times better .

Trafft handles your bookings, customers, and employees for you, letting you focus on managing your barbershop and growing your brand .

Trafft is the perfect barbershop software for barbers looking to streamline their booking experience both for their staff and their clients.

Save time with Trafft’s automated email and SMS notifications, confirmations, and reminders. No-shows? Not anymore!

Got your attention? Check out Trafft’s awesome features to see what you are missing.

You as a barbershop owner can act as the sole barber. But to expand your barbershop, you’ll need to expand your team first.

Finding skilled barbers that have good people skills is key. Consider the level of professionalism, talent, and customer service a barber offers.

Building a talented team of barbers can get the business humming with clients and increase profits . However, hiring employees is also bound to bring some extra expenses. They include salaries, workers’ compensation insurance, paid time off , extra equipment, and more.

As an alternative, some barbers rent out their chairs to other barbers . This guarantees rent money each month. It also frees the owner from paying salaries and workers’ compensation insurance. But it limits the control the barber has over the rented space.

Whether hiring employees or independent contractors, here are some tips:

• Define the roles and responsibilities : This will help you identify the skills and experience required for each role and create clear job descriptions.
• Look for experience and qualifications : For example, if you’re hiring a barber, look for candidates who have a barbering license and experience in providing a range of haircuts and styling services.
• Evaluate customer service skills : Look for candidates who have strong communication skills, are friendly and approachable, and have a positive attitude.
• Conduct interviews and assessments : Ask open-ended questions that allow candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and experience.
• Check references : Ask for references from previous employers or clients and follow up with them to learn more about the candidate’s work ethic and customer service skills.

Establishing a strong brand is essential for the success of a barbershop. Your brand is what sets you apart from your competitors, so make it count.

Start by developing a brand identity . Your brand identity includes your logo, color scheme, typography, and other visual elements that represent your business. Develop a brand identity that reflects your values, personality, and target audience.

Next, define your niche . Is there something unique in what you’re offering to your customers? For example, you could specialize in classic men’s haircuts, beard grooming, or luxury spa treatments for men. Your niche will help you communicate your brand message and target the right audience.

Then, create a brand voice . Your brand voice is the tone and style of communication that you use to engage with your customers. Create a brand voice that is consistent with your brand identity and appeals to your target audience.

Moreover, deliver a great customer experience . Train your team to deliver a consistent customer experience that reflects your brand values. Teach them how to greet customers, communicate effectively, and provide high-quality services. Encourage them to build relationships with your customers and create a welcoming and comfortable environment in your barbershop.

Finally, get involved in the community . Participate in local events like festivals, charity events, and community gatherings to build your brand visibility and reputation. Set up a booth, offer free haircuts or grooming services, and hand out flyers or coupons to attract new customers. Be sure to display your branding materials prominently and engage with attendees to build relationships.

Getting the word out about your barbershop is crucial for attracting new customers and growing your business.

For effective barbershop marketing and promotion , you should:

Create a website

Creating a website is important because it helps you showcase your brand and your services. This in turn leads to reaching a larger audience .

Your website should offer some basic information about the barbershop like location, contact info, and booking options. Include high-quality photos of your barbershop and team, as well as detailed descriptions of your services and pricing.

Make sure your website is mobile-friendly and easy to navigate.

Leverage social media

Use social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to promote your barbershop and engage with your customers. Post regularly and use hashtags to reach a wider audience.

Encourage your customers to tag you in their photos and share their experiences at your barbershop.

Get good reviews on customer review sites

Many potential customers look at review sites such as Yelp before deciding to try a new place. In order to receive a good review, you need to have great customer service. You can also ask your customers to leave a review .

Purchase local ads

Another marketing tool is to purchase ads in a local newspaper, TV station, or radio station. Prices vary for ads depending on the place and the type of ad.

Offer specials and promotions

Offer specials and promotions to attract new customers and incentivize repeat business. For example, you could offer a discount on first-time haircuts , or a loyalty program that rewards customers for frequent visits.

Partner with other businesses

Partner with other local businesses to cross-promote each other’s services. For instance, offer a discount to customers who show their receipt from a neighboring coffee shop or clothing store .

Get referrals

Barbershops can give incentives for their clients to refer more customers to them . Without a doubt, word-of-mouth marketing is one of the most effective methods to get your barbershop out there.

Additional Tips to Start a Barbershop

Opening a barbershop on your own is not an easy feat. You may have great ideas but lack the knowledge on how to put them into practice.

Don’t worry though, that’s perfectly normal. Plenty of now-successful barbershop owners used to stand on that very spot, wondering how to do it . Where to start.

And that’s why some of them decided to share the lessons they learned along the way:

• Get experience in the industry before starting your own business
• Start small. Do not invest too much but rather build as you grow
• Before renting a space research the area to see if it is a good location for a business
• Try to set up the barbershop in a location with lots of foot traffic and ample parking
• Set the hours of operation based on what suits the clientele best

FAQs About Opening a Barbershop

1. what licenses and permits do i need to start a barbershop.

Barbershops typically need a business license, a barber license, and a building permit, though the precise requirements may change based on the locale. You might also need additional licenses, such as a health permit or a permit for signs.

2. How do I choose a location for my barbershop?

A barbershop’s success can be significantly impacted by its location. Aim for high pedestrian traffic, convenient access by car or public transportation, and plenty of parking. It’s also crucial to take into account the neighborhood’s demographics and local competitiveness.

The likelihood of success might be significantly increased in an area with little competition and high demand for grooming services.

3. What do you need to open a barbershop?

It costs a lot of money to start a barbershop in terms of materials and equipment. Barber chairs, clippers, scissors, combs, and styling supplies are considered basic supplies. You’ll also need towels, capes, and cleaning supplies.

In order to provide a great client experience and reduce the need for frequent replacements, it is crucial to invest in high-quality equipment.

4. How can I find and hire skilled barbers for my shop?

Although it can be difficult to the right person for the job, there are a few approaches you could try. Draw in candidates by advertising job openings online, connecting with other barbers, and providing referral bonuses.

To make sure that the candidates have the qualifications and experience to deliver top-notch services, it is crucial to conduct in-depth interviews and check their references.

5. How much does it cost to open a barbershop?

The location, size, and degree of personalization all affect the estimated cost to open a barbershop. The price may generally be found in the $50,000–$150,000 range. Equipment, supplies, rent, and marketing charges are among the major costs.

Before launching the business, it’s critical to develop a thorough budget and get funding.

6. What are some effective marketing strategies for a new barbershop?

Offering specials to brand-new clients, establishing a social media presence, and developing business relationships with the neighborhood are all viable marketing techniques for a new barbershop. It’s crucial to develop a distinctive brand and environment to set the barbershop apart from rivals.

Excellent customer service and a memorable experience can help draw in new clients and keep existing ones. Don’t forget about the battle-proven marketing strategy – word-of-mouth recommendations.

7. How do I create a unique brand and atmosphere for my barbershop?

For a barbershop, developing a distinctive brand and environment can help draw clients. It’s also something that’ll set your barbershop apart from rivals.

Think of creating a unique logo and color scheme, furnishing the area in antique or modern style , and providing distinctive services like beard trimming or scalp treatments.

Customers are more likely to remember an encounter that was comfortable and welcoming, with helpful personnel and attentive service.

8. How do I set prices for my services and products?

It can be difficult to strike a balance between remaining competitive and covering costs when pricing services and goods.

Researching the prices of competitors in the area and considering the level of expertise and experience of the staff can help determine appropriate pricing.

While determining rates , it’s crucial to take into account the cost of the necessary materials, rent, and promotion. Moreover, offering package deals or discounts to loyal clients might aid in bringing in and keeping clients.

9. What types of insurance do I need for my barbershop?

Barbershops should think about obtaining a variety of insurance policies to guard against any liabilities. While professional liability insurance helps defend against allegations of negligence or malpractice, general liability insurance can cover accidents or injuries that take place on the property.

While workers’ compensation insurance can provide coverage for accidents experienced by barbers while on the job, property insurance can cover damage or loss to tools and supplies.

The precise types and quantities of insurance coverage required for the barbershop should be discussed with an insurance agent.

10. How can I create a loyal customer base for my barbershop?

Offering exceptional customer service and individualized experiences will help a barbershop build a loyal clientele . Developing rapport with consumers through cordial communication and keeping track of their preferences can help to establish a pleasant environment that promotes repeat business.

Providing discounts or loyalty programs to loyal clients can help encourage them to come back. Also, having a strong online presence on social media and through online reviews can assist draw in new clients and keep hold of old ones.

Ending Thoughts on How to Start a Barbershop

Opening a new barbershop is an exciting yet nerve-racking prospect. It takes a lot of careful planning and organizing.

For those who are passionate about being a barber, there is no doubt that the venture will be worthwhile.

This guide on how to start a barbershop will help you take the first steps toward making your dream a reality.

• Jovana Smoljanovic Tucakov

Jovana Smoljanovic Tucakov is a Content Marketing and SEO Specialist who uses both words and data to communicate a message and deliver value. With more than 5 years of experience in digital marketing and content production in the IT industry, she loves identifying and solving the readers’ pain points and creating targeted content.

Curious about the human mind and emotions, especially those that drive consumer behavior. Likes fitness, food preparation, board games, reading (both for pleasure and learning), and binge-watching Netflix.

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12 Strategies for Starting a Barber Shop Business [Business Plan]

Editorial Team

Men are now more concerned with their hairstyles and maintenance than women. With an independent brick-and-mortar, you can maximize your barbering abilities. You may be wondering how to open a barbershop.

Don’t be concerned. This comprehensive guide has you covered. Let us go over all the steps involved in launching a business and opening a barbershop.

It would be best to consider several factors in building a barbershop from the ground up. Let us go over them.

1. Decide If The Business Suits You

Starting a barbershop takes time and effort, like any other type of business. Before deciding whether a barbershop is right for you, you should educate yourself as much as possible. You will be taking a significant risk, so educating yourself before diving in is essential.

Barbershop Industry Trends

Barbershops are introducing new products and services to increase revenue.

Size and growth of the industry

• Job growth forecast – Barbershops are expected to expand alongside beauty salons, with a projected 19% annual growth in job openings for barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists through 2030.
• The number of businesses – There are over 107,000 barbershops in the United States.
• Several people employed – Barbershops employ nearly 135,000 people in the United States.

Trends And Challenges

Barbershop trends include:

• Some upscale new barbershops serve alcoholic beverages, positioning haircuts as a social event.
• Mobile barbers, similar to doctors who make house calls but use scissors instead of stethoscopes.

Barbershop industry challenges include:

• The risk of accidents and misunderstandings with customers

2. Hone Your Skillset

Aside from being presentable and friendly, you will need proper skills to start and grow your shop. Before starting your own business, research the latest hairstyles and hone your skills.

It would be best to master the art of satisfying your clients while providing the best service. To master this, you must have some hands-on experience.

How Much Should You Charge For Services?

Whether opening a no-frills shop or a high-end, spa-like experience, you could offer introductory discounts to attract customers and build your reputation. In any case, it’s a good idea to research barbershops in your area to become acquainted with local pricing.

Men’s haircut prices range from $10 to $100, with a $28 average in the United States. The price you charge should correspond to your concept. You should be able to charge a higher price if you provide a high-end haircut experience. However, you must remain aware of the competition to avoid pricing yourself out of the market.

Who? Identify Your Target Market

Your target market will depend on your concept. A bespoke shop will attract a younger, hipper clientele, while an old-fashioned concept will likely pull in an older crowd. You can choose the best places to reach these demographics with your marketing.

