Member Article

Northumberland entrepreneur launches first barbershop of planned American-style chain

A teenage passion for cutting hair and a dream of running his own business has led 25 year old Steven Ong to open Stevie Cuts, a barbershop that he plans will be the first of a chain across the North East.

Steven, who lives in Prudhoe, Northumberland, has opened Stevie Cuts in premises at the Infinity Fitness Gym in Lead Road, Greenside, Ryton, but has ambitious plans for the future.

The chain he plans will include a number of American-style barber shops where customers can also play pool, relax and have a drink.

Stevie Cuts opened just a few weeks ago but is already building up a loyal clientele, not only in the local area but also from as far afield as Newcastle and Morpeth. Members of the gym and players from Ryton Rugby Football Club have welcomed the new shop.

Customers, aged from just one right up to 87, are asking for everything from the very latest styles, including patterns and cut-outs, to more traditional trims.

“Men today are much more grooming-conscious,” said Steven. “Some are coming in every week just to make sure that their style stays looking at its sharpest and there is also a demand for eyebrow trims, colours and wet shaves.”

“I am really pleased that we are doing so well. Customers are recommending us which is great.

“I am opening from 10 am to 8 pm so that it is convenient for after work, for people using the gym and for ‘Lads and Dads’ who are coming in together.”

Steven has invested his savings in refurbishing, equipping the shop and stocking high quality products.

“I am really confident about my business and plans for the future,” he said. “I have always loved the creative side of cutting hair and I started doing my own, family and friends when I was about 15.

“Although I started in the building trade when I left school I knew this was what I really wanted to do so I went to the SB Barbering Academy where I was given a fantastic training.”

Steven completed an Enterprise Course with the youth charity The Prince’s Trust to learn about running his own business. Alongside him was his 23 year old girlfriend Annesha Parkinson who has just opened her own dance school in Prudhoe.

“It’s really good that we are both young and running our own businesses,” he said, “We can talk a lot of things over and we understand about having to work long hours and put the businesses first.

“Annesha, my family and friends have all been a fantastic support with Stevie Cuts and growing a successful chain of barbershops is one way that I can repay them for their help and faith in me.”