Miguel Krzywdzinski the owner of Groom Barber shops in Rockhampton, North Qld has a thriving business that has been built on hard work, determination and the ability to see a market opportunity and execute. A fantastic mix of traditional and modern services and a huge array of retail products from men’s grooming brands to apparel, Groom Barbershop is the leader in this regional area of Australia for sure.
I asked Miguel a few questions about his business and how he came to be where he is today.
What motivated you to open your first shop?
I started hairdressing but was doing a lot of mens cuts through my apprenticeship and when I finished my qualification I knew that there was a market gap in the rural area that I could meet.
How long have you been in the industry and what did you do prior?
11 years and before I was cutting hair I was washing dishes because I had no idea what I wanted to do after school. All I knew was be happy and make money in that order so I pursued the only thing I knew could do that, now I get paid for talking and making people look and feel good
What was your biggest challenge in opening ?
Getting the loan out for the fitout. Thought it would have been so much easier then what it was.
You operate a successful multi site business with a significant retail component. Why did you choose this business model and how do you continue to keep things “fresh and relevant” for you customers?
Being self-aware, pushing the boundaries so im never completely comfortable, getting ideas of my team and making sure I stock product that I genuinely use myself.
What is the vision for your business?
To keep giving the clients the experience or look they deserve and to get my team in a position that they wouldn’t normally get any where else.
What inspired the shop designs and feel?
I haven’t walked into my shops with black paint so just did it as a point of difference and the feel of the shop I just wanted to have room but still felt like you were close enough to talk to each others clients or other barbers so we could get a great atmosphere and banter going.
What services do you offer and what area do you see the biggest growth in?
We offer the main services that barbers offer from your normal skin fades to beards trim, face shaves etc. Growth wise ive wanted to open up a lot more stores but now since having a kid and stepping back a bit im actually very happy in the position im in, maybe in the hopes to open one more store but will be utilizing my team to be in positions of ownership or management that they will be happy to be in.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
I’ve had many, my most recent one be hitting 6 years in business. Watching my team move higher in positions or get them to goals that they wanted to achieve and being able to do what I love and still be home to see my family.
What is one of your favourite product brands, and why?
Slick gorilla light work is just one you cant miss but I do like the layrite range for my clients.
What are three items you’d take with you to a deserted island?
Knife, inflatable raft, satellite phone
Share with us an interesting story from your youth?
When I think about my youth especially in comparison to now I was always interested in hair but never thought of it as an occupation. I got a lot of haircuts from hairdressers and my mum that I either wasn’t happy with or I just don’t remember the experience. Im happy that ive grown to be someone that I wish I had when I was younger and can share these moments with younger people and see them leave with the haircut the deserve and wanted.
What hair trends do you see currently and how do you adjust to it?
I feel longer hair will come in for a bit but around this area with lifestyle and climate I don’t think it will stick around for a long. I just hope mullets don’t stay for much longer
What is your favourite thing to do when you’re not working?
Hanging out with the family and attempting to do stuff around the house.
What’s the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received?
Lead by example and don’t tell people to do stuff that you wouldn’t do
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Privilege to be apart of this ! If anyone wants to follow my journey please find me on Facebook or Instagram and add both my stores on social media. We are just getting started so you will see some interesting content.
@miguelk_thebarber
@groombarbershopnorthrocky
@groombarbershopsouthrocky