Once you’re up and running, word-of-mouth referrals and repeat clients will be your main source of business.

Where? Choose Your Business Premises

Your barber shop’s location is critical and should be related to your concept. For example, you wouldn’t put your high-end shop next to a senior citizen’s residence. Choosing a location with consistent foot traffic is also a good idea. Sites like Craigslist, Crexi, and Instant Offices can help you find commercial space to rent in your area.

When selecting a commercial space, consider the following four guidelines:

• Spacious, well-lit space in a high-traffic area
• Flexible lease, which can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space, which does not require any major renovations or repairs

3. Brainstorm/Find A Business Name

Your company’s name is its identity, so choose one that expresses your goals, services, and mission in a few words. You’ll probably want a name that’s short and easy to remember because word-of-mouth referrals will account for a large portion of your business, particularly your initial business.

Here are some ideas for business names to consider:

• Unique, short, and catchy names tend to stand out • Easy-to-say and spell names tend to perform better
• The name should be relevant to the products or services you offer.
• Seek advice from family, friends, colleagues, and social media.
• Including keywords in the name, such as “barber” or “hair,” improves SEO.
• Select a name that allows for expansion, such as “Jim’s Bakery” rather than “Jim’s Cookies.”
• Using keywords in the name, such as “barber” or “hair,” improves SEO.
• Select a name that allows for growth, such as “Jim’s Bakery” rather than “Jim’s Cookies.”
• Avoid geographical names that may impede future growth.
• Use keyword research tools online. Enter a few keywords and press “generate,” and you’ll have dozens of suggestions.

Finally, choose a name from those that pass this screening and proceed with social media account creation and domain registration. One of the key differentiators that distinguish your company is its name. It is difficult to change the business name once you have chosen your company name and begun with the branding. As a result, it is critical to carefully consider your options before establishing a business entity.

4. Look Out For Suitable Premises

Finding the right location for your company will be critical to its growth. A specific site can bring in many customers or ruin your investment. When looking for suitable premises, there are several important factors to consider.

Client Coverage And Rent Ratio

It is an important factor to consider. A shop in a busy part of town will undoubtedly attract more customers, but the location will be expensive.

Sites near the office and schools will be reasonably priced. On weekdays, locations near the office building might show steady customer flows. For schools, you can attract more customers by offering special student discounts.

Also, if you want to save your rental money, consider opening your shop in the city’s growing areas. You will see an increase in clientele as your locality grows.

Area Of The Site

It is another imperative aspect to look into. Opt for premises accommodating all staff and equipment without creating a suffocating environment.

General Amenities

Look out for any dampness or mold on the site. Check for air ventilation and heating and air-conditioning systems. Your customers look forward to a relaxing experience, so you must maintain an excellent ambiance.

5.  Light Up A Barber Shop Business Plan

Once you’ve determined your skills and experience, you’ll need to create a business plan. Making a well-thought-out idea is always beneficial. So, brainstorm ideas for the services you’ll offer your customers.

Examine the most recent trends to see which styles are in demand. Please make a list of all the services you offer and determine whether you are fully capable of providing them.

Some of the basic services available in barbershops include:

• Haircutting, washing, and styling
• Beard styling and maintenance
• Facial shaving and maintenance
• Mustache trimming

You can also stay on track as you build your business with the help of a well-written business plan. There are a few key sections in a great business plan.

• Outline your mission, goals, and values in your executive summary. The following sections can also be summarized high level here.
• What market research have you conducted in your industry? How have you analyzed the market size, trends, gaps, and opportunities?
• Analyze your competitors: Who are they? What are their strengths and weaknesses? What makes you stand out from your competitors?
• How would you describe your ideal client in your marketing plan? What marketing strategy will you use to reach them? Branding can also be discussed here.
• As a manager, what do you bring to the business that will ensure its success?
• The day-to-day operations of your business should be outlined. You can also discuss your employee plan here. What roles will they perform, and how many will you hire?
• Provide a detailed financial plan outlining startup costs, how the business will generate consistent cash flow, and your financial goals and projections for each of the first five years.

6. Down Your Well-Devised Strategy

Writing a barber shop business plan and strategies will assist you in evaluating various aspects of your business. Management, marketing, and cash flow strategies can all be easily planned and plotted.

You can quickly identify flaws and devise countermeasures with your ideas in front of you.

• Devise the pricing for the services
• To put out your rate list, to need to consider several factors. Let us give a quick look at them.
• Skills and experience under your belt

It is well said that if you know how to do a task well, you should never do it for free. So, why settle for low prices if you are confident in your abilities? You can charge a reasonable fee for services that you can provide with unparalleled quality.

Inflow And Outflow

You must have an accurate picture of your cash flow. Keep in mind that here you are making a profit, so the inflow of revenue should always be greater than the outflow. Consider your fixed and variable costs.

Your rent and other consistent charges are examples of fixed costs. On the contrary, variable costs include various bills, employee wages, maintenance fees, etc. By balancing the flow in your favor, list the prices.

The Price Range Of Competitors

Go through the price range of the barbershops in your locality. The same will give you a general idea of the price range of different services. With this, you can easily tweak your  pricing strategy .

Aim of your brand

Have a clear image of your brand in your mind. Are you going to offer affordable barbering services or a one-of-a-kind luxury experience?

Consider the intended audience as well. The pricing of your in-house services should reflect the types of clients you intend to attract in the future.

7.   Look Into Financing

You cannot open a barbershop without sufficient capital. You must keep your savings intact for them to serve you in the long run. Loans can be used to generate additional capital for your business. There are various loans, such as startup loans, business loans, etc. Examine the advantages and disadvantages of various options and select the best one.

It is also critical to keep track of your company’s finances. As a result, you should open a separate business account to track all revenue flows.

Evaluate The Investment Cost

Certain investments are required to open a barbershop. Aside from the basic rent for your premises, it would be best to consider other costs. Some of the initial investments will be:

• Revamping the interiors of the shop
• Cost of the equipment and supplies
• Insurance and legal fees
• Wages of the staff
• The training course, if necessary

8. Look Into Regulations

You must investigate the license and insurance policies. You should obtain a barber license from your local government authority to run a successful business. Also, register your shop with the authorities and thoroughly read all the bylaws.

Barbers frequently skip out on insurance policies. However, these policies can protect you from significant damage in heavy rains.

Some fundamental policies include the following:

• Employer liability coverage
• Coverage for mishaps
• Treatment liability insurance
• It is prudent to investigate various package deals to obtain the bunch at a reasonable price.

9. Deem About Health Safety Concerns

You must use various electrical tools and chemicals in this line of work. Because your employees will be working to build your brand’s image, you must take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety. A happy workforce will work hard and keep your customers satisfied. Your business will grow quickly if your customers are satisfied. So keep an eye on these issues.

Here are some of the major health and safety issues to look into:

Never overlook the importance of cleanliness in your store. Maintain a clean environment so that customers have a positive experience. Ensure to have the tools you are using are properly cleaned. A minor blunder on your part will result in a nasty infection for the client, destroying your brand image.

Chemical Safety

You have to work with certain dyes, gels, and different chemicals. Do your homework on all the supplies properly, and avoid using hazardous materials. Get in line with Control of Substances Hazardous to Health laws for proper storage and disposal of these products.

Electrical Safety

A tiny error in maintaining the electric tools and equipment can land you in challenging adversities. Never neglect a faulty tool, constant flicker in lighting, and other signs that may indicate an electrical issue.

10. Find The Right Staff

Having a great team at your disposal will allow you to elevate your business. Advertise the vacancy in both offline and online modes. Scrutinize all the applications on definite criteria.

Here are some pointers to look for:

In Hand Experience

An experienced barber will have a strong skill set but demand more wages. On the other hand, a newbie needs to be trained but can work with a moderate wage.

Appearance And Social Skills

The job demands constant interaction between the barber and the customer. So, to keep your customers happy, your staff needs to understand the social cues and invite the customer with proper warmth.

11. Your Equipment

Your staff and clients will benefit from having the right equipment. You’ll need the following barbershop equipment:

• Barber chairs
• Straight razors
• Hand-held blow dryers
• Styling products
• Shampoo, conditioner, and other hair care products

In addition to coloring products, you may also need hair salon equipment if you plan to run a barbershop.

You will also need the following to keep your business running smoothly:

• Cleaning products
• Laundry machines
• Point of sale (POS) software
• Accounting software
• A computer or tablet for the front desk (or a cash register)
• Display cases
• Waiting area furniture and decor
• Your equipment costs can be anywhere from $50,000 to $100,000, depending on the amount you need and the quality of each piece.

12. Time To Attract The Customers

After fitting all the shop pieces in the proper places, it all comes down to attracting more customers. Here are some tips to follow:

Build A Digital Persona

Build a website for your brand and advertise it with the strong back hold of different social media platforms.

Offer Exclusive Discounts And Incentives

Offer different rewards and referral programs to new customers to bind them with your brand.

Provide Excellent Service

Customers stay loyal to the brand if they experience excellent services. Dash up your services with your unique touch to mesmerize your customers so that they keep coming in and even refer your name to others.

CONCLUSIONS

Barbering demands fantastic customers dealing socially and professionally. Provide the best ambiance and offer excellent services to magnetize more customers.

With strong determination and passion for the activity, you can quickly set up your own business and pave the way to the top in no time.

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How to start a barber shop

Written and reviewed by:

Today, UK barbers are facing a myriad of challenges posed by the impending recession, rising business costs, and reduced consumer spending as a result of increasing inflation.

Despite these issues, in the long term, starting your own barber shop is definitely a lucrative business opportunity. But it’s not a venture for the faint-hearted, it requires some pretty significant initial investment and specialised skills.

Get it right though and you could be making money for years, even decades to come. All whilst giving your customers trendy trims!

This guide is full of great insight on things like how to finance your barber shop, what you should bear in mind when choosing a premises, the licenses/insurance you’ll need, attracting customers and hiring staff.

At Startups.co.uk, we’re here to help small UK businesses to get started, grow and succeed. We have helpful resources for helping new businesses get off the ground – you can use the tool below to get started today.

What Does Your Business Need Help With?

Read on to learn how to open a barber shop…

Business plan and earnings, writing a business plan, choosing your pricing, financing your barber shop, premises and setup costs, taking payments in your barber shop, regulations and training, attracting customers, hiring barbers.

Em Militello, founder of Em’s Barbershop in London, explains why he got into the barber trade…

“I grew up in the hairdressing trade. My mother was a hairdresser and my father a barber. 

“Barbering can be very rewarding especially when you are your own boss. You have the stimulation of meeting interesting people, honing a creative craft, and becoming fully embedded in the local community. 

“It’s becoming a very saturated market and opportunities are minimal. So you have to stand out by providing high quality haircuts in a high quality environment.”

Unlike a hairdressing salon, your barber shop should specialise in  dealing specifically with men’s hair and possibly catering to a range of ages, from children to the elderly (unless you choose to target a particular audience).

If you’d rather open a hair salon, you can find our detailed guide to  starting a hairdressing business.

With a focus on male hair in mind, the services you offer should at least include:

• Hair washing and styling
• Beard/moustache trimming and grooming
• Facial shaving

It’ll also serve you well to have an almost encyclopaedic knowledge and understanding of men’s hairstyles, plus the ability to recommend a certain cut to a customer based on their face shape, hair type and preferences.

One of the first things to do is start work on a business plan. This will help you to plot out things such as: business branding, marketing strategy, management plan, cashflow, and earnings.

Visit our business plan template page to find out the best way to create this.

