Award-winning Clondalkin barber opens second premises

AWARD-winning barber Lenny Howell has expanded his mini empire – by opening a second premises in Clondalkin.

Lenny has operated the successful Hairlough Barbers at Ninth Lock for over 10 years, but saw an opportunity to add a bit of length to the business, by opening a second premises in Clondalkin at Chaplain Place, Neilstown.

Hairlough Barbers are the current holders of 98FM Best of Dublin awards for Best Barber, winning the accolade for two years in a row.

Along with providing a range of hair, beard and hot towel shave services, the company also host an autism friendly day once every month, after recognising such a service was lacking for many kids in the area.

“We are the only barbers in Dublin that hosts an autism friendly day, which takes place one Sunday every month,” said Lenny.

“It has been a great success, with people even travelling up from Offaly for the day. For kids with autism, getting their haircuts can be ordeal, but there was a desperate need for the service. They like it here and the mammies have been telling other mammies about it.”

The risks involved in revamping a vacant commercial premises in Neilstown didn’t faze Lenny, who is from the Clondalkin area and felt the area required a local barber shop.

He continued: “I always wanted to expand, an opportunity arose, and we opened on January 30. It’s been great so far, we had 98FM out on the first day. It’s all good, everyone seems to like the place.”

A specialty at Hairlough Barbers is an “emphasis on that little bit extra” and hot towel shaving, but Lenny insists each customer has their own specific style.

“Everyone varies in what they want, but we cater for all designs, cuts, beard shaping, hot towels are popular for weddings and celebrations.”

Hairlough Barbers employ five people between the two premises, but Lenny is actively looking for additional qualified staff to meet demand.

Anyone interested can contact the barbers at 4576127.