Learn more about the Leicester barbering institutions’ move to Leicester Market
Shortys have been styling, shaving and sculpting slick hairstyles since they opened in Leicester city centre over 14 years ago.
The well-loved barbers recently moved from St Martin’s Square to Leicester Market, which has helped the business continue to thrive. The new shop location is directly opposite Leicester Market’s Food Hall, which as owner John says, was a big factor in his decision to relocate.
“One of the big draws for us moving to the market was the location, as we’re right opposite the new Food Hall and the new building is really nice. Another big draw was that it’s just a really friendly environment to be in and the retailers are all really nice.”
John originally set up his shop with the intention of instilling a friendly and welcoming environment in his shop, rather than just ‘being in the chair for five minutes and out the door’. This positive attitude toward customer service has led to the shop amassing a dedicated and loyal set of customers.
“We are definitely different from the traditional barbering image of beards and bad attitudes,” laughs John.
“At the market, we’ve set up two working sections. Most barber shops are getting bigger and bigger, but our move here has enabled us to continue to produce the quality and service that the more expensive and bigger shops are offering.”
However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Shortys has had to adapt their working practises and thorough new cleaning protocols that are now in place, which include the introduction of disposable gowns, hand sanitiser stations and thoroughly wiping down chairs after each use. A big change for the business has been the introduction of a new online booking system.
“Due to COVID, we launched a new online booking system, which has worked well as people can book a 30-minute slot,” explained John. “This is great because if you have a lunch break, you are guaranteed a slot, rather than having to walk by the shop to see if there is a space. The booking system has definitely been one of the positive things of COVID.”
The new premises at Leicester Market have undergone a significant redesign in the past couple of months, and a whole host of local businesses have contributed to the makeover. Local artist Lorna Dunn has hand-painted the sign in the shop window, as well as creating a mural in the shop. Whilst K+G curated space helped do all of the interior design and produced custom made units for the shop so that they fitted the space perfectly. John was keen to make the shop feel welcoming not intimidating by keeping the design bright and light.
“I’ve found that all the other barbershops have become a bit the same, all quite dark and vintage looking. I’ve gone quite bright and slightly 80s.”
John adds: “It’s been excellent and incredibly positive so far. It’s great that it has got a real independent feel, it’s nice to be here.”
Shortys Opening Times
Monday: 9.00am – 7.00pm
Tuesday: 9.00am – 5.30pm
Wednesday: 9.00am – 5.30pm
Thursday: 9.00am – 7.00pm
Friday: 9.00am – 6.00pm
Saturday: 8.00am – 5.00pm
Sunday: Closed