Fast forward seven years, and that vision has evolved beyond what I could have ever imagined. Today, Crate Cheshire spans three thriving barbershops, a Barbering Academy that trains the next generation of industry talent and now, two brand-new projects that represent the future of flexible working in hair: Pro Space Agency and Crate Manchester, which is my first co-working barbershop space that opened in December 2025. The journey to this point, however, hasn’t been linear. In early 2025, I faced one of my biggest business challenges yet, but it completely reshaped the way I lead, operate and think about the industry – for the better!
When the March 2025 Budget hit, it brought sharp rises in costs across the board, from National Insurance to operational overheads. Like many salon owners, I was faced with a difficult choice: Raise prices (and risk losing loyal clients) or freeze pay (and risk morale).
Neither sat right with me. Crate Cheshire was built on fairness and trust. So instead, I decided to introduce a hybrid employment model.
Experienced barbers were given the opportunity to move to self-employment, enabling them to increase their take-home pay while continuing to benefit from Crate’s facilities, brand and culture. Meanwhile, newer barbers could stay employed, building confidence and clientele with support and stability.
This move was about future-proofing. I wanted every team member to feel empowered, whichever path they chose, but one of my biggest fears was losing the strong ‘team mentality’ that defined Crate. To counter that, I doubled down on what I call ‘The Seven C’s’.
These are the values that underpin everything we do: Culture, Career, Commerciality, Collaboration, Compassion, Community and Communication.
I introduced weekly business mentoring sessions for our self-employed barbers, offering guidance on finances, time management and mental wellbeing. We continue to host team days and trips, and everyone (regardless of employment status), still has a voice in how Crate operates.
This shift in mindset also sparked a new idea, and one that’s now become a stand-alone business: Pro Space Agency. Pro Space Agency is a platform designed to connect barbers and hairdressers looking for a chair with salons and studios offering spaces to rent. Essentially, it’s about helping professionals find their next home, whether that’s for a few days a week or a long-term base. It’s a solution born from experience that many self-employed hairdressers and barbers face. Navigating the world of self-employment can be isolating for many, and it can be very difficult to find the right space.
Pro Space Agency bridges that gap, making flexible working even more accessible. In December 2025, I also opened Crate Manchester, Crate’s first-ever co-working hair and creative space. It’s designed for independent barbers, stylists and freelancers who want all the benefits of a premium environment, without the traditional salon structure.
Think flexible chair rental, shared learning and community – all wrapped up in the Crate ethos. It’s the natural next step in our mission to build spaces where creative people can thrive. There aren’t many co-working spaces which have been developed specifically for barbers, and I’m excited to see what 2026 holds for Crate Manchester.
Looking back, transforming Crate from a traditional employment model into a multifaceted, future-facing business wasn’t easy, but it’s certainly been an incredibly rewarding chapter of my career. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that leadership isn’t about holding on tight; it’s about knowing when to let go, trust your people and grow together.
