Vigo, Spain, Becomes a Hub for Young Entrepreneurs in the Barbering Industry

In Vigo, Spain, the barbering market has emerged as fertile ground for youth entrepreneurship. The city is home to young people who have left the model of working for others in search of financial autonomy, turning their technical skills into their own businesses.

This trend reflects a shift in labor preferences among younger generations, who see barbering as a viable gateway to independence. Unlike other careers, the sector does not necessarily require conventional academic training or high initial capital, allowing teenagers and young adults to start their professional trajectories early.

Felipe Denti, owner of Mónaco Barbershop, began his journey at thirteen years old in 2017. Fascinated by salon aesthetics, he gave his first haircut in January 2018 and, months later, invested the money from selling a game console to upgrade his equipment. His path led him to open his first establishment in Argentina at seventeen before arriving in Vigo last year.

Breixo Sirvent, twenty-two years old and owner of Breixo Barberland, had a different start. He began cutting hair during the quarantine period when he was under fifteen, serving family members for free or at reduced rates. To open his business, he used savings accumulated since adolescence and relied on his father's support to renovate the space.

Rubén Rivas, the most experienced of the three at twenty-seven years old, followed a distinct path. After completing a degree that did not satisfy him, he invested in specific barbering courses where he discovered his calling. He worked for three years in another salon before opening Barbería 203 in late 2023, with investor support for a larger-scale project.

Despite differences in their beginnings, the three face common challenges, such as the need to retain clients and growing competition. Breixo warns that market space is shrinking, although opportunities still exist. They agree that increased male interest in grooming drives the sector but emphasize that mastering basic techniques does not equate to complete professional mastery.

For this generation, barbering represents more than a source of income; it is an opportunity to build their own future. Felipe highlights the difficulty of retaining clients after the first visit, while Rubén emphasizes the accessible nature of the profession provided there is proper training. Together, they exemplify how the trade has become a solid alternative for those who want to be their own boss.