Opening a barbershop in the United Kingdom can be an excellent business opportunity. The men's grooming market is constantly growing, and more and more men are looking for quality services and professional experience in modern barbershops.
In this complete guide, we explain step by step everything you need to know to open your barbershop in the United Kingdom: from legal requirements and necessary permits, to initial investment, strategic location, equipment, and management tools that will help you succeed from day one.
8 Steps to Open Your Barbershop in the United Kingdom
Research and Business Plan
Before opening your barbershop in the United Kingdom, it's essential to conduct thorough market research and create a solid business plan. This step is crucial to understand the market, identify opportunities, and minimize risks.
Key elements to research:
- Competition analysis: Identify how many barbershops are in your area, what services they offer, their prices, and what differentiates them. Use tools like Google Maps, Yelp UK, and local business directories to analyze local competition.
- Target audience: Define who will be your ideal client: age, socioeconomic level, preferences, and consumption habits. Use Office for National Statistics (ONS) data to understand the demographics of your area.
- Average market prices: Research how much other barbershops charge for similar services in your area. Review websites, social media, and call directly to get pricing information. Typical prices in the UK range from £15-£40 for a haircut, £25-£60 for haircut and beard trim.
- Service demand: Evaluate if there's sufficient demand in the location you're considering. Consider factors like population density, demographic growth, and market trends in cities like London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, or Glasgow.
- Peak hours: Identify when there are more potential clients available. Observe traffic patterns and consider office and nearby university schedules.
Your business plan should include:
- Executive summary: Overview of your business, objectives, and main strategy. Should be concise but complete, ideally 1-2 pages.
- Market and competition analysis: Information about the local market, competitors, and your position. Includes demographic data, market size, and competitive analysis.
- Marketing strategy: How you plan to attract and retain clients. Includes digital, traditional, and public relations strategies.
- Financial projections: Estimates of revenue, expenses, and profitability. Includes 3-5 year projections, break-even analysis, and cash flow.
- Operations plan: How your barbershop will function day to day. Includes schedules, processes, service policies, and quality standards.
- Organizational structure: Define roles, responsibilities, and staff structure. Includes hiring and development plans.
- Risk analysis: Identify possible challenges and how you'll face them. Includes contingency plans and mitigation strategies.
You can find free business plan templates and useful resources at:
Useful tools for market research:
- Google Trends: To analyze search trends and popularity of terms related to barbershops in your area.
- Yelp UK: To analyze competitors, read reviews, and understand what clients are looking for.
- Google My Business Insights: To understand local search behavior and client demographic data.
- Social Media Analytics: Instagram and Facebook Insights to understand your target audience and competition.
- Companies House: To research existing barbershop businesses and their structure.
Legal Requirements and Permits in the United Kingdom
To legally operate a barbershop in the United Kingdom, you need to comply with the following requirements. Each has specific processes and processing times that you should consider. Requirements may vary depending on whether you operate in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, and the local council area.
Business Structure Registration
You need to choose and register your business structure. In the UK, you can operate as:
- Sole Trader: Simplest structure, you're self-employed. Register with HMRC for Self Assessment.
- Partnership: Two or more people running the business together. Register with HMRC.
- Limited Company: Separate legal entity. Must register with Companies House and HMRC.
Where to register:
- Companies House (for limited companies) - online registration available
- HMRC (for all structures) - register for Self Assessment or Corporation Tax
Estimated time: 1-3 days (online) for Companies House, immediate for HMRC Self Assessment
Approximate cost: Free for sole trader/partnership registration, £12-£50 for Companies House registration (online)
HMRC Registration for Tax
You must register with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) for tax purposes. This is mandatory for all businesses.
Required registrations:
- Self Assessment: For sole traders and partners (register by 5 October in your business's second tax year)
- Corporation Tax: For limited companies (register within 3 months of starting business)
- PAYE: If you employ staff (register before first payday)
How to register: Online through GOV.UK
Estimated time: Immediate (online)
Cost: Free
Register for Self Assessment →VAT Registration
You must register for VAT if your annual turnover exceeds £85,000. You can also register voluntarily if your turnover is below this threshold.