Of course, how much you do earn as a barber shop owner will depend on your pricing. In order to decide how much to charge for each of your services, consider the following:

What are your fixed costs and variable costs?

What you earn each month needs to be more than what you pay out. Think about the number of times you’d expect to perform each of your services in a month, and work out how much you’d need to take for each one to keep yourself in the black.

Jargon buster

Your business’  fixed costs  are those which remain the same from month to month, such as the amount you pay to rent out your shop.

Variable costs , on the other hand, can fluctuate each month; for example, your staff’s wages, how much you spend on restocking products, etc.

What do your competitors charge?

Examining what similar barber shops charge for their services should give you a good reference point for what your prices could be (but don’t feel you have to replicate them).

What are prices like in your town?

Barbershop prices in the south of England, for example, are often higher than those in the north.

Consider how much money locals tend to dedicate to their leisure time and hair and grooming regimes. How much might they expect to pay, based on local pricing, for a service like yours? You might ask local friends and family about this, or even hold a focus group, if you’re unsure.

What’s your brand image?

Do you want your barber shop to be the go-to for affordable grooming, or luxury experiences? Your pricing should reflect the impression you want potential customers to have of your business.

Remember, cheaper isn’t always better – for some customers, a higher price can indicate quality.

How experienced are you?

Why not make your prices a little higher if you’re confident you can offer a wide range of services at top notch quality?

Em Militello, founder of Em’s Barbershop:

“If I were to give any advice to entrepreneurs looking to start a barbershop business, it would be to not be afraid to charge what a haircut is actually worth.”

Starting a barber shop isn’t free, and it takes time. It may be that you are starting the business with money you’ve saved. However, in many cases people will need to raise extra capital to get started. If this is case, there are fortunately  a number of options available:

Startup loans – the Startup Loan company is a government backed scheme where you can borrow up to £25,000 with a fixed interest rate of 6% p.a.

Business loans – business loans are similar to a startup loan, except that they are not just for new businesses and don’t have the same caps.

You should also consider how you will track your finances. It’s best practice to use a business bank account to separate your personal and business expenses and income.

When it comes to opening a barber shop, location can be make or break. Even if your marketing efforts persuade customers to travel to you (see section five), if you don’t settle somewhere with decent passing trade, you’ll miss out on a lot of additional revenue.

With this in mind, it’s a good idea to set up shop in an area of your town that’s almost constantly busy – such as the  city centre , a bustling  shopping street  or a  commercial or cultural hub .

Of course, rent in these prime spots can cost a lot more than in other areas. If you’re not willing to pay so much (understandable for a start-up business), there are alternative, cheaper locations that benefit from high levels of footfall:

• Next to  office buildings  or somewhere along a popular  commuter route . Here you’ll attract custom from the local workers – though you may need to be prepared to take appointments before or after work hours. Bear in mind that you may not get a lot of trade at weekends.
• Next to  student accommodation . Here, you can get custom from appearance-conscious students who are likely to tell their friends if they have a good experience with you. You might want to consider offering a student discount to really reel them in.
• In  “up and coming” parts  of your town. Can you think of a street or area that’s really on the rise? It may be that footfall is growing here but rental costs aren’t as high as traditional prime spot prices.

Of course, the building you’re based in is arguably as important as your location. You’ll need to find a place that has the right…

• Size:  Will all of your equipment and staff be able to fit and operate comfortably?
• Layout:  Are you looking for long and thin, or more of a square floorspace? Will customers and staff be able to move around easily?
• Structural quality:  Are the windows and insulation energy-efficient? Is there any mould or damp? Might the building flood in bad weather?
• Amenities:  Is there a decent staff room and toilet, and reliable plumbing, electricity, heating and air conditioning?

How much does it cost to start a barber shop?

A barber shop isn’t exactly a lean business idea – you’ll have to invest a significant amount in things such as premises rental, staff salaries and equipment. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere  between £5,000 and £50,000  – or potentially more – in start-up costs.

When opening a barber shop, your main cost outlays will be:

• Paying to rent your shop
• Having your shop outfitted with the right furniture
• Decorating and refurbishing your shop (if you choose to do so)
• Paying any staff that you hire
• Paying legal fees, including the cost of insurance and licenses
• Buying the tools and equipment you’ll need to perform your services to a high standard
• Buying products such as gel, wax, shampoos, shaving creams and beard oils
• Undertaking a training course (if necessary)

If you’d love to provide a barber service but aren’t sure whether opening a barber shop is doable for you, you might want to try starting a barber business from home, or becoming a mobile barber, visiting your clients in their homes.

You can find out more about this in our guide to becoming a mobile beauty/grooming professional .

To take your customers’ payments, you’ll need an electronic point of sale (EPOS) system which includes:

• A cash register and monitor
• A barcode scanner (this is important if you decide to sell grooming products at your barber shop)
• A receipt printer
• In some cases, a credit and debit card reader.

To run this, you’ll need EPOS software. While this will usually come in a package with your EPOS system, in some cases you may need to buy or rent it separately.

To see which could be the right solution for your barber shop, use our comparison tool to quickly and easily check out the UK’s leading EPOS providers.

Barber training

If you’re not already a qualified barber, it would be a good idea to earn a recognised barbering qualification – whether it’s a BTEC or an NVQ Level 2 or 3.

You don’t need to have a qualification to become a barber and set up a barber shop, but having one will show customers that you’re more likely to provide a good service, and studying for one might provide you with invaluable knowledge and experience if you don’t already have it.

Explore your local schools and colleges to find out whether they offer a relevant training course, or investigate specialist schools such as the London School of Barbering . You should also find out whether it’s possible for you to  get financial help  while you study.

You might consider undertaking a barber apprenticeship; earning a qualification while working as a barber in a shop and gaining hands-on experience. While an apprenticeship may take longer to complete than a training course, it might give you a more practical understanding of how a barber shop works.

Regulations

✓ Licenses

In order to run your barbershop legally, it’s likely that you’ll need to register yourself as a barber and/or your premises as a barber shop with your local government authority, and possibly obtain a license from them too.

Each local council has different requirements, so get in touch with yours to find out exactly what you need to do. You can also check the cost of business rates with your council.

On a different note, if you’re planning to play music – or, in fact, any sound recordings – in your shop, you’ll need a licence from Phonographic Performance Limited (PPL).

Most local authorities will also have byelaws which require barber shops to obtain the right insurance, comply with health and safety regulations and undergo regular inspections…

✓ Insurance

As a barber, you’ll need insurance that will cover you and your business in the event that a customer makes a claim against you after having a bad experience at your shop – whether he’s suffered chemical burns from a dye, tripped over an exposed wire and injured himself, or received an inadequate service.

Remember, as the shop owner you’re liable for the actions of your staff too.

As a barber, you’ll want to look into getting:

• Public liability insurance
• Treatments liability cover
• Employer’s liability insurance (a must if you employ other barbers in your shop)
• Contents cover

You might also want to consider insurance that’ll cover you in the event that you have a personal accident or your business is interrupted by broken electrics, plumbing, phone lines or equipment.

It may be wise to look into getting an insurance package designed for barbers, which includes all this and more.

✓ Health and safety

With barbers bringing chemical substances and sharp tools into such close contact with clients, there are a number of health and safety issues to keep abreast of, including:

• Chemical safety – Make a list of all your products (such as shaving cream, dye and hair products) and obtain hazard sheets from their manufacturers to understand how hazardous they are, and whether they might cause conditions like dermatitis. Do your research and avoid any which may harm customers. Brush up on the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations with regards to using and storing your products, and stock up on protective clothing such as aprons and gloves for your barbers if necessary.
• Electrical safety – Have any electrical tools and equipment that you use checked and maintained every two years by a reliable electrician. Be sure to keep an eye on your equipment yourself too, making sure that you stop using any tools which have broken plugs or exposed wiring, or look faulty in any way.
• Premises safety – You’ll need to carry out a risk assessment of your barber shop, making note of all the potential hazards on your premises – note down everything from a rug someone could trip over to an extremely hot tap – and plan how to mitigate each one. You should also make sure that you and your staff have a plan in place in case there’s a fire. Make sure everyone’s aware of where fire extinguishers, emergency exits and meeting points are.
• Hygiene – Hygiene is of paramount importance in a barber shop (the last thing you want is to give a client a nasty infection instead of a smooth, clean shave). Ensure all of your tools and equipment are thoroughly sanitised between each use.

For detailed guidance on these issues, you might want to consider joining an industry body like the National Hair and Beauty Federation (NHBF).

It goes without saying that a barber shop is nothing without its customers – but how can you attract them? Try the tips below…

Launch a website

First thing’s first: your business needs a website. Your website should be sleek, professional, easy to navigate, and optimised for search. It must show your location and your contact details, as well as high-quality photographs of your shop and a list of your services and prices.

Building a website from scratch sounds a bit daunting – but there are a couple of ways you can go about it – including hiring a freelance web designer, or using a website builder.

Find out more about web builders with our guide to the best website builders for small businesses .

With so many customers preferring to book online rather than over the phone, you might want to integrate a booking system and calendar into your website. This will help you to keep on top of appointments, too.

Wix (web builder)

Squarespace (web builder MAIN)

Make yourself visible on Google

When someone Googles “barber shops in [insert your town here]” or “barber shops near me”, you want your business to pop up in the search results. In particular, you want to appear in the Local Pack – where Google lists local businesses matching the search, along with their addresses, opening hours and review ratings (if they have them).

To be in with a chance of appearing, you need to first register with Google My Business (GMB). This is a free service, which lists details such as your address, phone number and opening hours. Even if you don’t make it into a Local Pack, your GMB details will show when someone Googles you – meaning customers can access the information they want much more easily.

Use social media

These days, social media is an invaluable marketing tool. With it, you can share images and details of your services, your shop’s environment and your barbers, giving potential customers a sense of familiarity with your shop and the experience they can expect to have there.

Maximise the power of social media by:

• Using a tone of voice, communication style, type of imagery and colour palette that’s consistent with your brand image
• Using professional, high-quality images
• Sharing popular hashtags that are relevant to your shop and the services it offers
• Staying engaged with your followers by responding to their comments and instant messages
• Experimenting with competitions and giveaways

Email your customers

Keeping in email contact with your regular customers is an excellent way to keep them engaged with your shop; especially if you’re sharing special offers and updates on your services and what the business is up to.

A CRM (customer relationship management) system will help to streamline this process, personalising emails and newsletters, automating sends, collating customer data and more.

Take a look at our guide to the  best CRM for small business , where you can compare CRM systems quotes for free.

Offer incentives

Everyone loves a freebie! Get customers through your doors by offering the following…

• A rewards scheme, where, for example, customers get every fifth or tenth cut for free
• A referral programme allowing customers who introduce new customers to you to earn discounts and rewards
• Discount codes for customers who book online

Provide an excellent service

Remember, barber shop customers tend to be loyal – if they have a good experience with you, they may well become a regular.

So, offer them a drink of water, tea or coffee when they come in, and make sure your barbers are friendly and seat them in a timely fashion. Your shop should be a welcoming and relaxing environment – it’s these little touches that really make a lasting impact.

Of course, you should also give them the best cut, style or shave possible to ensure they leave happy and keep coming back.

Em Militello, founder of Em’s Barbershop :

Getting the right staff can be difficult. I’ve seen adverts from places like Australia and Norway luring away UK barbers as they're experiencing staff shortages too. You need to be prepared to take on a junior and train them up.

