Veteran barber Simon Bou-Samra, who is the owner of Bou’s for Men stores on Edward Street in the CBD, Logan, and Portside Wharf in Hamilton, says more and more men are looking for an experience rather than just a service when they book a haircut.
Bou-Samra has launched his new ‘coffee and cut-throat’ package, including a style or shave, a barista-made coffee and a choice of sweet and savoury food, at his store in Portside Wharf and says it is already a huge hit.
“The whole concept for the ‘one-stop barber shop’ has emerged because we have found that guys rarely have the opportunity to spoil themselves when it comes to grooming,” said Bou-Samra.
“Some men don’t feel comfortable going to a day spa to treat themselves, but are more than happy to kick back and relax here.”
Bou-Samra also owns the Atalanta restaurant at Portside Wharf, and says it made sense to blend the two businesses to give his barber shop customers a real treat.
“Our customers can now relax in our new treatment area specifically designed for hot towel shaves, grab the essential products for man-scaping and then head off to work with smooth Bacano Coffee Roasters coffee – sourced from Colombia and brewed locally,” he said.
“They also have the option of purchasing gourmet sandwiches, pastries, salads and home-made sweets freshly prepared by a chef at Atalanta.
“These additions have been a huge value-add for our Portside store, which we envision will pave the way for similar expansions at our other barber stores in and around Brisbane.”
Bou-Samra says while the smooth coffee and tasty treats have been a drawcard for customers, there is still a strong emphasis on quality cuts and styles at all Bou’s for Men stores.
“We are first and foremost a barber store – the food and coffee is the icing on the cake for those who want to indulge themselves,” he said.
“We always work to stay on-trend and give our customers great advice about how they can improve their look.
“This season’s trends are geared towards more ‘classic’ styles, so we expect the most popular styles this season will be low maintenance haircuts that look sharp, but still nice and clean.
“The beard trend is definitely dying out – especially coming into summer.”
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