Barber Expos in the UK

Barbering in the UK has a strong, close knit community, and its events are as much about culture and connection as they are about tools and products.

The main barber expo is HairCon, held each June at O2 Victoria Warehouse in Manchester. It runs over three days and gives barbering a big place alongside hair, with education, demos and a trade floor. In London, Salon International at ExCeL, usually in early October, welcomes barbers to its trade only show with education and competitions. Recognition matters too. The Barber Awards (HBA) take place in Manchester each August and are open to the public. The Fellowship Luncheon and Awards in London each December celebrates hairdressing and barbering, and the British Hairdressing Business Awards in March recognise the best run salons and barbershops.

Every barber expo and event in the UK is listed below with dates, venues and who can attend, so you can plan your year.

Getting there

For HairCon, fly into Manchester Airport or take the train to Manchester Piccadilly. O2 Victoria Warehouse is in Trafford, near Old Trafford, and is easy to reach by Metrolink tram. Salon International is at ExCeL London, which has its own stations on the Elizabeth line and the DLR.

Where to stay

In Manchester, the city centre and the Salford Quays area both have good hotel choice and tram links to the venue. For ExCeL, Royal Victoria Dock hotels are right beside the halls.

Tips for barbers

• Bring proof that you work in the industry, as HairCon and Salon International are trade only.
• Pack your own clippers if you plan to join hands on sessions.
• Check the stage schedule so you do not miss the headline barbers.
• Network at the evening events; many collaborations start there.