CAPITAL2 pgs 1-13 Cover - Ind-1
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BUZZ
CAN 1930S CHICAGO CUT IT IN ISLAND HAIR PURSUIT? Tommy Gun’s Original Barbershop, a modern men’s hair and straight-shave spa with a throwback theme to 1930s Chicago, has staked new turf on Vancouver Island. The Kelowna-based chain opened this month at Langford’s Town Centre Shopping Centre and has another opening in June at Hillside Centre in Victoria. The capital locations will give the six-year-old company 47 locations in six provinces — including 10 in B.C. — and another five in Australia. “We create an environment that guys like to be in, where they get extra attention to detail for haircuts and shaves in comfortable chairs,” said chief exec-
utive Keenan Fisher, who runs the company with president and father, Ken Fisher, and sister Madison. “You can bring your son along and watch sports on big TVs … we give you the remote … have iPad access and arcade-style games and enjoy a coffee or a soft drink.” Ron Frolek, former owner of the Nevada Bob’s Golf business in Victoria, will operate both franchises in the capital. “It’s a great concept for guys to get that great haircut and pamper themselves with a hot-towel, traditional shave,” says Frolek. “We call it a five-star experience because there’s such a wide array of services we provide.” Despite a proliferation of new
Tommy Gun’s Original Barbershop owners Keenan Fisher, left, and Ron Frolek. DARREN STONE, TIMES COLONIST barbershops, Fisher and Frolek believe there is plenty of room in the marketplace as men make personal grooming a priority. The company uses Koken
replica barber chairs, a 200-yearold brand, sewn in red leather. Each shop will employ about 15 staff. www.tommyguns.com
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