The rise of pop-up barber shops

Barber shaving client

If you’re a freelance barber in the UK looking to grow your business, reach new clients, and stand out in a competitive market — you’re in the right place. The male grooming industry is thriving, with UK market value estimated at £8–9 billion and forecast to grow rapidly in the coming years (Grand View Research).

With 58% of men visiting a barber regularly — typically every 2 to 6 weeks (Modern Barber) — there’s no question that demand is strong. But in a world where customers, particularly younger audiences, expect speed, convenience, and experience, traditional setups aren’t always enough.

That’s where pop-up barber shops come in.

Flexible, eye-catching, and perfect for today’s mobile lifestyle, pop-ups are opening up new opportunities for barbers to showcase their craft, build a loyal following, and take their business directly to where the customers are — from festivals to train stations and everything in between.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a fresh way to grow, pop-up barbering could be the game-changing move you’ve been waiting for. Let’s explore what makes pop-ups so popular, where they work best, and how you can tap into this fast-growing trend.

 

What is a pop-up barber shop?

A pop-up barber shop is essentially a temporary grooming space set up in a high-footfall area for a limited time. Unlike traditional barbershops with fixed locations and long leases, pop-ups are flexible, fast-moving, and adaptable, perfect for freelance barbers who want to get out there and make an impact.

You might find pop-up barbers:

  • In retail units or shopping centres (think kiosks or corner booths)
  • At festivals, fashion shows or sporting events
  • Inside trendy clothing shops or co-working spaces
  • Operating out of custom-fitted vans or trailers
  • Even at train stations or airports

It’s all about bringing the barber to the people, instead of waiting for them to come to you.

 

Why are pop-up barber shops so popular right now?

The popularity of pop-up barbering isn’t just a passing trend – it’s a reflection of shifting customer expectations and barbering culture. Here’s why they’re hot right now:

 

1. Convenience

Modern clients are always on the go. They love services that fit around their lifestyle and getting a tidy trim while waiting for a train or shopping can fit in well.

 

2. Lower overheads

Pop-ups can save you thousands compared to renting a traditional shop. You can trial locations without long-term commitment, making it a brilliant option for barbers just starting out.

 

3. Brand building on the move

A well-branded pop-up can turn heads. It’s a great way to get your name out there, collect reviews, and build a loyal customer base — especially if you offer a top-tier experience.

 

4. Cultural cool

Pop-ups tap into the “experience economy” — where people value not just the service, but the vibe. A stylish, mobile setup says you’re modern, agile, and in the know.

 

Best places to set up a pop-up barber shop in the UK

When it comes to running a successful pop-up barber shop, location is everything. You want to be where the people are and more importantly, where people are waiting around, browsing, or open to an impulse service. The right spot can mean the difference between a quiet day and a fully booked one. So, what makes a great pop-up location?

  • High foot traffic: More people = more potential clients
  • A captive audience: Places where people are stuck or have time to kill are gold
  • Targeted demographics: Think young professionals, students, shoppers, people who care about looking sharp and value convenience

Here are some of the best types of locations to consider for your next pop-up:

Train stations

Busy railway hubs are perfect for catching people on the move – especially commuters, business travellers, or tourists who want to look tidy before reaching their destination. Many are rushing to or from work and appreciate a quick tidy-up on the go. The combination of high visibility and constant footfall makes these a lucrative spot.

 

Shopping centres

Shopping centres attract people who are already in the mindset to spend – and grooming fits right in. These spaces usually have long dwell times, are weatherproof (always a bonus in the UK!), and provide everything from casual shoppers to entire families, meaning a diverse and ready-to-pay audience. A sharp, well-branded setup stands out in these environments.

 

Markets

Whether it’s a trendy street market or a more traditional indoor one, markets are all about discovery – and a stylish barber setup can be a real crowd-puller. People go to markets for unique experiences, and a pop-up fits right into that. It’s also a great way to test out different parts of a city without committing long-term.

 

Universities & student unions

Students love convenience – and let’s be honest, many could do with a regular haircut. Uni campuses and student unions are buzzing hubs, especially during term time. Offering affordable trims in a social environment (think Freshers’ Week or before big nights out) can help build loyalty fast and generate word-of-mouth buzz.

 

Festivals & events

Festivals, car shows, beer festivals, sporting events are full of people who are out to enjoy themselves and are often happy to spend on impulse. Pop-up barbers at these events stand out, especially when offering beard tidy-ups, fades or styling. You’ve got a concentrated audience, loads of energy, and great potential for branding.

 

Beach towns in summer

Seaside spots like Brighton or Newquay are packed in the warmer months. Visitors are relaxed, open to new experiences, and want to look good while they’re away. Offering walk-in trims or beard line-ups by the beach? That’s the kind of holiday story people remember (and post about online).

 

Corporate offices or co-working spaces

White-collar professionals often struggle to fit in a trim during the working week, especially in cities. Popping up in or near offices during lunchtime or after-hours offers a super convenient service with minimal disruption to their day. Plus, employers love providing perks, so you may even strike up corporate deals.