When to register: Within 30 days of exceeding the threshold, or voluntarily at any time
How to register: Online through GOV.UK
Estimated time: 1-2 weeks for processing
Cost: Free (but you'll need to charge VAT and submit quarterly returns)
⚠️ Important: Once registered, you must charge VAT on all taxable supplies and submit VAT returns every quarter.
Local Council Business License / Registration
Most local councils require businesses to register or obtain a license. Requirements vary by council area. Some councils require specific licenses for businesses that provide personal services.
Where to apply: Your local council's licensing department
Estimated time: 2-8 weeks (varies by council)
Approximate cost: £0-£500 (varies significantly by council and license type)
Important note: Contact your local council early to understand specific requirements. Some councils may require planning permission if you're changing the use of a property.
Planning Permission
You may need planning permission if you're changing the use of a property (e.g., from residential to commercial) or making significant alterations. Most barbershops in existing commercial premises won't need planning permission, but always check with your local council.
When required: Changing property use, structural alterations, signage (in some areas)
Where to apply: Your local council's planning department
Estimated time: 8-13 weeks for standard applications
Cost: £206-£462 (varies by application type and location)
⚠️ Important: Never sign a lease or purchase agreement without confirming planning requirements. Check with your local council's planning department first.
Health and Safety Compliance
You must comply with health and safety regulations. This includes:
- Risk assessment (required by law if you have 5+ employees, recommended for all)
- Health and Safety Policy (required if you have 5+ employees)
- Compliance with Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations
- Proper hygiene and sanitation practices
- First aid provisions
Environmental Health inspections: Your local council's Environmental Health department may inspect your premises to ensure compliance with hygiene standards.
Cost: Free (but you must invest in proper equipment and training)
Insurance Requirements
You need appropriate insurance coverage:
- Public Liability Insurance: Essential for businesses that interact with the public. Covers claims for injury or property damage. Typically £1-5 million coverage recommended.
- Employer's Liability Insurance: Legally required if you employ staff. Minimum £5 million coverage required by law.
- Contents Insurance: To protect your equipment, furniture, and stock.
- Buildings Insurance: If you own the property (or your lease requires it).
- Business Interruption Insurance: Optional but recommended to cover loss of income.
Approximate cost: £300-£1,500 per year (varies by coverage, location, and business size)
Important: Shop around for insurance quotes. Compare coverage and prices from multiple providers like Hiscox, Simply Business, or Direct Line for Business.
Barber Qualifications
While there's no legal requirement for barbers to have formal qualifications in the UK, having trained barbers with recognized qualifications is highly recommended and often expected by clients. Common qualifications include:
- NVQ Level 2 in Barbering: Basic barbering skills
- NVQ Level 3 in Barbering: Advanced barbering skills and management
- City & Guilds Barbering qualifications
- VTCT (Vocational Training Charitable Trust) qualifications
Training providers: Many colleges and private training academies offer barbering courses across the UK.
Note: While qualifications aren't legally required, having qualified staff improves your business credibility and may be required by some insurance providers.
Estimated Initial Investment
The initial investment to open a barbershop in the United Kingdom can vary significantly depending on size, location, and equipment level. Here's an approximate breakdown in British pounds:
Detailed Breakdown by Category
Rent
Rent varies enormously depending on location. In London and other major cities, costs are significantly higher than in smaller towns.
- London (Central): £2,500 - £6,000 GBP/month
- London (Outer): £1,200 - £3,500 GBP/month
- Major cities (Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds): £800 - £2,500 GBP/month
- Medium cities: £500 - £1,500 GBP/month
- Small towns: £300 - £1,000 GBP/month
Consider: Security deposit (typically 3-6 months), first month's rent, and possible agent fees.
Professional Equipment
Equipment is an important investment. You can find quality equipment at specialized distributors, online retailers, or buy used to save.
- Barber chairs: £400 - £2,000 each
- Mirrors: £150 - £1,200 each
- Professional scissors: £40 - £250 each
- Clippers: £80 - £400 each
- Razors and tools: £150 - £600
- Hair dryers: £60 - £300 each
- Lighting: £200 - £1,200
Purchase options:
Furniture and Decoration
Includes waiting chairs, side tables, shelves, coat racks, decorative elements, and signage.
- Basic: £2,500 - £5,000 GBP
- Intermediate: £5,000 - £8,000 GBP
- Premium: £8,000 - £12,000 GBP
Initial Inventory
Hair products, beard products, disposable tools, towels, and cleaning supplies.