Finding candidates

So, you have a vacancy for a barber at your shop – but how do you get the word out there? Here are a few things to try:

• Advertise the vacancy in your shop; be it a notice on your reception desk or a poster on your walls or in your window.
• Post the advert online, both on your barber shop’s website (see section five for more on this) and on a jobseekers’ site such as Reed or Indeed.
• Ask friends and family if they know anyone who’d be interested in the job.
• Share the vacancy across your social media accounts.
• Contact local colleges which provide barbering training courses and see whether they can share your vacancy among their students and graduates.
• Consider hiring an apprentice, who’ll work with you alongside studying for a barbering qualification.

Choosing candidates

Of course, only you can know whether a particular barber will be a good fit for you and your salon. But, alongside how well you think you’ll work with them, you should also consider:

• Their experience.  Do you want someone who’s fresh from college so you can teach them how to perform your services how you like them to be done, or someone who already knows exactly what they’re doing and can get straight into it? It’s your call – but either way, they need to be trained.
• Their appearance.  Customers will feel better about receiving a cut or shave from a barber who’s clean, and obviously keeps his or her own hair well-maintained.
• Their social skills.  In such an intensely customer-facing role, it’s important that barbers are friendly and understand social cues; knowing when to put a customer at ease by chatting to them and when to leave a customer to relax quietly. It might also help if they’re able to man reception and answer phone calls from time to time.

Paying your barbers

Unsure about what you should pay your staff? As a reference point, barbers who are just starting out typically earn around £14,000 per year, while those who are more experienced can earn £14,000 to £24,000. Highly experienced barbers can earn £30,000 or more.

Of course, this can vary greatly depending on a number of factors; including the style and branding of your barber shop, and the location in which you’re operating.

Remember, your staff’s wages should never be less than the minimum wage ( National Living Wage ).

What’s next?

Starting a barber shop isn’t easy, and you may be required to invest a lot of capital into it – but the rewards could be great.

If you’re passionate about providing excellent customer service and feel satisfied when your customers leave happy, and you have the skill as a barber and a little business nous, you’re well-placed to succeed in this industry. Good luck!

And remember the importance of taking a break, as Em Militello rightly points out.

“In the first year of opening I lost count of how many people told me I couldn’t shut up shop to take a holiday. Well, I did shut the shop and go on holiday – and the customers were all still there when I got back!”

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Executive Summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. It describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">

Jonpaul’s is an upscale old-world gentleman’s barber shop that offers today’s progressive gentlemen a haven where he can sit back, relax and experience the “World Class” art of grooming and services in a gentleman’s club atmosphere, which is masculine and therapeutic. Jonpaul’s is aimed at an exclusive market and a discerning customer base, and will add tremendous value to our community while offering a combination of “World Class Services” not currently being offered by any competitor in the greater Gigaburb area. We intend to be profitable by increasing our client base through becoming a highly sought after destination.

Our goal, beyond becoming a profitable business, is becoming a trusted destination whereby the clients in our community can come to refresh their minds and bodies, replenish their energies, and network with their colleagues and friends!

1.1 Mission

Jonpaul’s will provide a comforting, yet stimulating, old world gentleman’s club atmosphere in which customers will be able to relax both their body and mind, through a wide range of services. Jonpaul’s will establish itself as a world class service provider to which clients can always come to escape the stresses of life, and rejuvenate their energies, enjoy the camaraderie of their colleagues and friends.

1.2 Keys to Success

The keys to success in our business are:

• Location : Providing an easily accessible location for clients.
• Environment : Providing an environment conducive to giving relaxing and professional service.
• Convenience : Offering clients a wide range of services in one setting, and extended business hours.
• Reputation : Reputation of the owner and staff as providing superior personal service. 
• Effective advertising : Advertising in the corporate environment.

1.3 Objectives

The objectives for Jonpaul’s are outlined below:

• To create a service-base company whose goal is to exceed customer’s expectations.
• Sales increase substantially by end of Year 2 and nearly double year one revenue by the end of Year 3.
• To increase the number of clients services by at least 20% per year through superior performance and word-of mouth referrals.
• Have a clientele return rate of 90% by end of Year 1.
• Become an established community destination by end of Year 1.

Company Summary company overview ) is an overview of the most important points about your company—your history, management team, location, mission statement and legal structure.">

Jonpaul’s is a full-service gentleman’s barber shop dedicated to consistently providing world class men’s grooming services to our clients, high quality products while furnishing an enjoyable relaxing atmosphere at an acceptable price/value relationship.

Our Motto: “World Class Service Begins Here”

The timing is right for this venture. Patiently searching for the last few years for a similar highly recognized existing business in a prime location, was unsuccessful. We therefore decided to build one from the ground up.

2.1 Start-up Summary

After spending several months searching for a high-end exclusive gentleman’s barber shop to purchase, the owners decided to start an exclusive barber shop – men’s grooming services from the ground up. The start-up capital will be used for the design, leasehold improvements, and equipment for the shop. The start-up cash has been marked for the estimated amount needed to cover operational expenses for the first two months.

2.2 Company Locations and Facilities

Jonpaul’s is located in The Mall, a 160,000 foot shopping and entertainment center in Gigaburb. The suite is 1,950 sq. ft at $24.50/sq. ft. with a 3-year lease. This site is a very high profile area with easy access and ample parking.

The Mall is anchored by Regal Cinema, the largest theater chain in the Gigaburb market with a 16-screen, state of the art complex. In addition to specialty retail and service shops within the center, there is a food pavilion anchored by Starbucks, Macaroni Grill, Garrison’s, and Rio Bravo. Other tenants include Ben & Jerry’s, Las Vegas Golf, specialty furniture, boutiques, antiques, and specialty children shops.

The Mall is located on the corner of a highly traveled State Highway and a Metro Road in the high growth, affluent area of Gigaburb. The Mall’s primary trade area will serve the burgeoning country club communities and exclusive neighborhoods located within a fifteen-minute drive from the site. According to Equifax National Decision Systems, the primary trade area in 2000 had a population of 317,931 that is projected to reach 358,716 by 2005.

2.3 Company Ownership

Jonpaul’s is a privately held S corporation co-owned by Cathy Leskie and her husband Dr. Jonpaul Leskie. Cathy Leskie has 10 years experience in the hair and spa industry. She studied in the U.S. and Europe and continues to stay on top of the latest styles, trends and products. Cathy has worked as a stylist, then as a manager – managing 16 stylist in a prestigious upscale salon.

Dr. Jonpaul Leskie – is President/CEO of  Jp Leskie & Associates, a Technology Consulting Firm. Dr. Leskie is a pioneer and innovator with over 30 years experience in the computer, e-business and telecommunications industry. Dr. Leskie has a proven track record of success in launching new business and directing operations for Fortune 500 companies worldwide.

To achieve our objectives, Jonpaul’s is seeking loan financing. This loan will be paid from the cash flow from the business, and will be secured by the assets of the company, and backed by the character, experience and personal guarantees of the owners.

Products and Services

Jonpaul’s is considered an upscale full-service barber shop – services exclusively for men. We offer our clients a gentleman’s club atmosphere, with a complimenting wide range of services and products that include:

• Hair : Cut and style,  one step hair color, highlights, toner, corrective color, hair and scalp treatments
• Shaves : Traditional straight razor shaves, hot towels, and balm treatment
• Nails : Manicures, pedicures
• Waxing Services : Eyebrow shaping
• Men’s Services : Essential facials and peels, sports massage, deep tissue massage
• Hair Laser Removal : Hair removal on neck, back, ears, etc.
• Shoe Shine : Shoe shine service in the waiting room or while services are being performed.
• London : Shave creams, soap, bath oils, shaving accessories exclusively for men
• United States : Shave creams, skin care, shaving accessories exclusively for men.

Explanations and/or consultations will be provided on all services and products if needed.

3.1 Product and Service Description

3.2 competitive comparison.

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3.3 Sales Literature

Service brochure, logo/slogan with advertising to be included, and a planned website.

3.4 Fulfillment

Jonpaul’s services sell themselves. World Class Service performed in an upscale environment will attract clientele. Our prices are very reasonable for the quality of services provided. We have an agreement with a U.S. based importer of our London products, which keeps our product price at its lowest price point.

3.5 Technology

Jonpaul’s will sell complimenting products of the highest quality, and latest scientific development.

Our gentleman’s shop computer system, incorporates the latest hardware and software to manage appointments, client database, point of sale, email capabilities, Web-enabled networking, inventory, bar code reading, historical data, employee records, transaction history, accounts receivable/payable and payroll. Back-up of the system is performed daily.

Clients will be emailed appointment confirmation messages two days prior to appointment. In addition they will also receive a personal phone call one day prior to appointment to confirm appointment. A thank you note will be emailed automatically after services have been performed.

Our gentleman’s shop will incorporate a wireless network within the facilities. It will serve as an internal network and provide a service for our clients that need to access the Internet while visiting our facilities.

3.6 Future Products and Services

Jonpaul’s will be considering branding its own product line in the future. In addition it may offer chiropractic services and acupuncture services on an as needed basis. Jonpaul’s will always remain involved with the best men’s hair styling and health techniques offered, and will implement them if deemed appropriate and feasible for Jonpaul’s clientele.

Market Analysis Summary how to do a market analysis for your business plan.">

Jonpaul’s will focus on the professional male. An Internet study revealed that 85% of professional men had personal hair grooming services performed during the workday. The space at The Mall fits the demographics for our business. Applied Geographic Solutions estimates that 59,251 people live within a three-mile radius of our facility and 42,759 work there. They estimate 161,848 live within a five-mile radius and 109,867 work there. There are 15 business parks totaling 6,206 businesses located within a seven-mile radius.

4.1 Market Segmentation

Our target market will be barber shop services for the professional male. Based on our Internet survey, 80% of our services will be associated with hair, hair color, shaves, shoe shine; 15% will come from facial, massage, nail, and tanning services; and 5% will come from products. Thus, our target market will be male professionals and retirees, from the age of 25, with individual and household incomes greater than $75,000.

The following table and chart depict our potential customers with a conservative annual growth rate of 4%. The annual growth rate for the area has been 7.5% since 1990.

4.2 Target Market Segment Strategy

The members of these market segments have luxury money on hand, and lead professional lives filled with very busy schedules. All persons usually need hairstyling regardless of income level, and make the effort to find money available to style their “look.”

4.2.1 Market Trends

In spite of the massive growth in residential and corporate complexes and substantial employment within 7 miles of The Mall, a gap currently exists in the retail trade and entertainment area. The shopping center is strategically located between two major malls, each occupying more than 1.2 million square feet. Virtually no high-end restaurants or commercial support services existed in the Gigaburb vicinity until The Mall was developed. Our facility will be located in this center, which provides a huge competitive advantage.

A population of nearly 205,000 people, consisting of young, upper-class families with an average household income of $92,247, exists within a seven-mile radius of the center. The immediate area surrounding The Mall has impressive demographics as well, with an average household income of $119,423 within a three-mile radius. The average new house sale price in The Mall area in 1998 was $377,249, up from $227,000 in 1990. It is also important to note that many companies are locating their corporate headquarters in the Gigaburb vicinity, not just administrative offices. Another plus is that several office buildings, and hotels, are located within a short drive of our gentleman’s shop.

4.2.2 Market Growth

Our gentleman’s shop’s trade area’s best growth potential is in terms of daytime employment. The total daytime business population in a three-mile radius is 42,759 with the residential population at 59,251. The total daytime business population in a five-mile radius is 109,867 with the residential population at 161,848. The nearby business parks also have an ample supply of land for future office development. An even more predictable source of daytime employment growth is the planned expansion of existing companies.

The Mall is the only shopping and entertainment center site within an 8 mile radius. Jonpaul’s is the only gentleman’s shop exclusively for men at The Mall. The future look very promising for a thriving business with a continual presence of clients.

