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Redefining the Barbershop Experience: Legends Barbershop Breaks the Mold

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When you hear the words ‘barbershop,’ images of a humble backyard setup or a small salon with a few chairs is likely to come to mind. But Legends Barbershop shatters those expectations, elevating the traditional barbershop experience to new heights. This pioneering establishment redefines the norms, offering an unparalleled level of style, sophistication, and service.

In the vibrant heart of South Africa, Sheldon Tatchell’s visionary dream took shape. What began as a modest, small shop would eventually blossom into a powerhouse, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

How it started

From humble beginnings, Tatchell’s entrepreneurial journey began on the stoep of his cousin’s internet cafe in Eldorado Park, South Africa, where he cut hair with a vision to rise above the township’s limitations.

“I was 14 years old when I turned to barbering as a way to escape the reality of poverty that surrounded me,” said Tatchell in a Facebook post.

 After six years with Standard Bank as an account management consultant, Tatchell decided to follow the passion of his youth which was cutting hair. It’s a skill he developed as a teenager, learning from another barber. Legends Barber was then born in 2011 in Eldorado Park and found its name from serving the elderly during their Corporate social responsibilty runs.

The Legends team would make their way to the old age home every second week to cut the senior citizen’s hair there. At that time, the barbershop was nameless, and while cutting hair at the old age home the realization was that they were cutting the hair of legends in the community and the name of the barbershop was born.

However, the joy of having started something did not last long as the barber was closed down the following year after he left it in the care of his business partner while he was away on a honeymoon. This did not deter the owner because he persevered and began doing house calls on his scooter, driving up to 40km to service his customer base by offering them haircuts in the comfort of their homes, which enabled him to later relaunch the barbershop in the same neighborhood as before.

In 2015 the shop expanded to two stores which turned into three the following year – totaling the branches to three. In 2017 Tatchell not only launched another store but also introduced a mobile bus in order to bring barber services to communities with limited access to traditional barbershops.

In an Instagram post Tatchell said the idea of the bus came to him after he had arrived at a clients’ home and failed to provide his services due to load shedding.

“That moment on my way home the idea came to mind.

“A bus that would be self-powered by electricity, with special features to keep customers entertained whilst getting their services rendered. I immediately drew up the concept on a paper and features it should have,” he wrote.

All that blood, sweat and tears finally reaped the rewards when Legends opened another store in 2018 and was rated the number one barbershop in South Africa.

By 2021 Legends barber had launched about 30 more stores culminating to 60 stores all over the African continent. In 2022 the Legends products were now being sold in big retail stores such as Dischem and Clicks. To date the brand has over 70 stores, 630 barbers, and a haircare line.

Where it’s going

Tatchell has ambitious plans to change the African grooming landscape, aiming to open approximately 200 stores by 2025. This strategic expansion will solidify Legends Barbershop’s position as a continental leader, catering to the growing demand for quality grooming services.

Legends Barbershop has not only established itself as the leading barbershop in South Africa as rated by the African Hair Awards Council, but has also grown its footprint outside local borders as far afield as Botswana and Lesotho. Tatchell also has his sights set on West Africa after a visit to Ghana.

The Botswana franchise was launched by Kealeboga Gaelebale, also known as Dj Kells in the entertainment industry, who serves as the Director of Legends Barbershop, Botswana. Gaelebale oversees three strategically located branches: Hillside Mall and Sarona City Mall in Gaborone, and Riverview Mall in Palapye. The franchise also opened an express store at the University of Botswana in Gaborone.

Corporate social responsibility

Tatchell’s vision for Legends Barbershop extends beyond mere expansion; he also aims to empower African youth through training and mentorship programs and to this end he has launched the Legends Training and Development Centre in Johannesburg, where aspirant barbers can hone their skills and learn important life skills to succeed.

The graduates from the Legends Training Centre will have the opportunity to be employed in one of the many Legends Barbershops around the country.

Legends Barbershop is dedicated to making a positive impact beyond its successful business. The team regularly visits elderly homes, providing free grooming services, companionship, and health checks to promote dignity and self-esteem. These visits also help combat loneliness, addressing hygiene and skincare concerns.

In addition, Legends Barbershop takes to the streets to offer complimentary haircuts and grooming to the homeless. They distribute essential care packages, including toiletries, clothing, and food, and connect individuals with local support services and resources.

The brand is also committed to empowering local entrepreneurs in struggling communities. By providing equipment and tools, mentorship, training, and business guidance, Legends Barbershop fosters economic growth and self-sufficiency.

Through these initiatives, Legends Barbershop demonstrates its commitment to social responsibility, community engagement, and promoting equality. Tatchell’s vision extends beyond the barbershop, striving to build stronger, more compassionate communities.

The male grooming shop has attracted its fair share of local celebrities, from soccer players to DJs and hip-hop stars. But it doesn’t stop there, ASAP Bari, Usher and Dj Supernova also got their grooming done at Legends Barbershop and this is a testament of how a dream can become reality.

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