A name so well known across the city, Barrie Stephen Hair is celebrating 25 years of incredible activity this week.
Critics told him big-city trends wouldn’t work in the sleepy village of Anstey, but Barrie Stephen defied all expectations by creating a luxury brand that supported the region’s regeneration. Subsequently, it opened three more salons and a collaborative hair salon across the city and county during its quarter-century success story.
Barrie opened its first salon on 4e November 1996 with the support of a commercial loan from the Sir Thomas White Charity. He is now a patron of the Fund, encouraging young people to follow in his footsteps and exercise their entrepreneurial spirit. “It’s really important to give back to the community that has supported me over the years” said Barrie. “In 25 years, I am proud to have supported 25 charities, raising hundreds of thousands of pounds for good causes in Leicestershire.” More recently this has included fundraising as an ambassador for Leicester Animal Aid, but in the past Barrie and her team have raised money to help women’s shelters and other local charities.
Barrie Stephen Hair has also caught the attention of its industry, being recognized with an incredible number of accolades over the years. Salons, the team, and Barrie himself have received nearly 100 national awards – from top nationwide salon group to Business Person of the Year.
As in the past 18 months, as lounges closed during the lockdown, Barrie has made protecting the jobs of the 50 people it employs its priority. However, throughout his career, Barrie has always been known for acting responsibly – putting his team and clients first. Their group of salons have regularly used mandatory skin tests for hair coloring services for almost 15 years, and they are also pioneers in sustainable, eco-friendly and vegan hair products.
Barrie looks forward to another 25 years of giving back to the people of Leicestershire – starting with cupcakes and sparkles to celebrate with her customers in the Anstey Lounge on Thursday afternoon!
Learn more about Barrie Stephen on the Salon Group website.
