New 'barber bar' set to launch three North East sites as restrictions are trimmed

A new barber and bar has announced plans to open three locations across the North East as lockdown restrictions lift next week.

Head Quarters Barbers & Beverages, which provides a self-serve bar to its hairdressing customers, will open stores in Bishop Auckland, Darlington and Middlesbrough on Monday (12 April).

The new stores will create 30 jobs, and will be open seven days a week.

Each store will feature leather Chesterfield sofas, traditional personalised barber chairs and a self-serve bar where customers can pull themselves a chilled beer.

Mike Racz, owner of Head Quarters, commented: “We looked at all the frustrations customers face when going to the barbers, and how we could make Head Quarters different.

“Our mission is to bring one of the oldest professions into the 21st century, by introducing new technology across the board from booking systems to the shop floor.”

“We have booking available via our app, with live waiting times which can be seen as you drive past – so you will always know when the next barber is free - along with a freshly pulled beer or a coffee on arrival. We want customers to feel at home - it’s our living room and you are always welcome.”

Richard Bland, HQ’s managing director, said: “When I heard about this new business idea, I knew I had to be part of it.

“We’ve had a lot of fun – mixed with a lot of hard work – to perfect what we want to be an exciting change to the way barbers are run.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer 30 jobs across our first three salons. We will also be offering conversion courses for hairdressers wishing to work for HQ - working for us will be a career, not just a job.”

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