Mr Tillys Barbershop Chain Opens New Location in Sunderland City Centre
The British chain returns to the founder's hometown with a shop at Mackie’s Corner, offering premium services and reinforcing the commercial revitalization of the area.
Sunderland, UK — Mr Tillys, a barbershop chain known for its success in Northeast England, has opened its latest location in the heart of Sunderland city centre. The opening follows the strong performance of its two existing stores in Newcastle, marking the brand's return to the city where it was born.
Founded in 2016, the company emerged with the goal of filling the gap between traditional barbershops and modern salons. Currently, the business operates three locations in the Northeast, consolidating its presence in the local men’s grooming market.
The new shop is located at Mackie’s Corner on Bridge Street. The space features four barber chairs on the ground floor and a private studio upstairs. The service menu includes premium cuts, scissor cuts, beard sculpting, and hot towel treatments, catering to different client preferences.
For Phil Tilly, founder and director of the chain, opening a branch in Sunderland is the fulfillment of a personal dream, as he was born in the city. The entrepreneur highlighted the public's receptiveness since the opening. “It feels very special to finally bring Mr Tillys to Sunderland,” Tilly stated.
The choice of location was not casual. The team evaluated various addresses before deciding on Mackie’s Corner, considered the ideal spot due to its central location and environment favorable to independent businesses. The historic building was revitalized by Kirtley Co in 2021 and has become a hub for retail, hospitality, and beauty.
Alex Kirtley, director of Kirtley Co, expressed satisfaction with the arrival of the barbershop, which strengthens the ecosystem of independent companies within the building. The local council also celebrated the investment, viewing the new unit as an important factor in increasing foot traffic and boosting urban regeneration in the city centre.
Mr Tillys' entry reinforces the trend of growth among local businesses seeking differentiation through specialized services, offering professionals in the field a model of successful expansion based on quality and regional identity.
BarberRicci newsroom, with information from Sunderland Business Partnership.