BarberShopCo Success Story: David Osborne’s Journey to Franchise Ownership

David Osborne’s path to becoming a successful BarberShopCo franchisee might sound unconventional, but it’s a journey driven by determination, flexibility, and a desire for control over his own destiny. David operates two thriving stores in Takapuna and Milford, Auckland. His story is a testament to the power of seizing opportunities, adapting to change, and fostering strong community ties.

Starting Strong in a Tough Time

When David purchased the Takapuna and Milford stores, the world was in the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic. The previous owner was planning a move to Australia, and David saw an opportunity. Having been on the lookout for a business to purchase, the timing couldn’t have been better. “I bought both stores at the beginning of COVID in July 2020. It just all fell into place,” David recalls.

But why start out with two stores? For David, it made perfect sense. The two locations were close to one another, allowing him to share resources and staff, creating a synergy that maximized efficiency and minimized costs.

A Career Change to Barbering

Before owning BarberShopCo, David was deeply involved in the jewellery business. He managed a bustling jewellery store on Queen Street in Auckland, where he interacted with a diverse range of people. He also spent eight years living in London, where he continued to work in jewellery. Despite his extensive management experience, he had no background in barbering.

So, what attracted him to BarberShopCo? “The flexibility,” says David. “It was about being in control of my hours and when I worked. While I didn’t know much about cutting hair, I had plenty of experience managing people and getting the best out of them.”

A Day in the Life of a Franchise Owner

David’s mornings are hectic but purposeful. He starts his day with an early gym session—something he’s committed to four days a week. It’s a tag-team operation at home, with his wife, Bianca, getting the kids ready for school before David heads off to work. “I try to get to work early. It’s a crucial time to set up the store and ensure everyone is ready for the day ahead.”

After the morning rush, the rest of his day revolves around running the business: ensuring smooth operations, supporting his barbers, handling administrative duties, and making sure the customer experience is top-notch. When the workday ends, David ensures he’s present for his kids, often picking them up from school or taking them to after-school sports activities.

The balance between work and family life is one of the perks of owning his own business. “The flexibility I have with my time is a real benefit. It allows me to be there for my family,” he shares.

Community and Culture

Both Takapuna and Milford offer vibrant, community-centred atmospheres. Takapuna, with its bustling beach vibe, shopping districts, and cafés, attracts a youthful crowd, including professionals and corporates. Milford, on the other hand, has a more laid-back feel, with a mix of wealthy retirees and young families.

David didn’t choose these locations—they chose him. He was fortunate enough to take over two stores in prime locations with strong local communities. "I didn’t pick these locations, they picked me," he says. "I was lucky to take over the stores from the previous owner in these great spots."

The Secret to Success: A Happy Team

One of David’s greatest achievements has been building a happy, stable team of barbers who take pride in their work. He stresses the importance of leading by example and creating a supportive environment where his staff feel valued. “I don’t ask my barbers to do anything I wouldn’t do myself,” he explains. Whether it’s sweeping floors or maintaining the shelves, David believes in keeping high standards and leading by example.

The culture at his stores reflects this ethos. David’s barbers, whom he describes as artists in their craft, are committed to providing high-quality haircuts and grooming services. For him, a successful day isn’t just about meeting sales targets—it’s about delivering excellent service and ensuring both customers and staff are happy.

“When customers leave feeling great and we get positive feedback, that’s a successful day for me,” he says.

The Perks of Franchise Ownership

When asked about the most rewarding aspect of owning a BarberShopCo franchise, David highlights the freedom it offers. Owning two stores allows him to be his own boss while also benefiting from the structure and support of an established brand. “The beauty of being part of a franchise is that you get the support you need from the head office. They guide you through the process as much as you need,” David explains.

The flexibility, combined with the camaraderie of a supportive franchise network, has made his journey all the more fulfilling. “The franchise community is great. There’s an active WhatsApp group, and we regularly meet up with other store owners to share ideas,” he adds.

The Road to Success: Lessons Learned

David’s advice to anyone considering opening a BarberShopCo franchise is simple: GO FOR IT! “It’s been an incredibly rewarding experience. It gives me the freedom I didn’t have before when I worked for someone else. And there’s a great sense of community among franchise owners,” he says.

For those who may be uncertain, David stresses that prior business experience isn’t a requirement. “When I bought the stores, I had no prior experience in owning a business. But I learned quickly and had great support from the franchise,” he recalls.

David’s success story proves that with the right attitude, a willingness to learn, and a solid support system, owning a franchise can be a life-changing experience. His passion for the business, commitment to his team, and focus on delivering exceptional service are key ingredients to the thriving BarberShopCo stores in Takapuna and Milford.

For David, the journey is just beginning, and as he continues to build a successful business, he looks forward to what the future holds.

Ready to start your BarberShopCo Franchise journey? https://barbershop.co.nz/pages/own-a-store