4.2.3 Market Needs

The traditional barbershop of years past have been traditionally been replaced by unisex salon’s and spa’s which focused mainly on women. Professional men are more health and style conscious, especially men who have achieved a modicum level of professional success. They are willing pay for products and services that are geared specifically toward men. They are looking for an environment that consistently offers quality service, products and camaraderie. They look for a gathering place where they can openly discuss politics, watch sports or stock market news on TV, read the newspaper, network, get a cup of gourmet coffee, buy an imported cigar, and get a shoe shine.

The surrounding area of The Mall and Country County has become a bastion for the successful, having consistently been the fastest growing areas in our state. This has created a community of wealth, mobility, and growth. State Highway is a major north/south highway that connects the northern suburbs to midtown Gigaburb. The section of State Highway near our site is two lanes in each direction and includes an interchange at Metro Road. In 1998, the State DOT recorded an ADT volume on State Highway of 46,082 vehicles per day up from the 1997 traffic count of 38,375. This number is expected to continue to increase substantially over the next few years.

4.3 Service Business Analysis

We are part of the retail health and beauty industry which has four major types:

• Salons : Stores with only hair styling services and products.
• Day Spas : Stores specializing in body health maintenance through a variety of services and products.
• Day Spa & Salon : Stores combining the services of the two aforementioned.
• Health & Beauty Products : Stores selling only merchandise product covering the wide range of products available but not inclusive of those sold by salons and spas.

4.3.1 Main Competitors

The main competitor is VanAstorBilts located across town. Strengths of VanAstorBilts are its wide array of spa services. The weaknesses of VanAstorBilts are the limited number of services dedicated specifically to male clients, i.e. hair grooming, shaves, shoe shines. VanAstorBilts services and products cater more toward the female professional. We feel the presence of Jonpaul’s is not a direct competitor to VanAstorBilts and visa versa.

Our market advantage is wide open, and will give us the opportunity to service a large population base of professional males that is not currently being well served.

4.3.2 Competition and Buying Patterns

Clients choose men’s grooming services based on proximity to their daily travels from home and work, reputation for high quality service, and good pricing. With our combined services and catering to the male professional, we don’t feel we have competition. Any competition will mainly be from unisex salons or combination unisex spa-salons.

4.3.3 Business Participants

Industry participants are those whose services include salon and spa offerings. Salon services concern hair styling, while spa services concern body relaxing and rejuvenating offerings such as massage, nail, and face works.

No one industry participant has focused specifically toward men only.

Strategy and Implementation Summary

• Emphasize quality, originality, and “World Class Service”. We will differentiate ourselves from our competitors by offering a staff of practitioners who are not only certified in their professions, but will be trained in understanding the dynamics of customer service so as to maximize the connection to their clients and more easily meet their clients expectations.
• We will provide a unique atmosphere. From our professional staff to our ambience of our barber shop, Jonpaul’s will distinguish itself as a completely trustworthy and soothing setting where clients can enjoy being pampered, escape the stress of their everyday lives and enjoy the camaraderie of friends and colleagues.
• Build a community/corporate relationship-oriented business. We will focus on strengthening the trust of our customer base, and providing not only services, but information that will aid everyone in the progression of obtaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

5.1 Value Proposition

Our value proposition is that we will bring a unique mode of relaxation and fulfillment to the discerning gentleman. When people are relaxed, comfortable, and happy they have the ability to work harder, concentrate better, feel physically, emotionally, and mentally balanced, and give that happiness back into their homes, workplace, and community. Simply put, our value proposition is that we help our community become a better place to live and work.

5.2 Competitive Edge

Our competitive edge is a combination of our unique services, outstanding location, and our interaction with our clients. By providing our clients a gentleman’s club atmosphere and provide world class services, we build relationships of trust and satisfaction. Our clients will come to depend on our unique services and fulfilling environment.

5.3 Marketing Strategy

Our marketing strategy is the key to our success:

• Emphasize our name and unique services and environment through advertising.
• Focus on the convenience of our location.
• Build community relationships and corporate relationships through unique and quality service, a friendly caring atmosphere, and delivering world class service.

5.3.1 Promotion Strategy

Our promotional strategy will be two-fold: first phase promotion will advertising before, during, and six months following our opening; the second phase advertising will deal with long-term advertising.

• First Phase Promotions
• Advertising
• We will utilize local newspaper, local social magazines, local radio, mail-outs to all households within the immediate 10-mile radius, and mail-outs to all local business within a five-mile radius.
• We will have a comprehensive website.
• We will place our brochure within the offices of our corporate referral clients.
• Second Phase Promotions
• We will continue to place ads in the local social magazines year around. Mail-outs will be done again within a 10-mile radius one year after takeoff, then again only every three to five years. Radio and television ads will be done only when we have sale promotions during the most stressful time of the year – the holiday season; television ads are not certain, we will evaluate their effectiveness before further implementation.
• We will continue to have a comprehensive website. After the first six months, and certainly after the first year, we will evaluate the viability of having target clients advertise on our site, and conversely, we will evaluate viability of advertising on our target client website (if applicable).
• This type of advertising will be implemented once we have grown beyond our revenue objective. We will also form advertising alliances with any business with whom we share common business goals. We will also implement mutual perks with our business and restaurant neighbors which will aid in local visibility.

5.3.2 Marketing Programs

Owner Cathy Leskie and Jonpaul Leskie will be responsible for marketing Jonpaul’s through the advertising channels. The general manager will be responsible for assisting with the implementation of alliance advertising partnerships. Our advertising budget is $10,000 for the first year. Advertising will begin two weeks prior to opening.

5.3.3 Positioning Statement

We will automatically position ourselves as the top, exclusive gentlemen’s grooming shop in the greater Gigaburb area. Considering that none of the other competitors will offer the range of men’s services that we will, nor that their staffs will be trained like ours, and that there are not any barbershops of our type in our target locations, we will be able to provide services to The Mall populace not currently being tapped.

5.3.4 Pricing Strategy

Our pricing strategy will be similar to that of our competitors. We will not charge over, nor substantially under, standard prices for our services. We will be paying our employees a straight percentage of their total individual client sales plus a bonus–that’s more than our competitors. This will allow us to hire the best employees, and have a built-in motivational factor that will keep them empowered to enhance their opportunity.

5.4 Sales Strategy

• Our umbrella sales strategy is to sell Jonpaul’s to the male professional as a uniquely desirable destination that will enhance their lives.
• We will sell Jonpaul’s through each employee’s skill, courtesy, and warmth, creating a trusting impression on all clients, and establishing loyalty and return visits. We will ensure each visit to Jonpaul’s is a relaxing and memorable experience, so that clients can always depend on our brand of service when they arrive.

5.4.1 Sales Programs

• Our comprehensive brochure will explain the nature of our services, and how this benefits our clients.
• Our website will be comprehensively informative of our services, environment and their benefits.

5.4.2 Sales Forecast

5.5 Strategic Alliances

We will form alliances with our referral clients, local restaurants, offices, and businesses who will be strategically beneficial for generating new clients. We will also form alliances with local barber schools and local spas.

5.6 Milestones

The following table lists important store milestones, with dates, implementation duty, and budgets for each. The milestone schedule emphasizes the timeliness for implementation per the sales and marketing targets listed in the detail in the previous topics.

Management Summary management summary will include information about who's on your team and why they're the right people for the job, as well as your future hiring plans.">

6.1 organizational structure.

Our initial team will consist of the owner and 10 employees. On the shop floor, there will be six barbers, one nail specialist, one shoe shine person and one receptionist. Initially there will be one full time combination aesthetician/massage therapist. As our client base grows we will add additional barbers, which then will be working two shifts per day per station. We expect to have 12 employees by the end of the first year and 14 employees in years two and three.

6.2 Management Team

Cathy Leskie, co-owner, president: has 10 years experience in the hair and spa industry. She studied in the U.S. and Europe and continues to stay on top of the latest styles, trends and products. Cathy has worked as a stylist (six years) then as a manager (four years) – managing 16 stylist in a prestigious upscale salon.

Dr. Jonpaul Leskie, co-owner: will not be directly involved in daily operations, but will assist Cathy in general organizational/business planning and operations implementation. Currently Jonpaul is President/CEO of  Jp Leskie & Associates, a Technology Consulting Firm. Dr. Leskie is a pioneer and innovator with over 30 years experience in the computer, e-business and telecommunications industry. Dr. Leskie has a proven track record of success in launching new businesses and directing operations for Fortune 500 companies worldwide.

6.3 Management Team Gaps

We believe the experience of our team covers the needs to make the business plan for Jonpaul’s a very successful reality. We will review the current talent of the salon and re-engineer accordingly. We plan on outsourcing payroll and benefits.

6.4 Personnel Plan

The Personnel Plan below reflects our projected need at opening, and carries through the second year expansions.

Financial Plan investor-ready personnel plan .">

The premier element in our financial plan is initiating, maintaining, and improving the factors that create, stabilize, and increase our cash flow:

• We must create visibility so as to create customer flow.
• We must maintain a dependable, cheerful employee force so as to minimize turnover.
• Create a brisk turnaround on our retail products, always maintaining viable stock levels.

7.1 Important Assumptions

The key underlying assumptions of our financial plan shown in the following general assumption table are:

• We assume access to equity capital and financing to support our financial plan.
• We assume our financial progress based on realistic sales to minimum sales against highest expenses.
• We assume there will not be an economic crash that would greatly hinder our target market’s access to their personal luxury finds.

7.2 Key Financial Indicators

Our most important Key Financial Indicator is when each barber averages seven clients per day and each specialist averages three clients per day.

7.3 Break-even Analysis

For our Break-even Analysis we assume monthly estimated operational costs which include payroll, rent, utilities and other running costs (not including employee draw fund considerations). Payroll alone is only estimated at $9,800 per month, including taxes.

The analysis shows that we need to generate monthly revenues, as shown below, to break even. This total is less than estimated monthly gross. This estimation does not include revenue from any other sources and is based on a barber shop client average of $35 and miscellaneous services average of $50. Our yearly average per client is estimated at $48. Considering our minimal assumptions show a monthly total client average of 1,063, we therefore believe our break-even figures can be readily maintained.

7.4 Projected Profit and Loss

There are two important assumptions with our Projected Profit and Loss statement:

• Our revenue is based on minimum estimated averages against highest expense expectations.
• Our major expense of rent and utilities is fixed for the next five years.

7.5 Projected Cash Flow

Our business is a luxury, retail-oriented business with clients who will pay primarily with credit cards.

7.6 Projected Balance Sheet

Our Projected Balance Sheet shows we will not have any difficulty meeting our debt obligations as long as our revenue projections are met.

7.7 Business Ratios

The following table contains important business ratios for the barber shop industry, as determined by the Standard Industry Classification (SIC) code, 7241.

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Middleboro barbershop thrives despite launching during COVID, eyes second location

MIDDLEBORO – One local man decided to start a business during COVID and took a giant leap of faith despite people telling him not to, leading him to launch Dustin's Barbershop in Middleboro.

Life has had many twists and turns for Dustin Travis , who always dreamt of being a boss without limitations.After attending Rob Roy Academy in 2012, Travis found his calling and decided to take it to the next level, which led him to open a barbershop inside a gym.

The space was small, but it was home to Travis for two years. The space abruptly closed after the owner died, and Travis had to figure something else out.

Where the dream begun

Travis only had a week's notice and told himself he had to "think bigger" and decided to look for a larger space to house the barbershop of his dreams.