- Hair products (gels, pomades, waxes)
- Beard products (oils, balms)
- Disposable tools (razor blades, towels)
- Cleaning supplies and disinfectants
- Products for customer sales
Recommendation: Start with enough inventory for 2-3 months of operation.
Permits and Legal Procedures
Includes all permits mentioned in the previous section: business registration, HMRC registration, VAT registration (if applicable), council licenses, etc.
Note: Costs can vary significantly depending on location and business structure. See the Legal Requirements section for more details.
Renovations and Improvements
Depends on the condition of the premises. May include:
- Painting and finishes
- Electrical and plumbing installations
- Accessibility modifications (DDA compliance)
- Floor installation, lighting, etc.
Tip: If the premises are already in good condition, this item may be minimal or non-existent.
Working Capital
Money needed to cover operating expenses during the first months while you build your client base. Includes:
- Payroll (if you hire employees)
- Monthly rent
- Utilities (electricity, water, internet, business rates)
- Ongoing marketing
- Inventory replenishment
- Unexpected expenses
Recommendation: Keep enough capital to cover 3-6 months of operation without significant income.
Financing Options
If you don't have all the necessary capital, consider these options:
- Start Up Loans: Government-backed personal loans for starting a business (up to £25,000)
- British Business Bank: Various loan schemes and support for small businesses
- Traditional bank loans: For established businesses or with solid guarantees
- Commercial lines of credit: For working capital
- Equipment leasing: To finance specific equipment
- Investors or partners: To share risk and capital
Note: These are estimated ranges. A small barbershop with basic equipment can start with around £15,000 GBP, while a larger, well-equipped barbershop in a premium location (especially London) may require up to £60,000 GBP or more. Prices can vary significantly depending on geographic location, equipment quality, and premises size.
Strategic Location
Location is one of the most important factors for your barbershop's success. A good location can mean the difference between success and failure. In the United Kingdom, there are multiple platforms and resources to find the perfect location.
Characteristics of a good location:
- High foot traffic: Areas with many people walking increase your business visibility and generate spontaneous clients. Prime locations include high streets, shopping centres, and transport hubs.
- Near offices, universities, or residential areas: Proximity to your target audience makes it easier for them to visit regularly and build a loyal client base.
- Available parking: Many clients arrive by car, especially in suburban areas. Parking is crucial for convenience.
- Good visibility from the street: A visible location with good signage attracts more clients. Consider visibility from different angles and pedestrian flow.
- Safe and well-lit area: Clients prefer places where they feel safe, especially if they visit in the evening.
- Easy access: Consider people with reduced mobility and facilitate access. This is also a legal requirement (Equality Act 2010).
- Proximity to public transportation: In large cities like London, Manchester, or Birmingham, access to tube, buses, or trains can significantly increase your potential client base.
How to evaluate a location:
- Analyze nearby competition: It's not necessarily bad to have competition nearby, but evaluate if the market is saturated. Sometimes, being near other barbershops can create a "barbershop district" that attracts more clients.
- Research the demographic profile: Make sure the area has your target audience. Use Office for National Statistics (ONS) data to understand local demographics.
- Consider rent cost vs. income potential: High rent is only worth it if you can generate enough income. Calculate how many clients you need to cover costs.
- Evaluate accessibility: How clients arrive: public transportation, parking, ease of access, etc.
- Review the location's history: Research what type of businesses have operated there before and why they left (if applicable).
- Consider area growth: Developing areas can offer better long-term opportunities. Check local council development plans.
Where to search for commercial properties:
In the United Kingdom there are multiple platforms specialized in commercial properties. Here are the main ones:
Rightmove Commercial
The largest property platform in the UK. Excellent for finding commercial properties of all sizes and prices across England, Wales, and Scotland.
- Search by location, price, and property type
- Advanced filters to find exactly what you're looking for
- Detailed information about each property
- Direct contact with estate agents
Zoopla Commercial
Another major property platform with comprehensive commercial property listings across the UK.
- Intuitive search interface
- Market data and price estimates
- Interactive map search
- Property alerts
OnTheMarket Commercial
Property portal with commercial listings from leading estate agents across the UK.