 

Pop-up retail units or containers

Specialist retail parks like Boxpark or Pop Brixton are purpose-built for pop-up culture. These locations offer a built-in footfall and a crowd who are looking for unique, Instagrammable services. They also tend to be in trendy areas with a creative vibe, making them ideal for brand-conscious barbers.

 

Salons/Barbers

Some salons and established barbershops offer chair rental by the day or week, allowing you to operate a semi-permanent pop-up without the cost or commitment of a full lease. This is perfect if you want flexibility, are testing a new area, or want to expand your reach without opening a second location.

 

What you need to get started

Launching a pop-up barber shop doesn’t mean cutting corners. Here’s what you’ll need:

Portable kit: Quality clippers, chair, mirror, lighting — all lightweight and mobile.

Licences: Check with your local council for permissions to operate.

Insurance: A specialist mobile barbers’ insurance is essential financial protection for your services.

Booking system: Apps like Fresha, Booksy or even Instagram DMs can work.

Payment tools: Contactless reader – most will expect to pay by card/contactless.

Branding: A sharp name, signage, and uniform make all the difference.

Health & Safety: Hygiene is crucial – you will need a procedure and equipment as necessary.

Promotion plan: Post online in local Facebook groups, tag locations, use reels.

Pricing and costs: Plan what you’re going to charge based on your costs and reasonable local rates.

 

How much to charge as a mobile barber?

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are a few key factors that can help you set your prices confidently and competitively, while still turning a solid profit.

Look at the local competition

Before anything else, take a good look at what other barbers in your area are charging, both traditional shops and mobile ones. Use Google, Instagram, and booking apps like Fresha or Booksy to scope out:

  • What’s the going rate for a skin fade, beard trim, or full grooming package?
  • Are other mobile barbers charging more for convenience?
  • Do they charge extra for home visits or weekend appointments?

If you’re offering something unique (like pop-up locations, creative cuts, or premium service), don’t be afraid to position yourself in the upper-middle range — especially if you back it up with branding and experience.

Consider regional variations

Pricing can vary massively depending on where you are in the UK. A fade in London might cost nearly double what it does in Cardiff and clients in some cities are used to paying more for convenience or style.

Here’s a rough guide to average starting prices for a standard men’s haircut by city:

<tablestyle=”height: 264px;” border=””2″” width=”635″>

CityTypical Mobile/Pop-Up Rate (Standard Cut)London£25 – £45+Manchester£20 – £30Birmingham£18 – £28Bristol£20 – £30Brighton£22 – £35Edinburgh£20 – £32Cardiff£18 – £25Belfast£17 – £25

 

Don’t forget your costs

Your pricing isn’t just about what clients will pay it also needs to cover your costs and still leave you with a profit. Make sure you factor in:

  • Equipment (clippers, mirror, chair, lighting)
  • Licensing & insurance
  • Transport or fuel
  • Rental or pitch fees (if operating from a retail unit or market)
  • Marketing (flyers, social media boosts)
  • Time — including setup, pack-down, and travel

Even if your kit is already sorted, things like blade replacements, cleaning supplies, or upgrading your gear all eat into your bottom line. Be smart: build a buffer into your prices to keep things sustainable.

Create tiered pricing

Offering tiered packages (e.g. “Quick Trim – £18”, “Full Service – £30”, “Deluxe Cut & Beard – £40”) gives clients more choice and encourages upsells. It also helps you appeal to different budgets without compromising your brand.

 

Tips for your pop-up success

  • Team up with local businesses, like cafés or gyms
  • Offer a launch deal or loyalty card to keep clients coming back
  • Set up in a way that’s Instagram-friendly – people love sharing unique experiences
  • Collect reviews on the spot (Google, Trustpilot or social media)
  • Bring a mate to help with bookings, walk-ins, or just general crowd control
  • Be adaptable, learn what works, adjust your timing and pricing as you go

 

The future of mobile barbering

The future of barbering is all about flexibility, mobility, and personality. Pop-up shops let you showcase your brand, sharpen your skills, and build real connections, without being tied down to one location.

And let’s face it: clients are loving the convenience. Whether it’s a last-minute tidy-up before a meeting or a fresh fade before hitting a festival, pop-up barbers are filling a gap that traditional shops can’t always cover.

Secure your services with Barber Insurance from Protectivity

There’s a lot to enjoy about becoming a self-employed mobile barber or running your own pop-up barber shop. It offers freedom, flexibility, and the chance to grow your brand on your own terms. But like any small business venture, there can be challenges along the way and in some cases, unexpected setbacks could end up costing you a significant amount of money.

The smartest way to protect yourself from financial risks is with specialist barber insurance or barber shop insurance.

At Protectivity we provide cover for hundreds of skilled barbers across the UK. With our affordable policies, you can safeguard your business against the loss, theft or damage of your equipment, as well as accidental damage caused while working in a client’s home or temporary venue. Mobile Barber Insurance starts from just a few pounds a month.

Take two minutes today to get a quick quote online and make sure your business is properly protected.

Get Barber Shop Insurance from Protectivity

Barber shaving a client's head

 

*Disclaimer – This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation. Information is factually accurate at the time of publishing but may have become out of date. 

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