Many businesses have been struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic due to changes and restrictions implemented by provincial health authorities.

So, hearing that a new business opened in the city and that the crisis was actually a driving factor, may come as a bit of a surprise for some.

The Original Barber Truck held its grand opening event Thursday, July 16. 

It’s a barbershop on wheels, at the helm is Kelly Drysdale, an Airdrie based barber with more than 10 years experience styling men’s hair, and co-founded by her client and business partner Ash Grewal.

The business uses a model similar to that of the food delivery or driving service businesses. Clients book a time and date, the truck shows up to the person’s home or business, they go in and get their hair cut in the mobile studio, then go about their day.

“The timing just worked out perfectly. There was such an opportunity with this idea [because of COVID.] I know I’m a busy guy and I don’t have time to wait an hour,” said Grewal. “And not everyone wants to sit in a salon, I know everyone’s doing a great job on social distancing, but definitely that added opportunity [to get it done at home] has been really appreciated.”

Together Ash and Kelly took the idea from concept to reality within the span of around one month and are already seeing several advance bookings.

“We’re getting about eight bookings a day so far so we’ve had a great response so far,” he said.

Despite just launching the business model, they are also already looking to expand the business. They are planning on bringing a beauty truck on board that would focus on hair cuts, styling and services for women, as well as a few other business models.

“Everyone has been extremely happy and supportive of the concept,” he said. “We definitely have the idea to franchise through Canada. We have eight interested franchises so far throughout Alberta and B.C.”

Ash and Kelly say they are excited to see the business grow and believe the model is sustainable despite what may come as it relates to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

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