The young entrepreneur took a giant leap and decided to take a risk with a monthly rent three times his original rent, but he knew it was time to make a change.

"So many people told Dustin not to do it, and they named too many reasons why he shouldn't, but he did it anyways and followed his dream," said Samantha Sullivan, Travis' fiancée.

Travis didn't take no for an answer and persevered through any issue that arose when he gutted the business.Now, the business has a modern look with grey hardwood floors, black barber chairs and artwork on the walls.

"I love cutting hair, and I love that I was blessed with this trade, and if you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life," Travis said.

The barbershop was a labor of love, as the family had to completely renovate the space, which was once an unused dance studio located at 4 Abbey Lane Middleboro.

"I'm so proud of him. It's so scary to start your own business and take the step without anyone supporting you, and he did it all on his own. He didn't get help from anyone, and everyone was telling him not to open the shop, but he did it anyway. Now, we plan on opening a second location," Sullivan said.

At the shop, you can get the hair cut of your dreams. From fades to high tops to simple line-ups, Dustin's Barbershop has it all.

Alisha Saint-Ciel can be reached by email at  [email protected]

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Small Business Trends

How to start a jewelry business: a comprehensive guide.

Do visions of unique rings, necklaces or bracelets live rent-free in your head? Are you drawn to shiny trinkets like a happily hopping crow? Even better, do you have those qualities and have good people skills? If the answer is yes, you may have a bright future as a jewelry startup owner! But how to start a jewelry business yourself is a question you might be asking. We’re glad you asked.

If you are seriously considering starting this exciting venture, we’ve created the following guide to help you get your startup off the ground.

How to Start a Jewelry Business in 18 Steps

Ready to learn how to start a business making jewelry? This guide will show you everything from finding your niche to scaling your business for future growth. It ensures you have all the tools you need to excel as a jewelry startup.

1. Find Your Niche

Start things off right by choosing a proper niche. This includes narrowing down what type of jewelry to make and sell . Doing so sets your offerings apart and captures the attention of your market. A niche finder tool can help with this task.

A good niche finder tool lets you explore potential niches within the jewelry market, fill gaps and identify ways to make a profit. Online marketing companies like Semrush and Qualtrics have online market research tools, including niche finder tools, that you can use.

Also, finding a niche that aligns with your tastes and creativity is highly desirable. Not every niche fits every jeweler, but focusing on what genuinely interests you can greatly enhance your chances of success.

Consider these niche ideas for your jewelry startup:

• Fine Jewelry: Craft pieces with precious materials for high-quality appeal.
• Fashion Jewelry: Create trendy, affordable accessories.
• Custom Jewelry: Offer personalized designs for individual preferences.
• Wedding and Engagement Rings: Specialize in custom bands and rings, often high-ticket items.
• Gemstone Jewelry: Focus on colorful gemstones for diverse customer appeal.
• Personalized Jewelry: Design items with names, birthstones, or special symbols.
• Commemorative Jewelry: Produce pieces like class rings or charm bracelets that celebrate milestones.
• Handmade Jewelry: This jewelry is made with a personal touch and is often made to order.
• Costume Jewelry: Craft pieces with imitation materials such as wood, plastic, and synthetic diamonds for trend-focused customers.

2. Research Your Competition

When entering the jewelry market, you don’t need to reinvent the wheel. Instead, you can research and analyze what existing brands are doing with thorough market research. The business insights it grants help you stay abreast of broader market trends.

This approach helps you adapt your jewelry line more precisely to your target market. It also helps you better establish product ranges, pricing and customer service.

You can use market research to evaluate competitors’ strengths and weaknesses to pinpoint opportunities for your products to shine. This analysis helps you spot market gaps and tweak your offerings.

Focus groups, interviews, and surveys are the top market research methods. Additionally, you can use a market explorer research tool to get a comprehensive view of the market. A few notable market explorer research tools include Ubersuggest, Ahrefs, Statista and SurveyMonkey.

3. Online Jewelry Business vs Brick and Mortar Jewelry Store

Deciding whether to go with a digital jewelry endeavor or a physical location is often challenging. One thing is for certain: Your choice should align with your business goals, customer engagement strategy and operational plan.

You can make the decision much easier by weighing both options’ pros and cons.

Digital Store

• Startup and operational costs are lower (good for the budget).
• Access to a global market equates to more reach.
• Better competitive pricing for bargain hunters.
• Limited personal interaction may whittle away consumer trust.
• The product visualization experience isn’t optimal. It may increase return rates.

Brick-and-Mortar Store

• More personalized service. This builds loyalty and elevates the buying experience.
• A physical location gives immediate hands-on experience. Customers can try on and thoroughly examine jewelry.
• Retail space and maintenance lead to higher costs.
• Geographical limits. The customer base is limited to local or regional levels.

4. Choose a Business Name

You don’t want your business to sound generic. Make it unique and memorable to refine your jewelry brand’s identity and appeal to your customers. In addition, if your business name is odd or you use someone else’s, you may even run into legal hassles or pressure from the powers that be to change it.

To avoid any troubles and develop an effective brand name, select a business name that:

• Represents Your Brand Identity: Choose a name that reflects the style and essence of your jewelry. It must set the tone for customer expectations. For example, the product should exemplify luxurious aspects if you offer luxury.
• Imparts Memorability and Simplicity: It’s good to opt for a name customers can easily remember, pronounce and spell. That way, it simplifies online searches and increases shoppers’ chance to remember your brand.
• Has an Available Domain: Don’t step on someone’s toes. Ensuring the corresponding domain is available guarantees originality and strengthens your online presence.
• Has No Trademark Issues: Confirm that the name isn’t already trademarked to avoid legal issues and distinguish your brand.
• Doesn’t Offend Anyone: If you aren’t easily offended and want a good laugh, go to this link and find out what Liquid Nation Brewing was named originally. Needless to say, the name didn’t work out in its location in a bible belt city.

For inspiration, use online tools like Shopify, Namelix, Getsocio, and Canva, which generate creative name suggestions based on your input keywords. These generators can kickstart your naming process by offering unique options and checking for available names suited for your new business.

5. Create a Jewelry Business Plan

Creating a solid plan helps you establish your jewelry brand. It is an indispensable roadmap, helping you smoothly meet your company’s goals. Here are the elements to include:

• Market Analysis: Understand your market size, trends, and customer demographics.
• Business Model: Outline how your jewelry brand will operate, generate revenue, and deliver customer value.
• Operational Structure: Detail the production logistics, whether handmade or outsourced to premium manufacturers. Include plans for potential repair services, which can impact operations and budget.
• Financial Projections: Provide detailed forecasts for expenses, revenues, and profitability. Estimate the startup capital required to launch and sustain your business until it becomes profitable.

As you further refine your business plan, consider the following components that are essential for your jewelry brand’s success:

• Marketing Strategies: Develop tactics to reach your target audience, differentiate your brand, and outline how you’ll communicate your unique selling points.
• Type of Jewelry: Decide whether you’ll focus on the finest jewelry, fashion pieces or a blend of both.
• Business Location: Consider whether you will operate from a home office or rent a commercial space.
• Staffing Needs: Assess if and when you need to hire staff.
• Pricing Strategy: Establish how you will price your products to cover costs and achieve desired profit margins.
• Unique Selling Points: Identify what makes your jewelry stand out from competitors.
• Target Audience: Clearly define who your ideal customers are.

There are online resources available that simplify the process of writing your plan.

6. Register Your Business

As part of legalizing your business venture, choosing the right business structure is one of your most sound decisions. You have many options to register your business. Each is structured to provide legal protections and tax implications specific to your business.

The main ones are sole proprietorships, partnerships and Limited Liability Companies (LLCs):

• Sole Proprietorship: This is the simplest way to register your business since it involves minimal paperwork and offers tax benefits. However, it doesn’t protect personal assets, which could be risky if your business faces debts or legal challenges.
• Partnership: This structure is the best one for businesses with multiple owners. Another pro is that it allows pass-through taxation. Unfortunately, as with sole proprietorships, it does not protect personal assets from business liabilities.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC): LLCs offer asset protection and feature flexible tax options. The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers guidance on setting up an LLC on its website.

7. Apply for Licenses, Insurance, and Permits

A jewelry startup requires several legal documents and insurance policies to ensure compliance and protection. Here’s a breakdown of what you may need to operate your business safely and legally:

• Business License: Most localities require a general business license to operate legally. Check with your city or county for specific requirements.
• Seller’s Permit: If you are selling goods, most states require a seller’s permit to sell your products legally. This allows you to collect sales tax from customers.
• Zoning Permits: If your business operates from a physical location, you may need zoning permits to ensure it complies with local ordinances.
• Home-Based Business Permits: Certain municipalities require specific home-based business permits if you operate your business from home. Verify local licensing and permit requirements with your local clerk’s office if operating from home.
• General Liability Insurance: Protects against financial loss resulting from claims of injury or damage caused by your business operations.
• Product Liability Insurance: Important for jewelry businesses as it protects against claims of harm caused by products you sell.
• Professional Liability Insurance: If you offer services such as jewelry appraisals or custom design, this insurance can protect against errors and omissions.
• Property Insurance: Covers loss and damage to inventory or equipment from theft, fire, and other disasters.
• Specialty Trade Permits and Licenses: You might need specific trade licenses depending on the type of jewelry you create and whether you handle precious metals and stones.

This list isn’t exhaustive, so ensure you check with local, county, and state authorities to understand all required licenses and permits fully.

8. Create a Jewelry Business Marketing Plan and Marketing Strategy

Today, you need a killer marketing plan and strategy to sell jewelry effectively. Here’s how to make it happen at your own jewelry business:

• Brand Definition: To shape customer perception, define your brand’s aesthetics, mission, and key message.
• Digital Marketing
• Social Media Posts
• Email Campaigns
• Traditional Advertising
• Logo Creation: Create a distinctive logo that serves as your brand’s visual symbol and boosts recognition.
• Scalability and Positioning: Focus on scalability and market positioning to establish a strong presence that highlights your products’ uniqueness and enhances brand value.
• Website Development: Develop a professional website with engaging designs and robust e-commerce functionalities to optimize customer experience and improve online visibility through SEO and content marketing.
• Business Incubator Utilization: Utilize a business incubator to refine branding efforts and reduce costs with essential resources and affordable office space.

9. Develop Your Jewelry Line

Your jewelry line is a category of related jewelry pieces categorized by factors like quality, price, and demographics. Your product line should also represent your brand in the best light. So, when you are developing your product line, be sure it’s innovative and maintains high quality in design and materials.

During this step, determine the types of jewelry you plan to offer. Here are a few examples:

• Fine Jewelry: Crafted from precious materials like gemstones, gold, silver, and platinum, targeting buyers seeking high-quality, durable items.
• Costume Jewelry: Made from base metals and synthetic gemstones, these pieces are more affordable and trend-focused,
• Bespoke Pieces: Personalized, custom designs catering to a niche market.
• Watches: Includes both high-end and fashion watches with functional, stylish appeal.
• Brooches: Focuses on vintage and revival styles, offering unique styling opportunities.

Inspiration for your designs can come from various sources, such as favorite designers, current trends, market research, or classes and tutorials on how to make jewelry.

Once your designs are finalized, consider how to manage production and bulk procurement of materials efficiently.

10. Find a Supplier

You will need materials to operate, so your next business order will be to select the right company to get yours. The best suppliers are focused on quality, cost-effectiveness, and reliability. When sourcing materials or finished products, prioritize vendors consistently delivering high-quality supplies. Evaluate their pricing to ensure it aligns with your budget without compromising the standard of your jewelry making.

