Marcus Bell built a barbershop where the haircut is only half the reason people come back.
We sat down with Marcus Bell, owner of Northside Barber Co. in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to talk about how the business started, what sets it apart, and what Marcus has learned along the way.
How did you get started?
I cut hair in my parents’ basement through high school. After ten years in other people’s chairs, I opened Northside with one other barber and a secondhand chair.
What makes your business different?
We book every cut for a full half hour. No rushing. People tell us things they don’t tell anyone else.
What was the hardest lesson so far?
Cash flow in the first winter. January is quiet and I wasn’t ready for it.
What advice would you give another owner?
Know your slow months before you sign a lease, and save for them.
What’s next for you?
Training two apprentices this year. I want to give people the start I had to find on my own.
Featured North interviews small business owners across North America. Want Northside Barber Co. on your radar? Visit them in Winnipeg.
