Based in Manchester, the innovative barber app Appacut has achieved a significant milestone by hosting more professional barbers than any other high-street chain in the UK. Launched just last year, the platform has become a powerhouse in connecting independent, fully mobile barbers and stylists with clients, facilitating the establishment of successful online businesses free from the high costs associated with running a physical shop.
The success of Appacut is underscored by its unique business model; the company does not employ barbers directly but instead, functions similarly to Uber or Airbnb by not owning the primary resources it offers. This strategy has enabled a rapid rise in the barbering industry.
The app’s design ensures customers can easily book home services with just a few clicks—ideal for those short on time or those preferring not to travel. The potential for earnings on the platform is substantial, with guarantees of double or triple the income barbers might achieve in traditional settings, depending on their level of activity.
Michael Lawes of Appacut commented on the trend towards convenient service delivery: “Consumers now want to access their essential services at the click of a button. And if possible, they want the service brought to them. You only have to take a look at the rise of apps like Just Eat, Deliveroo and Uber for evidence of that. Appacut is the barbering and hairdressing sector’s answer to this changing demand. Here in the UK, we pay for more than 360 million haircuts every year, so the demand is staggering. Our unique app gives customers the ability to browse dozens of barbers and stylists in their area and choose the one that most closely matches their preferences. That’s a process that requires just four clicks.”
CTO Jordan Ryan Madeley further explains the pivotal role of technology in their service: “The barber visits the customer’s home at the specified time – equipped with everything required for a successful hair-styling appointment. The professional slashes their operating overheads, and the client doesn’t have to venture into a High Street or worry about travel expenses. High Street rents and utility bills are at an all-time high in the UK, so Appacut is proving increasingly popular among independent barbers and business owners looking for ways to boost their profitability.”
Appacut is particularly popular in Manchester, attracting VIPs and celebrities who appreciate the privacy and convenience offered by the service. The company is currently seeking further investment to expand its reach across the UK and internationally.