Look for the following in a reputable supplier:

• Assess Supplier Reliability: Choose suppliers with excellent track records in timely deliveries and product quality.
• Negotiate Terms: Engage in transparent negotiations to secure favorable terms, such as bulk pricing or flexible payment options, which can significantly lower costs.
• Build Partnerships: Aim to establish long-term relationships with suppliers. This can lead to better service, reliability, and potential discounts in the future.
• Consult Peers: Talk to other jewelry designers for recommendations on trustworthy wholesale distributors.
• Reseller License: Consider obtaining a reseller license to avoid paying local sales taxes on bulk purchases and reduce overall material costs.

11. Define Your Jewelry Production Methods and Processes

A jewelry business owner who knows the equipment and methods involved in manufacturing can map out their floor plan. This knowledge can help them outline their business’s costs and requirements.

Arrange the necessary equipment in a linear, sequential layout to keep the production process lean and efficient. This setup minimizes movement and saves time, making your manufacturing process more streamlined and cost-effective—an excellent selling point when entrepreneurs apply for business loans.

Additionally, don’t forget to formally document your production methods and processes using standard operating procedures (SOPs). They help standardize your process and prevent unwanted evolution of procedures.

12. Budget for Your Jewelry Startup

Over 80% of businesses fail due to a lack of cash. Startups often underestimate business costs, including marketing, insurance, staffing and licensing fees. To avoid that issue, prepare a detailed business budget that lists all anticipated startup costs, including:

• Marketing Materials.
• Office Space.
• Daily operational costs.

Afterward, closely evaluate your available funds. Then, add any additional financing you require. Budget templates provide a well-structured financial plan to assist you in this process.

Financial experts suggest that business owners pad their startup expenses by around 10%. That way, there is a fund to protect against shortages and other unexpected issues. They should also reserve funds to ensure profitability.

In addition to initial costs, ensure you budget enough for ongoing material costs, maintenance and other monthly expenses.

13. Price Your Jewelry

Pricing your jewelry right is key to ensuring a lucrative business. If the price is too low, you lose opportunities to make more money; if it is too high, you risk alienating your customers.

Here are some strategies to help you set competitive prices:

• Break-Even Analysis: Calculating the total cost of production. The figure should include materials, labor and overhead. The resulting figure helps you determine the minimum price your business needs to break even.
• Market Research: Study similar products in the market to get a feel for your competitors’ pricing. This insight helps gauge what customers are willing to pay. Then, identify a suitable price range that’s on market standards.
• Perceived Value: Uniqueness, craftsmanship, and brand reputation can often elevate the buyer’s perceived value, allowing for higher pricing.
• Pricing Strategy: Choose a pricing strategy that aligns with your brand identity and target audience. Whether it’s premium pricing for exclusive collections or competitive pricing for more accessible pieces, ensure your strategy matches your market positioning well.
• Regular Reviews: Continuously monitor and adjust what you charge for your prices based on elements like cost changes, customer demand and market conditions.

14. Open a Business Bank Account and Secure Funding

Unfortunately, you can’t do much business without money. As such, securing funds is an essential step in launching your business. Open a business bank account to start things out right and manage your finances. The business account should be separate from your personal account to maintain clear financial records and avoid any tax snafus.

Consider financing options that equipment manufacturing lenders might offer for more costly equipment. This approach can help ease the initial financial burden and manage cash flow more efficiently during the start-up of your business.

15. Get Your Product Photography Right

Grainy, low-quality images of your products are not visually appealing, and customers can’t fully appreciate your beautiful jewelry line. Therefore, high-quality product photography is a must for jewelry sales. This statement particularly applies to e-commerce businesses, where visuals influence purchasing decisions.

Here are tips to maximize the visual appeal of your jewelry photography:

• Lighting: Utilize soft, diffused light to minimize harsh shadows and bring out the sparkle in your jewelry.
• Background: Opt for simple, uncluttered backgrounds that don’t distract from the product. Neutral or light colors tend to highlight jewelry best. You can also invest in jewelry displays for craft shows and photography.
• Photo Editing: Enhance your photos with editing software to correct lighting, improve contrast, and ensure colors are true to life.
• Consistency: To strengthen your brand identity, maintain a consistent style across all images. This includes using similar setups, angles, and editing techniques.

Investing in professional photography or learning advanced photography skills can significantly improve the attractiveness of your products, thereby increasing the likelihood of sales. If you want to outsource Step 15, hire a professional photographer to snap pics of your merchandise instead.

16. Launch Your Business

Consider a soft launch for your company that uses select products to gather initial feedback and make adjustments. Then, plan a grand opening that can be held online or physically. Use targeted promotional strategies like social media announcements, special offers, and local advertising to generate buzz and attract customers.

Consider hiring employees to assist with sales, customer service and daily operations during this phase. Effective staffing will support your business’s launch and ongoing activities, ensuring a smooth operational flow from day one.

17. Fulfill Orders and Ship Products

Maintaining customer satisfaction and operational efficiency is the bedrock of any business. If you don’t have effective order fulfillment, you are in for massive problems (we’re talking dealbreaker problems here).

To fulfill orders, start by choosing the right logistics software platform. The solution should integrate seamlessly with your inventory system. For shipping, choose the right packaging. It should attractively protect and present the jewelry, enhancing the customer’s unboxing experience.

Decide between self-fulfillment and using third-party logistics (3PL) services, which can streamline the process and decrease overhead. 3PL services offer receiving, storage, packaging, and shipping solutions so that you can focus on your core jewelry operations and growth.

18. Scale Your Successful Business

Now that everything is running smoothly, it’s time to prepare for more success by scaling your business. There are many ways to do this, but the best way is to focus on expanding your reach in new markets and broadening your jewelry product lines.

Another excellent way to scale your business is to implement a flexible, robust inventory system that seamlessly responds to business growth. The best inventory system should be specific to the jewelry industry. to manage increased demand efficiently. Pay attention to customer feedback since it will help you innovate and improve product offerings.

As your business grows, you should always strive to maintain high-quality products and a high standard of customer service. Don’t let expansion be an excuse to compromise your business’s core values.

FAQs: How to Start a Successful Jewelry Company

How much money do you need to start a jewelry business.

The startup cost will vary widely based on the setup and type of jewelry offered. That said, expect the initial costs of a home-based business to range from $2,000 to $10,000. Those figures cover elements like basic tools, materials, and design software. It also includes potential expenses for setting up your website, online marketing and the necessary licenses.

If your startup is a brick-and-mortar location, you’re looking at a larger investment–somewhere between $20,000 and $50,000. That figure covers things like leasing, equipment, raw materials and storage. Additional costs include utility bills, employee salaries, and marketing.

What do you need besides capital to start a jewelry business?

Besides capital, a jewelry company requires a solid business plan, reliable suppliers, business insurance, effective marketing strategies and appropriate jewelry-making tools. It also needs essential licenses and permits to operate legally.

How much space is needed for an at-home jewelry startup?

You don’t need as much storage space for jewelry as you do for larger items like clothing and electronics. Also, you might not need extra space for inventory–a spare corner of your home could do.

How do you start selling jewelry online?

To start your own online store, first determine what type of jewelry to sell . Then create a professional website or consider selling jewelry on Etsy , Shopify, or other existing Ecommerce platforms. Next, upload high-quality photos of your jewelry, set competitive prices, and give them engaging product descriptions. Utilize social media and digital marketing strategies to drive traffic to your online store and connect with potential customers.

Are jewelry businesses profitable?

Yes, especially if you have a unique niche. Consider this: Mikimoto cultured the first pearl. Capitalizing on that niche, the company is now worth a staggering $1B! While that example may not be typical, the average monthly revenue for this type of business typically ranges between $10,000 and $100,000.

• How to start a crystal business

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Mark Robinson Is Testing the Bounds of GOP Extremism

If he loses, the Republicans have a problem. If he wins, they also have a problem.

Listen to this article

Produced by ElevenLabs and News Over Audio (NOA) using AI narration.

A decade ago , Mark Robinson had a dead-end job and a nasty habit of posting anti-Semitic, homophobic, and sexist screeds on Facebook. Today he is North Carolina’s lieutenant governor. This November, he could become the state’s first Black governor.

“There is a REASON the liberal media fills the airwaves with programs about the NAZI and the ‘6 million Jews’ they murdered,” Robinson wrote on Facebook in 2017 . “There is also a REASON those same liberals DO NOT FILL the airwaves with programs about the Communist and the 100+ million PEOPLE they murdered throughout the 20th century.” He also blasted the movie Black Panther as “created by an agnostic Jew and put to film by satanic marxist [ sic ],” adding, “How can this trash, that was only created to pull the shekels out of your Schvartze pockets, invoke any pride?” He had a recurring bit about Michelle Obama being a man . He said Beyoncé’s music sounds like “ satanic chants .” He’s no less inflammatory offline, where he has called homosexuality “filth” and endorsed corporal punishment for children.

These views are awful but hardly unusual. What is unusual is that the man professing them won North Carolina’s Republican primary for governor in March. He will face Josh Stein, a Democrat and the current state attorney general, in November. Robinson’s fringe positions have led some to assume that he can’t win, but polls indicate that the race is very close. Robinson could reshape the politics of North Carolina, which has tried in recent years to attract newcomers from around the country. He also provides a test of how extreme a MAGA Republican can be and still win office outside deep-red states—of what, if anything, is too extreme in contemporary politics.

David Frum: The GOP is just obnoxious

Robinson declined multiple requests for an interview, but I read his memoir, Facebook posts, and statements, and spoke with North Carolina political insiders, to understand how he went from anonymity to the top of the party’s ticket in less than a decade. His rise is reminiscent of Donald Trump’s: Republican leaders thought they could use him for their ends, but he had his own vision. Should he lose, the GOP will miss out on a seat that a generic Republican could have won. Should he win, Republicans will have the challenge of dealing with Governor Robinson.

B ack in the days before his political rise, Robinson’s Facebook friends mostly responded to his political opinions with semi-affectionate eye-rolling or annoyed sniping. These interactions might have been a nice distraction from Robinson’s bleak prospects in his job: In 2014, the office-furniture company Steelcase announced that the plant in High Point, North Carolina, where Robinson worked would soon close. He still carries a note he wrote on an employee suggestion card: “At 12:02 on 7/15/15, I sat at my desk at Steelcase and wondered what I would be doing in 5 years.”

The moment that answered that question came three years later. In April 2018, following the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting, the Greensboro City Council considered canceling a local gun show. Robinson, then employed unloading trucks and moving finished furniture, delivered a stem-winder in defense of gun rights at the council’s meeting.

“I didn’t have time to write a fancy speech,” said Robinson, a gregarious mountain of a man with a shaved head, a neatly trimmed beard, and a broad drawl. He may have been nervous, but he showed a natural talent for public speaking. “What I want to know is, when are you all going to start standing up for the majority?” he said. “And here’s who the majority is: I’m the majority. I’m a law-abiding citizen who’s never shot anybody, never committed a serious crime, never committed a felony.”

Representative Mark Walker, a North Carolina Republican, shared the speech on Facebook, and it went viral. Three days later, Robinson was on Fox News talking about gun rights. Soon, Republicans were pushing Robinson to use his newfound fame to run for office in 2020.

He was an unusual recruit: He’s Black in a very white party. He is an unapologetic culture warrior in a diversifying and purple state. He is also a blue-collar worker in a country (and party) where most candidates and officials are well-to-do. But grassroots conservatives and party officials urged him to stand for lieutenant governor. His viral moment showed his politics and his ability to get attention. The lieutenant governor of North Carolina doesn’t have many formal duties, so the self-appointed adults in the party would remain in control.

