After thirty years at the helm of the Barrie Stephen Hair group, Founder Barrie Stephen has seen the hairdressing landscape evolve through many challenges. Yet, even he admits that nothing has reshaped the industry quite like the post-pandemic exodus to self-employment.
Across the UK, thousands of stylists sought independence after Covid and, in response, many salon owners pivoted to hybrid or self-employed models to survive. But not Barrie. Alongside his business partner, Joachim, Barrie stepped back, reflected deeply and assessed, without fear or ego, how the business should evolve next. Their conclusion? Not everyone wants to be self-employed, and the future of their brand would be built on the same foundations that had always served them: Culture, brand identity and an unwavering commitment to exceptional client experience.
“While we fully recognise the advantages of self-employment for some,” Barrie reflects. “For us, it continually comes back to our brand culture.”
For three decades, Barrie Stephen Hair has been synonymous with red-carpet, glamorous, beautiful hair. A signature style that has helped the company expand to four thriving salons across Leicestershire. But the true secret? A laser focus on what happens behind the chair.
“Our success is fundamentally due to our focus on the client experience. That’s what has made the Barrie Stephen brand award-winning with an incredible 58 local and national accolades,” Barrie explains. “This is achieved through the training and development of a team focused on a single vision.”
Many of Barrie’s team members have been with him for decades, forming an enviable backbone of experience, loyalty and culture. And those who have left? Barrie carries immense pride, not resentment, for their success. “It gives me great satisfaction to see many of the successful salons around us owned by people who came from BSH and ventured out on their own,” he says warmly.
“Leslie Spears once taught me, ‘You left your boss to follow your own destiny, and others will leave you – it’s part of the evolution of the industry.’” This generosity of spirit is one of Barrie’s hallmarks as a leader.
In a marketplace where trends shift fast and many chase shortcuts, Barrie’s philosophy is refreshingly grounded. “A brand is not a logo,” he says. “It comes with heritage, promise, quality, a system and the dedication and discipline to professional standards. These values shape our culture – it’s how we live and work every day.” His team’s training and ongoing development reflect this commitment. BSH stylists have access to advanced academy courses, Colour Masters in Italy and in-house development programmes. “The demand for the BSH experience is high,” Barrie adds. “And with stylists wanting faster results, it’s imperative that we develop exceptional skills and knowledge.”
One of the biggest shifts Barrie has observed isn’t about hairdressing at all; it’s about life. “Life pressures have changed,” he says. “We now feel the need to support the team in more than just hairdressing skills.” To meet this need, Barrie Stephen Hair now incorporates resilience coaching, life skills development and emotional wellbeing support into its people strategy. “We have a sharp focus on performance behind the chair, and how that translates to lifestyle and career goals.”
✔ Stay true to your brand identity.
✔ Build a culture of excellence.
✔ Invest in people relentlessly.
✔ Accept evolution with grace.
✔ Lead with heart, honesty and high standards.