- Search by specific location
- Commercial property information
- Direct contact with agents
Gumtree
Popular local platform for finding commercial properties, especially in large cities. May have more economical options and direct owner listings.
- Search by specific city or area
- Direct owner options (no intermediaries)
- More competitive prices in some cases
- Direct contact with owners
Note: Be careful with scams. Always verify the property and owner before making any payment.
Search on Gumtree →Local Estate Agents
Don't overlook local estate agents. They often have properties that aren't listed online and can provide valuable local market knowledge.
- Personalized service and local expertise
- Access to off-market properties
- Negotiation assistance
- Understanding of local market conditions
Tip: Visit or call several estate agents in your target area. Major chains include Savills, Knight Frank, CBRE, and local independent agents.
Key UK Cities for Barbershops:
London
Highest foot traffic but highest rents. Areas like Shoreditch, Camden, Islington, and Clapham are popular for barbershops.
Manchester
Strong market with growing demand. Northern Quarter and city centre are prime locations.
Birmingham
Large market with diverse demographics. City centre and suburbs like Moseley are good options.
Leeds
Growing city with strong student population. City centre and Headingley are popular areas.
Glasgow
Largest city in Scotland. City centre, West End, and Southside are good locations.
Bristol
Vibrant city with strong local economy. Clifton, Stokes Croft, and city centre are popular.
Equipment and Furniture
Quality equipment is essential for providing excellent service. Invest in professional tools that will last and make your barbershop stand out. Here's what you'll need:
Professional Barber Chairs
Barber chairs are the most important element. Look for hydraulic, comfortable, and durable chairs. You'll need at least one per barber.
Estimated price: £400 - £1,500 GBP per unit
Basic chairs from £400. Premium chairs up to £1,500 or more.
Barbershop Mirrors
Large, good quality mirrors are essential. We recommend mirrors of at least 60x90cm, preferably with integrated lighting.
Estimated price: £70 - £400 GBP per unit
Basic mirrors from £70. LED mirrors from £150.
Professional Scissors
Invest in professional quality scissors. Each barber will need at least one pair of cutting scissors and one pair of texturizing scissors.
Estimated price: £40 - £250 GBP per pair
Basic scissors from £40. Professional Japanese or German scissors from £120.
Hair Clippers
Professional clippers are essential. Look for recognized brands like Wahl, Andis, or Oster. Each barber will need at least one main clipper.
Estimated price: £30 - £350 GBP per unit
Basic clippers from £30. Professional clippers from £150.
Hair and Beard Products
Initial inventory of products: gels, pomades, waxes, beard oils, aftershave lotions, etc.
Estimated price: £250 - £750 GBP (initial inventory)
Depends on variety and brands. Includes products for service use and sale.
Note: For a barbershop with 2-3 barbers, basic equipment can cost between £6,000 and £25,000 GBP, depending on whether you choose economical or professional options. Invest in quality equipment from the start, as it's a long-term investment that will directly affect the quality of your service.
Staff Hiring
Hiring experienced barbers with appropriate qualifications is essential for your barbershop's success. A good team can make your business stand out and generate loyal clients. In the United Kingdom, while formal qualifications aren't legally required, having qualified staff improves credibility.
Important aspects to consider:
- Qualifications: While not legally required, look for barbers with NVQ Level 2/3 in Barbering or equivalent qualifications. This demonstrates professional training.
- Experience and portfolio: Review previous work and ask for references from clients or previous employers.
- Technical skills: Evaluate their knowledge of cutting techniques, shaving, and current trends. Consider conducting a practical test.
- Professional attitude: A good barber doesn't just cut well, they also know how to treat clients and maintain a positive atmosphere.
- Availability and flexibility: Define clear schedules and make sure they can meet them. Consider if you need staff for weekends or extended hours.
- Payment structure: Clearly define commissions, base salary (if applicable), bonuses, and how tips will be handled.
- Personality and cultural fit: Make sure the barber fits with the culture and values of your barbershop.
Employment obligations in the United Kingdom:
When hiring employees in the United Kingdom, you must comply with several legal obligations:
- Right to work check: Verify that employees have the right to work in the UK. Check passports, visas, or other documents.
- PAYE registration: Register with HMRC for PAYE (Pay As You Earn) before the first payday.
- National Insurance: Deduct National Insurance contributions from employee salaries.
