As the barbering industry faces a wave of public and media scrutiny, Richard Marshall, Founder of Pall Mall Barbers and a trusted voice in government,is taking bold steps to shift the narrative.
Drawing on his personal journey from a humble apprenticeship to running one of the most respected barbering brands in the world, Marshall is using his influence to elevate the status and recognition of barbers, and hairdressers and beauty across the UK.
A member of the government’s Small Business Growth forum covering 5.6 million SMEs in the UK and a regular contributor to high-level advisory panels, Richard works with business ministers, lords and heads of policy on multiple areas of government and business.
He has presented at a Department of Trade & Business conference to 11,000 departmentemployees in 100 countries putting British barbering and hair on the map at highest levels of government, whilst sittingnext to the CEO of Microsoft. Marshall is also a board member of the National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) and currently standing in their election to become the organisation’s next president.
Marshall believes now is a critical moment for the hairand barbering sector to reclaim its value and future. “The NHBF is respected for its accurate data reporting and, importantly, has a seat at the top government tables,” said Marshall. “Together, we have the potential to make real, lasting change in how all our industry is perceived, protected, and supported –from funding and regulation to education and mental health recognition. Having worked with HRH Prince William on mental health projects gives me a prime position to lead from the front.”
He continues, “I’ve seen people informing government about the sector who, quite bluntly, don’t know what they’re talking about. That’s why I’m working with the NHBF to host a series of barber-specific round tables –to gather real insight from those on the ground and feed that directly into government.”
From sweeping the floor and making the tea the age of 12 in barber shop in Bedford to award-winning international business with locations in London and New York, and working in 10 Downing Street, to advise various prime ministers’ special advisers from his real life business experiences.
Marshall’s story is a testament to what’s possible in the sector. Today, he’s using that platform to open doors for the next generation of talent and ensure hair professionals are recognised as the highly skilled, entrepreneurial professionals they are.In recent months, he has been meeting with senior decision-makers to push for greater industry recognition, support for local barbershops, and clearer progression routes for young professionals.
His message is simple but powerful: barbers matter –to the economy, to local communities, and to the wellbeing of the nation.
With his candidacy for NHBF President, Marshall is doubling down on his commitment to drive progress at the highest levels. His vision is clear: to create an industry that is not only respected, but celebrated.
NHBF Members can vote for Richard via the NHBF website.