How barbershop chains built global grooming businesses
Standardized operations, technology adoption, and customer experience have helped many barbershop brands expand from local businesses into international franchise networks with hundreds or even thousands of locations.
The global men's grooming market is expanding, prompting many prominent barbershop brands to expand their reach beyond quality haircuts. These companies utilize standardized training, digital technology, and customer-centric service methodologies to scale across various markets. Notable brands include Great Clips, founded in the U.S. in 1982, which operates over 4,400 salons in the U.S. and Canada, performing approximately 90 million haircuts each year.
The company's consistent service standards and efficient operations, aided by an early online check-in system, have contributed to its success. Supercuts, another major North American brand, owns more than 1,800 locations across the U.S., Canada, and the U.K., focusing on affordability, accessibility, and digital appointment scheduling.
Sport Clips Haircuts, also a U.S.-based chain, has established nearly 1,800 stores catering to men and boys, distinguishing itself through sports-themed decor, a signature "MVP" grooming service, and uniform barber training. Floyd's 99 Barbershop, with over 140 locations across the U.S., merges the ambiance of a classic barbershop with contemporary salon services in a rock-and-roll-themed setting.
Toni&Guy, established in London in 1963, has grown into a globally recognized premium salon brand, managing over 600 salons in approximately 45 countries. The company also operates professional academies, offers haircare products, and provides training programs. Asian brands have also made significant strides in building extensive grooming businesses by customizing their services to local preferences.
Japan's QB House introduced the 10-minute haircut concept, streamlining operations to provide swift, budget-friendly services across more than 700 locations, primarily in transit hubs, commercial centers, and office districts. Similarly, 3QCut operates over 280 locations in Japan, Singapore, and Hong Kong, focusing on quick and convenient haircuts.
In China, Yongqi Beauty & Hair has developed a network of over 1,000 salons using a blend of company-owned stores and franchising, integrating salon services with digital management, online scheduling, and membership schemes. India's Jawed Habib Hair & Beauty has expanded to more than 900 locations, becoming one of the country's largest salon chains by combining salon operations with professional education and leveraging the reputation of founder Jawed Habib, a renowned hairstylist in India.
Among newer players, East West Barbershop (Dong Tay Barbershop) has swiftly risen as one of Asia's fastest-growing grooming brands, with over 130 locations in Vietnam and select markets in Thailand, China, Europe, and the U.S. The company has implemented an "Experiential Barbershop" model, incorporating amenities like children's play areas, billiard tables, pianos, reading nooks, and other features alongside traditional grooming services.
This growth can be attributed to standardized franchise operations, thorough barber training, and community initiatives, including vocational education and charitable work. Despite their diverse operational models and customer bases, these brands share common strategies such as standardized training, digital tools like online booking and customer management systems, and a focus on exceptional customer experiences. These elements have become crucial in the development of contemporary grooming businesses.
Written by urgent.news from VnExpress Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