- Pension auto-enrolment: If eligible, automatically enrol employees in a workplace pension scheme.
- Employment contract: Provide a written statement of employment particulars within 2 months of starting.
- Minimum wage: Pay at least the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage (depending on age).
- Holiday entitlement: Provide at least 5.6 weeks of paid holiday per year (pro-rated for part-time).
- Employer's Liability Insurance: Legally required - minimum £5 million coverage.
Where to find barbers:
Local barbering colleges and academies
Contact local colleges that offer barbering courses. They often have job boards or can recommend recent graduates.
Social media and networking
Use Instagram, Facebook groups, or LinkedIn to find barbers. Many barbers showcase their work on social media.
Management System and Technology
A good management system is essential for organizing appointments, managing clients, and running your barbershop efficiently. Modern technology can save you time and improve the customer experience.
Essential features to look for:
- Online booking system: Allow clients to book appointments 24/7 through your website or app
- Client management: Store client information, preferences, and service history
- Automatic reminders: Send SMS or email reminders to reduce no-shows
- Calendar management: View and manage all appointments in one place
- Staff scheduling: Manage barber schedules and availability
- Payment processing: Accept card payments and track transactions
- Reports and analytics: Track revenue, popular services, and client trends
Other technology considerations:
- Point of Sale (POS) system: For processing card payments and tracking sales
- Accounting software: Consider using software like Xero, QuickBooks, or FreeAgent to manage finances
- Wi-Fi: Essential for both your business operations and providing a good experience for clients
- Security system: CCTV and alarm systems to protect your premises and equipment
Marketing and Promotion
Effective marketing is crucial to attract clients and build your barbershop's reputation. In today's digital age, a strong online presence combined with local marketing strategies is essential.
Digital marketing strategies:
- Website: Create a professional website with your services, prices, location, and online booking. Consider using platforms like WordPress, Squarespace, or hiring a web designer.
- Google My Business: Register and optimize your Google My Business profile to appear in local searches and Google Maps. This is free and essential for local visibility.
- Social media: Create profiles on Instagram and Facebook. Post regularly with photos of your work, behind-the-scenes content, and promotions. Instagram is particularly important for barbershops.
- Google Ads: Consider running Google Ads targeted to your local area to appear at the top of search results.
- Facebook Ads: Target potential clients in your area with Facebook advertising. You can target by location, age, interests, etc.
- Email marketing: Build an email list and send promotions, reminders, and updates to clients.
Traditional marketing strategies:
- Opening promotions: Offer discounts for the first week or month (e.g., 50% off first haircut)
- Referral program: Offer discounts to clients who refer friends
- Local partnerships: Partner with nearby businesses (gyms, cafes, etc.) for cross-promotion
- Flyers and posters: Distribute flyers in the local area and display posters in your window
- Local press: Contact local newspapers or magazines for coverage of your opening
Opening event ideas:
- Grand opening with special discounts
- Free haircuts for the first 10 clients
- Raffle or competition (e.g., win a year of free haircuts)
- Live music or entertainment
- Refreshments and snacks
- Invite local influencers or bloggers
Tips and Best Practices for Success
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to open a barbershop in the UK?
There's no national barbering license required in the UK, but you may need a business license from your local council. You also need to register your business with HMRC and comply with health and safety regulations. While barbers don't legally need qualifications, having qualified staff improves credibility.
How much does it cost to open a barbershop in the UK?
The initial investment can range from £15,000 to £60,000 GBP depending on size, location, and equipment quality. A small barbershop with basic equipment can start around £15,000, while a larger, premium barbershop in London may require £60,000 or more.
Do I need to register for VAT?
You must register for VAT if your annual turnover exceeds £85,000. You can also register voluntarily if your turnover is below this threshold. Once registered, you must charge VAT on taxable supplies and submit quarterly returns.
What insurance do I need?
You need Public Liability Insurance (essential for businesses that interact with the public) and Employer's Liability Insurance (legally required if you employ staff, minimum £5 million coverage). You may also want Contents Insurance and Business Interruption Insurance.
How long does it take to set up a barbershop?
The setup process can take 2-3 months from start to finish. This includes finding a location, completing legal registrations, obtaining permits, setting up the premises, purchasing equipment, and hiring staff. Some steps can be done in parallel to speed up the process.