The plan worked, at first: Robinson defeated his Democratic opponent, even though the Republican lost the governor’s race. As lieutenant governor, Robinson has frequently missed meetings of the state Senate, over which he nominally presides, and of the state board of education, on which he sits. His signature initiative, an inquiry into supposed indoctrination in state public schools, seemingly broke open-records laws and then quietly issued a report that was merely a compendium of vague and unsubstantiated anecdotes. (Robinson’s office contends that the commission wasn’t a “public body” subject to transparency laws.) Regardless, Robinson took advantage of the soft power of his office to raise his profile like no lieutenant governor before.

By the time he declared his candidacy for the GOP gubernatorial primary, Robinson was a strong favorite, despite the deep reservations of many Republican leaders. He defeated Dale Folwell, a staid old-school conservative who has served as state treasurer for years. Walker, the representative who’d shared Robinson’s city-council speech, had broken with Robinson and launched a campaign for governor, but got nowhere. A well-funded late-game attempt by the attorney Bill Graham fell short too. Now Robinson is the Republicans’ standard-bearer, like it or not.

R obinson’s rise has perplexed many observers. State GOP leadership, perhaps shy after an anti-trans law backfired , has tended toward more traditional right-wing legislative goals—restricting voting rights, siphoning funds away from public schools, and undoing environmental regulations—than the loudly antagonistic culture war that Robinson wages. For example, Robinson has repeatedly called abortion “murder” and proposed a total ban; GOP leaders in the legislature have denied they want to ban abortion outright and have sought to present their limitations as a “compromise.” But Robert Korstad, a historian at Duke University, told me that although Robinson is an outlier today, he’s a throwback to the state’s previous notoriously conservative national figure.

“He's a contemporary Jesse Helms in many ways, just this kind of bombast,” Korstad said, referring to the late U.S. senator. “Helms said things that were equally vicious and off the wall for many years, going back to the 1950s, so it fills a gap in North Carolina politics that has been there for a long time.”

Although Helms railed against elites, he was a white man from a prominent small-town family, attended the prestigious Wake Forest University, and rose to prominence working at a newspaper and a Raleigh news station. Robinson, by contrast, had a poor and violent childhood in Greensboro, didn’t finish his degree until 2022, and rode social media to political stardom. No prior North Carolina governor and no sitting governor in the United States went straight from a blue-collar job to that office.

The Duke political scientist Nicholas Carnes has calculated that working-class people have never constituted more than 2 percent of Congress, and they currently represent roughly the same portion of state legislatures. Carnes concludes that this is because blue-collar people are simply not running, given the time and financial burdens of campaigning and a lack of recruitment by parties. “Working-class Americans are less likely to hold office for some of the same basic reasons that they’re less likely to participate in politics in other ways: because often they can’t, and nobody asks them,” he writes in his book The Cash Ceiling .

Robinson’s politics are conservative but idiosyncratic and not always coherent. He complains that red tape made it difficult for his wife to manage a day care, but he has demanded more intrusive state regulation of what teachers can and can’t say in the classroom. He rails against “government ‘charity,’” but his wife’s nonprofit received $57,000 in Paycheck Protection Program cash. He preaches fiscal conservatism, but declared personal bankruptcy three times, failed to file taxes for five years , and lost a house to foreclosure. (This is a delicate issue for opponents to bring up, because it may endear Robinson to voters who relate to living in a precarious financial situation.) He laments being bullied by classmates as a child for being poor—“They had all adopted a superior attitude toward me for something I could not help”—but doesn’t seem to empathize with other marginalized people, including LGBTQ people, who may well have had comparable experiences.

His views are atypical among working-class voters, too. Blue-collar voters support a stronger social safety net, more business regulation, more progressive tax policies, and more worker protections. These are typically Democratic goals, but even working-class Republicans are also far more supportive of welfare programs, government health care, and business regulations, and more opposed to income inequality, than Republican business owners, Carnes notes. Robinson is on the other side of each of these issues.

U nder Trump’s leadership , the Republican Party has made some inroads with working-class voters, both white and Black. Robinson has sought to bind himself to Trump , though the former president was notably slow to endorse his would-be protegé. He finally gave Robinson the nod just three days before the primary election, somehow catching Robinson’s rivals by surprise. “Looking at his remarks, he seems unaware that he’s endorsing a lawless, AWOL individual who denies the Holocaust, hates women and continues to fleece the taxpayers and donors of North Carolina,” his opponent Folwell posted on X . (The irony that Trump matches much of that description seems to have been lost on Folwell.)

When Trump endorsed Robinson, he inevitably labeled him “Martin Luther King on steroids.” That’s especially cringey because Robinson has criticized Martin Luther King Jr. Day and called King an “ersatz pastor” and a “Communist.” Most Black voters in North Carolina, like those nationally, are heavily Democratic—a fact usually attributed to Democratic support for civil rights. (Four years ago, 92 percent of them supported Joe Biden, according to exit polls .) Some Republicans have argued for years that Black voters hold more conservative views than their voting record would suggest, and that they could be amenable to advances from Republicans . In 2020, Trump made small but significant gains among Black men. Robinson writes in his memoir, We Are the Majority , that he’d accepted the received wisdom in the Black community that Rush Limbaugh was a racist until a friend goaded him into giving the radio host a shot. Robinson found himself nodding along with Limbaugh’s ideas.

Republicans hope that Robinson can bring along more Black voters. His attacks on the civil-rights movement may complicate that. “So many freedoms were lost during the civil-rights movement,” he said in 2018. He has also criticized the famous sit-in at a Woolworth’s in his hometown (“That’s not what you do in a free-market system”) and blamed Communist provocateurs for a 1979 Ku Klux Klan shooting that killed five people in Greensboro.

Robinson’s views more closely echo southern white working-class politics than any strain of Black conservatism, Jarod Roll, a historian of working-class politics at the University of Mississippi, told me. He pointed to Robinson’s affinity for guns, his religiosity, and his emphasis on traditional gender roles. Like Robinson, many workers across North Carolina lost jobs as the textile and furniture industries closed factories or moved them offshore. Among them, Black voters have mostly remained with the Democratic Party, if they vote, while many white ones have moved toward the GOP.

“I don’t think he’s representative of a new brand of Black conservatives,” Theodore Johnson, a senior adviser at the liberal think-tank New America who studies Black politics, told me. “Robinson is a very particular kind of Black Republican, and it’s a version that’s more partisan than it is ideological, more sensational than it is substantive.”

Minority candidates who tack to the far right, like Robinson, have experienced notable success in the Republican Party since 2008. They may not attract many voters of color, but their conservative views validate them in the eyes of voters who might otherwise assume that, because of their skin color, they are moderates or liberals, Johnson said. At the same time, he said, their race may serve to disarm accusations of racism against the GOP.

T his past October , Robinson was acting governor while Governor Roy Cooper, a Democrat, traveled to Japan. Robinson announced a press conference, setting the North Carolina political world abuzz over what he had in mind. Would he announce some major initiative or try to overturn some of Cooper’s policies? Was this some sort of coup?

Robinson arrived at the legislative building in Raleigh flanked by a clutch of young male staffers and wearing the Trump uniform of a boxy suit with a red tie. His big news, it turned out, was a day of prayer and solidarity with Israel following the October 7 attacks. The announcement was plainly intended to neutralize Robinson’s past remarks about Jews, but he seemed unprepared for questions.

“There have been some Facebook posts that were poorly worded on my part and did not convey my real sentiments,” he said, later adding, “I apologize for the wording, not necessarily for the content.” The answer was nonsense: What would it mean to regret the wording but not the content of the claim that Black Panther was a ploy by Jews to take money from Black people?

In his book, Robinson had offered a different excuse: “I was a private citizen. I had a right to say it. You may not like it, but that’s the way it works.” He’s right: He had a right to say it, and many people may not like it. The sophistry illustrates Robinson’s dilemma. He’s risen to prominence thanks to a freewheeling style and far-right views that could turn off the swing voters and moderate Republicans he needs to win.

Democrats in North Carolina, like Democrats everywhere, plan to make abortion central to this year’s campaign. Robinson has in recent months tried to soft-pedal his position. Rolling Stone reported that he’s said that he’s avoiding “the a-word.” His team, wary of Robinson going off script, has granted mainstream media outlets few interviews with him. That may be the only way to keep him from making inflammatory remarks. As with Trump, separating the crazy from the charisma is difficult.

“There’s no danger of Mark Robinson being boring,” Chris Cooper, a political scientist at Western Carolina University (and no relation to the governor), told me. “You could put him in a tweed coat and give him a cup of chamomile, and he’s still going to be engaging.”

Derek Thompson: The Americans who need chaos

Josh Stein, Robinson’s Democratic opponent in the governor’s race, is less dynamic. He’s racked up consumer-protection victories in office and cleared a long-standing rape-kit backlog, but although Stein has styled himself as a successor to the popular Cooper, he lacks the governor’s drawl and common touch. He also hails from Chapel Hill, long derided by conservatives like Helms as a den of dangerous liberalism, and he would be the state’s first Jewish governor.

Republicans hope that the race shapes up like the 2016 presidential election, with voters taking a chance on an unorthodox conservative over a plodding progressive. Although Biden’s campaign says it plans to compete in North Carolina, Republicans expect the president’s unpopularity to dampen Democratic-voter enthusiasm. Democrats prefer to look to the 2022 Pennsylvania governor’s race, in which Attorney General Josh Shapiro defeated MAGA Republican Doug Mastriano by emphasizing his opponent’s extremism, as a template. Stein and progressive allies have stockpiled money for what’s expected to be a brutal offensive against Robinson.

“I see Mark Robinson as a problem for Republicans in North Carolina across the board,” Paul Shumaker told me. A longtime strategist for more traditional Republicans, Shumaker worked for Robinson’s opponent Graham during the primary. According to Shumaker, Stein and his allies will benefit from the fact that the most effective attacks on Robinson are all quotations of things he has said, which could overcome typical voter skepticism about claims made in attack ads. “They’ll have him destroyed by Labor Day,” he said. “Then you start going downballot and start making him a liability for people who hitched a wagon to him.”

Polling suggests that Robinson’s support is already suffering as the barrage begins, though Robinson still has a good chance to win, especially if Trump takes the state by a good margin. (The former president won in North Carolina in both 2016 and 2020.) Shumaker’s point that Robinson is the Democrats’ own best messenger against himself reminded me of a passage in his memoir. Robinson was at a Junior ROTC drill meet in high school when his team was crossing some railroad tracks to get pizza. When a train approached, his comrades wisely moved off the tracks, but Robinson lingered as the engineer laid on his horn. Finally, Robinson jumped—barely dodging the Amtrak, which was moving much faster than the trundling freight that he’d expected.

Robinson waited in a ditch just long enough to convince his friends he’d been killed, then popped out to surprise them. Some were so angry at his prank that they wanted to beat him up: “They’d all thought I was a goner. So, for a moment, did I.”

It’s a strange story—the sort of anecdote that might have seemed pretty funny to a 14-year-old, but is a little weird for an adult to be repeating in a barroom or barbershop in his sixth decade. It’s even weirder for a politician to include in a campaign autobiography, but Robinson sees a moral. “Obviously I don’t condone it,” he wrote. “Yet that energy within me and the desire to take chances, once harnessed to sane and proper ends, have served me well in adulthood.”

Everyone’s entitled to a little youthful indiscretion. The problem in Robinson’s case is that he hasn’t given North Carolinians much reason to believe he’s found those sane and proper ends yet—or ever will.